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1 October 2026
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Five retirement myths analysed, a layman's guide to bond funds, investors' lump sum bias behaviour, looking at how company growth is financed, and the little-known disadvantages of managed funds.
Australia's super industry has confused or complicated the primary purpose of providing for retirement by fostering these five retirement myths. While some are based on truths, others are not worth believing.
In response to a reader's question regarding bond funds, we asked our bond guru to explain, in layman's term, the workings of bond funds and what features to look for before investing in this asset class.
Many factors contribute to a lump sum bias among investors, and it might be one reason why they significantly overestimate how much a lump sum is worth in annual income for life.
Not all company growth is created equal. While a headline growth figure may look impressive, it's how this growth is financed that determines whether it's a good or bad thing for shareholders.
The actions of other investors in a managed fund can have a material impact on individuals in the fund. How much do you know about the realised and unrealised capital gains, franking credits or distributions of your fund?
John sent a fascinating question to our mailbox last week. What is the experience of people in their late 70s or early 80s in spending as much as when they were younger? Please comment if you have any personal view.
The latest research report by Roy Morgan shows banks have a poor track record in selling superannuation services to their existing retail banking customer base and it may represent a significant opportunity.
Conventional wisdom encourages retirees to preserve superannuation. But if those likely to qualify for the Age Pension later in life spend a little more today, it may deliver higher lifetime income and a more stable retirement.
For generations, Australian investors have backed banks, miners and dividends. But has that loyalty come at a cost? A look at the numbers raises an uncomfortable question about where future returns will come from.
Reversionary pensions have long been a staple of SMSF estate planning, but are they still the best option? Meg Heffron revisits a once-clear favourite and asks whether changing super rules have shifted the balance.
The fight over testamentary trusts looked settled. Then the draft legislation arrived. Hidden in a technical detail is a question that could force many families to rethink wills they thought were already future-proof.
The 4% rule has long been retirement's gold standard. But after a difficult period for investors, fresh analysis suggests a more conservative approach may significantly improve the chances of making savings last.
Investors have long accepted one portfolio rule without much question. A major tax shift could change that calculation entirely, forcing difficult trade-offs between risk, discipline and an overlooked cost lurking beneath.