The Money Puzzle

The average HECs student debt is now $26,500 and rising rapidly. Once upon an inflation-free time HECs hardly mattered, now it matters a lot. Worse still, the way HECs is managed by the government is antiquated and unfair to former students. Meanwhile, banks use the debt to reduce your borrowing capacity. No wonder there is a push to change the process. 

In today's show we cover:

Advisor James Wrigley of First Financial joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode.

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As the economists continue to push their rate cut forecasts further out, it is now distinctly possible we will not see interest rate cuts this calendar year. What does it mean for the property market and your borrowing plans?

In today's show we cover:

Dr Doug Turek of Minchin Moore Private Wealth joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode 

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It might be hard to believe but the key numbers for both personal tax and super contributions are going to change again on July 1 2024 - Now is the time to make your plans.
In today’s show, we cover:

Financial adviser James Gerrard joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode 

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It's the biggest financial challenge for the new generation - how to get a toehold in the property market. 
In today's episode we cover 

John Pidgeon of Solvere Wealth and the This is Money podcast joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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The ASX just hit a new record and the markets are on a roll: So what should investors be looking for? AI-themed technology stocks and - believe it or not - consumer discretionary companies, says fund manager Roger Montgomery.

In today's episode, we cover: 

Fund manager Roger Montgomery of Montgomery Investment Management joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode 

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The promise of the investment property that 'pays for itself' is all too common in the property market and all too difficult to locate in practice. Is positive gearing feasible with high rates and low rental yields? 

In today's show we cover:

Real estate advisor Cate Bakos joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode.  

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In June 2023 we did our first special edition on AI when we introduced the issue and we talked about Nvidia - the AI chipmaker which is up 200 per cent since that time. Today we catch up on AI in mid-2024 with Matt Barrie, the founder and CEO of Freelancer: an executive at the frontline of AI changes.
In this episode we cover:

Matt Barrie, the CEO of Freelancer joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode.

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For a long time it was a golden rule among financial advisers to pay down your mortgage before any other investment consideration. Well, not any longer…for some investors putting money into super should come first.

In today’s show we cover…

Financial adviser Bruce Brammall joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode 

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The annual Rich 250 has just been released with a whole new crew of debutants pushing the incumbents of previous generations to one side. 
In this episode, we cover:

 John Stensholt editor of The List - Australia’s Richest 250 joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode. 

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The Victorian capital is the weakest of the major cities and its apartment market has been a loser for more than a decade. But the soft patch can't last forever: The investment fundamentals for the city are strong and long-term investors could do very well looking a little more closely at the Melbourne market.  

In today's show, we cover: 

Adviser Stuart Wemyss of ProSolution Private Clients joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode

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The Future Fund's consistently strong returns and its big exposure to so-called 'unlisted assets' have captured the interest of many investors. But, until very recently, most investors could not get access to unlisted assets and were restricted to listed securities such as shares and managed funds. Usefully, things are changing - today we take a serious look at unlisted assets. 

In this episode we cover 

Matthew Cassidy of Partners Wealth Group joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode.

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This was not supposed to happen: The regions were meant to return to their secondary position in the residential investment market after COVID-19. Instead, over the last three months, prices rose faster than in the cities and the rental vacancy rates remained tight as hell... what gives?
In today's show, we cover: 

Property analyst Louis Christoper of SQM Research joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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Not for the first time a single stock has become the proxy for a red-hot theme: AI and Nvidia are now interchangeable - and the specialist chipmaker has become the world’s top stock. Today we look at the AI boom and the first steps every Australian investor should be taking.
In today’s show, we cover:

Financial advisor James Gerrard joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode

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The consensus view is that interest rates have peaked in this cycle. Banks are already snipping their fixed rate mortgage rates (which is good) while also reducing the rate they pay on cash deposits (which is not so good). It's time to find out what's going on in the finance market.
In today's show, we cover: 

Sally Tindall, head of research at comparison service, RateCity, joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Family offices are very much the fashion among the nation’s ultra-wealthy: What are they exactly and what might we learn from how they operate?
In today’s show, we cover 

Jacqui Clarke, author and family office adviser joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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Sydney prices have been soft in early 2024: It's not quite a 'buyer's market' but it is as good a time to find value as we have seen in years. Where are the opportunities in the city and which neighbourhoods should we watch?

In today's show we cover: 

Judy Schmidt of Advocate Buyers Agency joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode

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In redrawing the plan for personal tax cuts while introducing a tax on unrealised gains in super the government has unleashed a whirlwind of speculation: All tax shelters from negative gearing to CGT discounts are now fair game.
What to do?
In today’s show, we cover 

Liam Shorte of Sonas Wealth joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode 

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Most property investors will aspire to have more than one property: Many in the market suggest strategies that allow an investor to accumulate a 'passive income portfolio' over time. But how do you approach this? What are the risks of running multiple properties? And would future tax changes make a difference? 
In today's show, we cover :

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The financial success of singer Taylor Swift is unprecedented: Show business will never be the same again. For millions, she is a champion who outsmarts the music industry at every turn. So is she a role model for younger investors?
In today's show we cover...

Sociologist Dr Rachel Carroll joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode 

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It's time to listen to the other side: Some economists believe house prices are heading south in 2024 as interest rate hikes finally hit home and unemployment rises at the same time.
In this show we cover:

Economist Stephen Koukoulas of Market Economics joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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The surprise changes to the planned tax cuts by the Albanese government will fuel political debate for months: But for the pragmatic investor it's a question of how to respond effectively. In today's show, we cover: 

Will Hamilton of Hamilton Wealth Management joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode

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The conditions have been building for a rebound in negative gearing with climbing interest rates and rising rental yields. Now a surprise reversal in tax relief for upper-income earners means the search for tax deductions is about to begin again.

In today's show, we cover; the startling figures on mortgage stress, how negative gearing just gets better, the Canberra rent freeze and why the split between homeowner and investor lending rates?

Cameron Kusher, research director at REA (a subsidiary of News Corp) joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode.

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Australians will borrow to the gills to buy the family home. They will also take big loans to enter the property market, but when it comes to the share market they hold back. Today we look a serious look at ‘leverage’.

In this episode, we cover:

Dr Sam Wylie of  Windlestone Education and Melbourne Business School joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode. 

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The big banks offered a consensus estimate that capital city house prices would rise by 5.7 percent in 2024. With a rush of negative data since the year began, this week we interrogate those bullish forecasts and see if they can be taken seriously.

In today's show, we cover:

Eliza Owen of the CoreLogic research group joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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The share market beat all expectations in 2023 and what's stopping a repeat performance in 2024? Lots of things actually but then again volatility is the name of the game when your money is at risk on listed markets. Here at the Money Puzzle we just assume a real return of around 9 percent each year and then it's a question of the stock choices you make.

In today's episode, we cover:

Gemma Dale, Director SMSF and investor behaviour at Nabtrade joins wealth editor James Kirby on this week's episode 

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In our first property episode of the year, we look at the very promising outlook for apartments, the improving inflation picture, and the chance that rates might drop.

We also take note of the potential headwinds in the next 12 months - especially the sharp decline in ‘buyer intention’ which has just been reported by Commonwealth Bank.In today’s episode, we cover:

Stuart Wemyss of ProSolution joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in today’s episode

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How might you start collecting art?

"If you enjoy it hanging on your wall, then that should be enough," says one of our best-known contemporary art collectors, former China ambassador Geoff Raby. And he should know, he built an art collection worth more than $3 million before donating it to La Trobe University.  

In today's episode we cover; finding your own path in the art market, negotiating with art dealers and auction houses, the price you pay to complete a collection and how to store your art collection.

 
Geoff Raby, economist and company director, joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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Driving a classic car that looks wonderful - and might just make you a small fortune - is something most investors have probably considered at some stage. Today we talk to one of the country's foremost car collectors who operates in the global market and has been in the game since he was a teenager.

In this episode we cover: 

Paul Huggins, a director of the Hamilton Chase group joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode.

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This is the second in our summer Fun Money series.

There is money to be made and fun to be had collecting wine: But how do you get started? 

It's a tricky business finding good wine, storing it, and indeed not drinking it until the right time! 

In today's episode, we cover:

John Lehmann, managing editor of The Australian and wine connoisseur joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in today's episode 

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How about having fun and making money too - it's entirely possible if you become an expert collector of cars, art, wine, rare books...or maybe even whiskey. ((Hey! you can even put them in your Self Managed Super Fund).

Over the next four weeks tune in for a wide-ranging guide to collecting: 

In coming episodes:  

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A spot by the sea? A place in the country? Can you do it...should you do it? The holiday home as a property investment enters the public imagination around about mid-December each year. 

In today’s episode we cover; the difference in buying a holiday home compared to a permanent residence, the biggest mistakes people make, how to locate and settle on a property and the demands of managing a second property.

Jarrod McCabe of Wakelin Property Advisory joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in today's episode 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So you want that car? The problem is you know very little about it - and certainly not enough to deal with the guy with a devilish grin coming towards you in the showroom.

In today's episode we cover ;

Madam Wheels (aka Jacquie Hayes) joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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Melbourne is growing faster than Sydney. In the next decade, the two cities are expected to draw level in terms of total population. So why is Sydney three times better for property investment returns than the Victorian capital? In today's episode, we cover:

Stuart Wemyss of ProSolution joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who are the families behind Australia’s biggest companies? What are they like and what can we learn from them as investors?
In today’s show, we cover: 

Damon Kitney author of The Fortune Tellers joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in today’s episode

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There is now hard evidence that investors are back in the residential property market. What's more, they are borrowing faster than owner occupiers and we can expect to see this translated into more demand from investors in the year ahead. What does it mean for the market?
In today's episode, we cover:  

Eliza Owen of the CoreLogic group joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We were told AI would take off as the investment theme of the year and it came to pass - that's why the NASDAQ has been about six times better than the ASX 200 in terms of returns this year.
In today's show, we cover:

Clay Carter, global head of equities at the Halo Technologies group joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in today's episode 

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It's one of Australia's biggest banks but we never see any data from it - in fact, we heavily underestimate the role of family finance in helping first-time buyers get started in the property market. But this is a key factor set to underpin yet another lift in house prices in 2024 if the economists have it right.

In today's show, we cover: 

Diana Mousina, economist at AMP joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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Many investors now rely heavily on social media influencers for investment guidance: But who are these operators and do they have your best interests in mind? It's a key question for investors and regulators and the game is evolving very quickly indeed. In today's show, we cover: 

Gemma Dale, head of investor behavior and SMSF at Nabtrade joins Wealth Editor James Kirby on today's episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian house prices could see a nationwide fall next year with Sydney leading the downturn on a forecast drop of four per cent, according to property research agency SQM.

But in today's podcast, one of the top buyer's agents on the ground in Sydney reflects wide scepticism in the market over any perceived softening of prices.
In today's episode we cover; the factors that will hold the market up in 2024, rental assistance, tips for renovating on a $1,000 budget and diversifying your property portfolio.
Kitty Parker of Kitty and Miles Buyers Agency joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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Australian investors kept away from bonds for many years preferring instead ‘bond proxies’ such as the banks and telco fully franked shares. And they did the right thing because bonds have been bad news for the last three years - especially bond ETFs where total returns have let people down. But now the time may be right …for government bonds bought one by one and held to maturity. 

In today’s episode we cover; the 2024 appeal of bonds, tax cuts coming, HECs and HELP and whether loans are included in super caps?

Hugh Robertson of Centaur Financial joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode.

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For a while, it seemed as if the China buyer - a potentially powerful influence at property auctions -had left the scene. But in recent months Australia has emerged as the number one overseas destination for China-based property investors, even surpassing Canada in terms of activity. In today's show, we look at how the China buyer rebound is changing the market, where are the mortgage stress signals in the bank results and waiting for the interest rate peak.

Pete Wargent of AllenWargent Property Buyers joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in today's episode  

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The nation's super funds will be able to widen the range of financial advice they offer under the new Future of Financial Advice legislation: What does it mean for you? 
In today's show we cover; how the market's second biggest fund - ART - plans to expand advice, the reality of super's little known inheritance tax, what is Nick Bolton up to at Magellan and can the ASX withstand the loss of major stocks?

Anne Fuchs, executive general manager at the Australian Retirement Trust joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in today's episode 

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Everyone likes to think they know their own neighborhood: As a result ‘home bias’ is a major issue among property investors. For first-time investors the issue is acute: The first steps into property would be even more daunting if the investment was in a distant city. But staying at home - especially in Melbourne - may just mean missing the best opportunities.

In today’s show, we cover :

James Gerrard of www.financialadviser.com.au joins Wealth Editor James Kirby

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We are on the cusp of the biggest handover of wealth in the history of the nation: A wall of money- estimated at $3.5 trillion - from both wills and super is about to transfer to the next generation. In Australia, we don't have an inheritance tax (though we do have an effective tax of 17 percent on money inherited through Super). With everyone living longer and the age of inheritance moving ever higher, the issue of 'impatience' is building with some investors not just anticipating future income but actively mortgaging their inheritance...it's a very bad idea. In today's show explain why... and also look at: 

Jacqui Clarke of Maxima Private joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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The housing market is in a state of paralysis. Renters can’t find accommodation yet investors are moving their money out. There must be a way to revive the market for all concerned. In today’s show we examine a simple change to Capital Gains Tax that could breathe new life into this moribund market. Better still, such a tax change would not require cross-border agreement from the states and there is already a precedent tax rule in place since the days of the Howard government.

In this episode we cover; expanding the CGT discount for long term investors, applying the small business retirement exemption rules to property owners and whether you should buy in a city you don’t know. 

Stuart Wemyss of ProSolution joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in the episode 

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Ozempic is causing a sensation in the health industry: Originally a weight loss treatment, it is now clear the so-called GLP-1 drug can have positive effects on other health conditions such as diabetes. But for Australian investors, it means a string of household favorite stocks such as CSL and ResMed have been hit hard. Today we look at whether the 'Ozempic-sell off' may just be a rare opportunity to get into blue chips at a discount.
In this episode we cover whether the market impact of Ozempic is overstated, the high cost of your big dividends, the sorry tale of shares that go to zero, and will fewer workers mean less goes into super? 
Shareplicity author Danielle Ecuyer joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in today's episode 

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Across Australia home prices have lifted higher than anyone might have reasonably expected: it means millions of Australians have financial power locked up in their homes. Accessing home equity is one of the few ways the average investor can get to finance extra investments or settle financial emergencies without having to pay exorbitant credit card rates. In today's show we cover; how to use the equity in your home, how to compare market lending rates and do listed property trusts offer true diversification? 

Anthony Keane, personal finance writer at News Corporation joins wealth editor James Kirby in this episode 

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The legal structure around family trusts in Australia has just survived a double stress test in the courts where the ATO tried to make changes in the personal use of some assets: The case has now been turned away for a second time on appeal and for now the coast is clear. Is a family trust worth exploring?  Can we assume the legal structure widely used by business owners, farmers, and wealthy investors is now secure?
In today's episode, we cover: 

Will Hamilton of Hamilton Wealth Partners joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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With a rental shortage across the major cities, new research has revealed there are more than 600,000 spots across urban Australia where owners could install a residential unit such as a 'granny flat'. At a stroke, such a change would change the dynamics of the market - not to mention the household income of many Australians struggling to come to terms with the reality of the current market. In today's show we cover; the powerful potential of the 'granny flat', rules and regulations around independent living units, and why property owners are quitting Victoria.

Tim Lawless, research director of CoreLogic joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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The government has finally outlined the details of the new super tax and it will hit many more investors than forecast initially. In particular the effective 30 per cent tax on amounts above $3 million will hit middle-income property investors where the bulk of the assumed value of their super fund may be taken up with an investment mortgage. In today’s show we cover; ‘T bill and chill’ - is cash and fixed income good enough now, three bad years in a row for bond ETFs, cashing out annual leave and the best way to deal with the plan for higher super tax.

Adviser Doug Turek of Minchin Moore Private is Wealth Editor James Kirby’s guest in this episode 

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This year’s immigration intake means a city the size of Newcastle has effectively arrived looking for accommodation within the nation’s existing housing stock - and it’s the key reason rental incomes are soaring and vacancy rates are close to one per cent. Moreover, there is very little to suggest the scenario of demand greatly outweighing supply will change over the next three years.

In today’s show we cover; the very strong outlook for rental investment property, why house prices can keep rising moderately from here, rock bottom home ownership levels for younger Australians and is Hobart set to slip from Australia’s fourth most expensive city.

Saul Eslake of Corinna Economic Advisory joins Wealth Editor James Kirby on today’s episode 

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Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest’s moves into renewables and Laurence Escalante’s VGW gaming empire are interesting insights into where some of the wealthiest names in business are seeing the future. Should you follow them? Would you invest? Plus Bruce Mathieson on Endeavour and Alex Waislitz’s foresight on interest rates.

In today's show, we also cover:

Bruce Brammall, financial adviser at Bruce Brammall Financial (www.brucebrammallfinancial.com.au ), was this week’s host of The Money Puzzle and was joined by John Stensholt, Richest 250 List editor at The Australian.

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Victoria is the first Australian state to legislate a levy on revenue generated from short term accommodation platforms such as Airbnb and Stayz. The 7.5 per cent levy will commence from 1 January 2025 as is an attempt to tackle the ongoing rental crisis, which many politicians blame on the rise in popularity of short term letting platforms such as Airbnb. Although Victoria will be the first to implement an 'Airbnb tax', other states have already flagged their intention to review, and most likely implement a similar system.

In today's show, we cover; whether this is fair or another case of government meddling, if it still makes sense to rent a property on a short term basis, tips and tricks for prospective owners of Airbnb properties, and when is the 'right' time to pay down investment property debt?

Quirin Schwaighofer, co-founder of short term accommodation management company MadeComfy, joins James Gerrard founder of www.financialadvisor.com.au on today's show.

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Uranium exchange-traded funds have increased 20 percent in value over the past month and are up 50 percent over the past 6 months, making uranium a standout metal commodity for 2023. Given that Australia is not pro-nuclear power, it is easy to forget about uranium in an investment portfolio. However, Australia has around a quarter of the world's uranium deposits and several strong uranium mining, exploration, development and production companies on the ASX .

We discuss the opportunity with uranium, discuss whether investors have missed the boat and look at the long-term thematics of uranium and how investors can potentially position it in their portfolios.

In today's show, we also cover
* How the China property market woes will affect Australia
* What to do when bond yields eventually stop rising
* Pros and cons of using a no frills accountant for your super fund
* Why did the RBA have to raise interest rates to reduce inflation?

Betashares chief economist David Bassanese joins James Gerrard founder of www.financialadvisor.com.au on today's show

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How do you successfully manage a property - or a string of properties? There are multiple risks and pitfalls in running a portfolio, but with a little forward planning you can optimise your assets. In today's show we cover; whether to manage property by yourself or with a professional, dealing with a body corporate, assembling a team of professionals, and the secrets of buying interstate.

Stuart Wemyss of ProSolution Private Clients joins Wealth Editor James Kirby for this special series episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian publishes its annual Top Financial Advisors list this week - and it's the perfect time to find out how to select a financial adviser. In today's show we cover; how to choose a financial adviser, how much should you expect to pay, is there a way to sidestep rogue operators, and what you should expect from a top-end adviser.

Sarah Abood, Chief Executive of the Financial Planners Association of Australia, joins James Kirby, Wealth Editor of The Australian, on today's episode. 

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How do you choose a home loan? What's on the menu...and how on earth do you pick the package that is best for you? In today's show we cover; how to get a basic home loan, selecting between fixed and variable, offsets and interest-only, and moving beyond the 'Big Four' banks.

Sally Tindall the Research Director at comparison service RateCity joins Wealth Editor James Kirby for this special series episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the past share market investors built their portfolios with individual stocks with a bias toward bluechip banking and mining companies. But today with so many low-cost ETFs available, there has been an evolution in professional portfolio construction with a move towards an ETF-based core/satellite approach.

The core component targets the average share market return through low-cost ETFs while the satellite component tries to outperform the market with 5 to 10-year themes. We cover how many ETFs to include, which ETFs to consider, and when to review, adjust and sell.

In today's show, we also cover: proposed changes to tax in superannuation and capital gains, how the EV Discount Bill can result in a 47 percent tax deduction on your car, how to reduce the interest rate on your SMSF loan and should 'equal weight' ETFs be considered in a portfolio?

Accountant Timothy Ricardo from Bishop Collins Chartered Accountants joins James Gerrard founder of www.financialadvisor.com.au on today's show

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How do you sell a property? What are the essential moves to make to ensure you get the best deal for your home or investment? The choices have multiplied in recent years: Should you auction? Should you have an ‘expression of interest’ campaign? Do you really need a ‘stylist’? 

In today’s show we cover; how to choose a real estate agent, how to choose a method of sale, preparing your property, and timing your sale. 

Jarrod McCabe of Wakelin Property Advisory joins Wealth Editor James Kirby for this special series episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Qantas is more than just an airline to Australians. But the way shareholders see the airline has diverged considerably from how customers do. That has now cost the airline its previously well-respected CEO, and seen the aviation business lodge plans to change its flight path.

In today's show, we also cover; interest rates, what to make of industry funds’ shift to offering indexed investment options, Newcrest’s takeover and holding foreign stock, and what the tax difference is between industry fund v SMSF. 

Bruce Brammall, financial adviser at Bruce Brammall Financial, was this week’s host of The Money Puzzle and was joined by Eric Johnstone, associate editor, business, at The Australian.

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Buying a property? What are the first steps? What are the pitfalls? It's never easy whether you are buying a first home or adding another asset to your investment portfolio: But there are some basics everyone should know...

In today's show, we cover: How to select a property, why private sales are your best option, assessing real estate agent jargon, and the vexed issue of your dollar limit. 

Kitty Parker of the Kitty and Miles buyer's agency is wealth editor James Kirby's guest for this special series episode.

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The expanded performance tests for super from the government set a new milestone in our investment market: Just about every investor in Australia has super savings and now we can see clearly if it is being managed well or not. Nearly one in ten funds failed: Is your fund one of them? In today's episode, we cover: how to make the best out of the super performance tests, using the my.gov website to see how your fund scored, stage three tax cuts and franked dividends, and investing for tax concessions.

Will Hamilton of Hamilton Wealth Management joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Active property investors are very often the same people who steer clear of shares and managed funds. At the same time, many advisors are heavily committed to shares and funds with little expertise when it comes to direct property: What to do? 

In today's show, we cover: Financial advice for the property investor, the common mistake advisers make in property, investing in Australian property if you live overseas and offset account money and negative gearing
Financial adviser James Gerrard of www.financialadvisor.com.au joins Wealth Editor James Kirby on today's show 

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Here's the puzzle: Should you depend on shares or cash for income? Well, your risky return from the ASX is represented by an average dividend yield of just over 4 percent. Meanwhile, with a cash term deposit, you can still get a 5 percent rate  - government guaranteed - it just might be the deal of the decade, know it when you see it. 
In today's show, we cover: The last of the best of the term deposit deals? How to play thematic exchange-traded funds,  shared equity home loans and when investment bonds make sense. 
Liam Shorte of the Sonas Wealth group is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest on this episode 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the residential property sector stabilizes, the banks have been playing some games in the lending market - if you are borrowing for a home or an investment you need to know what's going on. In today's episode, we cover: why interest-only borrowers are being punished, how can banks offer more than the RBA for deposits, why home loan borrowers are fixing again and the bias against retirees in the lending system.

 
Steve Mickenbecker, chief commentator at Canstar, joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode 

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The fashion for alternative unlisted investments is getting a reality check as investors can get a risk-free cash rate of more than four per cent. The biggest cloud over the sector, so far, is the redemption refusals popping up at major unlisted property funds. So what does it mean for investors? In today's episode, we cover: the big fat problem with unlisted assets, how to optimising super concessional contributions and the dreaded US withholding rate for Aussie investors. 

Tim Mackay of the Quantum Financial group is wealth editor James Kirby's guest in this episode.

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Tiny houses are popping up all over Australia yet the movement remains a mystery to many in the property sector. These hybrid mobile dwellings cost around the same as a deposit on an average house. No wonder they are popular among a broad range of investors from first home buyers to holidaymakers: So how does it all work and would it suit you? In today's episode, we cover: the pros, cons and legal limitations of a 'tiny house', running a tiny house as an investment, how to buy and sell your tiny house and why it's not for everyone. 

Christine Murphy of the Lets Talk Tiny Houses podcast is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest in this episode 

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Life insurance is a big expense and most smart investors save money by purchasing it through their super fund. But the track record of big super funds in getting around to sending through insurance payout is woeful. Worse still, big funds will often ignore your wishes on where they send the money.
In today's show, we cover: insurance failings in big super funds, class action payouts, getting to know the Australian Financial Complaints Authority and the auditor problem in SMSFs.
Fiona Halsey of Halsey Legal Services joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode.

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Residential property isn't the only sector with exceptionally tight vacancy rates. Industrial property - warehouses and factory units at the edge of every city - has become one of the hottest parts of the market. But why has it boomed, and how should everyday investors approach this investment area?

In today's show, we cover: how online retail changed the shape of the property market, the reason industrial property is outperforming and how deep the problems in the office sector are.

Charlie Buxton, CEO of the Cadence Property Group, is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest in this episode. 

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The excitement around AI has fuelled the 'magnificent seven' tech stocks on Wall Street and underpinned the 20 percent year-to-date return on Wall Street: But which Australian listed stock could be the champion for Australian Investors

In today's show, we cover: the AI contenders on the ASX, will CSL recover? The best and worst of Exchange Traded Funds and gearing into shares.
Rudi Filapek-Vandyck, editor of the research investment service FNArena.com joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode

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Investing in retail shops or industrial warehousing is a different ball game than buying the house around the corner. Longer leases and higher yields make this area attractive, but it's a lot more work upfront.

In today's show, we take a first-time look at this sector and cover: What is the minimum entry point for commercial property? The key concern with commercial tenants, where the bargains are in 2023, and the ideal investment vehicle for your first venture. 
Buyer's agent and founder of Revolve Commercial Property, Mish Daniel,  is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest in this episode 

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It's been a better-than-expected year for the share market - especially on Wall Street.  But where does it go from here?

What is the one area of the global market set to catch up with the AI-driven 'magnificent seven' stocks that have underpinned the money made so far in 2023?In today's show, we cover: The global share market rebound, the dangers in chasing alternatives, why banks frown on share market portfolios as collateral, and inheritance tax in super.
Will Hamilton of Hamilton Wealth Partners is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest in this episode

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Perhaps you cannot afford a first property, but if you combined with a mate it might be possible. In today's podcast, a question from a 21-year-old listener who wants to buy in partnership with a friend gets the thumbs up. In fact, the government has recently moved to make it easier for mates to buy together by allowing 'joint' applications for the popular First Home Guarantee Scheme. In today's episode, we also cover: the most promising region for investors nationwide, what would a market with 'rent controls' look like? And the mixed data on whether home prices are softening. 
Nerida Conisbee, chief economist at the Ray White Group is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest in this episode.

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Big super funds and high net worth investors are ever more keen on 'alternative investments' but are they for you? One of the nation's top female financial advisers certainly does not think so. 
In today's episode we cover: sticking with a financial plan through thick and thin, the fact that the very rich can risk a lot on alternatives - but can you? Why defined benefit pension funds are 'gold'  and bonds versus term deposits.
Sally Huynh of Shadforth Financial Group is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest in this episode.

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The reckoning for office property values has finally arrived in the Australian market, a long time after they first hit the US - where listed values are now rebounding. As the first reports of ‘limited redemptions’ at office-based unlisted property trusts hit the local sector, investors might reasonably expect this downturn in valuations will pass - indeed the funds might be catching up on formalising valuations that have dipped and are ready to recover.

In today’s show, we cover: Freeze-frame - reality bites for unlisted property valuations, why property prices and interest rates can rise at the same time, should we worry about a double-dip for the residential market and using the First Home Super Saver Scheme to buy a home

Chris Bedingfield of global real estate investors, Quay Global Investors is Wealth Editor James Kirby’s guest in this episode

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For a short while it looked like the leviathans of the Australian super industry were facing a new breed of challengers.

Start-up youth-focused super funds such as Spaceship rattled the sector with ‘green’ style products, social media marketing, and clear support from a younger demographic.

But the challengers have faded - they could not match the performance or services offered by big super. Will there ever be a successful super disruptor? 

How about a US$7 trillion non-profit global fund that’s just beginning to make some headway?

Find out more in this week’s episode when we cover: the false dawn of super disruptors, the titan that could yet shake the market, the unlisted assets in big super, and doing your own super contributions.

Andy Darroch of Independent Wealth Advice joins The Australian’s Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode

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You might have thought that the endless escalation of mortgage rates would finish the notion of a suburb where buying was cheaper than renting.Not so.There are at least 40 suburbs around the nation that are both cheap and offer strong prospects for the home owner or investor. 

Terry Ryder of the Hotspotting group is Wealth Editor, James Kirby's  guest in this episode.

Submit your questions on all things property, business and finance here - themoneypuzzle@theaustralian.com.au  

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This year was meant to be all about ‘value’ on the share market: Rising rates were expected to hose down the demand for tech-focused growth stocks and boring old value stocks were meant to shine.

It didn't happen. 

‘Because’, says top adviser Charlie Viola, ‘ the whole debate is rubbish, good companies make good investments that’s all there is to it, ‘ 

Sounds simple. Moreover, it sounds true. We cover: what happened to the long-promised return of value stocks? The need to take some money off the table in the months ahead, timing super contributions and should bank hybrids be classified as shares?

Charlie Viola, managing director of Pitcher Partners joins Wealth Editor James Kirby on today’s episode

Submit your questions on all things property, business and finance here - themoneypuzzle@theaustralian.com.au  

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The residential market in 2023 is most unusual - prices are rising while interest rates are increasing; Up to a third of buyers don't need a mortgage and...nobody wants to do any renovation work! The blow-out in building costs, supply difficulties and sluggish response times from some local councils have combined to create a market where the perfect property is perfectly ready to inhabit, But for those willing to take the plunge and renovate the rewards may be lucrative.  

Dean Berman of Berman Buys is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest in this episode.

Submit your questions on all things property, business and finance here - themoneypuzzle@theaustralian.com.au  

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The new financial year begins on July 1 and a range of key 'caps'  come into play. But the outstanding item of personal tax news is that you can have an extra $200,000 in super tax-free: Yes, if you are fortunate enough to be in the upper band of super investors then the amount you can have in super where the is no tax on earnings is moving up from $1.7m to $1.9m: Who said inflation is bad news for everyone.

We cover why your super contributions are rising - whether you like it or not, the generous lift in the tax-free super threshold, saying goodbye to pandemic-era drawdown rates for older Australians, and how to become a financial adviser. 

Financial adviser James Gerrard of www.financiladviser.com.au joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode.

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You might think higher rates keep buyers away from the property market but a remarkable 25 percent of purchasers buy outright - with no mortgage! It’s a remarkable statistic and offers an insight into a unique feature of today’s real estate market: Aging downsizers combined with freshly made fortunes from offshore underpin a considerable amount of the demand in the residential sector.

Michael Matusik of Matusik Property Insight is Wealth Editor James Kitby’s guest in this week’s episode  

Submit your questions on all things property, business and finance here - themoneypuzzle@theaustralian.com.au  

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The excitement around artificial intelligence has propelled the US sharemarket this year. That’s why returns stateside are three times better than the ASX over recent months. So what’s going on with AI and what does it mean for you?
We cover the investment opportunity of AI, whether this is going to be a dot.com boom, when to expect the first AI billionaires and how healthcare and financial advice will change.

 Dudley Nevill-Spencer of the London-based Live and Breathe group is Wealth Editor James Kirby’s guest in this episode.

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The biggest factor ‘new’ factor in the property sector is the remarkable change we will see from the arrival of 400,000 people into a market population growth had been close to zero.

But will the demand lift that comes from a population burst be enough to counter a consumer slowdown or even a full- blown recession?

Tim Toohey, strategist and chief economist at Yarra Capital is Wealth Editor James Kirby’s guest in this episode.

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Leave the investment to me, darling! It’s still a refrain in household finances and letting one person handle all money matters is the single biggest mistake couple make, says author Jacqui Clarke.

As an advisor to some of Australia’s wealthiest families, Clarke knows a thing or two about how individuals can lose when it comes to family fortunes:  In today’s episode she spells out the life lessons everyone needs to know.

We cover, how to manage household wealth in everyone’s interest, the attractions of pooling money for couples, building your own ‘village’ of wealth consultants and making sense of ‘buy’ recommendations from stockbrokers.

Jacqui Clarke, author of “Stop Worrying about Money’ joins Wealth Editor James Kirby in this episode.

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They don't make it easy, but any investor can directly enter the property investment market using their super. In fact, any investor with a Self Managed Super Fund can borrow to buy investment property as part of a wider diversified portfolio. Gemma Dale, Director of SMSF and investor behaviour at NAB Trade is Wealth Editor, James Kirby's guest in this episode.

Submit your questions on all things property, business and finance here - themoneypuzzle@theaustralian.com.au  

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In this week's show, we talk about whether the Australian share market is likely to finish the year in the black. We also discuss ways that investors can jump on the electric vehicle boom by investing in certain stocks and ETFs.

And with interest rates rising for the 12th time in 14 months, is it time to take money out of super to pay down your home loan? We also look at the new 30 percent super tax above $3M, the devil is in the detail with an unexpected sting in the tail for those with large super balances.

Stockbroker Chris Macdonald joins financial planner James Gerrard on this week's episode 

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What's the temperature in the market at the moment? How are the Saturday mornings for the buyers, sellers and even the auctioneers? With clearance rates lifting, are we being misled or is caution the smart money?

Jarrod McCabe from Wakelin Property Advisory joins Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest in this episode.

Submit your questions on all things property, business and finance here - themoneypuzzle@theaustralian.com.au  

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We're talking about how to tackle inflation as an active investor. We also deal with a question on discounted Listed Investment Companies which - believe it or not - leads us towards the Taylor Swift school of investing.  It turns out Taylor takes tips from her ex-Merrill Lynch stockbroker dad, Scott - and she seeks out discounted closed-end mutual funds. The ASX version of this investment is discounted LICs - but are they for you? 
We also cover: Optimising your cash to tackle inflation, gearing at a time of high-interest rates, and getting to the bottom of family trusts. 

Financial adviser Bruce Brammal joins The Australian's Wealth Editor James Kirby on this week's episode.

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Investors pay a higher mortgage rate than home loan borrowers. However, this was not always the case – and there is now a solid argument to suggest that investors should pay less. In reality, the repayment statistics for investors are better than the same numbers for homeowners – but investors get no reward for their better performance.

Cameron Kusher, Executive Director - Economics, at REA Group joins Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest in this episode.

Submit your questions on all things property, business and finance here - themoneypuzzle@theaustralian.com.au  

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As the sharemarket drifts, investors are looking to ‘alternatives’ for returns: One of the most dependable alternative income investments is ‘secured mortgages’ where you get a high rate of return underpinned by property projects: This week we fish in a new income stream that is worth exploring for the everyday investor.

We also cover: Artificial Intelligence - who will be the losers? Investing in shares for children, Should you worry about big super’s unlisted assets? And speculating on future rate movements.

James Gerrard of www.financialadviser.com.au is Wealth Editor James Kirby’s guest on this episode of The Money Puzzle 

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The capacity to borrow will be the big difference in the next upward cycle of residential real estate prices. Property investors might be familiar with the challenges around locating and managing a successful property, but an entire generation of investors has never faced operating in a high-interest rate environment.

Stuart Wemyss of the ProSolution group is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest on this episode of The Money Puzzle.

Submit your questions on all things property, business and finance here - themoneypuzzle@theaustralian.com.au 

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As housing affordability bites hard and the rent crisis continues, many landlords are as frustrated as their tenants with the long-term realities of the property market: Could it work better and what would it take to move the dial? 

In this episode we discuss the case for wholistic tax reform,  Dr Monique Ryan's mortgage, how the Teals are working on a new tax blueprint, super changes and whether the $3m cap will be the last 'adjustment'? 

Dr Monique Ryan, the 'teal' member for Kooyong, Melbourne is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest on this week's show. 

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The Albanese government's first 'May Budget' elevates the risk of higher inflation and higher rates - it also signals further strong returns for miners and building stocks. 
In this week's episode, we cover the hits and misses of Budget 2023,  the outlook for your super, whether family trusts are in the gun and the next building boom 
Will Hamilton of Hamilton Wealth Partners is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest on this week's show 

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Self Managed Super Funds are often associated with the very wealthy who have millions to spend, but new figures show the median amount for new SMSFs is $260,000. 

In this week's episode, we cover the advantages of an SMSF,  why the sector isn't growing very fast, explore SMSFs to include the whole family and the latest planned changes in super. 
Meg Heffron of Heffron SMSF Solutions is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest on this week's show

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Value investor Roger Montgomery is associated with blue chip companies, but that does not mean he looks exclusively at 'large caps': In fact, Montgomery says the small-cap selection on the ASX is emerging from the pandemic ready to beat all rivals. 

We cover - a green light for small caps, the dangers of 'over contributing' to super, why the ASX is reasonable value just now and whether we should worry about US banks.

Roger Montgomery of Montgomery Investment Management is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest on this week's show 

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Impact investing, where investors actively create ethical outcomes, has been growing steadily but the Albanese government's 'reconvening' of a task force on the issue is set to create a breakthrough. It's a great area... but can you make money from it?
Today we're getting to know impact investing, learning how 'Goodstart Childcare' changed Australia, finding out who might invest here and why? and looking at 'big capital' the plan for an Australian impact investment powerhouse.
Michael Traill, impact investing leader is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest on this week's episode 

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Would you be better at a hotly contested auction than a buyer's advocate? How do they work and what do they charge?
In today's show we cover how buyer's advocates operate and whether paying a fee or commission is better, we discuss whether local councils be dropping rates by now. And the debate over banning foreign buyers. 
Kitty Parker, buyer's advocate at Kitty and Miles Ltd is Wealth Editor James Kirby's guest on this week's show. 

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This week we ask how will the new super changes work? And we meet a real-life 'millionaire next door’ (Australian style). Plus, we get to grips with new super tax changes, discuss borrowing for shares at mortgage rates and how Australian shares are falling behind Wall Street again.

Questions for the podcast are always welcome to moneycafe@theaustralian.com.au

James Gerrard of www.financialadvisor.com.au is wealth editor James Kirby‘s guest on this week’s show

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The credit markets have been shaken by the dual troubles of US and European banks. Crucially, the Credit Suisse rescue involved bondholders taking a rare ‘haircut’. What does it all mean for investors?

In this week’s Money Cafe, we cover the fallout from the bank crisis and whether the affair will trouble Australian bank shareholders? What are the issues for bank hybrids? And just who needs secretive Swiss banks anyway?

Questions always welcome for the podcast to moneycafe@theaustralian.com.au 

Financial adviser Doug Turek of Minchin Moore is Wealth editor James Kirby’s guest this week.

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