Property Investment, Success & Money | The Michael Yardney Podcast

Michael Yardney; Australia's authority in wealth creation thru property
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Aug 25, 2025 • 33min

Renovate to Elevate: Unlocking Value in Investment Properties with Greg Hankinson

Have you ever looked at a tired old property and thought, "There's potential there," but weren't quite sure what to do with it? Well, today's show could be the spark you need. Because we're talking about one of the most powerful – and underutilised – strategies for building wealth through property: strategic renovation. In a world where construction costs are soaring and affordability is stretched, more investors are realising that they don't have to wait for the market to deliver capital growth – they can manufacture it themselves. And joining me to unpack this is Greg Hankinson – property renovations and development expert and director of Metropole Developments. Greg's seen it all – from simple kitchen facelifts to full-scale value-add renovations through to medium density developments, and he's here to share his experience, tips, and insights to help you make your next investment a profitable one. We talk through the key fundamentals of a profitable renovation, how to assess a property's potential, the pros and cons of reno vs. new build, and how many successful developers started by simply buying, renovating, and holding. Takeaways · You can create wealth through renovations, not just market appreciation. · The renovation process requires careful planning and understanding of costs. · Successful renovations can lead to significant increases in property value. · It's essential to identify properties with renovation potential. · Avoid common mistakes like overcapitalizing or DIYing without experience. · Understanding local regulations and permits is crucial for renovations. · Market conditions can affect the feasibility of renovation projects. · Investing in renovations can provide better rental yields and lower vacancy rates. · A strategic approach to property investment is necessary for long-term success. Chapters 00:00 Unlocking Property Potential through Strategic Renovations 01:56 Introduction to Renovations and Property Development 04:43 Understanding the Profitability of Renovations 10:12 Financing Renovations and Building Equity 12:29 Common Mistakes in Renovation Projects 17:57 Assessing Renovation Potential in Properties 20:36 Opportunities in the Current Market 23:15 Conclusion and Future Steps in Property Development Answer this week's trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au · Win a hard copy of Michael Yardney's Guide to Investing · Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What's ahead for property for 2026 and beyond Join us at the Ultimate Property Development Workshop in Melbourne on November 8th Click here for all the details https://realestateworkshop.com.au/ Greg Hankinson - Director, Metropole Constructions Interested in getting involved at the "wholesale" end of the property market? We'll help you become a property developer. Click here and find out how. https://metropole.com.au/develop/ Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.
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Aug 20, 2025 • 46min

The Housing Time Bomb: Can Australia Keep Up with Its Population Boom? | With Simon Kuestenmacher

Imagine inviting thousands of people to a party… but forgetting to organise enough food, chairs, or bathrooms. That's essentially what Australia is doing by ramping up migration while failing to plan for the housing and infrastructure to support it. Today, Simon Kuestenmacher and I discuss why we can't keep separating housing policy from migration policy. The conversation around our housing crisis is often framed around interest rates, investors, or planning delays. But there's a critical dimension we keep avoiding: Australia's housing and migration policies are completely out of sync, and this is causing systemic damage. Takeaways · Australia is experiencing a housing crisis due to rapid migration without adequate infrastructure. · Every decision contributes to the future we build, akin to laying bricks in a house. · The disconnect between housing and migration policies is creating significant challenges. · Young people and low-income earners are increasingly priced out of the housing market. · Government policies need to be proactive rather than reactive to address housing shortages. · The current planning system is outdated and hinders timely housing development. · Property taxes are a major contributor to housing unaffordability. · A national housing target linked to migration levels could stabilize the market. · Lessons from other countries show the importance of strategic migration policies. · Long-term planning is essential for sustainable urban development and infrastructure. Chapters 00:00 - Migration Without Infrastructure 04:01 - What's been happening to immigration 08:43 - Property Taxes 09:00 - Housing Affordability Crisis 15:48 - Housing Demand Caused by the Migration 24:52 - Infrastructure Planning Area 33:55 - Final Thoughts Links and Resources: Answer this week's trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au · Win a hard copy of Michael Yardney's Guide to Investing Successfully · Every entry receives a copy of a fully updated Michael Yardney Property Report Michael Yardney Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Simon Kuestenmacher: Australia's leading demographer and partner in the Demographics Group Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au Also, please subscribe to my other podcast, Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future. Or click here: https://demographicsdecoded.com.au/
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Aug 18, 2025 • 30min

Who pays the most tax in Australia, Plus Clues Behind The News | Macro Insights with Ken Raiss

In today's Macro Insights Podcast, Ken Raiss and I examine who really pays tax in Australia, and the results may surprise you. We also share what the average wage and superannuation balance in Australia is, and I bet these figures will surprise you. We also discuss the latest statement from APRA about its 3% mortgage assessment buffer we will tell you what time of the week you're most likely to get scammed? As somebody interested in growing your wealth or property, there will be lots in the show for you. Takeaways · Australian Taxation Office's 2022–23 tax‑return snapshot (approximately 16.1 million lodgements) to paint a portrait of the "average 100 Australian. · Out of those 100 Australians, 21 pay no income tax at all. None. Zip. · Meanwhile, just 3 individuals contribute nearly 30% of all net income tax. Add in the next 6, and you're up to nearly 50%. And the next 30 take it to almost 90%. · So 39 Australians (out of 100) are footing almost the entire tax bill. · The average super balance is around $173,000; the median is just $60,000. What does that tell us?All eight capital cities recorded house price growth in the June quarter. · Westpac reveals the time of day you're most likely to be scammed is Tuesday afternoon Chapters 00:00 Understanding Australia's Tax Landscape 04:15 The Role of High Income Earners in Taxation 06:37 Income Disparities and Superannuation Challenges 09:24 The Impact of APRA's Mortgage Serviceability Buffer 12:00 Scams and Consumer Awareness 14:35 Infrastructure Needs for Population Growth Links and Resources: Answer this week's trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au · Win a hard copy of Michael Yardney's Guide to Investing Successfully · Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What's ahead for property for 2026 and beyond. The FirstLinks article mentioned in the show https://www.firstlinks.com.au/100-aussies-seven-charts-on-who-earns-pays-and-owns Michael Yardney Get the team at Metropole Wealth Advisory create a Strategic Wealth plan for your needs Click here and have a chat with us Ken Raiss, Director of Metropole Wealth Advisory Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au Also, please subscribe to my other podcast, Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future. Or click here: https://demographicsdecoded.com.au/
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Aug 13, 2025 • 43min

Regret, Reality, and the Race to Buy: What First Home Buyers Are Really Facing in 2025 With Sarah Megginson

What happens when the Great Australian Dream becomes a financial nightmare? In 2025, buying your first home in Australia has become less of a rite of passage and more of a high-stakes gamble. Record-high deposits, sky-high property prices, and mortgage repayments eating up more than 30% of many buyers' income - it's no wonder almost half of all first home buyers now regret their decision. Today, I'm joined by Sarah Megginson, personal finance expert at Finder to discuss their First Home Buyer Report 2025 which reveals the rising pressure on young Australians trying to break into the property market - from paying well over budget to being left with no savings at all after settling. We discuss why buyer's remorse is soaring, how affordability is vanishing, and what it all means for the future of home ownership in Australia. Whether you're an investor, a parent helping your kids buy, or just curious about where our housing market is heading, stick around. This is one of those episodes that will shift your perspective. Takeaways · The property market is increasingly challenging for first home buyers. · Financial support from parents is becoming crucial for many buyers. · Many first home buyers regret their purchase due to overspending. · Government incentives can help first home buyers enter the market. · Understanding lenders mortgage insurance is essential for buyers. · Saving habits are critical for managing home ownership costs. · Buyers are adapting by considering different locations and dwelling types. · The emotional aspect of buying a home can be overwhelming. · It's important to think long-term when making a home purchase. · There are still opportunities for home ownership despite market challenges. Chapters 00:00 The Struggles of First Home Buyers 04:39 The Role of Family Support in Home Buying 07:34 Understanding Affordability in the Current Market 10:12 Regrets and Realities of First Home Purchases 13:03 Navigating the Buying Process: Tips and Strategies 15:53 Government Incentives for First Home Buyers 16:46 Saving for a Deposit: Strategies and Challenges 19:49 The Importance of Financial Preparedness 22:30 Adapting to the Market: New Strategies for Buyers Links and Resources: Answer this week's trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au · Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. · Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What's ahead for property for 2025 and beyond. Finder's First Home Buyer's Report https://www.finder.com.au/insights/first-home-buyer-report-2025 Sarah Megginson - money expert and Head of Editorial at Finder https://www.finder.com.au/author/sarahmegginson Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.
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Aug 11, 2025 • 29min

The Truth About Property Investors the Media Won't Tell You – with Brett Warren

There's a lot of noise out there right now — the media, politicians, and even Sunday BBQ conversations seem to revolve around one central villain: the property investor. Apparently, we're to blame for housing unaffordability, rising rents, and locking young people out of the market. But is that really fair? Because when you scratch below the surface, you realise that property investors are not the problem — in fact, we're a critical part of the housing solution. Today I'm joined by Brett Warren, National Director of Metropole Property Strategists, and we have a frank conversation about why property investors are essential to Australia's housing market — and what people get so wrong about us. We talk about how investors house millions of Aussies, how much we contribute in taxes, and why policy decisions that punish investors could end up hurting the very people they're supposed to help. If you're an investor feeling misunderstood or simply curious about how the system really works, you're going to get a lot out of today's show. Takeaways · Property investors are often blamed for housing unaffordability, but this narrative is misleading. · Investors play a crucial role in providing rental accommodation for many Australians. · The majority of property investors own one or two properties, not large portfolios. · Government policies significantly impact the housing market and investor activity. · Investors contribute over $40 billion annually in taxes to the Australian economy. · The media often presents a one-sided view of property investment. · There is a growing need for more affordable housing options in Australia. · Investors are not just wealthy moguls; they are everyday Australians seeking financial security. · The future of property investment requires a fairer tax policy and more supply. · Understanding the long-term fundamentals of property investment is essential for success. Chapters 00:00 The Misunderstood Property Investor 00:54 The Role of Investors in Housing Solutions 01:37 The Anti-Investor Sentiment 04:16 The Role of Property Investors 07:05 Understanding Rental Dynamics 09:51 The Financial Contributions of Investors 12:43 The Future of Property Investment 15:13 Navigating the Current Market 18:03 The Importance of Long-Term Planning Links and Resources: Answer this week's trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au · Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. · Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What's ahead for property for 2025 and beyond. Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here Brett Warren - National Director of Property at Metropole Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.
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Aug 6, 2025 • 30min

Why Property Investors Achieve Financial Freedom — and Most Others Don't – with Brett Warren

Have you ever wondered why some people seem to effortlessly build wealth through real estate while others spend their entire lives working hard, only to end up financially stuck? The truth is that most Australians won't ever achieve genuine financial independence. Sure, they'll retire... eventually. But for many, that just means swapping full-time work for full-time worry — especially with rising living costs, uncertain super balances, and a whole lot of financial unknowns. But there's a group that does break free. And they tend to have one thing in common: they invest in property strategically. In today's show, Brett Warren — National Director of Property at Metropole — and I unpack why property investors develop financial freedom when so many others don't. Takeaways · Property investment is a long-term business. · Wealth isn't built overnight; it takes discipline. · You need a plan, not just a postcode. · If you don't learn to make money while you sleep, you'll never become wealthy. · Property gives you leverage like no other asset class. · The media keeps most people just above broke. · Investors use capital, not time, to build wealth. · You can outperform the averages with the right knowledge. · It's about making hard decisions now for an easier future. Chapters 00:00 The Wealth Gap: Understanding Financial Independence 00:28 Strategic Property Investment: The Key to Freedom 00:55 Mindsets and Strategies for Financial Success 01:49 The Quest for Financial Independence 04:16 Understanding the Cash Flow Quadrant 07:04 The Importance of Financial Literacy 09:58 Investing in Property: A Viable Strategy 12:46 Common Pitfalls for New Investors 15:33 The Role of Mindset in Wealth Building 18:00 Long-Term Planning for Financial Freedom 21:12 Current Market Trends and Opportunities Links and Resources: Answer this week's trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au · Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. · Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What's ahead for property for 2025 and beyond. Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan. Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here Brett Warren - National Director of Property at Metropole Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.
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Aug 4, 2025 • 34min

Property Prices Hit New Highs – Is This the Start of Another Boom? With Dr. Nicola Powell

Have you noticed how Australia's property market seems to have roared back to life recently? After a sluggish 2024, Domain's latest House Price Report shows all eight capital cities recorded house price growth in the June quarter – for the first time in four years. And it's not just houses. Unit prices are surging too, often outpacing houses as buyers chase affordability. So what's behind this rebound? Rate cuts, increased demand, and a lingering supply shortage have all played a role. But is this recovery sustainable? Will further rate cuts continue to fuel prices, or are there headwinds ahead? To help us unpack this, I'm joined by Dr Nicola Powell, Chief of Research and Economics at Domain. She'll share insights from Domain's June Quarter House Price Report and explain what these trends mean for buyers, sellers, and investors alike. Whether you're a homeowner, an investor, or simply keeping an eye on the market, you'll want to hear what Dr Powell has to say. Takeaways · Most people only realise the market's turned too late. · All eight capital cities recorded house price growth in the June quarter. · The turnaround in auction conditions has been very evident across Sydney and Melbourne. · First home buyers are looking towards units in Sydney due to affordability. · Melbourne's housing market is showing signs of recovery after years of lagging. · Brisbane's unit prices are outperforming house prices, indicating a shift in buyer preference. · Canberra is on a pathway to recovery, with modest price increases. · Every state goes through its cycle, affecting property values differently. · Rate cuts are expected to boost buyer confidence and market activity. · Understanding local market dynamics is crucial for property investment. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Market Trends 02:15 - Sustainability of the current market recovery and future predictions. 13:30 - Sydney and Melbourne Market Analysis 17:00 - Brisbane and Adelaide Market Trends 20:45 - Canberra and Perth Market Updates 24:00 - Conclusion and Future Outlook Links and Resources: Answer this week's trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au · Win a hard copy of Michael Yardney's Guide to Investment · Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What's ahead for property for 2026 and beyond. Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here Dr Nicola Powell, Chief of Research and Economics at Domain https://www.domain.com.au/news/author/dr-nicola-powell/ Domian Property June Quarter House Price Report: https://www.domain.com.au/research/house-price-report/june-2025/ Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.
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Jul 31, 2025 • 25min

Property Prices Keep Rising – And There's More to Come – with Dr. Andrew Wilson

Australia's housing markets just keep marching forward – and the latest numbers are in! Today I'm joined by Dr. Andrew Wilson, Chief Economist of My Housing Market, to break down July's House Price Report – and it's full of good news for homeowners and property investors alike. House prices rose in every single capital city over the month – that's now five months in a row of rising prices nationally, with the median capital city house price sitting at over $1.2 million and annual growth climbing to 5.9%. We'll discuss: · Why Perth and Brisbane continue to lead the charge with double-digit annual growth · How Melbourne and Sydney are quietly bouncing back · The surprise standout performances from Canberra and Darwin · And why 2025 is shaping up to be another strong year for property markets Plus, unit prices are also on the rise, and confidence is building as interest rate cuts and low unemployment levels continue to support our economy. Takeaways · House prices in capital cities rose in July, indicating a positive trend. · The market fundamentals suggest strong growth potential in the coming months. · Commitment, courage, capability, and confidence are essential for success in property investment. · Perth and Adelaide are showing significant upward momentum in their housing markets. · Interest rate cuts are likely to further boost housing market activity. · All capital cities recorded increases in median house prices over the July quarter. · First home buyers face challenges due to rising prices and increased competition. · Lower interest rates improve affordability but can lead to higher property prices. · Consumer confidence is rising, contributing to increased auction attendance. · The upcoming spring selling season is expected to drive further market activity. Chapters 02:15 Interest Rates and Market Confidence 05:30 Regional Market Performances 08:45 The Four C's Formula for Success 12:00 Challenges for First Home Buyers 15:30 Conclusion and Future Outlook Links and Resources: Answer this week's trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au · Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. · Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What's ahead for property for 2025 and beyond. Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.
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Jul 28, 2025 • 35min

How to Choose the Right Property Ownership Structure – Get it right now or pay later - with Ken Raiss

Today Ken Raiss and I are diving into a crucial topic for anyone looking to purchase property in Australia: choosing the right property ownership structure. So whether you're a first-time investor, a seasoned buyer, or even planning a family purchase — this episode is for you. We discuss various ownership options, including trusts and companies, and highlight common mistakes investors make. The conversation emphasizes the need for professional advice to navigate these complexities and ensure long-term success in property investment. Takeaways · Understanding ownership structures is crucial for long-term wealth. · Time is a valuable asset; treat it wisely. · Tax efficiency can significantly impact investment returns. · Trusts can provide flexibility and protection for assets. · Common mistakes in trust management can lead to financial loss. · Company structures may offer benefits for high net worth individuals. · Self-managed super funds can be powerful tools for wealth building. · Professional advice is essential for tailored investment strategies. · Investors should prioritize their goals when choosing structures. · Beginner investors must set up their ownership structures correctly. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Ownership Structures 05:20 Common Ownership Structures Explained 09:05 The Role of Trusts in Wealth Building 12:27 Navigating Tax Implications and Asset Protection 16:10 Choosing the Right Structure for Your Needs 19:40 The Importance of Professional Advice 25:00 The Concept of Time Wealth Links and Resources: Michael Yardney Get the team at Metropole Wealth Advisory create a Strategic Wealth plan for your needs Click here and have a chat with us Ken Raiss, Director of Metropole Wealth Advisory Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au Also, please subscribe to my other podcast, Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future. Or click here: https://demographicsdecoded.com.au/
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Jul 23, 2025 • 30min

Unveiling the Truth: The 9 Big Forces Driving Australia's Property Market in 2025, with Brett Warren

If you're interested in property you've probably noticed it's a confusing time out there . Interest rates are falling, but there are mixed messages about how many rate cuts we are going to get. Population growth is surging, but we're not building enough homes. The media is full of mixed messages, and many would-be investors are paralysed by uncertainty. That's why in today's show, Brett Warren and I explain the nine biggest influences shaping our property markets in 2025 and beyond. We discuss the real levers behind market movements, and we also reflect on what history tells us about these influences —and how savvy investors can position themselves ahead of the curve, while others sit on the sidelines. So, whether you're a seasoned investor or simply trying to make sense of this changing market, today's discussion will provide you with clarity, confidence, and a distinct strategic advantage. Takeaways · There's a confusing time out there regarding property investment. · Understanding homeowner behavior is crucial for investors. · Current supply shortages are significant and growing. · Affordability issues are impacting many potential buyers. · Consumer confidence plays a vital role in market dynamics. · Strategic investment is essential in a changing market. · Increased buyer confidence is being observed in the market. · The lack of supply is creating a perfect storm for property values. · Interest rates and economic factors are influencing buyer behavior. · Investors should act early to capitalize on market opportunities. Chapters 00:00 The Illusion of Truth 01:38 Understanding the Current Property Market Dynamics 04:31 Demographic Shifts and Housing Demand 06:56 Supply Challenges in the Housing Market 09:43 The Impact of Interest Rates on Affordability 12:40 Government Policies and Their Effects 15:32 Consumer Confidence and Market Trends 18:12 Strategic Insights for Property Investors Links and Resources: Answer this week's trivia question here- www.PropertyTrivia.com.au · Win a hard copy of How to Grow a Multi-Million Dollar Property Portfolio – in your spare time. · Everyone wins a copy of a fully updated property report – What's ahead for property for 2025 and beyond. Get the team at Metropole to help build your personal Strategic Property Plan Click here and have a chat with us Michael Yardney – Subscribe to my Property Update newsletter here Brett Warren - National Director of Property at Metropole Get a bundle of eBooks and Reports at www.PodcastBonus.com.au Also, please subscribe to my other podcast Demographics Decoded with Simon Kuestenmacher – just look for Demographics Decoded wherever you are listening to this podcast and subscribe so each week we can unveil the trends shaping your future.

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