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26 February 2026
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Of course more is more, three retirement goals, end of ‘set and forget’, ESG, good super ideas, John Hemmes’ estate, small caps and football lessons.
It's become common to claim there is no incentive to save more than $500,000 because of the loss of age pensions and possibly franking credits. But these arguments overlook the way super is supposed to operate.
Most people in retirement will have three financial goals in the decumulation stage to take account of the uncertainty of health, longevity and markets, and here's a framework to help.
Sticking to a long-term ‘set and forget’ asset allocation plan forgets those close to or in the retirement phase. Further, we are at a point where prospective returns in all markets are lower.
Both retail and institutional investors are demanding fund managers respond to ESG issues. A new generation will insist on better standards and will not accept a compromise in returns.
Super contribution changes that took effect on 1 July 2017 and other changes coming in from 1 July 2018 aren't all negative, leaving opportunities over the next few months to make the necessary adjustments.
The success of this claim on John Hemmes' estate and the unexpected amount involved provides a reminder to ensure you have a robust estate plan in place.
Inefficiencies in the small caps index means outperformance is common but that should not cost 60% more in fees than large caps. Large caps have outperformed small caps over the long term but with significant variability.
A former professional footballer draws five lessons from his sporting life into his current career in finance. Success in one year in no way ensures that the next time will be any easier.
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.
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.
A more rational taxation system that supports home ownership but discourages asset speculation could provide greater financial support to first home buyers.