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21 July 2025
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Why invest in bonds?, the work test for SMSFs, engagement with lifecycle funds, responsible investing for retail investors, investment management ethics, global investment opportunities, and the changes to the assets test explained.
A common observation at the moment is that if interest rates ‘can only go up’, why hold bonds? While prices fall as rates rise, there is a role for various maturities in a diversified portfolio.
Not all superannuation is the same. When making contributions after turning 65, it seems the rule for the work test is different for SMSFs and public funds.
Engaging people with their superannuation is the holy grail for the wealth management industry. Lifecycle funds can help take the customer on a long term journey provided the communication is good.
Banks are walking away from resources projects, super funds are dumping stocks based on human rights issues and climate change related shareholder resolutions are gaining wide support.
A virtuous life is one of aspiration – to be good, to be fulfilled, and to make a contribution. Ethics is not about doing your duty reluctantly, but rather asking the confronting question: what do I want to be remembered for?
Investing in global opportunities allows a portfolio to benefit from trends and industries that are not available in Australia, and even when a company is listed here, it may be cheaper overseas.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers aims to tackle tax reform but faces challenges. Previous reviews struggled due to political sensitivities, highlighting the need for comprehensive and politically feasible change.
You've no doubt heard about Division 296. These case studies show what people at various levels above the $3 million threshold might need to pay the ATO, with examples ranging from under $500 to more than $35,000.
The $3m super tax could be put down to the Government needing money and the wealthy being easy targets. It’s deeper than that though and this looks at the factors behind the policy and why more taxes on the wealthy are coming.
Business investment and per capita GDP have languished over the past decade and the Labor Government is conducting inquiries to find out why. Franking credits should be part of the debate about our stalling economy.
With Div. 296 looming, is there a smarter way to tax superannuation? This proposes a fairer, income-linked alternative that respects compounding, ensures predictability, and avoids taxing unrealised capital gains.
In selling the super tax, Labor has repeated Treasury claims of there being $50 billion in super tax concessions annually, mostly flowing to high-income earners. This figure is vastly overstated.