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24 February 2025
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Public hatred of the finance industry, what to be aware of with hybrid securities, investing in junk bonds, shares vs bonds following Australia's big default, and the shortcomings of emerging market indices.
When two Nobel Laureates sit down to discuss the topic 'Why does the public hate us?', you know there's a major problem. And the Murray Interim Report raises many concerns about wealth management in Australia.
With the current low interest rates, many investors are building exposures to hybrids unaware of the risks. Check the warnings of legendary investor, Ben Graham, and consider if hybrids can withstand a downturn.
Sub-investment grade investments, or ‘junk bonds’, pay well but carry a higher risk of default. If the risk is managed properly, a broad portfolio of high yield securities can be a worthwhile investment option.
During the Australian government debt default, how did the performance of equities versus bonds compare? It was a time when investing in bonds was more common than equities.
Emerging market indices have become poor representations of the investment opportunities in that asset class. Should Taiwan and South Korea still be there? And which newly emerging markets are missing?
The CIO of Australia’s fourth largest super fund by assets, John Pearce, suggests the odds favour a flat year for markets, with the possibility of a correction of 10% or more. However, he’ll use any dip as a buying opportunity.
While encouraging people to draw down on their accumulated wealth in retirement might be good public policy, several million retirees disagree because they are purposefully conserving that capital. It’s time for a different approach.
This examines the performance of key asset classes and sub-sectors in 2024 and over longer timeframes, and the lessons that can be drawn for constructing an investment portfolio for the next decade.
Getting regular, growing income from stocks is tougher with the dividend yield on the ASX nearing 25-year lows. Here are some conventional and not-so-conventional ideas for investors wanting to build a dividend portfolio.
Australians are used to hearing dire warnings that they don't have enough saved for a comfortable retirement. Yet most people need to save a lot less than you might think — as long as they meet an important condition.
It’s well documented that many retirees draw down the minimum amount required and die with much of their super balances untouched. This explores the reasons why and some potential solutions to address the issue.