Market Update 12 March 2021 | AMP Capital

Market Update 12 March 2021 Investment markets and key developments over the past week Share markets rebounded over the last week as bond markets settled down a bit helped by central bank action and as $1.9 trillion in additional US stimulus was signed into law by President Biden. This saw the US share market rise to a record high (albeit the bond sensitive Nasdaq remains 5% down from its high), Eurozone shares rise to their highest …

What you can claim when working from home | Money & Life

What you can claim when working from home Setting up a home office? Here’s how to create a comfortable workspace, while offsetting the extra costs of working remotely. If you’re among those who’s decided to say ‘so-long’ to the office, you’ve probably also realised that having the right home-office set up is essential for your productivity – and sanity. As many of us learnt during lockdown, trying to fit in a full day’s work at …

Relationship break-up entitlements when you’re in a de facto

Relationship break-up entitlements when you’re in a de facto If you’re wondering who’ll get the home you’re currently living in, the car, or boat if you have one, we answer some of the commonly asked questions, so you’re across your rights and responsibilities. If you’ve recently split from your partner or are simply wondering what might happen if you do, you’ll need to keep your financial wits about you. A division of assets and debts, …

Shares have had a very strong rebound since March last year so where are we in the investment cycle? | AMP Capital

Shares have had a very strong rebound since March last year so where are we in the investment cycle?   Key points The history of cyclical bull markets in shares suggests that the rebound since last March still has a way to go. But it’s normal for the second 12 months of a cyclical bull market to see slower returns from shares. While shares are vulnerable to a further correction triggered by the spike in …

What does it really cost to raise kids? | Money & Life

What does it really cost to raise kids? We often hear that raising kids is expensive, but just how much will it cost you over the first five, 10 or 20 years? Here’s a closer look at the costs of each stage of life. If you’re thinking about having kids, or have already taken the plunge, you might be wondering how much you’ll need to budget for their welfare. There are a few different answers …

Buying a home in 2021? Read this first | Money & Life

Buying a home in 2021? Read this first Thinking about making a sea-change or tree-change? Wondering if it’s a good time to buy in the city? With house prices rising fast across most of the country, here’s what you need to know to get onto the property ladder. It’s official, Australia is experiencing a widespread property boom not seen for more than a decade. After COVID-19 put the brakes on the housing market early last …

Market Update 5 March 2021

Market Update 5 March 2021 Investment markets and key developments over the past week While share markets had a strong bounce early in the past week as fears around rising bond yields briefly eased they returned later in the week particularly after Fed Chair Powell reiterated the Fed’s dovishness but failed to signal significant concern or action to deal with rising bond yields. As a result, US, Japanese and Chinese shares fell for the week, …

Bitcoin – it’s not a currency, it’s not a capital asset… so what is it?

Bitcoin – it’s not a currency, it’s not a capital asset… so what is it? Key points Digital currencies and blockchain technology may have a lot to offer – but that does not mean Bitcoin will be it. Due to extreme volatility, high transaction costs and slow processing, Bitcoin does not cut it as digital cash. But it’s not an asset generating cashflows either, which makes it impossible to value. Key for investors is not …

Why women need a unique focus on their finances

Why women need a unique focus on their finances For many reasons, women face additional hurdles when it comes to achieving financial freedom. So it’s important to take control of your finances now, and be proactive when it comes to planning your financial future. Ladies, it’s time for a reality check. The unfortunate truth is that women experience low-income and poverty at a much higher rate than men. In fact, up to 40 per cent …

Budgeting tips for students

Budgeting tips for students Starting or returning to study is an exciting time! But let’s be real, unless you’re also working full time, you’ll have less income while you complete your studies. That’s where a little planning can help make the most of your student budget. Surviving on a student budget isn’t easy, but don’t worry, it can be done. Whether you’re studying remotely this year, or returning to campus, we have some great tips …