

Australian Finance Podcast
Rask
The Australian Finance Podcast is your guide to sorting out your finances, one episode at a time. Owen Rask, Chief Investment Officer, & Gemma Mitchell, Senior Financial Adviser, bring you actionable strategies and knowledge that you can put into practice today. Save money, invest better and live life on your terms.~~New to the show? We recommend that you head back to our Starter Pack series of the podcast in Jan/Feb 2024, to get your head around some really important concepts! More advanced listeners might enjoy our other show, The Australian Investors Podcast.~~SHOW NOTES: https://www.raskmedia.com.au/podcasts/australian-finance-podcast/~~DISCLAIMER: The information in this podcast series is general financial information/advice only. That means, the advice does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the advice is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on the information. In addition, you should obtain and read the product disclosure statement (PDS) before making a decision to acquire a financial product. If you don’t know what your needs are, you should consult a trusted and licensed financial adviser who can provide you with personal financial product advice. Please read our Terms of Service and Financial Services Guide on www.rask.com.au/fsg.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 3, 2025 • 42min
New super funds, divorce settlement and using your leave entitlements wisely | Q&A with Gemma and Owen
Listeners dive into fascinating discussions about optimizing leave entitlements after leaving a job. Practical advice on handling new super funds and divorce settlements is shared, along with personal stories of investment wins and losses. The hosts discuss when to seek professional help versus going DIY in ETF investing. Small steps for starting investments post-divorce are encouraged, promoting confidence in financial decision-making. Together, they explore proactive financial planning amidst life changes, inviting listeners to engage and learn.

4 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 12min
A200 ETF Review
In this discussion, Tom Wickenden, an Investment Strategist at BetaShares, reveals the secrets of the A200 ETF, Australia's lowest cost shares fund. He explains how A200 distinguishes itself with ultra-low fees and provides access to major companies like CBA and BHP. The episode also demystifies franking credits and their impact on returns while comparing A200 to other ASX ETFs. Tom outlines who might find A200 a suitable investment, making it a must-listen for both new and seasoned investors seeking to diversify their portfolios.

18 snips
Mar 31, 2025 • 38min
Budgeting = A System for Your Money (Not a Restriction!)
Discover how budgeting can be an empowering tool for financial freedom rather than a restriction. Learn how setting up separate bank accounts can simplify money management. Explore the benefits of flexible budgeting that adapts to your lifestyle while preventing feelings of deprivation. Hear real-life success stories showing how clarity in finances can spark wealth-building. Plus, understand the importance of communication for couples navigating shared and individual financial goals!

Mar 27, 2025 • 44min
5 Thematic ETFs to Watch in 2025
In this conversation, Hugh Lam, an Investment Strategist at Betashares, shares his insights on thematic investing. He explains the significance of identifying long-term trends versus fleeting market fads. Lam discusses five thematic ETFs for 2025, including those focused on global cybersecurity and Indian markets. He emphasizes evaluating these ETFs based on risk and diversification, and the growing importance of sectors like gold as economic uncertainties rise. This talk offers valuable investment strategies for future-focused investors.

11 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 24min
How to Start Investing in 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide
Discover the essential steps to kickstart your investing journey in 2025. Learn why an emergency fund is vital before diving into the market. Explore various investment platforms tailored for beginners, including micro-investing options. Uncover the benefits of ETFs as a great first investment. Get tips on writing your personal investment thesis and minimizing brokerage fees. Plus, find out how to navigate the world of investing safely and avoid potential scams!

7 snips
Mar 24, 2025 • 47min
What do I do about my private health insurance?
Dr. Steven Lu, a longevity expert and founder of Everlab, shares insights on navigating private health insurance in Australia. He reveals the history and evolution of private health cover, addressing how it can lower tax bills. The conversation highlights when PHI offers real value and warns of common pitfalls. Lu discusses the shift toward preventative health measures and stresses the importance of tailoring insurance to individual needs. He urges listeners to actively review their policies to ensure they align with personal health goals.

6 snips
Mar 20, 2025 • 51min
Weekly Q&A- your investment questions answered
This session tackles share buybacks—why companies pursue them and their implications for investors. It breaks down the essentials of dollar-cost averaging and momentum investing, offering practical strategies for optimizing investment portfolios. Additionally, there's a detailed look at diversifying within superannuation versus personal investments. The hosts provide valuable tips on identifying crossovers in ETF asset allocations, ensuring listeners stay informed and make savvy financial decisions.

Mar 19, 2025 • 27min
[Bonus] Chris Bates on Alcove, lessons learned in business & future of mortgage broking
Chris Bates, founder and CEO of Alcove, speaks with Owen Rask, Chief Investment Officer of Rask, about the lessons learned growing Alcove, the role of a broker and future of property advice.Topics:
Chris' journey from financial planning
The partnership with Rask
Name & brand changes
Lessons learned working in an unsuccessful business partnership
The future of mortgage broking
~~ Episode resources ~~Mortgage broking: https://bit.ly/R-services~~ Rask Resources ~~All services: https://bit.ly/R-servicesFinancial Planning: https://bit.ly/R-planInvest with us: https://bit.ly/R-investAccess Show Notes: https://bit.ly/R-notesAsk a question: https://bit.ly/R-questDISCLAIMER: 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

Mar 17, 2025 • 37min
How geared ETFs can grow your portfolio, ft. Betashares' Cameron Gleeson
In this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Owen Rask is joined by Cameron Gleeson from BetaShares to discuss geared ETFs. They cover:
What gearing means and how it applies to investments
Margin loans vs. internally geared ETFs
Why gearing is commonly used in property but under-utilised in shares
How BetaShares Wealth Builder ETFs provide structured leverage
Why self-managed super funds (SMSFs) might benefit from these ETFs
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Topics Covered & Timestamps0:00 Welcome & Introduction 2:30 What is Gearing & How Does It Work? 6:00 Why Gearing is Common in Property but Not in Shares 10:20 The Role of Leverage in Building Wealth 15:50 Risks & Benefits of Geared Investing 20:30 How BetaShares’ Wealth Builder ETFs Work 25:10 The Difference Between Margin Loans vs. Internally Geared ETFs 30:20 How Interest Rates on Geared ETFs Are Determined 35:00 Gearing in Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) 40:10 Comparing Returns: Geared vs. Ungeared ETFs 45:00 Who Should Consider These ETFs? 50:00 Cameron’s Advice for Investors Considering Gearing 55:00 Final Thoughts & How to Stay Connected📄 Resources for this Episode🔗 Learn More About Geared Investing & ETFs:
BetaShares Wealth Builder ETF – betashares.com.au
Rask Education – raskmedia.com.au
❓ Ask a question (select the Finance podcast)~~ Show partner resources ~~💰 Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit📊 Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith📈 View Betashares full range of funds~~ Rask resources ~~🔗 Explore all Rask services📋 Learn about Rask Financial Planning📈 Start investing with Rask📜 Access Show Notes❓ Ask a question📲 Follow us on social media:
Instagram: @rask.invest
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DISCLAIMERThis 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) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 13, 2025 • 55min
Market Crashes, Brokers going bust, and Owens model portfolios | Q&A with Gemma and Owen
Listeners dive into the current turbulence of the share market and the implications of broker defaults. The hosts tackle the intricacies of diversified portfolios and model portfolios versus ETFs, helping audiences make informed investment decisions. There's a cautionary discussion about online safety and scams, as well as the value of loyalty programs and cashback rewards. Plus, Gemma shares some exciting personal news! Tune in for insightful answers to listener questions and a fresh take on navigating financial challenges.