Investment markets and key developments – Weekly market update19/4/2024

24 April

Global and Australian shares fell again over the last week on the back of concerns about an escalation of the war in the Middle East (as Iran attacked Israel and then Israel retaliated), US Fed officials added to expectations for a delay in rate...[Read More]

Industrial sites set for emissions reduction grants

24 April

Industrial sites across five states will be given a multi-million dollar funding boost for projects to transition to cleaner energy. Nine facilities – including alumina and cement refineries, iron ore mines and cobalt and nickel sites – will...[Read More]

Sweat-powered fitness trackers possible in two years

24 April

Sweat-powered fitness devices could rate your pulse, temperature and other vital signs in future, just as long as you work out hard enough. Researchers at Deakin University, in partnership with Monash and the University of NSW, released a study into...[Read More]

Housing crisis to ‘get worse before it gets better’

24 April

Australia’s housing crisis is expected to get worse before it gets better and the federal government is facing growing pressure to do more to fix it in the May budget. Deloitte Access Economics partner Stephen Smith said the nation had not been...[Read More]

‘Dream big’: first Aussie astronaut hopes to inspire

24 April

Katherine Bennell-Pegg grew up on Sydney’s northern beaches with her feet in the ocean and her head in the stars. Her childhood dream was to become an astronaut. Now the engineer and mum of two has made that dream a reality, becoming the first...[Read More]

Securing Peace of Mind: The Undervalued Comfort of Life Insurance

18 April

Life insurance is often perceived as a rather morbid necessity—an acknowledgment of mortality that many prefer to defer.    However, its value extends beyond mere financial security; it encompasses emotional and psychological comfort for both...[Read More]

Top 10 Remote Escapes: Journey to the World’s Most Secluded Destinations

18 April

In an increasingly crowded and fast-paced world, the allure of remote travel destinations where one can truly escape the hustle and bustle is more compelling than ever.    Both within Australia and internationally, there are numerous hidden gems...[Read More]

Planning Your Next Chapter: The Benefits and Timing of Transitioning to a Retirement Home

18 April

Transitioning into a retirement home is a significant life decision that involves careful planning and consideration.    As people age, their living needs change, and moving into a retirement home can offer numerous benefits. Here are the top 10...[Read More]

Maximising space and value: Top 10 home renovation tips

18 April

Renovating your home to increase space and add value requires strategic planning, creativity, and a focus on key areas that potential buyers or valuers find appealing.    Here are the top 10 tips to guide you through this process:   Plan and...[Read More]

How to thrive despite higher inflation

18 April

The cost of living continues to rise, and many are feeling the pinch. However, there are ways to navigate and adapt to this challenging financial landscape.   If you’re looking for practical solutions and workarounds to help you tackle higher...[Read More]

Fortifying the Frontlines: 10 Cybersecurity Strategies for Small Businesses in the Digital Age

18 April

Integrating cybersecurity into the fabric of small business operations requires both strategic planning and practical measures.    Here are the top 10 tips to fortify small businesses against cyber threats, underscoring the necessity for...[Read More]

Oliver’s insights – Israel/Iran fears and rate cut uncertainty – shares are vulnerable to a bout of volatility but here’s five reasons why the trend will likely remain up

17 April

Key points – After strong gains, shares are vulnerable to a pull back or more volatile/constrained returns than seen so far this year. – The key threats at present are Iran’s attack on Israel which risks escalating the war in the Middle East,...[Read More]

Investment markets and key developments – Weekly market update 12/04/24

17 April

Shares had another rough ride over the last week as higher than expected US inflation saw expectations for Fed rate cuts pushed out further, and reports of imminent strikes by Iran on Israel in retaliation for an attack in Syria pushed US shares...[Read More]

Australia to dodge United States’ inflation uptick

17 April

Australia is yet to declare victory against inflation and hotter-than-expected price data out of the world’s biggest economy and fresh volatility in oil markets are casting shadows over the outlook. AMP deputy chief economist Diana Mousina says...[Read More]

Build-to-rent piece of housing puzzle but no quick fix

17 April

It’s been a tough couple of years to be a renter. As competition for properties has intensified and rents have surged, policymakers have been searching for solutions. While not an answer to the immediate price crunch, the build-to-rent housing...[Read More]