The No-Regrets Retirement Newsletter

While we are still getting use to the disappointment of cancelling the 2026 Commonwealth Games, there seems to be a bit of hope that while interest rates might still nudge a big higher, it does not look like the economy will avoid falling into recession.

August of course is the month when Australia’s biggest listed companies update their earnings forecasts for the year ahead as they report their annual results to shareholders, although expectations this year among analysts are very mixed.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a wider range or uncertain outlook for corporate Australia, and with that expected dividend forecasts, in all my life of following the markets.

As you will read in my article on what to expect from the reporting season, companies appear to be divided between those that are focused on the domestic market and those focused on export markets, with the later doing particularly well now. But it is very much a case of wait and see.

If there is anything good to say about the recent spike in inflation, it is that it has prompted the Federal Government to upwardly review the figures it uses regarding the asset test, when calculating age pension entitlements.

So, if you have been hoping to qualify for the Age pension these new higher asset limits might give you cause to boost your hopes and perhaps investigate whether you might just qualify for the age pension.

The Australian Securities and Investment Commission hit the headlines during the past month by taking legal action against the giant investment company Vanguard, accusing it of ‘greenwashing’ one of its investment products.

This of course raises the question is green washing on the rise and what should investors do or think about it.

Finally, in looking at things you can control, I have put together to two articles on simplifying your finances and boosting your super balance.

Both articles are must reads for anyone close to or thinking about their retirement plans. More than ever before it is important for investors to think hard about their future and plan to get as much money into super as possible.

If you think you need help in planning your retirement, let me know. I’m just a simple email away.