News & Blogs

The latest news and insights on retirement planning, financial advice, investment and market updates.

Posts by Sam Stillone:

Getting Financially Fit in an Inflationary Environment

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Sam Stillone 6 September 2022
Getting Financially Fit in an Inflationary Environment

It seems that rising inflation and interest rates aren’t going away anytime soon, and many households may have started to feel the pinch, and increasingly so after the RBA’s most recent monetary policy decision.

If you’re feeling a little nervous about your household budget, now is the time to zero in on the numbers and bring your finances up to speed. Our handy checklist below could help guide you through the process.

Known Unknowns:  What investors can expect over the next 12-months

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Sam Stillone 3 August 2022
Known Unknowns:  What investors can expect over the next 12-months

Given that many investments, including shares and bonds, have experienced losses in the last 12 months, which investment is likely to give better returns in the next 12-months on so?

In this short video, Dr Steve Garth (Independent Member of our Investment Committee) explains what's driving the share market and bond market, and what investors can expect from investment returns over the next year. 

A Survival Guide during Investment Market Volatility

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Sam Stillone 6 July 2022
A Survival Guide during Investment Market Volatility

Investors around the world have realised that fighting inflation is going to be difficult.  This is causing enormous volatility in investment markets as investors fear that increasing interest rates may cause a recession.    

In this short video, Dr Steve Garth (Independent Member of our Investment Committee) explains what's been recently happening in investment markets and the critical steps that investors must take with their portfolio management in these volatile times.

Accelerate your savings with the help of science

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Sam Stillone 9 June 2022
Accelerate your savings with the help of science

Saving money can be difficult at the best of times. But when everyday items such as electricity, groceries, and petrol prices go north, it pays to have some smart strategies up your sleeve to help you keep the saving momentum going.

As humans, sacrificing in the short term for long-term reward goes against our grain. Our brain works hard to come up with excuses for why we can’t save more. These excuses try to distract and protect us from anxiety and shame, but they don’t serve us long term.

Luckily, behavioural science can teach us a thing or two about how to find more success when it comes to saving. Whether you’re planning that long-awaited overseas trip, tackling some home renovations, or saving for retirement, try these ideas on for size.

5 important considerations for 2021-22 EOFY

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Sam Stillone 9 June 2022
5 important considerations for 2021-22 EOFY

For many of us, the period just before the end of the financial year can be an important time to look at finances. Taking stock at this time is a great way to check-in on your situation and see if any changes are needed in the lead up to 30 June.

For example, it may be a good idea to review your existing (and expected) concessional contributions to superannuation for the 2021-22 financial year—to see if you are making the most of the annual concessional contributions cap limit.

Below we’ve included a list of some key EOFY considerations to bear in mind. While these strategies may help reduce your personal income tax and/or provide for your retirement, their suitability will depend on your own eligibility and circumstances. As always, it’s important to seek qualified professional advice before making any changes to your finances.

Bank of Mum & Dad:  Proceed with caution!

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Sam Stillone 9 June 2022
Bank of Mum & Dad:  Proceed with caution!

The great Australian dream of owning property has become a tall order for first-time home buyers. And with the soaring cost of living, saving for a deposit isn’t getting any easier.

As a parent, you may be thinking about tapping into your savings or home equity or going Guarantor to help your children secure a home loan. You’re not alone. Parental contribution is on the up, with parents contributing around $90,000 per child on average*, a 20% increase on the previous year. The ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ has become Australia’s 9th biggest mortgage lender.

Like all financial decisions, there can be some risks and important considerations to weigh up before stepping in to help. And making sure you understand the impact on your finances and your future is key.

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