Get financial advice in six easy steps

If you’ve never met with a financial planner before, you’re probably not aware of the process they follow. It’s important that clients understand the financial planning process so they get the most out of seeking personal financial advice.

Gain extra leverage

Margin loans can help investors build and diversify their portfolio, but they're not without risks

Go with the P2P flow

For investors looking for an income stream, peer-to-peer lending provides an attractive alternative to regular banking products

ACTION PLAN

How to fight rising costs

Off to a promising start

The sharemarket can be volatile, but investors who do their research stand to be rewarded over time

Agents of change

Whether you're moving on or moving up, a buyers agent can give you an edge in the property market. But are they worth the cost?

Use brain power to get back on track

A big financial loss can be as devastating as a personal crisis, taking a heavy toll on a woman’s mental health

The women's issue

FOR RICHER, FOR POORER. When a woman is wealthier, it’s not just her wallet that wins, it’s the bank balance of the entire household that improves by a wide margin.

Waging a war against modern slavery

Slavery has been an issue in Australia since colonisation in 1788, when convicts were transported to Sydney. It continues to this day, despite having been outlawed in the early 1800s.

I want to make rules, not follow them

A devastating medical condition set Louise Bedford, author of five books on the stockmarket, podcaster and behavioural finance expert, on a new wealth-creating path

TOP 50 SHARE AND PROPERTY BUYS

Positive thinking prevails

Penny hopefuls or penny dreadfuls?

For patient investors who have a high risk tolerance, the rewards can be worth the gamble

Make the most of the perks

Give your retirement savings a boost by taking advantage of the latest rule changes

Survive the Airbnb crackdown

Short-term rentals face tougher restrictions and higher costs. So is it still worth renting out your spare space?

Preserve value in a downturn

By staying on top of maintenance you can ensure your home remains in tip-top condition

“It’s not up to someone else to determine your value”

THE HOT SEAT

Next-gen’s retirement guarantee

Millennials may be doing it tough today, but as the first generation to come of age in the era of bigger contributions they’ll reap the rewards tomorrow

Fixed vs variable

Is there any value in fixing your mortgage anymore? It pays to look at the pros and cons

Property without the price tag

Real estate ETFs can offer diversification and low initial outlay. Here are the factors to consider.

Chart your way to success

Knowing how to interpret charts is important for successful investing, whether you're holding for the long term or going for a quick profit. Charts are readily available and often free.

Why it pays to think green

Budget-friendly improvements can reduce your power bills, make your home more sustainable and even improve its value

EVs pick up speed

Despite supply problems, high prices and a poor charging network, electric vehicles will take over our roads sooner than many people think

Rich pickings for a disruptor

Small, nimble players are punching above their weight in wealth management

Get a fair share of the housing pie

Shared equity and rent-to-buy schemes can help offset soaring property prices

Dish up a treat from the lab

Peppou’s first invention as a kid was an expanding measuring stick so that his grandfather could gauge the distance between lawn bowling balls. His attitude to life is to be curious and pathologically optimistic. He cured his fear of heights by taking a mountaineering holiday in France. He would like to learn welding. His best advice came from a mentor, Sarah, who said he either had to become a business founder or shut up rather than be indecisive. Describes his work life balance as poor, being at work most days.

Trusts feel the heat

The tax office is cracking down on what it sees as avoidance strategies

THE SWEET SPOT - WHY YOU NEED ONLY $250,500 IN SUPER TO RETIRE

How to combine the age pension and superannuation savings to maximise your income

Shop around for a bargain

While others fret about share prices, investors who focus on earnings quality will be rewarded in the long run

Remain alert during a merger

When funds join forces, it's important for members to ensure they still have adequate insurance cover

From $7k to $300k - is it time to cash in?

PAUL'S VERDICT Paul Clitheroe