178. What Is A Financial Plan and Why Do You Need It
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we explore the importance of having a financial plan and how it can help create stability and security in both the short and long term. We discuss key components of a financial plan, including budgeting, saving, investing, and setting clear financial goals. We also highlight common pitfalls people face when managing their finances and offer practical advice on how to stay on track. Through real-life examples and expert insights, we emphasize why financial planning is essential for achieving financial...
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177. Granny Flat Provision
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we explore granny flat provisions and how they impact Centrelink benefits, allowing older Australians to transfer assets, often to their children—in exchange for a lifetime right to live in a property without triggering gifting rules. We discuss various living arrangements, financial implications, and key considerations like legal agreements, stamp duty, and the reasonableness test. Additionally, we highlight risks such as potential loss of pension entitlements and complications if aged care is needed....
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176. Why Are Investments Falling and What Can You Do
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we discuss the recent market downturn, exploring factors like aggressive U.S. trade policies, inflationary pressures, and global economic uncertainty that have led to significant declines across major indices. While market corrections can be unsettling, we emphasize that they are a normal part of the economic cycle and present opportunities for disciplined investors. Strategies like dollar-cost averaging, maintaining financial stability, and identifying high-quality assets at discounted prices can help...
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175. Financial Mistakes That Even Smart People Made
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we discuss common financial mistakes that even smart people make. We explore issues like lifestyle creep, the lack of a banking strategy, putting all financial resources into one asset, and not having an emergency fund. We also highlight the dangers of unclear investment strategies, relying on a single income stream, and trying to time the market. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of tax planning, long-term financial thinking, and not ignoring superannuation. We share practical insights to help our...
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174. Downsizer Contributions
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we discuss downsizer contributions to superannuation, exploring how this strategy allows individuals aged 55 and over to contribute up to $300,000 from the sale of their home into their super, without affecting other contribution caps. We break down the eligibility rules, the financial benefits of moving assets into a tax-free super environment, and the broader economic implications, including its potential to free up housing stock. While originally framed as a way to encourage retirees to move into...
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173. Asset Protection Strategies
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we discuss asset protection strategies, focusing on protecting those assets that you have worked so hard to accumulate.. We highlight the importance of separating personal and business assets, using structures like trusts and company ownership to limit liability. Superannuation is emphasized as a strong protection tool when contributed to properly, while investment bonds provide a middle-ground option. We also stress the value of insurance—life, disability, crisis, and income protection—to maintain...
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172. Frugal February
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we explore how intentional spending can lead to long-term financial benefits. We discuss setting clear savings goals, breaking them into achievable steps, and using accountability to stay on track. Strategies include delaying impulse purchases, optimizing grocery shopping, cooking at home, and enjoying free or low-cost entertainment. We also highlight the importance of auditing subscriptions and even taking on side hustles to boost income while reducing unnecessary spending. Ultimately, we encourage...
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171. Should I Pay Down Debt or Put Money into Super
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we address a listener's question about whether to focus on paying down debt or contributing to superannuation. We discuss key factors, such as the type of debt, tax benefits of superannuation, and personal risk tolerance, while emphasizing the importance of individual circumstances and long-term goals. Also, we explore strategies like balancing both options, the impact of interest rates, and leveraging equity for investments. Furthermore, we highlight the complexity of this decision and advocate seeking...
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170. Market Wrap
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! We are back again with our monthly ‘Market Wrap’ segment. In this episode, we take a deep dive into the latest market movements as we kick off 2025. We discuss the strong performance of the S&P 500, which saw a 2.24% rise in January, despite some pullback due to inflation concerns. We also explore the impact of Trump's return to office, analyzing how the market has largely anticipated his policies. A major highlight is Nvidia’s record-breaking $938 billion market cap loss following the emergence of a Chinese AI...
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169. Melbourne Property Expectations 2025
360 Money Matters
Welcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast! In this episode, we explore Melbourne's property market trends and expectations for 2025, highlighting its unique underperformance compared to other Australian cities in 2024. While cities like Brisbane and Adelaide saw significant growth, Melbourne experienced a decline. Attributed to factors such as land tax reforms, increased regulatory burdens, and diminished investor confidence. Despite these challenges, we discuss the potential for recovery, driven by Melbourne's growing affordability relative to other cities,...
info_outlineWelcome back to another episode of the 360 Money Matters Podcast!
In this episode, we explore estate planning, dispelling the misconception that it's solely about who will inherit your assets. We stress the need for professional assistance in creating a valid will to document wishes accurately. We also highlight concerns regarding inheritance taxation, particularly in superannuation cases, where non-tax dependents may face taxable status.
Additionally, we advise seeking professional advice and introduce a strategy called a recontribution strategy. This strategy, if certain conditions are met, can alter the superannuation status, potentially avoiding or minimizing taxes when the proceeds are distributed to non-dependents.
In conclusion, we suggest having transparent conversations with beneficiaries to communicate the reasoning behind decisions in the estate plan. Individuals should also consider the importance of seeking professional guidance and conducting regular assessments of the plan.
Discover the secrets of estate planning on our latest episode! We break down myths, share tips on dividing assets, tackle tax complexities, and reveal strategies to cut down on taxes. Don't miss out on expert insights—listen now to make your estate planning decisions smarter and simpler!
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This podcast contains information that is general in nature. It does not take into account the objectives, financial situation, or needs of any particular person. You need to consider your financial situation and needs before making any decisions based on this information. This information is provided by Billy Amiridis & Andrew Nicolaou of 360 Financial Strategists Pty Ltd, authorized representatives and credit representatives of AMP Financial Planning – AFSL 232706
Episode Highlights
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Importance and complexity of estate planning
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Importance of engaging with a professional for valid wills
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Enforceability of estate plan
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Importance of reviewing the estate plan periodically
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Challenges of equalization and considering various factors
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Ensuring beneficiary nominations align with future wishes
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Importance of discussing the estate plan with beneficiaries
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Testamentary trusts and their uses
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Consideration of wishes and goals for the estate plan
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