Seven key charts for investors to watch regarding the global economy and investment markets this year

Seven key charts for investors to watch regarding the global economy and investment markets this year Key points Shares are at risk of a short-term correction or consolidation, but investment markets should provide solid returns this year on the back of continuing economic recovery and low interest rates. Seven key global charts worth keeping an eye on by investors this year are: the trend in new coronavirus cases and deaths; global business conditions PMIs; unemployment; …

Frugal February – how much could you save?

Frugal February – how much could you save? It’s the shortest month of the year so what better time to make a change and save some money? We’ve got three tips for each of the next four weeks to help those dollars pile up in Frugal February. Week 1 – the same lifestyle for less In week one, we’re easing you into the swing of saving with some good financial habits to get you into …

Econosights: The importance of domestic tourism for the Australian economy

Econosights: The importance of domestic tourism for the Australian economy   Key points Domestic tourism is worth more to the Australian economy (at over 4% of GDP) compared to how much international tourists bring into Australia (at 1.3%). And, Australian spending on overseas trips is worth twice the value of international tourist spending within Australia. So, there is potential to offset the loss of activity from international tourism (especially if the borders stay closed through …

Budgeting for baby: What you need to know

Budgeting for baby: What you need to know Having a baby is an exciting and life changing experience. But what about the cost? There are many hidden and unexpected expenses that go along with your new bundle of joy. Follow our handy guide to planning your finances, so you can avoid any money worries once baby arrives. No two ways about it, having a baby in Australia isn’t cheap. It also comes at a time …

Market Update 22 January 2021

Market Update 22 January 2021 Investment markets and key developments over the past week Global share markets rebounded over the past week with US shares hitting a record high helped by good earnings news and optimism regarding President Biden’s stimulus plans. Reflecting the positive global lead and good Australian economic data the Australian share market rose to its highest since February led by strong gains in IT, retail, health and telco stocks. Bond yields mostly rose …

How to have a happier new year

How to have a happier new year What’s the key to lasting happiness? If you think that having more money, a better job or more stuff will make you happier, you’d be wrong, according to science. Take a look at the latest research and follow our tips to change your spending habits and boost your happiness in 2021. After living through a year when our collective mental health took a beating, the new year has brought …

US political protests, inflation and rising bond yields

US political protests, inflation and rising bond yields   Key points US protests are only an issue for investment markets if they significantly impact economic activity. Global and Australian recovery will boost bond yields and there is good reason to believe that (after yet another false ending) the now nearly 40-year super cycle decline in bond yields may be at or close to over. But the end of the bond bull market is likely to …

Five ways to make yourself more employable in 2021

Five ways to make yourself more employable in 2021 If you’re among those who lost their job or missed out on work opportunities last year due to COVID-19, here’s what you can do to improve your employment prospects in 2021. For many people, career plans were put on ice last year, as the world grappled with the impact of COVID-19. The fallout was widespread, with job losses felt across industries as diverse as retail, hospitality …

Market Update 15 January 2021

Market Update 15 January 2021 Investment markets and key developments over the past week Global share markets were mixed over the last week with Japanese shares up strongly, but US and European shares down slightly partly on profit taking after a run of strong gains along with concern about rising bond yields and Chinese shares also down. Consistent with the soft US lead Australian shares also fell slightly with gains in energy, financial and IT stocks …

More Aussies look to buy property and refinance

More Aussies look to buy property and refinance One in five Australians is hoping to purchase a property in the next 12 months, while one in three existing homeowners wants to refinance to get a better deal. Record-low interest rates and a shift in people’s mindsets, post the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, are behind more Aussies looking to buy property, or refinance existing home loans, according to data from financial comparison group Finder. Population …