A rough Q1, behind the scenes with Bryce and his adviser & cost-of-living election
Apr 2, 2025
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Matt Ingram, a financial advisor from Northhaven Financial Management, joins Bryce to discuss the journey of obtaining personal financial advice. They dive into Bryce's new superannuation portfolio and share insights on recent market shifts. The duo analyzes rising costs in Australia, highlighting the political impact ahead of elections. They also cover the importance of setting financial goals and effective portfolio diversification strategies. Their conversation sheds light on personalized investment tactics and the value of active portfolio management.
The podcast highlights the increasing cost of living pressures in Australia and their potential influence on the upcoming general election.
Bryce's experience with personal financial advice underscores the importance of goal-setting and diversification in effective investment strategies.
Deep dives
Cost of Living and Market Changes
Significant discussions focus on the rising cost of living in Australia, particularly as the nation approaches a general election. Recent data reveals that the ASX 200 has seen a decline of 4.4% in the first quarter, marking the worst start since the onset of COVID-19. Meanwhile, global markets exhibit varied performance; for example, the Hang Seng in Hong Kong has soared by 17.8%, contrasting sharply with the downtrends in major tech sectors. This highlights the importance of global diversification in investment strategies, encouraging investors not to overly concentrate on one geographical area or asset class.
Price Increases Across Key Categories
The podcast delves into the sharp price hikes observed in numerous categories over the past three years, offering specific statistics that underline the urgency behind the cost-of-living debate. International holiday travel and accommodations have surged by 44.5%, while domestic travel has risen by 20%. Essential items like eggs and insurance have also seen dramatic increases of 35.5%. These changes reflect broader economic pressures and are expected to shape the conversation in the upcoming election, prompting policymakers to address these challenges directly.
Investing Insights and Personal Financial Advice
An intriguing segment introduces the importance of personal financial advice in navigating investments effectively, spotlighting a recent conversation between one of the podcast hosts and a financial advisor. The advisor emphasizes goal-setting as a key aspect of financial planning, with clients encouraged to define realistic financial milestones. This proactive approach not only assists in managing current investments but also prepares individuals for future financial responsibilities, enhancing overall financial health. The host's experience illustrates how informed guidance can positively impact investment strategies and outcomes.
Portfolio Diversification Strategies
The conversation shifts to the nuances of portfolio diversification, emphasizing its critical role in mitigating risks associated with market fluctuations. The advisors discuss strategic asset allocation across various classes, such as equities, property, and bonds, to ensure a balanced and resilient investment approach. The advantages of maintaining a diversified portfolio become clear, particularly as investors seek stability amidst unpredictable market conditions. This discussion serves as a reminder of the benefits of adapting investment strategies to align with shifting economic landscapes and personal financial goals.
Bryce has gone through the process of getting personal financial advice, and on today's podcast we speak to him and his adviser Matt Ingram from Northhaven Financial Management, about the process and the outcomes.
We then dive deep into his superannuation and look at the new portfolio he has set up with Matt's help.
That's not all we cover in another big episode of Equity Mates:
We go around the grounds for the first 3 months of 2025 - which markets were up, which were down?
A look at some other key asset classes - how did they start the year?
A look at how costs have moved over the past 3 years
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In the spirit of reconciliation, Equity Mates Media and the hosts of Equity Mates Investing acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people today.
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