IN THIS ISSUE

Taking cover in changing times

The pandemic has changed the way so many of us live, with jobs, travel and lifestyle all transformed during COVID-19. Now, as we start emerging on the other side, it may be a good idea to check whether these changes have impacted on your life insurance needs.

In some cases, you may require more cover and in others perhaps less. This is not just down to COVID-19. Changes to your insurance needs at any given time are a constant throughout your life.

Your investing style – as unique as you

As interest rates start to increase after a lengthy period of historical lows, it’s a good time to think about how your money is working for you and whether your investing style and strategy is still in line with your goals.

Higher interest rates don’t just send a ripple through the economy, aside from the obvious impact on the property market, they often impact stock prices. There are a myriad of other factors that contribute to market movement and portfolio performance and trying to navigate all the things that need to be considered can be challenging but being aware of your preferred investment style and having a considered and appropriate strategy can help.

Sharing super a win-win for couples

Australia’s superannuation system is based on individual accounts, with men and women treated equally. But that’s where equality ends. It’s a simple fact that women generally retire with much less super than men. The latest figures show women aged 60-64 have an average super balance of $289,179, almost 25 per cent less than men the same age (average balance $359,870).

The reasons for this are well-known. Women earn less than men on average and are more likely to take time out of the workforce to raise children or care for sick or elderly family members. When they return to the workforce, it’s often part-time at least until the children are older.
So, it makes sense for couples to join forces to bridge the super gap as they build their retirement savings. Fortunately, Australia’s super system provides incentives to do just that, including tax and estate planning benefits.

The answer is, it depends. Your personal circumstances, interest rates, tax and the investment outlook all need to be taken into consideration.

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