Australian Investment Education

     Let’s face it – we all have our guilty pleasures. Whether it’s a glass of wine on the couch each night after work, an iPhone addiction, sweet tooth, or something maybe a little more sinister – we’re all guilty of having some bad habits in life. As someone who has specialised in managing money and providing financial advice for the last 30 years, I’ve come across some absolute shockers in the money space. These toxic money habits, which you probably don’t even realise you have, can ultimately hinder you from achieving your biggest financial goals, keep you locked in and controlled by consumer debt, and cause you more and more stress through life. #1 – Credit cards . Opinions have been split on these since inception and personally, I’m not really a fan. Having money that isn’t yours and is ‘free’ to spend can cause some (if not most) to go a little overboard on their spending. That pair of new shoes or holiday you’ve been longing for but just can’t quite afford? E...

  In today’s unpredictable economic climate, many individuals and families are grappling with mounting debt. Whether it's due to job loss, rising living costs, or unforeseen expenses, the burden of debt can feel overwhelming. However, with the right strategies, it is possible to regain control of your finances and work toward a debt-free future . Here are five effective approaches to help you overcome debt amid economic hardships. 1. Create a Realistic Budget The first step in tackling debt is to establish a comprehensive budget. Assess your income, expenses, and debt obligations to understand your financial situation clearly. Start by listing all sources of income and tracking monthly expenses, categorizing them into essentials and non-essentials. This will help you identify areas where you can cut back. Allocating a specific amount toward debt repayment each month can create a structured plan, making it easier to stay on track. 2. Prioritize Debt Payments Not all debts are create...

The Australian dollar, like many currencies around the world, has experienced a significant decline, affecting both businesses and everyday Australians. Currently valued at around 61 US cents, this drop represents a considerable shift. So, what’s causing this weakness, how will it impact the economy, and what might the future hold? The Rising US Dollar and Its Impact on the Aussie Dollar One of the primary factors behind the Australian dollar ’s decline is the strengthening of the US dollar. The US economy is in the midst of its third cycle of interest rate cuts, with further reductions expected. Normally, interest rate cuts would weaken the US dollar if other currencies remain stable, but in this case, the US dollar has continued to rise, while the Australian dollar has barely moved. Australia’s economic outlook is also a critical factor. A slowing Australian economy is dampening market sentiment, and there are increasing concerns that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) might lower i...