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Edition: 408

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Welcome to Firstlinks Edition 408 with weekend updates

  • 20 May 2021

There are no better examples of Australia's unexpected recovery from the pandemic than the fortunes of our major banks and the changing forecasts of our leading economists. In May 2020, NAB reduced its dividend and undertook a Share Purchase Plan at $14.15 to build up its capital, and now the bank is contemplating a buyback at over $25. Looks like sell low buy high. 

Whoyagonnacall? Five more risks buying off-the-plan

Part 2. All new apartment buildings have defects, and developers and builders will not volunteer to spend time and money on fixes unless someone fights them. There's no 'defect buster' to call.

The next big thing: global markets and the emerging consumer

A structural theme that will drive future earnings growth is the ‘emerging consumer’. The rising wealth in emerging economies will drive sub-sectors such as luxury goods, cosmetics, travel, global brands and alcohol.

Noel's share winners and loser plus budget reality check

Among the share success stories is a poor personal experience as Telstra's service needs improving. Plus why the new budget announcements on downsizing and buying a home don't deserve the super hype.

Six lessons for investors in a crisis

The markets delivered the full range of experiences in the past year with the fastest fall and the sharpest recovery on record. What quick investing lessons apply, especially when a crisis hits?

Australia's baby boom filling some of the immigration losses

One silver lining from changing COVID-19 societal behaviours is an unexpected pickup in Australia’s natural population growth rate, with early-stage pregnancy ultrasounds pointing to a baby boom ahead.

Bank reporting season scorecard May 2021

It's an incredible turnaround. One bank reported 121,000 home loans in deferral in 2020 but only 2,000 remain in hardship a year later. Profits have recovered, loan losses are tiny ... but which are the best banks?

Will the drought break for value stocks continue?

The shift in dynamics from growth to value can be seen in the rotation of tech and communications names out of the top 20 performers to be replaced by value-style industrials, energy and financials. Will it continue?

Most viewed in recent weeks

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?

Four best-ever charts for every adviser and investor

In any year since 1875, if you'd invested in the ASX, turned away and come back eight years later, your average return would be 120% with no negative periods. It's just one of the must-have stats that all investors should know.

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.

Our experts on Jim Chalmers' super tax backdown

Labor has caved to pressure on key parts of the Division 296 tax, though also added some important nuances. Here are six experts’ views on the changes and what they mean for you.        

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