Sam and Sally Smith have worked hard all their lives, paid their taxes and, now they have retired, they feel they are entitled to a full age pension. Jan and Jim Jones have also worked hard and paid their taxes. However, concerned that Australia’s aging population and ballooning pension bill will make it increasingly difficult to qualify for an age pension, they have sought to be as financially independent in retirement as possible. With diligent savings and smart use of superannuation they have built a significant nest egg. While both couples have equally valid views, in one respect Jan and […]

Most people would agree that couples in a marital relationship who carefully co-ordinate their investment portfolios along with their other personal finances can potentially put themselves in an excellent position to reach their shared long-term goals. This joint approach to investing can include ensuring that the asset allocation of all of their investment portfolios – inside and outside super – are appropriate and non-conflicting. It also involves making sure that each partner is making the most of the caps on super contributions if suitable for their circumstances and within their means. Another issue to consider is whether to make spouse super […]