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28 February 2026
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Nobel Laureate Harry Markowitz, APRA stings public super funds and IMAs, accountants realising latent value, Council of Superannuation Custodians and the perils of peer reviews.
Harry Markowitz, the 1990 Nobel Laureate and Pensions & Investments Magazine's 'Man of the Century', explains his views on risks and returns and how he arrived at his Modern Portfolio Theory and Efficient Frontier.
Two linked factors explain and justify our concern for rank relative to our peers, one largely psychological and sociological, and the other primarily economic. But what are the risks of performance anxiety?
Accountancy practices have been a poor second cousin to financial planning businesses in terms of sale price and merger and acquisition activity. Here’s why that might change soon.
Anyone responsible for product design and pricing in the superannuation industry needs an understanding of the revised Australian Prudential Standards on bank liquidity. Some creative solutions may be needed.
APRA has given a clearer definition of the term 'financial institution', and it may be broad enough to catch a wide range of client-authorised activity, including Separately Managed Accounts.
Research now backs up the anecdotal claims that SMSF trustee confidence in the superannuation system is declining. The proposed Council with its independence and long term view will help address this.
The renowned investor says 2025’s real story wasn’t AI or US stocks but the shift away from American assets and a collapse in the value of money. And he outlines how to best position portfolios for what’s ahead.
The post-World War Two economic system is unravelling, leading to huge shifts in currency, bond and commodity markets, yet stocks seem oblivious to the chaos. This looks to history as a guide for what’s next.
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.
A more rational taxation system that supports home ownership but discourages asset speculation could provide greater financial support to first home buyers.
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.