Articles by
Barbara Drury
-
My retirement planning diary (Part 2): My super fund-amentals
UpdatedAfter deciding I would retire this year, volatile global markets have forced me to review my plans. In part 2 of this series, I review my super investments and my approach to risk.
-
How much does financial advice cost?
UpdatedMany Australians who admit they need financial advice are reluctant to get it due to the perceived cost, but are they right? We look at what’s available and what it costs.
-
My retirement planning diary (Part 1): Donald you shrunk my retirement!
UpdatedAfter deciding I would retire this year, the current market turmoil has put a Trump-sized hole in my plans. If you’re in the same boat, come along for the ride as I review my situation over the coming months.
-
Choosing a super fund: Does size really matter?
UpdatedSize can be an advantage when it comes to economies of scale and investment clout, but big is not always better.
-
Mind over matter: The psychology of retirement planning
UpdatedUnderstanding your own cognitive biases is the first step to taking control of your retirement, and making smarter super decisions.
-
Common ‘myth-conceptions’ about retirement income
UpdatedGiven the complexity of super and how it interacts with the Age Pension, it’s not surprising that misunderstandings abound. So let’s bust a few myths.
-
What to do if the market tanks and you’re retired, or close to it
UpdatedVolatile markets make it hard to plan ahead, but a good retirement plan can help you avoid panic-selling your super.
-
Do SMSFs rely too heavily on bank shares for dividend income?
UpdatedReports of the banking sector’s death have been greatly exaggerated. But is it wise for your SMSF to rely on bank shares alone?
-
SMSFs and insurance: Rules and considerations
UpdatedEven if you have life insurance outside super or in a pre-existing fund, SMSF trustees are still required to consider their insurance strategy.
-
What are the penalties for SMSF non-compliance?
UpdatedSMSFs offer a high degree of flexibility and control over your retirement savings, but there are legal guardrails and hefty penalties for trustees who breach them.
-
The role of cash and bonds in your portfolio and what’s available
UpdatedHigh interest rates are loathed by borrowers but they are money in the bank for people seeking reliable income with a high degree of safety from their investments.
-
Can I get free financial advice?
UpdatedIf you could do with some help with your finances but can’t afford a professional adviser, all is not lost. Free financial advice and digital tools are out there if you know where to look.
-
2024 year in review, 2025 year in preview
UpdatedFor the second year running, investors had a surprisingly good year in 2024 thanks to moderating inflation, economic growth holding its head above water, falling interest rates (just not in Australia) and buoyant share markets.
-
How to create an investment portfolio in retirement
UpdatedStructuring an investment portfolio designed to support you throughout retirement is a different challenge to the strategies you used to build wealth during your working life.
-
Can I return to work after I access my super?
UpdatedIt’s generally possible to return to work after you retire and start withdrawing your super, but the rules vary according to your age.
-
What is the sole purpose test, and how does it work?
UpdatedAs the name suggests, the savings you accumulate in super are meant to be for one purpose only. Straying from that purpose can be costly.
-
Platforms and wraps: Benefits and downsides
UpdatedTechnology is at the heart of recent innovation by platform providers as they compete against each other, industry funds and SMSFs for your super and non-super investments.
-
Are pension withdrawal rates safe? Understanding drawdowns and spending rules
UpdatedRetirees often regard the government-mandated minimum withdrawal rates for their super pension as a default maximum, so how are these rates set and should you consider withdrawing more?
