Investopoly

In my regular weekly episode, I talk about the theories, methodologies, and principles associated with investing. These case study episodes aim to share how the application of our approach to formulating advice has worked in a real-life situation. Case study: Property advice is crucial How wealth advice, property advice, and lifestyle goals are often very interrelated.  Approached us for advice in 2019. Male-owned new-build apartment with $200k of equity. Female-owned house and land package with $260k of equity in it. They had high incomes, but also spent a lot.  Neither of their properties would be considered investment grade.  Advice: sell both, and invest $460k of equity in the highest quality house they can afford. Retain as much cash as possible. Don’t worry about building. Use a buyers’ agent.  In July 2020, they bought a home for $2m. They borrowed around $1.9m = forced savings. Used family guarantee (mum’s ppty) so that they could retain cash.  Their property is now worth $3.5m. $1.5m tax-free gain.  It was a 10+ year strategy, and we couldn’t have anticipated that they’d be so well off after only 3 years, but it’s a good example.  What can we learn? Well-rounded advice is very important.  A financial advisor wouldn't have the knowledge and experience to appreciate what their next best move was.  Mortgage brokers don't have the full picture.  Often, buyers and agents will be too influenced by the clients’ desires. It's only with the benefit of hindsight do you know how valuable it can be to stretch yourself. Being too conservative can be costly.  Cannot underestimate the tremendous lifestyle impact of upgrading the home. A forced savings strategy is very good for people who are spendthrifts.  Structuring the mortgage currently was important to (1) ensure he maintained a buffer and (2) took advantage of low rates – we staggered expiries.    Subscribe via www.investopoly.com.au/emailDo 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 the full blog here.Unlock the secrets of investment bonds in this podcast, diving into their tax-efficient allure, especially for children's investments. Discover the nuances of these financial products, their advantages, and potential drawbacks. Delve into the 10-year tax-free withdrawal strategy, the '125% rule,' and administration costs ranging from 0.40% to 0.60% p.a.Join the discussion comparing investment bonds against low-cost index funds like Vanguard High Growth, unveiling the potential tax benefits and drawbacks over a 10-year period. Explore alternative options such as repaying home loans, investing in a lower-income spouse's name, and strategic approaches to minimize Capital Gains Tax (CGT).Gain insights into the comprehensive financial planning needed for effective decision-making, with tips like park money in your home loan, consolidate investments, and create accounts for minors. Uncover the potential pitfalls and advantages of investment bonds, and why, in practice, they are rarely recommended. For a deeper understanding of wealth-building strategies and alternatives, tune in to this insightful podcast.Subscribe via www.investopoly.com.au/emailDo 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 the full blog here.Unlock the secrets to turbocharge your journey to a mortgage-free life! Forget the noise of countless tips – I've distilled it down to the essential, powerful strategies that truly make a difference. Uncover the 3-4 game-changing methods that will accelerate your home loan repayment. No fluff, just results!Crack the Code to Lower Interest Rates: Your loyalty is costing you! Learn how to negotiate lower rates, decode the bank's retention strategy, and save big. A good mortgage broker can be your secret weapon.Offset, Repayments, and Cash Flow Magic: Maximize the power of offset accounts, make extra repayments with confidence, and manage your cash flow like a pro. Your mortgage will thank you with interest savings that compound over time!Flexible Strategies with Plan B: Life happens, so be prepared. Explore alternative strategies like downsizing, smart investments, or tapping into your super. Plan B ensures you're always in control.Self-Employed? Your Accountant Holds the Key: Get personalized advice from a holistic accountant on business structures and tax optimizations tailored to your situation. We've helped many self-employed individuals fast-track their mortgage repayments – find out how!So, don't get lost in a sea of unimportant or inferior ideas. More than 95% of success lies in a focused approach. Minimize debt costs, leverage an offset, and channel your cash flow – that's the winning formula.Ready to revolutionize your approach to mortgage repayment? Embrace simplicity and effectiveness. Your mortgage-free future starts here!Subscribe via www.investopoly.com.au/emailDo 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 podcast episode, Stuart discusses a captivating case study spanning over 14 years, showcasing the positive impact of their advisory process on clients. The clients, initially with a $2 million investment base, have seen their net worth grow to $6.4 million, excluding homes, through conservative asset allocation and astute financial management. Despite a volatile market, their compounding annual growth rate stands at an impressive 8.7%. The clients, now comfortably retired, attribute their success to long-term thinking, a willingness to seek and follow advice, and the ability to stay focused on their goals amid short-term market fluctuations.The diverse asset allocation includes investments in property, bonds, infrastructure, global property, and a mix of Australian and international shares. Stuart emphasizes the importance of understanding one's risk profile and aligning it with financial goals. The clients' disciplined cash flow management, coupled with a strategic approach to spending, has contributed to their financial security. This case study underscores the significance of a trusted advisory relationship, patience in long-term investing, and staying committed to financial goals.Subscribe via www.investopoly.com.au/emailDo 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 the full blog here.Unlock the secrets to a prosperous 2024 in the real estate market with the "2024 Property Outlook" podcast. In this insightful episode, experts delve into the intricacies of the property landscape, offering a comprehensive analysis of the potential impact of key factors such as inflation, tax cuts, and market dynamics.Listeners can expect a deep dive into the effects of inflation on property values and rental markets, gaining valuable insights into how economic trends may shape investment opportunities. The podcast explores the nuances of tax cuts and their influence on property ownership, providing practical advice for investors looking to maximize returns in a changing fiscal environment.One of the highlights of the episode is the examination of market dynamics, where experts break down current trends and forecast future developments. From the urban jungle to suburban havens, the podcast paints a vivid picture of what the property landscape may look like in the coming year, helping listeners make informed decisions about their real estate ventures.Whether you're a seasoned investor or a first-time homebuyer, this podcast offers actionable intelligence to navigate the evolving property market. The hosts skillfully distill complex economic concepts into easily digestible information, ensuring that listeners walk away with a clear understanding of how inflation, tax cuts, and market dynamics may impact their property portfolios.Don't miss out on the opportunity to stay ahead of the curve in 2024. Tune in to the "2024 Property Outlook" podcast for a strategic roadmap to navigate the ever-changing real estate terrain and position yourself for success in the year ahead.Subscribe via www.investopoly.com.au/emailDo 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 the full blog here. In this podcast, discover the alarming impact of scams on Australians, costing the government an estimated $3.1 billion annually. With the increasing digitalisation of our lives, particularly in banking and financial services, individuals are more vulnerable than ever to scams, making it imperative to take proactive steps to protect one's money.The National Anti-Scam Centre reveals that scams primarily occur through phone calls, emails, and text messages, with phishing attacks comprising 44% of the most common scams. Other prevalent scams include false billing, online shopping fraud, hacking, and identity theft. While Australian banks often provide zero-liability policies for unauthorised transactions, a comprehensive Scams Code Framework is in development to enhance protection and compensation measures for victims.Listeners are advised to adopt practical measures such as using password managers to enhance online security and being vigilant with emails, texts, and phone calls. Daily banking logins can help detect fraudulent transactions promptly while avoiding sharing sensitive information via insecure channels is emphasised. Regular software updates and the use of digital debit and credit cards are also recommended to minimise fraud risk.The podcast sheds light on the consequences of banks' efforts to combat scams, which may result in inconveniences for customers due to account locks and increased scrutiny during certain transactions. For businesses, regular cybersecurity training for staff and secure management of excess cash are crucial elements in mitigating scam risks.As scams become more sophisticated, staying vigilant is emphasised as a collective responsibility. By following the practical steps outlined in the podcast, listeners can significantly enhance the protection of their assets in an evolving digital landscape where scams pose an escalating threat.Subscribe via www.investopoly.com.au/emailDo 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.

Click here to read this blog online. Sidebar: Wealth Editor, James Kirby and I recorded an episode of The Australia’s Money Puzzle podcast yesterday discussing our expectations for the property market in 2024: see here. In this insightful podcast, Stuart Wemyss shares four key investment lessons gleaned from the tumultuous market of 2023, offering a compelling guide for potential listeners. Lesson one underscores the volatility of market expectations, urging investors to prioritise long-term goals over short-term forecasts. Lesson two explores the resilience required when faced with unexpected market deviations, emphasising the importance of maintaining confidence in established strategies. The third lesson advocates for steadfastness in the face of economic uncertainties, showcasing how minimal portfolio adjustments often lead to higher returns over time. Lesson four delves into the unpredictability of market conditions, cautioning against betting against prevailing trends and emphasising the potential risks of underestimating the duration of irrational market behavior.Listeners can expect a thought-provoking discussion on the challenges and rewards of navigating the investment landscape, supported by real-world examples from 2023. The host's emphasis on data-driven decision-making, drawn from diverse sources including renowned economist John Keynes and Warren Buffett, adds a pragmatic touch to the narrative. As the podcast challenges conventional wisdom and encourages a critical examination of market insights, it promises to be an engaging resource for both seasoned and novice investors looking to refine their strategies in 2024.Subscribe via www.investopoly.com.au/emailDo 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.

Unlock the secrets to securing prime real estate without breaking the bank, as I, Stuart Wemyss, walk you through the strategic maze of property investment. Get ready to learn how even with modest means, you can pinpoint properties set to soar in value, thanks to the invaluable insights offered in this episode. We're scrutinizing the real estate market's ever-present supply and demand imbalance and understanding why this could be your golden ticket. I'll also reveal why the economic underpinnings of your investments are more than just background noise—they're the pulse that could dictate the heartbeat of your financial future.Dive deeper with me as we dissect the non-negotiable characteristics of a property that's worth its weight in gold. From the undeniable influence of location to the critical contribution of land value, we leave no stone unturned. Empower yourself with the tools to assess a property's past performance and unravel the mystery of its potential, using data that demystifies the art of smart investing. And for those of you with tighter purse strings, rest assured—I've got the roadmap that will lead you to investment-grade gems in the rough, just a suburb over. This episode isn't just about property; it's about making your aspirations of wealth through savvy investing an attainable reality.Subscribe via www.investopoly.com.au/emailDo 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.

Ready to conquer the Australian rental crisis and spot the next big investment opportunity? Our latest Investopoly podcast is your treasure map through the tumultuous terrain of the property market. As the rental squeeze tightens its grip, we dissect the factors at play, from vanishing vacancies to skyrocketing rents. This isn't just a breakdown of the problem—it's a rallying cry for private investors and landlords to re-enter the game. We confront the so-called mortgage fixed rate cliff and dismantle the myths that have been circulating, showcasing why Australians are more resilient in the face of rate hikes than you might think.Beneath the surface of the rental crisis lurks a complex web of cause and effect. Over six years, a dwindling supply of rental properties has collided with steady demand to create a perfect storm. We peel back the legislative layers to reveal how recent property market shifts have starved the rental pool, and why proposals like increased social housing or build-to-rent schemes might not be the silver bullets they're made out to be. Instead, I champion a more immediate solution: empowering the private investor. With a candid look at borrowing constraints and rising interest rates, I navigate the currents of change and pinpoint how to harness these challenges for investment success.As we usher in an era of variable mortgage rates, the whispers of market sentiment change grow louder. I share decades of industry wisdom to explain why the transition might not spell the forewarned financial fallout and how Australia's robust economic backbone supports homeowners. And finally, as property prices teeter on the edge, I revisit my prediction of an imminent market floor. This episode isn't just about weathering the storm; it's about setting sail at the first sign of clear skies. For veterans and first-time property investors alike, now could be the moment to anchor your portfolio in tomorrow's victories.Subscribe via www.investopoly.com.au/emailDo 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.

Are skyrocketing interest rates making you question your investment strategy? I'm Stuart Wemyss, and on the Investopoly podcast, we tackle the dilemma facing many investors today: whether to pump surplus cash into investments or chip away at that home mortgage. As we bid farewell to the comfort of low interest rates and brace for the impact of significant hikes, this episode guides you through the emotional and financial intricacies of debt management versus investment growth.Bearing witness to history's lowest interest rates, many of us are now reeling from the sharp climb, questioning our next financial move. Join me as we dissect the implications of a 5.8% home loan interest rate on your cash flow and compare the long-term benefits of extra loan repayments against the potential returns from growth investments. We'll navigate the complexities of after-tax returns and savings, helping you make an informed choice to secure your financial future amidst the current economic landscape.Subscribe via www.investopoly.com.au/emailDo 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.