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26 February 2026
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Roger Montgomery on savage price falls, pension changes coming, lack of action on renewables, banks joining fintechs, real returns, CRIOs and horses.
We are seeing rapid one-day movements in some large stocks of 10% to 20%, especially those that were 'priced for perfection'. What is causing this, and does it present a threat or an opportunity in a portfolio?
With the new pension rules, the magic number is 7.8%. If a pensioner sells an asset to fund an improvement in the family home, the pension may increase $7,800 pa for every $100,000 over the assets test.
The renewables industry is hampered by the combination of a shallow venture capital market and capital-intensive technology. The recent power outages in South Australia did not help.
Although many people regard FinTechs as threats to banks and large incumbents, most of the new kids on the block see the value in forming beneficial relationships and cooperating rather than competing.
Meeting real return objectives in a low growth environment is a challenge. Investors will need to use cyclical volatility to their advantage by riding the upside and, importantly, avoiding the falls.
Super funds have Chief Investment Officers charged with optimising investment returns, but should they also appoint a Chief Retirement Income Officer (CRIO) to achieve the best retirement outcomes?
Before you jump in and invest in that racehorse with its potential Group 1 winnings and breeding credentials, here is a reality check on your dreams of fame and fortune from someone in the know.
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.