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More than half of us set a new financial goal at the beginning of 2025, according to ASIC’s Moneysmart website. While most financial goals include saving money and paying down debts, the months leading up to 30 June provide an opportunity to review your super balance to look at ways to boost your retirement savings.

From the economy bending policies of Trump 2.0 to the growing strength of the far right in Europe, the new alliance between Russia and the United States, the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, and the US President’s vow to upturn world trade rules, the markets are certainly navigating tricky times.

Interest rate speculation is rife after the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) kept rates on hold at 4.35% last month. RBA Governor Michelle Bullock believes it may be “some time” before inflation is “sustainably in the target range”, with concerns about inflation, excess demand, low productivity, and a still tight labour market. The S&P/ASX 200 reached a new record high, up 2.2% for the month and 7.89% for the year, reflecting global optimism on the macro-economic front.

Most people intend to retire between ages 65 and 66, according to the latest data and, surprisingly, despite growing superannuation balances, the Age Pension is the main source of income for many retirees.

Global stock markets – including the ASX – largely stabilised by the end of August after a turbulent month. It was a rocky start when markets everywhere fell after news of high unemployment figures in the US and an interest rate move by Japan’s central bank.

When we dream of an overseas holiday, our minds often drift to iconic landmarks, bustling cities, and well-trodden tourist paths. While these destinations have their allure, travel to popular destinations is booming and comes with challenges so there are advantages to venturing off the beaten track and seeking out the hidden gems.

Retirement is filled with opportunities and choices. There’s the time to travel more, work on long-delayed personal projects or volunteer your help to worthwhile causes.

Stay up to date with what's happened in markets and the Australian economy over the past month.

If you are feeling a bit like the meat in the sandwich you are not alone. The ‘sandwich generation’ is a growing social phenomenon that impacts people from all walks of life, describing those at a stage of their lives where they are caring for their offspring as well as their elderly parents.

Refinancing your home loan has the potential to save you thousands, reduce your monthly repayments and free up your finances to achieve your goals.

Stay up to date with what's happened in markets and the Australian economy over the past month.

As the end of financial year gets closer, some investors are thinking about the most effective ways to boost their super balance, particularly with an increase in the caps on contributions from 1 July.

Financial markets can be like finely tuned racehorses, poised to gallop ahead under ideal conditions but often highly reactive to unexpected events.

Stay up to date with what's happened in markets and the Australian economy over the past month.

The much-debated tax on superannuation balances over $3 million is inching closer and those who may be affected should ensure they have considered the implications.

Investing successfully and improving your investment portfolio can be as much about minimising mistakes as trying to pick the ‘next big thing’. It’s all about taking a calm and considered approach and not blindly following trends or hot tips.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced proposed changes to address ongoing cost of living pressures with all 13.6 million Australian taxpayers receiving a tax cut from 1 July 2024, compared to the tax they paid in 2023-24.i

We spend decades watching our super balances grow but for those thinking about retirement in the next few years, it can be confusing to work out how best to use your super.

Australia’s economy stubbornly defied predictions during 2023, dashing any hopes that we might begin to return to some kind of normal.

The festive season is a time of joy and celebration but, for some, it can also lead to a financial hangover in the New Year.