Finance
Economic slump fears gave Reserve Bank reason for pause
19 July
The threat of a sharper economic slowdown and job losses played into the Reserve Bank of Australia’s decision to keep interest rates on hold. The minutes from the RBA board’s July meeting contained few surprises, with the board again weighing a...[Read More]
Changes to small business deductions this tax time
19 July
If you’re a small business owner who operates from home or you use a vehicle for business purposes, you need to be aware of some changes when claiming deductions this tax time. Cents per kilometre method The cents per kilometre method for...[Read More]
Compare SMSFs with other super funds
19 July
There are a lot of differences between SMSFs and other super funds, but the one thing they have in common is to provide retirement benefits to their members. Members and trustees SMSF Other super funds SMSFs can have a maximum of 6...[Read More]
The Trouble With Being the Executor of an Estate
13 July
Being appointed as the executor of an estate is a significant responsibility that requires careful consideration. While it may be an honour to be entrusted with this important role by a loved one, the reality is that estates can be quite...[Read More]
Oliver’s insights – 15 common sense tips to help manage your finances (11/7)
13 July
Key points Getting your personal finances right can be a challenge at times. Here are some common-sense tips that may be of use: – Shop around when it comes to financial services. – Don’t take on too much debt. – Allow for interest rate to...[Read More]
Oliver’s insights – 2022-23 saw investment returns rebound – but is it sustainable? (6/7)
13 July
Key points – After the rough ride of 2021-22, 2022-23 turned out to be a good one for investors as shares rebounded thanks to falling inflation and hopes rates are near the top. – Shares are at risk of a pull back as central banks remain...[Read More]
Consumers are not buying RBA’s interest rate pause
13 July
Consumers are not convinced the Reserve Bank has finished hiking interest rates, despite leaving the cash rate unchanged last month. The mood as captured by Westpac and the Melbourne Institute every month soured further after the July rate pause,...[Read More]
Super guarantee contributions due by 28 July
12 July
Remember, super guarantee (SG) contributions for your eligible employees are due by 28 July. Follow Ricky’s story below to learn more about your obligations as an employer. Ricky operates a florist where he hires multiple employees to help manage...[Read More]
‘Unfair’ super law costing young workers thousands
12 July
Hundreds of thousands of young workers are missing out on super from their employers because of a rule that bars them from automatic contributions. Under the law, under-18 workers are not entitled to compulsory super contributions unless they work...[Read More]
Few plan to spend tax returns as economy stalls
12 July
Just one in 20 Australians plan to splurge on big-ticket items when their tax returns come through, with most opting to squirrel them away or pay down debt. Amid acute cost of living pressures and a string of interest rate rises, surveying by...[Read More]
Albanese lays down EU trade deal bottom line
12 July
Australia will only sign a trade deal with the European Union when the agreement includes better market access for agricultural products. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese laid down his bottom line for the ambitious multi-nation trade agreement...[Read More]
Reserve Bank governor pledges ‘significant’ overhaul
12 July
Fewer meetings, post-decision press conferences and more board member interaction with staff have been given a tick by the governor of the Reserve Bank. Philip Lowe has signed off on a range of recommendations from an independent review released in...[Read More]
Victorians to pay the country’s most property taxes
12 July
Victorians are poised to be slugged with the most property tax in the country this year and beyond but NSW won’t be too far behind. A Victorian Parliamentary Budget Office report has revealed Victoria and NSW’s heavy reliance on property taxes,...[Read More]
The Essential Checklist for Effective Retirement Planning
6 July
Planning for retirement is not a task to be left until your final working years. The earlier you start, the more comfortable and enjoyable your retirement can be. Here’s an essential checklist to help you navigate the path to effective retirement...[Read More]
Reserve Bank declines to try its luck on 13th rate rise
6 July
WHAT WAS SAID ABOUT THE RATES DECISION: “A pause in the rate rises provides some small relief to workers out there doing it tough. We are still very mindful, however, that workers have fallen way behind.” – ACTU secretary Sally McManus “The...[Read More]