Investopoly

Do you have a question? Email questions@investopoly.com.au and Stuart may answer it in the podcast.

In this case study episode, Stuart takes us through the financial journey of a high-income client who started with mortgage advice in 2007 and expanded to holistic financial advice in 2014. The client's initial assets included a primary residence worth $1.2 million. Significant property investments followed, including a...

Do you have a question? Email questions@investopoly.com.au and Stuart may answer it in the podcast.

Read full blog here.

In this episode, Stuart dives into the world of share investing by exploring four alternative rules-based indexing strategies beyond the traditional market cap approach. He starts with a brief history of market cap indexing and highlights its major shortcomings, such as overexposure to overvalue...

In this case study episode, Stuart delves into the transformative journey of a couple who embraced the principle that quality trumps quantity in property investment. Beginning their journey in 2015 with a net worth of $1.35 million, their portfolio included several underperforming properties. Through strategic advice, they sold these assets and reinvested in higher-quality properties, significantly boosting their financial position...

Do you have a question? Email questions@investopoly.com.au and Stuart may answer it in the podcast.

Read full blog here.

In this episode, Stuart Wemyss delves into the significant impact of the current cost-of-living crisis on retirement planning. Stuart highlights how the sharp rise in everyday expenses over the past four years, often outpacing general inflation, can hinder your ability to save for retirement. He...

In this case study episode, Stuart Wemyss explores the journey of a client who has successfully navigated property investment within their superannuation, shares, and the importance of diversification. Working with the client since 2009, Stuart details their progression from an initial $4.8 million in assets to an impressive $9 million. The episode highlights the client's strategic acquisition of five apartments in Sydney and ...

Do you have a question? Email questions@investopoly.com.au and Stuart will answer in the podcast from next week onwards.

Read full blog here.

In this episode, Stuart delves into the often-overlooked downsides of property investing. While the benefits are frequently highlighted, it's crucial to recognise and mitigate the potential drawbacks. Stuart outlines six key reasons why property might not be the best i...

In this case study episode, Stuart delves into the impressive financial journey of a client who staunchly avoids property investment. Starting in 2016 with $760k in shares and $595k in debt, the client had a combined super of $324k and no home loan on a $2.5m residence. With an income of $440k and living expenses of $96k, his net investment assets stood at $490k. Fast forward to today, his shares have grown to $2.15m with a $725k l...

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In this episode, Stuart delves into the intriguing question: should you invest 100% of your super in shares? He explores the conventional wisdom of diversified asset allocation, highlighting the potential benefits of focusing entirely on shares given the long-term nature of superannuation. Stuart explains how pre-mixed investment options and lifecycle strategies manage your super, often diluting potent...

In this case study episode, Stuart shares the long-term success story of a client he has worked with for over two decades. Starting with mortgage broking 20 years ago, this client has built an impressive investment property portfolio worth $23.5 million. The key to their success? Patience and strategic property selection. With an average holding period of 25 years, this client has seen properties grow at an average annual rate of 6...

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In this episode, Stuart explores the soaring costs of holding investment properties and whether they still make financial sense. Over the past four years, significant hikes in expenses like insurance, council rates, and maintenance, coupled with a cash rate increase from 0.10% to 4.35%, have challenged property investors. Despite anticipated rental income growth, the discussion reveals that higher hold...

In this case study episode, Stuart explores the remarkable journey of a couple on the road to early retirement. When they began working together in 2015, the couple had a net worth of $420k. Fast forward to today, their net worth has soared to $2.5m, driven by strategic property decisions and smart investment moves. They purchased their first investment-grade apartment in 2016 for $488k, followed by a house in Brisbane in 2019 for ...

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In this episode, Stuart issues a crucial warning to couples: don't let one spouse handle all the financial matters. While it's natural for one partner to take the lead, it's vital for both to stay involved and informed. Stuart highlights the importance of understanding and communicating about financial documents, ensuring both partners know what they’re signing. He stresses the need for ...

In this case study episode, Stuart and Frencham unveil a compelling 15-year journey towards financial freedom through property and superannuation. Beginning with a modest net worth of $2.4 million in 2008, their client's portfolio has surged to nearly $10 million today. Through strategic property investments, including homes in desirable locations like Hawthorn and Toorak, and optimising superannuation investments, they'v...

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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...