AJ Financial Planning Blog

We like the quote by R. Bennett when he summed up the following "Top 15 things money can't buy; time, happiness, inner peace, integrity, love, character,... respect, morals, trust, patience, common sense, dignity."

Our blog shares our latest ideas, critical thinking, thought-provoking insights, innovative exploration of the markets, economies, investments and areas in the financial markets that require change.

 
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Which would you prefer: a 7% or 12% return on your super?

It seems like a simple enough question. If you had a balance investment option in your super, would you choose a 7% or 12% return? Yet, before you decide it’s a no-brainer, it’s worth probing a little deeper into what could cause this 5% variance, as the reporting returns are not standardised.

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The Super catch up… Are you chasing a $541K shortfall?

How do you catch up if you haven’t contributed to your superannuation for a while?

Perhaps you’re self-employed, have taken time off to start a family, or are just enjoying some time off work to travel the world. Whatever the reason, it’s likely that as a result, your superannuation might be a little light on. The question is does it matter if you miss a few years of contributing?

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How to know if a Self Managed Super Fund is right for you?

The Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF) sector is the fastest growing part of the superannuation industry as many Australians are choosing the ‘do-it-yourself’ route of an SMSF rather than your more traditional personal superannuation accounts and platforms. If you are considering a SMSF there are a few things to consider…. Is my balance high enough?

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2014 Australian Federal Budget – important changes that affect your finances

Temporary Budget Repair Levy There was a lot of speculation before the budget was announced about the Government’s plan to have a short term levy to help fund some of the budget deficit. The levy has been announced as a 2% charge on taxable income over $180,000. While this will only affect a minority of Australians, it could affect some people who sell investment properties and have a once off significant capital gain and assessable income.

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Retiree, Property and a SMSF – are all these elements friends or enemies?

I have 2 young boys aged 4 and 6 years old and some days they are the best of friends, and other times they can be the worlds worst enemies. Sometimes I scratch my head and wonder what happened on these bad days!

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