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  • 3 June 2020
  • 5

Drought, bushfires and coronavirus ... the Treasurer has admitted Australia is in a recession after the fall in the March quarter GDP, but the stock market has rallied strongly driven by the optimism of the stimulus packages. The withdrawal of up to $20,000 from superannuation is understandable for anyone struggling financially during the epidemic, but some young people have more money during this crisis than ever before in their lives.

Small investors miss out as institutions and banks cash in

Retail shareholders are being scaled back and diluted by boards and investment banks. If retail shareholders own 30% of a company, the Share Purchase Plan should represent 30% of the overall raising.

Chris Cuffe on why private debt is a hidden gem

Due to its illiquidity and higher risk, private debt as an asset class will not suit all investors. But for a patient investor with a longer-term horizon, private debt funds can provide a good risk/return trade off.

Three realities and three mistakes in market recoveries

It's not easy focussing on the long term when the short-term news is bad, but strong businesses find a way to thrive when times are tough. Here are three timeless facts and three evergreen mistakes.

Why asset allocations shifted due to COVID-19

Retail investors can learn from a multi-asset strategy that looks how macro events and economics affect market and portfolio risk. Major asset allocation changes can occur in response.

Three key company features in assessing the outlook now

With higher unemployment and cautious consumers, portfolios should be positioned for lower sustainable demand compared with prior levels. Here are three key features of companies in a lower-demand world.

Is Afterpay really worth $50?

How does an analyst value a stock which has traded between $8 and $50 in two months? Regardless, Afterpay has delivered Australia's youngest billionaire, and thousands have enjoyed the wild ride.

Choosing an index fund is more than just the expense ratio

Popular belief is that all index funds are the same, but it pays to follow this framework, which shows there is more to consider than the cheapest management cost. Replicating an index is not easy.

Disruptive technology is fast-forwarding into the future

Global lockdowns have accelerated the adoption of new technologies. The pandemic and resultant economic recession shine a spotlight on societal issues where technology can create solutions.

Media worth consuming - May 2020

Links to dozens of global media articles that do not receive mainstream coverage in Australia. It's sceptical, fun and revealing, often challenging consensus and accepted wisdom.

Most viewed in recent weeks

Are LICs licked?

LICs are continuing to struggle with large discounts and frustrated investors are wondering whether it’s worth holding onto them. This explains why the next 6-12 months will be make or break for many LICs.

Retirement income expectations hit new highs

Younger Australians think they’ll need $100k a year in retirement - nearly double what current retirees spend. Expectations are rising fast, but are they realistic or just another case of lifestyle inflation?

5 charts every retiree must see…

Retirement can be daunting for Australians facing financial uncertainty. Understand your goals, longevity challenges, inflation impacts, market risks, and components of retirement income with these crucial charts.

Why super returns may be heading lower

Five mega trends point to risks of a more inflation prone and lower growth environment. This, along with rich market valuations, should constrain medium term superannuation returns to around 5% per annum.

The hidden property empire of Australia’s politicians

With rising home prices and falling affordability, political leaders preach reform. But asset disclosures show many are heavily invested in property - raising doubts about whose interests housing policy really protects.

Preparing for aged care

Whether for yourself or a family member, it’s never too early to start thinking about aged care. This looks at the best ways to plan ahead, as well as the changes coming to aged care from November 1 this year.

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