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5 March 2026
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The media labels it a Banking Royal Commission, continuing the terminology adopted in calls for an inquiry over the last few years, but the Terms of Reference are much broader.
Don't extrapolate success without anticipating new ideas and competition. When consolidation of media power, personal data, or capital is concentrated in a few companies, society repels and rejects.
The weekly podcast covers behavioural economist and author Dan Ariely, an optimistic fund manager, a CIO profile, a thriving Aussie company, the Amazon impact and surprising tales from Kim Beazley.
History does not always repeat, and the future will not be the same as the past. Investors need to watch these five megatrends to minimise the chance that some of their assets may become worthless.
ETFs offer competitive pricing and easy access for investors, plus a wide range of market exposures. EY is forecasting wider investment mandates and continuing double-digit ETF growth globally.
When it comes to company floats or IPOs, sellers know much more about the business than buyers, so before getting caught up in the euphoria of a new listing, consider what it is they know that you don’t.
An SMSF’s governing documents, including the trust deed, should specify trustee structure in the event of the death of a member, to ensure that the deceased’s estate plan is realised.
What to do when you think a market correction is overdue? Instead of selling off everything, a viable option is to position yourself for an easier exit, although it's tougher to implement in equities than fixed interest.
It's not simply a Banking Royal Commission. There's a lot in there on superannuation and insurance, and most executives in the super industry don't like it. What can we expect with such broad Terms of Reference?
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.
Most commentary on gold's recent record highs focus on it being the product of fear or speculative momentum. That's ignoring the deeper structural drivers at play.