When it comes to protecting your financial future, insurance is a critical component. For many Australians, the decision often comes down to choosing between insurance through an industry super fund and a retail insurance policy. Here's a breakdown to help you make an informed choice.
Read MoreOne of the most common misconceptions in business is the difference between a casual employee and a contractor — and getting it wrong can mean unexpected superannuation and leave obligations. Many businesses assume that if someone has an ABN, sends invoices, or works independently, they must be a contractor. However, under Australian tax, superannuation and employment law, this isn’t always the case. If someone is classified as a contractor, they could still be entitled to Superannuation Guarantee (SG) contributions and leave entitlements. Misclassification can lead to costly back payments and penalties, so it’s crucial to get it right.
Read MoreThe international markets had a strong start to 2025, with European stocks outperforming the US. The US market had strong performances in financials, healthcare, and communication services. However, the information technology sector struggled, falling 1.5%, including sharp drop in NVIDIA’s share price as Chinese start-up DeepSeek, challenged US dominance in the sector. The AI giant saw its stock tumble by as much as 20% after concerns emerged that DeepSeek’s generative AI could match industry leaders at a significantly lower cost.
Read MoreInvesting is the key financial strategy for building wealth, and in Australia, property and shares are the most common choices (for good reason). This fuels an ongoing debate about whether to invest in property, shares, or a combination of both. Each option has its own benefits and risks, making it crucial to understand their differences before making an informed investment decision.
Read MoreWhen selling or restructuring a small business in Australia, taking advantage of Small Business Capital Gains Tax (CGT) concessions can significantly reduce tax liabilities. This article explores the key CGT concessions, eligibility requirements, and important considerations, helping business owners maximise tax efficiency and preserve wealth through strategic planning and professional guidance.
Read MorePlanning a home renovation in 2025? Whether it’s a kitchen upgrade, bathroom refresh, or major extension, it’s worth knowing what reno finance options are available. Today we’ll explain some ways to fund your home improvement project.
Read MoreIn recent years, there has been renewed interest in family trusts and investment companies as tax efficient structures to build and hold family wealth. This growing trend is driven by increasingly stringent limitations on superannuation, making these alternative wealth structures more appealing. As individuals and families look for ways to optimise tax efficiency and ensure long-term wealth preservation, family trusts and investment companies provide flexible and strategic options for managing family finances and investments.
Read MoreAs we look ahead to 2025, major economic and research firms project a cautious yet optimistic tone for the global investment landscape. In this article, we look through the key forecasts from Macquarie, J.P. Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Russell Investments, Vanguard, and Bloomberg to offer a concise roadmap for navigating the year’s opportunities and risks.
Read MoreWith rate cuts expected in 2025, variable home loans seem appealing, but fixed rates might offer benefits now. Some lenders’ fixed rates are currently lower than variable ones, making it crucial to weigh both options carefully. Learn how to choose the right rate for your needs and maximize savings.
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