Who needs a testamentary trust?

Who needs a testamentary trust? The rising cost of living is grabbing all the attention right now as people struggle to pay the increasing prices. But in the meantime, our collective wealth has been growing steadily and is being transferred to the next generation at increasing rates. In fact, the value of inheritances as well as gifts to family and friends has doubled over the past two decades.i A 2021 Productivity Commission report found that …

Do You Know the Difference between Needs and Wants?

Do You Know the Difference between Needs and Wants? What’s one reason why people aren’t able to save money? They don’t know the difference between their needs and wants, resulting in too many unwanted things spilling out of your cupboards, closets, and drawers. In order to prevent their desires from controlling their thoughts, they need to differentiate between what they need and what they can do without. Here’s how to start: 1.     Make a List …

Family matters: Becoming a parent

Family matters: Becoming a parent You often hear new parents say that having a baby is an amazing, life changing experience. Nothing is ever the same again! At a time when every aspect of your life is changing, the last thing you want to think about is money. But while there may not be ways to reduce the financial commitments, there are things you can do to plan and manage them more effectively. Common questions …

Family matters: Educating the kids

Family matters: Educating the kids A good education is one of the best gifts you can give your child, but although it doesn’t have to, it can cost a lot of money. A little research and planning now could save you some financial worries in the long run. The earlier you start to save the better. Common questions to consider Some questions you may wish to consider include: How much will my children’s education cost? …

Family matters: Getting married

Family matters: Getting married Getting married is an exciting time in life but it can also be a time of significant financial change. Common questions to consider Some questions you may wish to consider include: How do we set a budget for our dream wedding? What are the joint financial decisions we should be thinking about now we are getting married? Do we need a Will when we are married? What types of insurance do …