An adviser once said he did not so much have people with investment problems as he had investments with people problems. Your assumed rationality can vanish in a crisis. So why not build your human imperfections into your game plan?
John & Alice's Story
“Like me, I’ve got mates who were dubious about the value of insurance and whether claims will actually be paid. But right from the beginning, working with Scott and our insurer has been completely hassle-free.”
Where there's a Will, but no way
Is your will drawn up? Do you have a power of attorney? Aside from ensuring your investments are right for you, your financial adviser should have a healthy interest in ensuring a few other things in your life are addressed.
How much do you need to retire?
Determining how much you will need to save for retirement will depend upon several variables, including your current age, health, income and level of debt. Here are a few guidelines to help you evaluate your retirement needs.
Key Changes to KiwiSaver in April 2019
Some positive KiwiSaver changes are coming into effect from 1 April 2019 and later in the year. These changes will provide greater options for New Zealanders to see their retirement savings increase over time.
Living on the Edge
Digital innovation has democratised access to financial information to the point where anyone with a smartphone, a few apps and real-time news and data feeds can be like a pro trader. But who wants to do that? And do you need to?
Should you rent a home, or buy?
So, renting a home always equals throwing money down the drain, and buying a home is key to building equity … right? Nope. That rule is as outdated as a horse and carriage. In fact, more people are deciding to keep on renting — indefinitely. Why? People have different financial goals.
Three smart money moves to make in your 30s
Those of you in your 30s know it's the decade when a lot of significant things happen. Along the way, there are some smart money moves you can make now that "Future You" will seriously thank you for.
Don't sweat the downturn
We'd all love for the market to go on a tear forever, reaching record highs and blowing minds; but the truth is, downturns are a reality, particularly if you are a long-term investor.
Your New Year's Resolution
The new year is a time of reflection; a ready-made reminder to us all that we should perhaps take stock of what's happened and what will come next. It is a good time to ask a very simple but profound question: What could possibly go wrong over the course of the coming year?
Different views on finance
Men and women are different when it comes to money. Not the most outrageous statement. It's something financial advisers who sit across the desk from the sexes on a daily basis have no problem telling you.
Top 10 Investment guidelines
Depending on luck is simply not a sustainable investment strategy. Evidence-based, goal-based investment may not sound as exciting but is also a lot less work.
The power of compounding
I hear young people complaining on a regular basis that it’s impossible for them to save money. The list holding them back is a long one – student loans, minimum pay, rent, coffee, and the desire to enjoy their youth.
Putting 'family' into financial planning
A couple that decides to form a long-term relationship does more than create a legal and spiritual bond. At the same time, the personal and financial goals probably shift and become more complex.
Life Insurance Premium Options
Regular payments for your insurance are referred to as premiums and they will vary depending upon the amount insured and your age. Which premium is better for you?
Six mistakes investors make that you need to avoid
In almost every area of life – whether it's marriage, the workplace, or taking care of our health – we are often our own worst enemies. The realm of personal finance is no different. What's the biggest threat to achieving financial independence? Unfortunately, it's your own brain.
The Mexican fisherman parable
To re-evaluate what really matters in life and to discuss the psychology or mindsets that got us to where we are today, there's no better explanation than the story of the Mexican Fisherman.
Financial planning should be the natural friend of good insurance coverage
I had a friend who said that the trick to sailing in all conditions around the world was to know that sometime your boat would sink. He felt that keeping that fact at the forefront of his mind kept him prepared.
Why is it so hard to talk about money?
Over the course of our lives, there are many uncomfortable questions and conversations to be had. Those dealing with money are perhaps the most persistent and difficult. The repercussions of not talking about our finances can be severe, with negative consequences to our health, wealth and happiness.
Ignoring advice can have consequences
A good adviser doesn't give advice unless it's aimed at improving someone's situation. Ignoring advice will generally come with a self-inflicted penalty. Somewhere down the track, not taking action will be to the detriment of that person or their family.
