February 2022 newsletter

If you thought governments were constantly tinkering with super, you’re right. Here’s your guide to the good, the bad and the ugly super changes so far.

Keeping track of your super can be time-consuming and difficult, but linking the ATO’s online services to your myGov account makes it easy – and secure.

Dealing with government agencies these days means going through myGov. So, if you want help with your super or tax affairs, it’s time to set up your account.

Sustainable investment options are gaining traction among fund members, especially now that many outperform their fund’s default balanced option.

Superannuation pension funds delivered another stellar stellar performance to retirees in the year to December 2021, with the median Growth fund (61–80% growth assets) up an impressive 15%.

It will come as no surprise that volatile markets took a toll on super funds in April, with the median Growth fund losing 1.2%.

The performance of SMSFs relative to large APRA funds has always been contested, but new research shows SMSFs are competitive once their balance hits $200,000.

SMSF investors’ love affair with Australian shares grew even more passionate last year, when not even COVID could tear them apart.

While most SMSF investors gain exposure to international shares via managed funds and ETF, a small but growing number are buying individual stocks.

SMSF trustees continue to rely on managed funds to gain exposure to a wide range of international and local asset classes.

ETFs have exploded in popularity in recent years as more investors use them to build core portfolios, and SMSFs were early adopters.

With property prices and the cost of living on the rise, many Australians are weighing up the advantages of retiring overseas.

Many Australians dream of retiring overseas for the endless holiday lifestyle or to be near family, but there’s a lot consider before you make the leap.

Taking your retirement savings as a lump sum can sound like a great idea, but you need to consider all the pros and cons before taking the plunge.

There’s a lot to think about when you’re on the threshold of retirement, so it’s not surprising that mistakes are made and opportunities overlooked. Here’s what to watch out for.

Sheena Stow-Smith from PensionHelp answers reader questions about how minimum drawdowns impact Age Pension entitlements.

Funding aged care can be complex and confusing, but that’s no excuse not to plan for it.

Most of us would like to remain in our own home for as long as possible as we age, but paid support may be necessary.