When young people and young families reach out to me or other financial advisers, it’s typically centered around particular financial questions, goals, or issues they need help with at that point in time. Other times, it’s a combination of all these things, as their situation has become too complex to manage by themselves.
Simply Super
Finding $20 in your pocket is always great but imagine finding thousands of dollars in super that you had lost track of? According to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO), as at 17 May 2019, there were AUD$ 17.5 billion funds in lost and unclaimed super money, and we know that a large proportion of these funds belongs to Kiwis.
Lightening the mental load
It’s no great secret that as we age our bodies begin to go into some form of decline, it can’t be disputed because the evidence is visible. Mental decline isn’t visible, no one knows what’s happening in anyone else’s head. This means it might be more open to dispute, delaying any response.
Closing the gap
Women need to educate themselves about how to mitigate things like illness and the loss of a partner and talk to an expert about things like estate planning, life and health insurance, investing and retirement planning. The more informed and prepared women are for these things, the better they will feel, and the more protected they will be.
We all need to know financial control
Clearly anyone can quickly pick up cooking, laundry or start the hedge trimmer if needed, but finances can be daunting and difficult if there’s no familiarity there. A lack of financial knowledge can be paralysing if a person is suddenly confronted with financial demands.
Make sure you have a 'fire drill' for your investment plan
An adviser once said he did not so much have people with investment problems as he had investments with people problems. Your assumed rationality can vanish in a crisis. So why not build your human imperfections into your game plan?
John & Alice's Story
“Like me, I’ve got mates who were dubious about the value of insurance and whether claims will actually be paid. But right from the beginning, working with Scott and our insurer has been completely hassle-free.”
Where there's a Will, but no way
Is your will drawn up? Do you have a power of attorney? Aside from ensuring your investments are right for you, your financial adviser should have a healthy interest in ensuring a few other things in your life are addressed.
How much do you need to retire?
Determining how much you will need to save for retirement will depend upon several variables, including your current age, health, income and level of debt. Here are a few guidelines to help you evaluate your retirement needs.
Key Changes to KiwiSaver in April 2019
Some positive KiwiSaver changes are coming into effect from 1 April 2019 and later in the year. These changes will provide greater options for New Zealanders to see their retirement savings increase over time.
Living on the Edge
Digital innovation has democratised access to financial information to the point where anyone with a smartphone, a few apps and real-time news and data feeds can be like a pro trader. But who wants to do that? And do you need to?
Should you rent a home, or buy?
So, renting a home always equals throwing money down the drain, and buying a home is key to building equity … right? Nope. That rule is as outdated as a horse and carriage. In fact, more people are deciding to keep on renting — indefinitely. Why? People have different financial goals.
Three smart money moves to make in your 30s
Those of you in your 30s know it's the decade when a lot of significant things happen. Along the way, there are some smart money moves you can make now that "Future You" will seriously thank you for.
Don't sweat the downturn
We'd all love for the market to go on a tear forever, reaching record highs and blowing minds; but the truth is, downturns are a reality, particularly if you are a long-term investor.
Your New Year's Resolution
The new year is a time of reflection; a ready-made reminder to us all that we should perhaps take stock of what's happened and what will come next. It is a good time to ask a very simple but profound question: What could possibly go wrong over the course of the coming year?
Different views on finance
Men and women are different when it comes to money. Not the most outrageous statement. It's something financial advisers who sit across the desk from the sexes on a daily basis have no problem telling you.
Top 10 Investment guidelines
Depending on luck is simply not a sustainable investment strategy. Evidence-based, goal-based investment may not sound as exciting but is also a lot less work.
The power of compounding
I hear young people complaining on a regular basis that it’s impossible for them to save money. The list holding them back is a long one – student loans, minimum pay, rent, coffee, and the desire to enjoy their youth.
Putting 'family' into financial planning
A couple that decides to form a long-term relationship does more than create a legal and spiritual bond. At the same time, the personal and financial goals probably shift and become more complex.
Life Insurance Premium Options
Regular payments for your insurance are referred to as premiums and they will vary depending upon the amount insured and your age. Which premium is better for you?
