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2 March 2026
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Labor’s new franking policy, Royal Commission train wreck, Sir Michael Hintze AM exclusive, shares v bonds, dividend conspiracy, insurance in super.
Don replies to Peter. People saving for retirement should separate shallow and deep risk. Shallow risk, where prices fall, can be good in accumulation phase. Deep risk is a serious long-term deterioration.
For a pension fund with a tax rate of zero, it is better to receive an after-tax dividend of $100 than a company retaining after-tax capital of $70. Why aren't company directors asked about this tax inefficiency?
Sir Michael Hintze founded CQS in 1999 and it has established itself in London as a major credit-focused, global, multi-strategy asset manager with AUD20 billion under management. We chatted on his recent visit to Australia.
The Labor proposal to eliminate refunds of excess franking credits will have a significant impact on many retirees who hold Australian shares paying fully franked dividends.
The Australian share market offers a dividend yield of about 4.2% at the moment, supported by franking credit of 1.5% to give an attractive 5.7%. The focus is on the refund of this credit.
Chris Cuffe shared his views on default super, internalising asset management, vertical integration, independent directors, past performance and artificial intelligence.
SMSF trustees should understand the tax consequences when death benefits include insurance proceeds because it can vary greatly according to circumstances, and these should be planned for in advance.
Most financial advisers are forced to use Approved Product Lists, model portfolios, procedures for Statements of Advice, rules of their Professional Indemnity Insurance ... but what about independent advice?
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.