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17 March 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.
A more rational taxation system that supports home ownership but discourages asset speculation could provide greater financial support to first home buyers.
Our cost-of-living pressures go beyond the RBA: surging house prices, excessive migration, and expanding government programs, including the NDIS, are fuelling inflation, demanding bold, structural solutions.
The capital gains tax discount is under review, but debate should go beyond its size. Its original purpose, design flaws and distortions suggest Australia could adopt a better, more targeted approach.
One in five Australians die before retirement and most have not set up their super properly so their loved ones can benefit from all their hard work and savings.
This is my last edition as Editor of Firstlinks. I’m moving onto a new role though the newsletter will remain in good hands until my permanent replacement is found.
An ageing Australia is shifting the superannuation system’s focus from accumulation to the lifecycle of retirement. While these pressures have been anticipated for decades, they are now converging at scale and driving widespread industry change.