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11 July 2026
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Bad timing and poor returns, chasing alpha, what's wrong with reverse mortgages, three investment rules, China's stockmarket, and the superannuation default options.
When a managed fund reports its amazing five-year track record, who actually experiences this same return? The timing of entry and exit and mismatched time horizons are counting against the average investor.
The term 'alpha' may be financial jargon, but for fund managers, it's the highly sought-after prize for successful active management that justifies fees charged. But how do you select a good manager?
Using the equity in the home to supplement retirement income is worth considering for certain people, so why are banks dropping reverse mortgage products and why do so many retirees feel it's not for them?
Here are three simple investment rules that should see you through the volatile times, or indeed all times. But for starters, it's a good idea to have a plan, and a portfolio that suits you.
Despite the recent falls, the performance of Chinese shares over the last 12 months is still above Japan, Europe, the US and Australia. But the Chinese market is a casino, and currency movements are more important.
Most public super funds updated their 'default' settings under MySuper, and recent research shows these options are not solely for the disengaged. Many people are actively choosing the option based on trusting the fund.
Proposed Budget changes to taxation are casting new uncertainty over testamentary trusts, prompting closer scrutiny of estate planning structures and the real implications of reforms still taking shape.
Inheritance tax implications in Australia may surprise some, as poor estate planning without proper wills or trusts can lead to costly tax bills and delays for beneficiaries.
New CGT rules could tip the scales in the super vs non-super debate. For those facing the Division 296 tax, the case for withdrawing has gotten more complex. A "comparison rate" tool may help assess decisions.
Beneath the dominance of the ASX's largest stocks, much of the market has been left behind. High-quality companies are now trading at levels rarely seen, offering opportunities for investors willing to look deeper.
The 30% minimum tax on capital gains sits at the heart of the budget's proposed reforms. Yet the mechanics reveal anomalies that introduce unexpected distortions that raise questions about its design.
The downfall of the giant and three lessons for investors.