Market Update 05 February 2021

Market Update 05 February 2021 Investment markets and key developments over the past week Global share markets rebounded over the last week helped by good economic data and earnings news, reduced concerns around vaccines and as worries about the Reddit/day trader crowd adding to volatility fizzled. This saw the US share market rise to a new record high. Reflecting the positive global lead along with strong Australian data and a very dovish message from the RBA …

How to protect your finances from cybercrime

  How to protect your finances from cybercrime Cybercrime rose sharply in 2020, as more people worked, shopped and socialised online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Anyone can be a target, so it’s essential to be proactive when it comes to protecting your finances and identity online. Our digital tools and technology were a welcome relief last year, allowing us to stay connected through successive lockdowns and social distancing measures. But with the sudden and …

5 tips for creating your own good fortune this Lunar New Year

5 tips for creating your own good fortune this Lunar New Year The Lunar New Year begins on 12 February, as we usher in the year of the Ox. Ancient Lunar New Year traditions are believed to encourage health, wealth and prosperity, so why not create your own good fortune with our guide to help you get your finances in order? Have a financial spring-clean Part of the traditional preparations for Lunar New Year includes …

Market Update 29 January 2021

  Market Update 29 January 2021 Investment markets and key developments over the past week Global share markets fell over the past week hit by a combination of concerns around coronavirus, vaccine roll out and delays to extra US stimulus as US day traders added to volatility. Australian shares fell reflecting the weak global lead with resources, IT, financial and industrial shares seeing the biggest falls. Bond yields fell in the US and Europe but were …

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 …