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Edition: 189

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Edition 189

  • 10 February 2017

What to believe? Nobel Laureate, Eugene Fama, is often described as 'the Father of Finance' for his work on portfolios, asset pricing and share markets. Yet in a recent research paper looking at 50 years of modern finance, he says most asset pricing models fail, we don't know how to calculate the cost of capital, and betas for individual stocks are "garbage". He describes behavioural economics as "mostly just dredging for anomolies".

The Dow hitting 20,000 and what it hides

Investors celebrated when the Dow broke through the 20,000 mark last month, but in real terms, it's a more sobering picture. Australian stocks in particular are struggling to reach their previous heights.

Monica's Q&A on $1.6 million super rules

Monica answers questions on her article on the $1.6 million cap. As she will be unable to answer more questions directly for a while, consider registering for her upcoming webinar.

The dramatic tale of two hybrids, CBA VII versus VIII

Issued just 18 months apart, two of CBA's preference share issues, PERLS VII and PERLS VIII, experienced vastly different market receptions and showed hybrids can also be volatile.

Lessons for roboadvice in Centrelink debacle

Centrelink is facing a robo-debt backlash after using computers to check ATO records, replacing the usual human interaction. Likewise, roboadvice algorithms need to know more about the circumstances of clients.

A robo response: digital wealth advice will engage at all levels

A response to Graham Hand's article on lessons for roboadvice, explaining how enhancements to digital wealth management are embracing the adjacent role of human advisers.

Negative gearing doubts and ATO watches home purchasers

Housing affordability is a political no-go zone although the longer term survival of negative gearing is doubtful. The ATO is keeping a close watch on agents to check whether property is selling to foreign investors.

The SMSF sector by the numbers

The ATO's annual statistics on superannuation assets shows that SMSFs continue to grow but not as quickly as institutional funds, as the older age demographics of SMSF retirees made less net contributions.

Update on LIC developments

Independent Investment Research's January 2017 review of LICs explains recent rating suspensions, new fund listings on the ASX as well as pricing and performance data.

Most viewed in recent weeks

Ray Dalio on 2025’s real story, Trump, and what’s next

The renowned investor says 2025’s real story wasn’t AI or US stocks but the shift away from American assets and a collapse in the value of money. And he outlines how to best position portfolios for what’s ahead.

Making sense of record high markets as the world catches fire

The post-World War Two economic system is unravelling, leading to huge shifts in currency, bond and commodity markets, yet stocks seem oblivious to the chaos. This looks to history as a guide for what’s next.

3 ways to fix Australia’s affordability crisis

Our cost-of-living pressures go beyond the RBA: surging house prices, excessive migration, and expanding government programs, including the NDIS, are fuelling inflation, demanding bold, structural solutions.

Is there a better way to reform the CGT discount?

The capital gains tax discount is under review, but debate should go beyond its size. Its original purpose, design flaws and distortions suggest Australia could adopt a better, more targeted approach.

How cutting the CGT discount could help rebalance housing market

A more rational taxation system that supports home ownership but discourages asset speculation could provide greater financial support to first home buyers.

Welcome to Firstlinks Edition 648 with weekend update

This is my last edition as Editor of Firstlinks. I’m moving onto a new role though the newsletter will remain in good hands until my permanent replacement is found.

  • 5 February 2026

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