Australian Finance Podcast

Discover the vital questions to ask your accountant this tax season to unlock missed deductions and minimize your tax. Learn why taking charge of your tax responsibilities is essential and how proactive planning can enhance your financial future. Explore the hidden perks of regular communication with your accountant and why understanding investment structuring matters. This engaging discussion also highlights the pitfalls of DIY tax returns, making it clear that having a skilled accountant can significantly impact your financial strategies.

 In this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Owen Rask and Cameron Gleeson from Betashares dive into the world of currency hedging. If you invest in global markets — especially US stocks — you need to understand how foreign exchange (FX) movements can significantly impact your returns. Cameron breaks down: – What currency hedging means – How the AUD/USD exchange rate affects your portfolio – The difference between hedged and unhedged ETFs – Why hedging can reduce volatility and risk – How long-term investors should think about hedging This episode will help you make more informed decisions with your overseas investments. If you’ve ever owned ETFs like NDQ, IVV, or VGS — this episode is for you! Subscribe for weekly episodes via Apple, Spotify, or YouTube! Follow us on Instagram and TikTok for more investing tips. Topics Covered – What is currency hedging? – How the AUD/USD exchange rate affects returns – Hedged vs unhedged ETF examples (NDQ vs HNDQ) – When hedging helps (and when it doesn’t) – What investors can learn from history (2001–2007) – Why your time horizon matters – A simple strategy using 30–35% hedging – TOFA tax rules and why they matter – How Betashares ETFs handle hedging and tax efficiently – What to do if you’ve only ever invested unhedged Resources for this episode 📘 Before you hedge – Betashares guide to currency hedging: Read here 📚 Rask’s free investing courses – https://education.rask.com.au/ ~~ Show partner resources ~~ 💰 Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit – https://bit.ly/Pearler 📊 Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith – https://bit.ly/R-PocketSmith 📈 View Betashares full range of funds – https://bit.ly/beta-25 ~~ Rask resources ~~ 🔗 Explore all Rask services – https://bit.ly/R-services 📋 Learn about Rask Financial Planning – https://bit.ly/R-plan 📈 Start investing with Rask – https://bit.ly/R-invest 📜 Access show notes – https://bit.ly/R-notes ❓ Ask a question – just select the finance podcast – https://bit.ly/R-quest 📲 Follow us on social media: Instagram: @rask.invest – https://www.instagram.com/rask.invest/ TikTok: @rask.invest – https://www.tiktok.com/@rask.invest DISCLAIMER This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs before acting on it. If you’re unsure, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG) – https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Australian Finance Podcast, Owen and Gemma are back for your weekly Q&A and answering your questions. Don't forget to subscribe for weekly shows on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. And send in your questions via the link below.  Your questions answered today: - The collapse of First Guardian superannuation fund- plus how you can protect yourself.  - What is a margin loan and how it differs from Gearing.  - Stepped vs Level insurance premiums- how they work and what to consider. - Selling your investment property capital gains tax free- is it too good to be true?! - Plus Owen and Gemma talk about the start of something big… for the business, but also with their new little Raiz accounts.  Resources for this episode - ASIC information on First Guardiam - https://www.asic.gov.au/about-asic/asic-investigations-and-enforcement/enforcement-activities/first-guardian-master-fund/ - Episode on Tracy Hall rebuilding after her super and investments was stolen by a con man she trusted- https://youtu.be/X_cEZZjBIcs?feature=shared - Book in for an insurance review- https://www.raskmedia.com.au/services/life-insurance/ - Book in for Rask financial advice- https://www.rask.com.au/advice/ - PreSales for Gemma’s book The Money Reset- https://amzn.to/42Uz0aK - Ask a question (select the Finance podcast): https://bit.ly/R-quest  ~~ Show partner resources ~~ Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit: https://bit.ly/Pearler Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith: https://bit.ly/R-PocketSmith View Betashares range of funds:  https://bit.ly/beta-25 ~~ Rask resources ~~ All services: https://bit.ly/R-services Financial Planning: https://bit.ly/R-plan  Invest with us: https://bit.ly/R-invest  Access Show Notes: https://bit.ly/R-notes  Ask a question: https://bit.ly/R-quest  DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover essential strategies to supercharge your retirement savings! Learn about the common pitfalls of superannuation, including misunderstood fees and the impact of insurance on your balance. Find out why selecting the right investment option is crucial and how you can take advantage of the $500 government co-contribution rule. Real-life comparisons of fees and returns shed light on making smarter financial choices as you age. Empower your financial future with these actionable tips!

Queenie Tan, a finance creator and founder of the budgeting app Billroo, shares her journey to a $1 million net worth. She discusses how her parents' financial lessons shaped her mindset and the importance of making finance enjoyable. Queenie introduces her innovative three-part budgeting framework: foundation, fun, and freedom. She advocates for 'mini retirements,' ensuring life is fulfilling now, and likens ETFs to candy for easy investing. Her practical tips on balancing saving and spending are designed to inspire listeners to embrace their financial growth.

James O'Reilly, a senior advisor at Rask Advice, shares his journey from retail to financial planning. He discusses crucial money decisions for 20-somethings, like choosing between property and ETFs for investment. The First Home Super Saver Scheme is explained, along with its benefits and tax implications for first-time buyers. James also emphasizes emergency funds during career transitions and offers insights on financial preparations for starting a family. His personal lessons on financial planning are both relatable and practical for young investors.

Discover why Costco is a standout for customer loyalty and value, including their must-try hot dog deal. Explore how Intuitive Surgical is revolutionizing surgery with advanced robotics and dominating the market. Dive into American Express's strong hold on the premium credit card space despite high fees. The discussion emphasizes investment valuation and the allure of great companies that aren't always in the headlines, offering insights on when to invest and the comparison between ETFs and individual stocks.

Alex Vynokur, Founder and CEO of Betashares, shares his remarkable journey of building a $50 billion investment platform. He discusses the sacrifices made, including mortgaging his home, to democratize wealth access. Alex emphasizes the need for simpler investing tools and the importance of financial education. He reveals how feedback drives product development and touches on the challenges of superannuation and homeownership in Australia. His insights on leadership and cultural values offer a fresh perspective on fostering trust in financial services.

Discover the ins and outs of using a self-managed super fund for property investment. The hosts reveal why the numbers often don’t add up and present alternative strategies that may yield better returns. They highlight the appeal versus the reality of property in retirement portfolios, discussing common myths and pitfalls. Insights about market performance and the evolving landscape of investments make this an engaging listen for anyone considering their financial future.

Ryan Newman, Director of Research at The Motley Fool Australia, shares his insights on investing in ASX shares. He reveals how to identify promising companies, spotlighting ResMed's innovations in sleep apnea care. Newman discusses GenTrack’s disruptive solutions for utilities and airports, and explains how Pinnacle effectively manages boutique funds. Tune in to learn about the importance of patience in investing, researching like a pro, and recognizing the right business models for long-term growth.