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 That rule is as outdated as a horse and carriage.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.
Investment lessons from betting on the nags
The Tarzino Trophy Daffodil Raceday on September 1 launches Group 1 racing for the season, bringing the big guns of New Zealand racing to Hastings, to battle at one of the country's stellar racing events.
The Fortnite power of attorney
A power of attorney (POA) can be a difficult topic on several levels, especially for those who don't or won't understand it because they don't think anyone should act on their behalf. Or in the case of an offspring, have their eyes on a financial prize when the elder departs.
The top 10 excuses we make about bad money decisions
Human beings have an astounding facility for self-deception when it comes to their own money. People who make bad money decisions can often rationalise them. Here are 10 common excuses.
Q and A: Canadian pension expert Barry LaValley
Canadian retirement expert, author and founder of the Retirement Lifestyle Center Barry LaValley was in Hawke's Bay this week, talking to clients of the Hastings-based Stewart Group, and addressing about 60 people at a public meeting on retirement issues in Hastings.
The vacationer's guide to investing
Two colleagues went on holiday separately. One had a great time. The other had a miserable experience. Their respective stories provide valuable lessons, not just about taking a vacation, but about investment.
The Value of Portfolio Modelling Simulations in Financial Planning
As part of our financial planning process, when clients have to make important decisions, we like to “stress test” their plan. One of the tools that we may use is a Monte Carlo simulation.
