Investopoly

Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart sounds the alarm on property spruikers and how to spot the latest fads that can lead unsuspecting investors astray. Drawing from decades of experience, he explains how to distinguish genuine investment advice from cleverly packaged sales pitches designed to serve the seller, not the buyer. From positive cash flow regional properties in the early 2000s to the GFC-era US property rush, mining town booms, and off-the-plan apartment oversupply, Stuart shares real examples of past trends that promised high returns but delivered disappointing long-term results.He outlines the red flags of property fads: fast-money promises, businesses growing too quickly, unrealistic return forecasts, and markets driven by a handful of players. Stuart also highlights how savvy marketing, short-term results, and glowing early reviews can mask poor-quality advice. With more recent trends like development site deals and commercial property pushes now dominating the conversation, this episode is a timely warning for investors who want to stay grounded in evidence, not hype.Whether you're new to property investing or navigating the next stage of your portfolio, Stuart’s insights will help you stay focused on sustainable, long-term strategies and avoid costly missteps fueled by short-term noise.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/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.

In this Q&A episode, Stuart answers a diverse set of listener questions covering retirement preparation, home upgrade decisions, cash flow optimisation, and early-stage financial planning. He begins with El, a couple in their late 50s wondering whether switching from Care and Brighter Super to Vanguard Super is worth the effort as they approach retirement. Stuart outlines the key considerations for super fund selection at this life stage, including fees, flexibility, and pension phase planning.Next, Matt and his wife in Perth are juggling property investment, business growth, and a long-term goal of upgrading to a $3.5 million home. Stuart discusses whether they should focus on paying down their home loan or continue investing, and when an SMSF strategy might make sense.Liam, a 28-year-old with a young family, asks how to juggle mortgage repayments, super contributions, and the possibility of investing while planning for a wedding and a new business venture. Stuart provides clarity on income protection, leveraging wisely, and what to prioritise in the early years.Finally, Sarah and her partner, middle-income earners in their 40s, feel stuck despite having solid assets. Stuart offers reassurance and practical tips for improving cash flow, building buffers, and regaining financial confidence. A supportive episode for every life stage.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/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.

Read full blog here.In this data-rich episode, Stuart takes a deep dive into what 40 years of long-term data reveals about property investing across Australia’s capital cities. While the media often focuses on short-term fluctuations, Stuart explains why property should be viewed as a multi-decade investment and how compounding growth over time can deliver extraordinary returns. He breaks down the historical performance of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth, highlighting how each city has tracked over 10, 20, 30, and 40-year periods, and what investors can learn from those patterns.Stuart also explains why the median house price should be seen as a benchmark, not a guaranteed result, and how thoughtful asset selection is key to outperforming it over the long term. He explores whether cities like Melbourne have bottomed out after years of underperformance, if Sydney’s historical strength will continue, and why Brisbane may still have runway left ahead of the 2032 Olympics. Plus, he warns that Adelaide and Perth, despite recent strong results, may be entering more moderate growth phases.For investors trying to cut through short-term noise and build a high-performing property portfolio, this episode offers clear, evidence-based insights to help you make smarter long-term decisions.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/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.

In this Q&A episode, Stuart answers an insightful mix of listener questions that span health, housing, retirement planning, and how to balance life’s big financial decisions. He begins with “Lucky,” a high-income medical professional and cancer survivor, who asks whether his health history should influence how much he gears, and whether to upgrade his Melbourne home, buy in Sydney near family, or stick with investing in ETFs and super. Stuart unpacks each option, weighing lifestyle, liquidity, and long-term strategy.Next, Matt, soon to retire, asks whether using an offset account against his investment property loan is a smart way to manage share market risk in retirement. Stuart shares how to approach this strategy to strike a balance between flexibility and return.Steve asks where average investors can access affordable, quality property data for DIY analysis. Stuart discusses practical alternatives to high-cost platforms.Finally, Jordan and his partner share their impressive early success: two investment properties by age 25, but now struggling to balance the desire for future growth with living more in the present. Stuart responds with guidance on timing property moves, managing gearing, and the mindset shift needed to enjoy the benefits of your financial discipline, such as taking that long-awaited holiday. A rich episode for all life stages.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/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.

Read full blog here.In this forward-looking episode, Stuart unpacks a range of bold ideas for tax reform in Australia, urging policymakers to think beyond the status quo. With both federal and state budgets under pressure, and income taxes increasingly unsustainable, Stuart proposes a smarter, more balanced system that supports economic growth while ensuring fairness. He explores the dangers of bracket creep, the merits of expanding GST through a luxury rate, and the potential of capping the CGT exemption on primary residences to close one of the country’s most generous tax loopholes.Stuart also revisits the role of private investors in solving the housing crisis, suggesting innovative tax incentives to increase the supply of affordable rentals. In superannuation, he outlines a simple yet powerful tiered contribution tax system that could help lower-income earners grow their balances faster.Later in the episode, Stuart responds to a listener question from Dee, a high-earning sole trader and single parent, wondering whether to purchase her next investment property in her name or via a family trust. He explains the trade-offs between asset protection, negative gearing, and borrowing capacity, especially for professionals in higher-risk fields. A must-listen for anyone thinking about how tax policy and personal strategy can evolve for a better financial future.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/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.

In this episode, Stuart addresses a wide range of listener questions, focusing on smart super strategies, investment property decisions, and how to balance financial goals with market realities. Jeff asks whether funds in an offset account with a non-bank lender like Resimac are safe, prompting a discussion on lending structures and risk. Alex seeks clarity on the pros and cons of rebalancing super investment options, while Pierre (alias) returns with a detailed follow-up on reallocating borrowing capacity and how to weigh shares vs. property with a 25-year investment horizon.Stuart also responds to Graham and Helen, a retired couple with super nearing the cap, who are considering how to best manage their share portfolios, pensions, and investment property. Another listener asks about selling a one-bedroom Brisbane apartment ahead of retirement and using the funds to either build super or invest elsewhere.Finally, Stuart offers advice to a 34-year-old couple aiming for $2 million in net worth by age 40, debating whether to continue investing in ETFs or buy another investment property in Melbourne. With thoughtful insights on diversification, timing, tax efficiency, and long-term planning, this episode is packed with real-world guidance for investors at every stage of the wealth-building journey.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/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.

Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart explores why sometimes the smartest investment strategy is to do less. With global markets hitting all-time highs and every major asset class delivering positive returns in 2025, Stuart cautions against overconfidence. He explains why sitting on cash or keeping borrowing capacity in reserve can be a strategic move, not a missed opportunity. Drawing on recent market trends, including the unusual simultaneous rise of gold and bitcoin, Stuart unpacks why this environment feels disconnected from economic and political realities.He also discusses the impact of index investing on market momentum, why market-cap indexing may behave like a growth strategy, and why blindly following the crowd can increase your risk exposure. Alongside this market reflection, Stuart answers a detailed listener question from Bernadette, a 51-year-old planning for retirement. He analyses her strategy to maximise super contributions, transition into part-time work, and possibly adopt Hostplus, ChoicePlus or a WRAP account to improve tax efficiency.With practical advice on asset allocation, superstructure selection, and risk management, Stuart reinforces a core message: building long-term wealth doesn’t require reacting to every market move. Sometimes, keeping your powder dry is the most powerful move you can make.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/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.

In this Q&A-packed episode, Campbell tackles a variety of real-life scenarios from listeners navigating property decisions, capital gains tax, and super strategies. He begins by clarifying whether deferring the sale of investment properties until retirement results in meaningful CGT savings, a common assumption he carefully unpacks for Catherine. Elise then asks whether to continue hunting for an investment property, focus on paying off the mortgage, or invest in shares. Campbell shares a practical decision-making framework based on flexibility, returns, and borrowing power.Next, Matt raises a nuanced estate planning question about SMSFs, wrap platforms, and directing super death benefits into a private trust. He explains the pros and cons of SMSFs versus wrap platforms and highlights which providers support direct access without needing a financial adviser.Simon’s question on potential CGT exposure after co-purchasing a home with his mother leads to a clear explanation of how CGT applies to partial ownership, even without rental income. Finally, Ray seeks guidance on which of three strategies will best position him and his wife to buy a future family home while relocating frequently for work. Campbell compares ETFs, investment properties, and CGT exemptions, giving Ray a clear path to building flexibility and wealth. A rich episode for strategic thinkers.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/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.

Read full blog hereIn this episode, Stuart reveals the results of his annual review of super fund performance, naming the best super fund for 2025. He compares returns across both Balanced and High Growth investment options from Australia’s leading industry and retail super funds, including Hostplus, UniSuper, ART, AustralianSuper, and the increasingly competitive Vanguard Super.But investment returns and fees aren’t the only criteria that matter. Stuart delves deeper into overlooked factors, including transparency in asset valuation (especially for unlisted assets), board governance and experience, cybersecurity risks, and service quality. He raises red flags about funds influenced by union-backed boards and highlights service issues, including lengthy wait times and delayed payouts.Stuart also explains the hidden tax costs in pooled super funds, especially the tax drag from unrealised capital gains, and how wrap platforms or SMSFs may offer smarter alternatives for engaged investors. He outlines when splitting super across two funds might be a useful diversification strategy, and who should consider using AustralianSuper’s Member Direct or a wrap platform like Hub24 or Netwealth.Whether you're looking for the best net returns, lower tax drag, or more control over your retirement savings, this episode offers clear insights to help you optimise your super in 2025 and beyond.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/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.

In this Q&A episode, Stuart covers a wide range of real-life scenarios, offering clear insights on property strategy, superannuation, and retirement planning. He begins by unpacking Paul’s question about setting up a self-managed super fund (SMSF) and whether his current balance is sufficient to make a property purchase viable within it. Stuart also reflects on the quality of Paul’s Melbourne townhouse investment and discusses how to assess whether a property is genuinely investment-grade. Paul’s second question around investing savings for his four young children prompts a broader discussion on smarter options beyond traditional bank accounts.John’s situation leads to a compelling conversation around downsizing in retirement. Stuart evaluates John's unique plan of selling the family home, investing the proceeds into super, and renting to try different locations before settling permanently.Other questions explored include what to consider when upgrading to a more premium home, the risks of holding off on selling your current home, and how to structure equity effectively. Stuart finishes the episode with a deep dive into Amelie’s property portfolio and how to optimise her $2.2 million in equity to build super and potentially upgrade to a better principal residence. A must-listen for property owners and planners alike.Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/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.