Investopoly

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In this episode, Stuart explores the often-overlooked dangers of being too risk-averse in financial planning. He argues that an excessive focus on reducing perceived financial risk can jeopardise your lifestyle goals due to the high opportunity costs involved. Many people fall into the trap of continuously repaying debt at the expense of exploring other investment opportunities, resulting in a limited ...

In this case study episode, Stuart delves into the financial journey of a client he began working with in 2012. Back then, the client had $800k in net investment assets, including shares primarily in Rio Tinto, superannuation, and a property in Hawthorn East. Today, that figure has grown to almost $2.8 million.

Despite challenges, such as underperforming investment properties and a shift to consulting work post-2017, strat...

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In this episode, Stuart tackles a common investment dilemma: should you buy an investment-grade apartment in a blue-chip location or a house in a secondary area? He delves into the key factors influencing your decision, such as land value, potential for capital growth, and maintenance costs. Stuart explains why houses typically offer higher returns due to their land value but also highlights the hidden...

In this case study episode, Stuart delves into the financial journey of a couple who began building wealth later in life. Starting in 2009, they purchased an entry-level apartment in South Yarra for $390k. Fast forward to 2015, Stuart joined them, and their wealth-building strategy took a serious turn. By 2016, they acquired an investment property in Richmond for $1.3m and restructured their superannuation, moving one spouse from a...

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In this episode, Stuart provides a comprehensive guide to end-of-financial-year tax planning strategies that can help maximise your tax savings. With a wealth of practical tips and considerations, he breaks down complex tax concepts into easily digestible insights.

Whether you're a high-income earner, a business owner, or simply looking to optimise your tax position, Stuart's advice ...

In this case study episode, Stuart shares an insightful journey with long-term property investor clients. He highlights key lessons learned about the importance of diversification and adapting strategies over time. 

Despite diligently managing cash flow and contributions, the clients' concentrated property portfolio delivered underwhelming returns initially. However, Stuart reveals how diversifying into other asset cl...

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In this episode, Stuart delves into the concept of strategic asset allocation and its critical importance in maximising long-term investment returns. He presents evidence demonstrating the unpredictability of short-term returns across asset classes, highlighting the need for diversification. However, Stuart argues that long-term returns are more predictable due to the principle of mean reversion.

In this case study episode, Stuart shares a poignant experience to highlight the importance of involving loved ones in financial planning and ensuring they are well informed and prepared. He recounts working with a client, Grant, since 2009, focusing on debt reduction, superannuation, and share investing.

Tragically, Grant passed away suddenly in 2018, leaving his wife in an unfamiliar situation, having never been involved...

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In this episode, Stuart makes a compelling case for why the Melbourne property market is poised to deliver the strongest capital growth among Australian capital cities over the next decade. Despite negative sentiment driven by factors like stricter tenancy laws, increased taxation, and concerns over the state's escalating debt, Stuart argues that Melbourne's property prices are currently unde...

In this case study episode, Stuart shares insights from working with a high-income client who initially focused on building a property portfolio but later diversified into shares. The client's share portfolio was initially held in his wife's name due to their circumstances at the time, but a portion was later moved into a trust structure for tax efficiency.

Stuart emphasises the importance of considering all comp...

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In this episode, Stuart discusses the importance of considering potential inheritances when developing long-term financial plans. He acknowledges that with the vast amount of wealth expected to be passed down in Australia over the next two decades, many individuals are likely to receive an inheritance at some point in their lives.

Stuart explores the various factors to consider when determinin...

In this case study episode, Stuart shares a real-life example of how his approach to financial planning helped a client transition from an underperforming self-managed super fund (SMSF) to a more efficient and transparent investment structure.

The client had an SMSF managed by stockbrokers, heavily concentrated in Australian shares with minimal international exposure. After reviewing the fund's performance, Stuart fou...

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In this episode, Stuart provides valuable insights and practical advice for first-time property buyers and their parents. He emphasises the importance of adopting an investment mindset when purchasing a home, focusing on areas with consistent supply-demand imbalances, analysing past growth patterns, and maximising land value. Stuart highlights government assistance programs like the First Home Super Sa...

In this episode, Stuart presents a fascinating case study that challenges the traditional view on overcapitalising on a home. The clients in focus own a profitable business and have been strategically building their investment portfolio. Despite planning to spend a significant amount on constructing their dream home, Stuart reveals that overcapitalising may not be a major concern if certain conditions are met. 

The clients in questi...

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In this episode, Stuart discusses the feasibility and strategies of borrowing to invest in shares. He compares the practice of leveraging for share investments with the more commonly accepted approach of borrowing for property investments in Australia. Stuart highlights that gearing contributes significantly to property investment returns and the same principles can be applied to share investments. 

In this case study episode, Stuart takes us through a real-life scenario of a client who retired at 55 with ambitious spending goals. The client wanted to spend a hefty $300,000 per year for the first 15 years of retirement, followed by reduced spending of $200,000 and then $150,000 annually in later years. With a substantial asset base including $2 million from selling their home, $2.5 million in super, and a $4 million beach hous...

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In this episode, Stuart delves into statistical analyses and economic insights, dissecting the nuanced factors influencing property market trends over the past two decades and speculating on their implications for future investment strategies.

Commencing with a comparative analysis of median house price growth rates across major capital cities, Stuart uncovers a stark contrast between the prec...

In this captivating case study episode, Stuart delves into the real-life journey of rebuilding wealth post-divorce, offering invaluable lessons along the way.

Following a client's separation in 2018, Stuart outlines the financial implications and strategic decisions made during the subsequent settlement in 2019. Despite the challenges, Stuart's guidance steered the client towards retaining key assets and formulat...

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In this insightful episode, Stuart dives into the critical factors to weigh when upgrading your home - a decision with both significant lifestyle and financial implications. He emphasises the importance of approaching it with an investment mindset, aiming to purchase a high-quality home that aligns with your aspirations while also maximising long-term capital growth potential. 

Key topics expl...