Intro

In this Q&A, Stuart tackles six real-world dilemmas listeners are wrestling with. He opens with superannuation, weighing Hostplus High Growth vs Indexed High Growth and why fees (0.80% vs 0.04%) and an evidence-based tilt often beat glossy promises. For a Brisbane surgeon in training, he maps a “maximum optionality” plan, prioritising cash buffers, offsets, and low-friction, rules-based ETFs while big life variables (city, role, renovation) settle. He then explores whether to buy an “investment” today that could double as a child’s first home tomorrow, and what happens when lifestyle aims conflict with investment-grade selection before unpacking Australia’s size-over-location bias, and if central townhouses may win as cities densify. On “how much is enough?”, Stuart builds a spending-led framework (run-rate needs, sequencing risk, liquidity, giving goals) for a high-spend, asset-rich couple navigating trust/super complexity. He closes with a playbook for 22-year-old beginners: first-home schemes vs waiting, when a broker helps, and simple starting moves, emergency fund, automated DCA, smart super contributions, and only adding property when the numbers and borrowing power say “go.” Clear principles, practical next steps.

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IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.