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12 January 2026

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Edition: 168

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Edition 168

  • 12 August 2016

Every time a fund manager trades, there's a group of people receiving payments. While most investors check the management fee, few know how expenses such as custody fees, brokerage, bank charges and other transaction costs are charged. Some funds have 250% turnover a year, and with that comes costs passed on to the investor.

Five ways for investors to find true value

Comparing investments based on management fees alone ignores the value the manager may bring, and may also overlook hidden costs. Investors should be aware what other charges can be imposed on their savings.

Three risk measures provide a fuller LIC picture

Instead of just looking at the historical returns of a Listed Investment Company (LIC), investors should also factor in risk measures such as beta, standard deviation and the Sharpe Ratio when assessing a LIC.

Low SMSF returns highlight value of retirement advice

Long periods of low returns are likely to compromise retirement goals that were set some years ago. This places greater importance on retirement advice and not assuming average returns and lifespans.

Income inequality and a crumbling model for capitalism

Rising bond and equity markets and increases in profit's share of GDP at the expense of labour have created greater wealth inequity, and the resulting political risks will unsettle markets.

SMSF asset allocation changes unexpected

A recent analysis of SMSF asset allocation shows a movement away from direct equities as trustees struggle to find value in the large caps, and the continuing popularity of cash despite low rates.

Response to Roger Montgomery on bonds

A counter-view on why bond yields are so low, and how the market can still use and interpret what bonds are telling us. Plus Roger responds that different opinions make a market, and that's good.

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