Despite an increasing number of women participating in the workforce, there are still significant differences between men and women in terms of superannuation balances at retirement – the so called gender retirement savings gap. As superannuation contributions are largely linked to employment or business income, those who have lower income, work part-time, or have time out of the workforce, will... Read more
By Shane Oliver, Head of Investment Strategy & Chief Economist from Oliver’s Insights, AMP Capital, Edition 26 2016 Key points Low and falling investment yields from most major asset classes point to a constrained medium term return outlook. For a diversified mix of assets, this has now fallen to around 6.9% on our projections. For investors the key is to:... Read more
NSW joins Queensland and Victoria in imposing specific taxes on foreign investment for residential property purchases. Additional land tax to be paid 0.75% from start of 2017 and additional 4% stamp duty from 21 June 2016. Foreign investors will no longer be entitled to the 12 month deferral for the payment of stamp duty for off-the-plan purchases of residential property.... Read more
There is currently a very competitive small business variable rate available until August 2016. Variable rate 4.49%* Loans up to $1 million Minimum application requirements apply Residential or commercial security Establishment fee of just $800 without ongoing fees. For more information give me a call on (02) 9908 9888. *Rates and fees are indicative only and subject to change without... Read more
Stamp duty has been a significant barrier to business owners wanting to restructure their business assets. There were many instances where the costs of transferring from one business entity into another (e.g. from a sole trader or partnership to a trust or company structure) were prohibitive because of the amount of stamp duty that was involved. From 1 July eligible... Read more
By Shane Oliver, Head of Investment Strategy & Chief Economist from Oliver’s Insights, AMP Capital, Edition 23 2016 Key points The past financial year has been rather messy for investors with another long worry list, a bear market in most share markets and record low bond yields. However, returns for diversified investors were not disastrous and followed several strong years.... Read more
Starting a new business, or expanding an existing one usually requires significant funds. Securing a bank loan to enable cash flow is one option, however in our experience the banks are so risk averse that their requirements for real estate security to cover their exposure can make this option unpalatable. Consequently business owners often fund start-ups using their personal financial... Read more
By Shane Oliver, Head of Investment Strategy & Chief Economist from Oliver’s Insights, AMP Capital, Edition 21 2016 Key points The vote by Britain to leave the European Union poses risks for UK, European and global financial and economic stability that may linger for a while. However, it needs to be kept in perspective and is unlikely to plunge the... Read more
By Shane Oliver, Head of Investment Strategy & Chief Economist from Oliver’s Insights, AMP Capital, Edition 20 2016 Key points Uncertainty around the outcome of Britain’s referendum on whether to Remain in or Leave the European Union has reached fever pitch. While a victory for the Leave campaign will likely see more volatility, the global economic consequences have likely been... Read more
The Australian retirement saving system is ranked third worldwide in the 2015 Melbourne Mercer Global Pension Index (MMGPI). In the overall ranking, which includes measures of adequacy, sustainability and integrity, the Australian retirement saving system was awarded a score of 79.6 behind Denmark (81.7) and Netherlands (80.5). The Australian score results in a B+ categorisation, slightly outside the A grade... Read more