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27 February 2026
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The role of family and community as foundations of a healthy society have been allowed to weaken. This has brought about Australia's spiritual decline and a thirst for dopamine that explains our high debt levels.
The former Liberal Minister and Chief of Staff to John Howard gives a blunt assessment of the election defeat and how the party needs to get back to its roots and merge its values with the needs of the community.
We need to think hard about how we work and live in the future. How do governments, health gurus, individuals, politicians, businesses and social groups need to act in 2021, both in dealing with COVID and thereafter?
If ESG, ethical investing, philanthropy and CSR aren’t creating the magnitude of change needed, is there an alternative way of bridging the gap between profit growth and social benefit?
The bushfire response shows we can be generous and compassionate, and we need to realise our species depends for its survival on a willingness to co-operate, not simply compete.
What is the difference between ESG as measured by the Dow Jones Sustainability Australia Index, and taking an approach that includes ethical factors?
A virtuous life is one of aspiration – to be good, to be fulfilled, and to make a contribution. Ethics is not about doing your duty reluctantly, but rather asking the confronting question: what do I want to be remembered for?
Large shifts in demographics, environment, technology and social values spell significant change for investment management. The wealth industry will need to adapt to clients' changing behaviour and expectations.
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.