The Clever Investor Podcast

Building Wealth: 2 Investment Properties by Age 23

While most kids were busy kicking footballs, Stuart Wright was already diving into the world of real estate.
Right after high school, he secured a job in property sales in his hometown of Sydney.
Fast forward to today, at just 23 years old, Stuart owns two investment properties and has an incredible journey to share.
His story proves that investing in property is within reach, even for young people.

What is Wall Street?

Often depicted in movies as the pinnacle of the financial world and constantly popping up in our weekly news broadcasts, Wall Street is a symbol of financial power and influence, but what exactly is it?
 
Wall Street is more than just a street in Lower Manhattan, New York. It's the beating heart of the American financial system. This bustling epicentre is home to some of the world's largest financial institutions, including banks, stock exchanges and investment firms.
The New York Stock Exchange's history traces back to the signing of the Buttonwood Agreement by twenty-four New York City stockbrokers and merchants on May 17, 1792, under a Buttonwood tree located outside 68 Wall Street.
This agreement organized securities trading in New York City and marked the beginning of the New York Stock Exchange.
At its core, Wall Street serves as the centre of the stock market in the United States. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ*, two of the most prominent stock exchanges globally are based here. These exchanges provide a platform for buying and selling shares of publicly traded companies.
The connection of global financial markets means that what happens on Wall Street doesn't stay confined to its physical location. News of a major economic event or a shift in investor confidence on Wall Street can and will quickly travel worldwide, affecting markets in Asia, Europe and elsewhere for the positive and the negative. This link underscores the significance pull Wall Street in shaping the broader global financial landscape.
Owun

The Disadvantages of Buying an Old House for Investment

The Allure of Buying an Old House for Investment
I think we all understand that investing in real estate has always been an attractive option for those looking to secure their financial future. While many investors focus on buying new properties, there is a certain romantic charm and allure to buying an old house.
Old houses often possess a unique character and history that can be appealing to both buyers and tenants. However, it is important to be aware of the hidden costs and disadvantages that come with buying an old house for investment.
A thorough financial analysis will help you determine if the investment is financially viable and aligns with your investment goals.
Come with me as we will explore the potentially massive downsides of purchasing an old house and provide tips for mitigating these disadvantages.
You might fool yourself into thinking you are buying the house cheaper but.....
 

Buying with a significant other – what you should know

With interest rates settling down, now is a great time to get onto the property ladder.
Of course we still see property prices climbing and the average dwelling prices in all our major cities not dropping backward for some, buying with a significant other – be it a spouse, partner, family member or friend – may be the only successful way onto the property ladder.
Purchasing a property with someone else, like a life partner, spouse, family member or friend, has been a popular and viable way for many Australians to enter the property market.
Purchasing with someone else often makes property ownership more affordable. It can be a strategy that enables potential buyers to pool their money for a deposit and utilise their borrowing power to get a loan. As co-owners can split the cost of the property and all the associated expenses, so that repayments are noticeably less than what you’d pay if you were buying solo.
Whether you're buying with your partner or someone else, owning property is a big deal. With the right setup, it can be a rewarding and profitable experience. Over time, you might even make a tidy profit that you can use to buy your next property.
This weeks show looks over the main things to be considered before jumping in head first.
 

Pawnbrokers: The evolution of lending

Imagine a time long ago when people needed money urgently and had to give up something valuable as collateral.
This practice marked the beginnings of pawnbroking, a service that has evolved over centuries to become what we see today.
Let's take a journey through history to understand how pawnbrokers have transformed into the modern services they are now.
Pawnbroking has ancient roots, dating back well over three thousand years. In early civilizations, people faced times when they needed immediate cash but didn't want to permanently part with their cherished belongings. So, they turned to pawnbrokers. These brokers lent money in exchange for items like jewellery, farming tools and even weapons. The borrower could later reclaim their belongings by repaying the loan along with a bit of extra money as interest.
My late grandparents and my mother were part of the world of pawnbroking in London, England from the 1940’s into the 1970’s.
They understood the value of lending a helping hand during times of need.
In their small pawnshop, near Tower Bridge in South East London, they provided an important lifeline to people who required immediate funds but didn't want to part with their cherished belongings forever. This concept, rooted in mutual support, echoes the origins of pawnbroking throughout history.
As societies evolved, so did pawnbroking. During the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, pawnbroking established itself as a formal trade. It was a way for people from all walks of life to secure quick loans without selling their belongings permanently. These pawnshops became important community institutions, providing financial assistance and acting as social safety nets.
The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to pawnbroking. As economies grew and urban centres developed, the demand for quick loans increased. Pawnbrokers adapted by setting up shops in busy city areas, making their services more accessible to a larger population.
 
In recent times, pawnbroking has become more regulated and structured. Governments have introduced laws to protect both borrowers and lenders, ensuring fair practices.
Modern pawnshops offer a range of services beyond just loans. They buy items outright from people who wish to sell them and they also sell pre-owned items to customers. This modernization has turned pawnshops into versatile financial and retail establishments.
The traditional pawnbrokers' symbol is three golden balls suspended from a bar. Pawnbroking has evolved from ancient practices of mutual assistance to regulated and modernized financial and retail services.
Today's pawnbrokers still provide a valuable option for those seeking quick loans, selling items, or making purchases. While the times have changed, the core function of helping individuals during financial difficulties remains at the heart of the pawnbroking industry.

The top 6 Reasons why we avoid investing

I think that far to many individuals hesitate to invest for various reasons this weeks let's break down these concerns in to 6 simple parts.
Understanding these reasons and learning to take some actionable steps to overcome them is crucial for anyone looking to achieve their financial goals. Whether it's dispelling myths about time constraints, gaining financial knowledge or addressing fears, everyone can take small, practical steps towards a more secure financial future.
Remember that becoming an investor is for anyone willing to learn and make some consistent efforts.

Bull and Bear markets: The wild world of the market animals explained

Imagine the world of finance as a zoo, where two mighty creatures, the bull and the bear, reign supreme on Wall Street.
The terms actually come from the way these animals attack their opponents. A bull thrusts its horns up into the air (a bull market goes up), while a bear swipes its paws downward (a bear market goes down). So, the names make sense when you think about how the market behaves during these times.
The bullish bull:
This majestic creature represents a market on the rise, where optimism and confidence run wild. Picture in your mind this bull charging ahead with strength and vigour, much like the market when prices are climbing and investors are feeling pretty darn optimistic.
Take a peek into the bear's den:
Bears might look all fluffy and cuddly, but in the financial world they represent the opposite of the optimistic bull. A Bear market is when things take a bit of a nosedive. The bear lumbers along, swiping its paw downward, symbolizing falling stock prices and a general feeling of pessimism in the market.
 
Predicting when a Bull or Bear market will show up is a bit like trying to exactly predict the weather for every single day in this financial jungle. It's tricky!
In the wild these animals don't follow a set schedule. They're unpredictable, who knows what’s going through their minds. Bull and bear markets are the same, they can come and go, sometimes lasting for months or even years. And guess what? Sometimes they hibernate, taking a long break before popping back up again.
There are signs and indicators such as economic data, corporate earnings, or geopolitical events that the all-to-many experts look at, but even they can't forecast with absolute certainty. It's all part of the wild and (at times) wonderful world of finance.

Will Public Transport Boost Property Values or Kill it??

In urban development, the symbiotic relationship between public transport and property values emerges as a central player.
As cities grow denser and the demand for efficient mobility escalates, the impact of public transport on real estate prices has become a topic of burgeoning significance.
Come with us as we take a deep dive into the multi-dimensional benefits of public transport for property values, considering factors that influence this impact while exploring the value of convenience, accessibility, types of public transport and the quality of the transit experience.
Although the connection between public transport and property value is generally positive, it's not an absolute rule. Related elements, including transit quality and localised market dynamics can reshape this relationship. Amid the evolving urban landscapes, comprehending the intricate ties between public transport and property values remains imperative for planners, developers and us investors.
Owun
Knowledge is Power

Unmasking Financial Scams: The Intricate Web of Deception

Ever wonder why despite warnings and cautionary tales, people still fall for financial scams?
Imagine a world where everyone is honest and trustworthy. While that's a nice thought, the reality is that financial scams have been around for centuries, and they still manage to trap unsuspecting victims.
Let's delve into the history of con artists and explore how modern technology has given a new boost to their schemes, followed by three essential tips to steer clear of their traps.
Con artists, also known as fraudsters or scammers, have been around since…forever. They're the smooth talkers who promise you riches or quick fixes, only to disappear with your hard-earned money. The history books are filled with tales of tricksters pulling off elaborate schemes that prey on people's vulnerabilities.
3 Tips to avoid financial scams and steer clear of the traps:
Stay Informed: Knowledge is your shield. Educate yourself about common scams, their tactics, and warning signs. Research before making any financial decisions and trust your instincts.
Verify and Double-Check: If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. Verify information from multiple sources, especially when it comes to investments, offers, or unknown contacts.
Guard Personal Information: Scammers often rely on personal details to build trust or create a fake identity. Never share sensitive information like bank details, passwords or tax file numbers with anyone you don't know or trust.
In the past, these swindlers operated in person, using charming words and disguises to win people's trust. They sold imaginary lands, fake miracle cures and bogus investment opportunities. They played on emotions, greed and sometimes desperation to convince victims to part with their money.
Fast-forward to today, and modern technology has opened up new avenues for scammers to work their magic.
In a world filled with digital advancements and sophisticated scams, staying cautious and informed is your best defence. By understanding the history of con artists, their psychological tactics and the convenience modern technology provides, you can hopefully outsmart scammers and safeguard your finances.
With knowledge and a bit of healthy scepticism, you can navigate the digital landscape safely and confidently.

Jerry Seinfeld will help you keep your New Year’s Resolution.

People set New Year's resolutions as a way to reflect on the past year, identify areas for personal improvement, and set goals for the upcoming year. The transition to a new year symbolises a fresh start, providing a psychological reset and a sense of optimism.
We know that setting resolutions allows us to define our aspirations, whether related to health, personal development, relationships, or other aspects of their lives. While the tradition of making resolutions is deeply ingrained in lots of cultures, the practice also stems from a desire for self-improvement and a commitment to positive change.
Jerry Seinfeld, one of the most iconic comedians in the world, achieved fame not only through his wit and humour, but also through a simple, yet effective rule and that rule is so elegantly straightforward, you’ll love it.
To become a better comedian, he aimed to write jokes consistently every single day. He did this by marking a calendar with a red "X" each day he wrote new material.
His objective was simple: ‘Don't break the chain’ of consecutive days with an "X". Over time this practice became a powerful motivator for him to continuously work on his craft.
How can we all use ‘Don't Break the Chain’ for a productive 2024?...tune into the podcast. 

Are you Faking it? Multitasking is a Sham, but Building Wealth Requires Focus

Lets get you ready for a great 2024 because life is all a bit too fast-paced at times and the idea of multitasking has been hailed as a coveted skill, almost a badge of efficiency. Yet, scientific research consistently tells a different story, humans simply cannot multitask. What we perceive as multitasking is in fact just task-switching. A rapid shifting of attention from one task to another.
Understanding this phenomenon requires a journey back to the origins of the term ‘multitask’.This concept of multitasking gained popularity in the computer industry during the 1960s when operating systems were designed to execute multiple tasks simultaneously. The term gradually trickled into everyday language, implying the human ability to perform several tasks simultaneously. However, neuroscientific studies debunked this notion, revealing the brain's limitations in handling multiple tasks concurrently.
The human brain operates on a limited bandwidth for conscious attention. When attempting to multitask, it divides this finite resource among the tasks at hand, resulting in reduced efficiency and increased errors. Research from the University of London found that multitasking lowered IQ points more than smoking marijuana or losing a night's sleep.
The myth of multitasking reflects the brain's inability to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. This phenomenon underscores the importance of focus and concentration in achieving goals, especially in the realm of wealth building. By acknowledging the limitations of multitasking and embracing a focused approach, you, me and everyone else can optimise our efforts, make informed financial decisions.

Unlocking Success: Our 20 Essential Books for Motivation, Personal Growth and Wealth Building.

In preparation for that no-man’s land between Christmas day and New Years when you pleasantly forget what day it is and might just become a little bored. I walked around the Blue Wealth office and asked the team their favourite books.Each of these books offers unique insights and here's a concise summary for each book and why they're worth reading….and most of these are available as audio books.
 
"The Richest Man in Babylon" (George S. Clason):
Timeless financial wisdom wrapped in captivating ancient parables, making complex money principles accessible for everyone's understanding and application.
 
"Rich Dad, Poor Dad" (Robert Kiyosaki):
A perspective-shifting narrative highlighting the significance of financial education and investing, delivered through relatable storytelling that inspires proactive wealth-building strategies.
 
"Losing My Virginity" (Richard Branson):
Branson's exhilarating autobiography captures this entrepreneur’s audacity, resilience and innovation, offering invaluable lessons on risk-taking, creativity and building an empire.
 
"The Intelligent Investor" (Benjamin Graham):
A classic masterpiece shaping modern investing, imparting crucial principles on value investing, risk management and disciplined decision-making in financial markets.
 
"Outliers" (Malcolm Gladwell):
Unveiling the hidden factors behind success, Gladwell's exploration of outliers challenges conventional thinking, emphasizing the roles of environment, opportunity and dedication in achieving extraordinary results.
 
"Useful Belief: Because it's Better than Positive Thinking" (Chris Helder):
A pragmatic guide redirecting focus from mere positivity to actionable belief systems, empowering readers to adopt practical mindsets that yield tangible outcomes. Each book carries transformative lessons applicable across personal and professional domains, making them invaluable reads for anyone seeking growth and understanding.
 
"How to Win Friends and Influence People" (Dale Carnegie): Timeless guide on effective communication and relationship-building, offering practical tips applicable in personal and professional life.
 
"Atomic Habits" (James Clear):
Insightful strategies for habit formation and productivity enhancement, providing actionable methods to transform behaviours and achieve lasting change.
 
"Limitless" (Jim Kwik):
Unleashing mental potential through memory enhancement and accelerated learning techniques, fostering personal growth and cognitive optimization.
 
"Extreme Ownership" Jocko Willink:
Leadership principles rooted in accountability and responsibility, empowering individuals to take charge and excel in both work and life.
 
“Empire of Debt: The Rise of an Epic Financial Crisis” (Addison Wiggin and Bill Bonner):
Insightful exploration of historical and economic factors contributing to contemporary financial crises, providing valuable perspectives on global finance.
 
“Confessions of an Economic Hitman” (John Perkins):
Revealing firsthand accounts of economic manipulation and its global implications, offering a critical look at geopolitical influences on international economies.
 
“Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order” (Ray Dalio):
Dalio's insights into navigating a shifting global landscape, offering principles for adapting and thriving amidst evolving world dynamics.
 
“The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F**k” (Mark Manson):
A refreshing take on personal development, advocating for focusing on what truly matters and letting go of societal pressures.
 
“The Old Man and the Sea” (Ernest Hemingway):
Hemingway's poignant tale of determination and resilience in the face of adversity, a timeless classic about the human spirit.
 
“Fahrenheit 451” (Ray Bradbury):
 A dystopian narrative highlighting the dangers of censorship and the importance of critical thinking, still relevant in today's society.
 
"The Mountain Is You” (Brianna Wiest):
A guide to self-discovery and inner transformation, encouraging readers to confront personal obstacles and find empowerment within themselves.
 
"Never Split the Difference: Negotiating as if Your Life Depends on It” (Chris Voss):
Insightful negotiation tactics derived from high-stakes situations, offering practical strategies applicable in various aspects of life and business. Each book holds valuable insights, from personal development to navigating complex global issues, making them essential reads for diverse perspectives and knowledge enrichment.
 
“The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom” (Don Miguel Ruiz):
Timeless wisdom outlining four guiding principles for personal growth and freedom, offering transformative insights to break self-limiting beliefs and achieve emotional liberation.
 
“The Alchemist” (Paulo Coelho):
A captivating tale of self-discovery and destiny, inspiring readers with its profound narrative on pursuing dreams and finding meaning in life's journey. Both books offer profound insights into personal growth and fulfilment, making them essential reads for anyone seeking wisdom and inspiration.
 

A Christmas Carol, the Investor Edition

Once upon a time in the sprawling city of Cashington, there lived a gentleman named Hugh Mann, an uneducated property investor whose ambitions rivalled the grandeur of the city itself.
Hugh had risen from humble beginnings, he lacked formal investment training but he felt he always possessing a natural judgment for spotting profitable opportunities in the real estate market.
On a bitterly cold Christmas Eve, Hugh found himself in his chilly cramped office, surrounded by stacks of papers and blueprints.
The flickering candlelight cast elongated shadows on the peeling wallpaper, creating an atmosphere both dim and cosy.
His mind, however, was far from the festivity of the season, engrossed in plans and strategies to expand his property empire..........but then.

The 3 biggest mistakes Gen Z can avoid.

When first-time property buyers make mistakes, they are financial and strategic decisions. This week with the assistance of our special guest Diya Dhadda, Social Media Manager extraordinaire at Blue Wealth. Owun and Diya are going to navigate the daunting journey of the first-time property buyer.
Diya recently put together a very successful education event aimed right at Gen Z that unravelled the complexities and gave expert insights and tips to empower the younger generation in making informed decisions.
We chat about how to avoid the financial pitfalls to navigating the market and pave the way for a smooth and savvy entry into real estate ownership.
 

Sell or Hold - what you need to know before you do anything

Stuck in this predicament?
Here is a super special show that was a Pop-up webinar event, so we are pushing past the normal bite-sized show and filling you with a massive amount of brilliant information.
This will help you make an informed decision and answer all your “sell vs hold” questions!  With 13 interest rate increases in the last 18 months, a few clients had been in touch to chat about whether they should sell their investment property or continue to hold? 
So together with @bluewealthproperty we made a Pop-Up webinar event hosted by Dr Tony Hayek to answer your questions and give you all the information you need to make the right decision for you.Like, subscribe and follow. 

Special Pop Up Webinar Event: Sell or Hold?

Have you got 30 minutes to spare during your lunch break or after work?With 13 interest rate increases in the last 18 months, a few clients have been in touch to chat about whether they should sell their investment property or continue to hold. In light of this, we're hosting a Pop-Up event where we'll answer your questions and give you all the information you need to make the right decision for you.Tune into the online event at 12:30pm or 7:30pm on Tuesday 12 December.Register HERE:12:30pm - https://bit.ly/3NaWIs77:30pm - https://bit.ly/3RmmLPA
 

Ordering Takeaway: The Hidden Impact on Your Investment Plans

In this world where currently live, convenience reigns supreme, the extreme ease of ordering takeaway food has become a go-to solution for many. While it satisfies cravings and offers a break from the thought of slaving away in your own kitchen, this seemingly harmless habit can leave a lingering and detrimental aftertaste on your financial health and any long-term investment plans.At first glance, the occasional order of takeout may seem inconsequential. A quick fix for hunger or a treat after a long day. However, these seemingly minor expenses can quietly erode your financial foundation.
Consider this,  Australians are spending an average of $60 on the various food delivery services each and every week, so this habit of ordering food delivery will blow-out to well over $3,120 a year. The compounding effect of these small expenses is often underestimated. Every dollar spent on takeaways denies your investments the opportunity to grow and accumulate future value.Let’s not forget the impact of excessive takeaway consumption extends beyond the financial realm. Regularly indulging in fast food not only affects your wallet but also your health. But we’re not just taking about a possible expanding waistline, think of the hidden cost that lay in the potential health issues that can arise, leading to medical expenses that can put dents your finances. These health concerns can further disrupt your ability to save and invest, and the knock on effect of creating a cycle that hampers your long-term financial security.So, what strategies can be employed to counteract this impact? It’s not necessarily about completely eliminating the convenience of a takeaway from your life, but rather about adopting a mindful approach to spending and consumption.
This tasty habit of ordering takeaway food might seem harmless in the moment, but it can have far-reaching consequences for your financial future. If you want to make a difference its going to take some effort on your behalf. Revaluating spending habits, setting (or starting) budgets, embracing home-cooked meals and redirecting saved funds into investments, you’ll pave the way for a more secure financial future.
I think you’ll enjoy the taste of financial success and find it far more satisfying than any fleeting pleasure from a takeaway.
 

Prices cool quicker than anticipated, as the economy takes a chill pill

Australia’s inflation, how prices for things go up, slowed down a lot in October.
People didn't spend as much money, so it's less likely the Reserve Bank will increase interest rates, which affects how much it costs to borrow money. The cost of living, or the average prices for things, went up by 4.9% over the past year. That's slower than the 5.6% rise in September.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics said this on a Wednesday. Those supposed experts thought prices would go up by 5.2%.
Some of the things that got more expensive were housing by 6.1%, transport by 5.9%, and food and drinks by 5.3%. But the government helped keep some costs from rising too much, like rents and electricity.
Compared to the month before, prices went down by 0.3% in October. Rents went down by 0.4%, and holiday travel costs dropped by 7%. These inflation numbers are the last big ones the Reserve Bank will look at before their final meeting of the year about interest rates. Before this, the bank had increased interest rates 13 times in a year and a half.
Michele Bullock, the newish boss of the Reserve Bank, talked about how they need to be careful. They want to control how much prices go up, but they also don't want to make it hard for the economy to grow or for people to find jobs. Some experts think because people are spending less and prices aren't going up so fast, the Reserve Bank might not increase interest rates again soon.
Talking of the RBA:
The Reserve Bank of Australia's boss, Michele Bullock, was talking at an event in Hong Kong this week. She mentioned that even though there's been a lot of talk about the 13 times interest rates went up, people's money situations at home are doing okay.
She seemed surprised that the economy in Australia handled these interest rate increases so well. Bullock said in The Australian Financial Review that despite all this talk or "noise," households and businesses in Australia are actually doing pretty well. Their money situation, called their "balance sheets," is in a good place.
Bullock mentioned that even though many families and businesses are facing a cost of living challenge, their situations are still good. But she also said it's "very uncertain" if prices will go back to normal in the next two years. She talked about being surprised by how strong the economy has been. It's doing better than expected, which means some prices for things like services are going up a bit more than they thought they would.
Bullock's little talk was to a group of important bankers, all this just before the final meeting of the Reserve Bank's board next Tuesday the 5th of December.
This week, the government will be making those legislation changes to how the Reserve Bank works. They want to change things a lot, like how often the bank's board meets to talk about interest rates. They are supposed to reduce the number of meetings from 11 a year to eight, and each meeting might be held over two days.

The Pathway from Athlete to Creating Wealth

In the world of sports and finance, the journey from being a high-level professional athlete
to using the skills learned to create wealth is a fascinating paradigm.
 
The desire to win:
Both paths require dedication, resilience and strategic thinking, but each offers distinct challenges and rewards.
High-level professional athletes often measure success in terms of physical prowess, competitive achievements and the fame it attracts. Athletes are often devoting years to rigorous training, mastering their craft and pushing the boundaries of human performance. These athletes understand that any form of greatness requires sacrifice,
Similarly, wealth creation demands dedication and hard work. Successful entrepreneurs and investors apply the same tenacity and discipline they honed as athletes to navigate the world of finance. They’ll strive for greatness in their chosen field, continuously learning, adapting and pushing their limits.
Andrew Mortimer is our very special guest, if you know anything about Rugby League you'll know the Mortimer name sits proudly in the sport. Andrew knows lots about playing sport at a high level and the parallel of creating wealth using the same skills in creating wealth for the long term.
Athletes face injuries, failure, defeats and setbacks, us mere mortals who are aiming to create our own wealth will encounter financial risks, market volatility and occasionally failures.
 

5 Financially Savvy ways to Prepare for Christmas

Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, but for many it can also be a financial challenge if you're not well-prepared. To ensure your holiday season is filled with merriment rather than money worries, here are five financial tips to help you better prepare for an Aussie Christmas.
Create a Christmas Budget:
One of the most effective ways to prepare for Christmas is by determining a comprehensive budget. Start by a list of all your expected expenses, including gifts, decorations, food, and travel. Be realistic and avoid overspending. Setting a budget not only helps you keep track of your expenses but also allows you to allocate those precious funds wisely, preventing unnecessary debt accumulation in the months after.
Save in Advance:
If you haven't already, start setting aside money well before the 25th of December to cover your expenses. Try opening a dedicated savings account and contribute regularly. A great idea is to set up an automatic transfer on payday so you consistently add to your Christmas fund. This saving in advance will avoid you resorting to credit cards.
Make a Gift List:
Gift-giving is an big part of Christmas for so many of us, but it can be expensive. Create a list gift-receivers before you head off shopping and determine a spending limit for each person. This is going to get you to be creative and that’s not at all a good thing. Thoughtful, heartfelt gifts often mean more than expensive ones. If you’re artsy or a baker, consider homemade gifts which can be more budget-friendly and memorable.
Shop Smart and Early:
Avoid the last-minute rush and the temptation to overspend by starting your Christmas shopping early. Keep an eye out for sales and discounts throughout the year and take advantage of sales events. Shopping in advance allows you to spread your expenses over several months, reducing the financial burden as the holiday season approaches.
Set Realistic Expectations:
It's essential to manage expectations during the Christmas season. Communicate with your loved ones about your budget and encourage them to do the same. Be open about your financial boundaries and explore alternatives like a Secret Santa gift exchange, where each person buys one gift, reducing the overall cost of gift-giving.
As the holiday season approaches, keep these financial tips in mind to help you better prepare for Christmas. By planning ahead, setting a budget, saving in advance, and shopping wisely, you can enjoy the festivities without the stress of overspending.
 

Lottery millionaire, a nightmare come true.

Dictionary definition: lottery ~ noun
a means of raising money by selling numbered tickets and giving prizes to the holders of numbers drawn at random.
a situation whose success or outcome is governed by chance.
Winning the jackpot in lotto might seem like a stroke of luck, but have you considered the post-lottery experience?
You allegedly have a 1 in 77 million chance of winning over $1million on Australian Powerball. Remembering the basics of what it is, its gambling designed to raise money for the organiser and as long as there have been lottery winners there are lottery losers.
For years and years, former big-time winners have been sharing insights on how they not only lost all the money, but they also ended up losing companions, friends and attracting unwanted attention along the way.
A dream comes true??
Lottery millionaires often lose their newfound wealth quickly due to a lack of financial education. While winning the lottery seems like a dream come true, the sudden influx of money can be overwhelming and lead to impulsive decisions. Without a proper understanding of managing their finances, these individuals often fall into common traps that erode their wealth rapidly.
Many big-time lottery winners go on wild spending sprees making extravagant purchases without considering the long-term consequences. They buy expensive cars, luxury homes and indulge in lavish holidays. It seems innocent at the start but this reckless spending can drain their funds rapidly, leaving them with little to invest or save for the future. They often overlook the importance of budgeting and financial planning, which are essential for building and preserving wealth.
Lottery millionaires losing their fortunes quickly is a common occurrence due to their lack of financial education. The absence of financial knowhow leads to impulsive spending, susceptibility to scams, poor investments and an inability to plan for the future. Building and maintaining wealth requires an understanding of financial management and without it, the dream of long-term financial freedom can quickly turn into a nightmare of debt and regret.
But who are we kidding, winning lotto would be great, spend wisely, have a plan and as I always say, Knowledge is Power.

The simple truth about your Superannuation

Superannuation was introduced to Australia in 1992 through the Superannuation Guarantee (SG) system. This landmark reform mandated that employers contribute a percentage of their employees' earnings to a dedicated retirement savings fund.
Superannuation has since become a critical pillar of Australia's retirement income system, ensuring financial security for retirees.
Australia’s superannuation scheme is relatively unique. While many countries have mandatory pension systems, they may differ in structure and implementation.
Some countries with similar systems include New Zealand and Singapore, but the specifics can vary significantly. It's essential to examine each nation's pension regulations individually.
What should I understand regarding my own Superannuation?
Most Australians are in superannuation funds selected by their employer.  Over 60% of Australians make no choice on how their super is invested and sadly 37% of Australians have little to no understanding of how superannuation works. Of the 23.8 million superannuation fund members, 24% have multiple super fund accounts, this is as a result of changing jobs over the years.
So, as you can imagine, each of these individual funds has annual running costs, this seem painless because it gets paid out of your fund. But having multiple funds running at the same time means long term you could be clocking big fee's associated with having these accounts. Collectively its costing Australians $2.6 billion in additional fees each year. Most Australian’s super is heavily invested in the share market.
Helping shed some light on the mystery of Superannuation, we have Tyron Mitchell, the boss of Orange and Bathurst Financial Planning.
Like, comment and follow.

90% loans for SMSF property ???

Over ten years ago, when SMSF property lending started, the highest loan you could get was $500,000.
Back then, house prices were lower, and this type of lending was new. But now, SMSFs are the second biggest superannuation asset class in Australia. We got Strachan Taylor from Helia back on this weeks show, because Helia thinks that SMSF property lending has grown up and done well, so it's time to increase the most you can borrow.
Now, they're making it easier for SMSFs to get more money by increasing the loan-to-value ratio (LVR) to 90%. Most SMSF property loans require you to pay back the interest and principal (P & I) over 20 years or more. SMSF property loans have done really well. This great news lines up perfectly with Blue Wealth Property's "Buying a Property With Your Super"
education event on the 1st of November.  Follow the links to book in.

Adapting Your Financial Goals: Are the young helping the middle age make changes?

Just like a football team adjusts its game plan throughout the season to achieve victory, it's essential to understand the importance of changing your personal financial goals over time.
Just as no two games are the same, the financial journey you embark on is influenced by many variables. In this article, we'll explore how your financial goals can be likened to a football team's game plan and why flexibility is the key to success.
Structuring and adjusting loans are crucial to any transaction, no matter who you are. Nathan Newham and Russell Quinlan are two such experts from Mortgage Choice in Hornsby and Sydney’s Northern Beaches.
We chat about the dangers of not having a game plan, how the young adult kids of home owners have the power to help them get on the pathway to making some great changes. Especially if you encounter setbacks or changes in your life, it's essential to set new goals and adjust your financial plan accordingly
These realities can affect your ability to meet your initial financial goals. By remaining flexible, setting new goals when necessary, and seeking guidance, you can tackle financial challenges head-on and ultimately reach your end game of financial security and success. Remember, it's not about how you start; it's about how you adapt, persevere, and finish strong.