Smart Money

Smart Money

Looking to make sense of your dollars? Newstalk ZB’s Smart Money delves into the deep, dark recesses of unwanted debt, traverses the highs and lows of investments and helps to ensure you money works for you. Our industry experts give us their top tips on a wide selection of topics including mortgage rates, stock, savings, goal-setting and retirement.

Episodes

May 25, 2025 41 mins

The Government is increasing the default KiwiSaver contributions for employees and employers, while halving their own contributions. 

Employee and employer contributions will raise from 3% to 3.5%, while the Government's contributions will drop from $521.43 to $260.72.

But should the Government be halving their input?

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A lot of people think trusts are only for the very wealthy, and absolutely useless for the every day person - but today's guest explains that's not the case. 

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Research by Shamubeel Eaqub finds only 32% of New Zealanders are satisfied with their financial situation, compared to 60% of Australians. 

He finds higher wages and a more solid retirement plan relieves financial stress for Australians - but how can Kiwis take control of their finances to ease their worries? 

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It's a tough time for the markets and the volatility has been hard to keep track of. 

The tariffs have obviously had an impact - but some experts say AI developments are also a contributor. 

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Just when they should be at their peak, older generations are being discriminated against for their age. 

Do we no longer value experience? 

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While sweeping tariffs rock the global economy, it's hardly discussed how it will impact the everyday person. 

So, where is the safest place to put your money? 

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The average hourly wage is $42.57, the average annual salary is $88,500. 

The average home is worth $912,904, the average mortgage is $318,151.

The average KiwiSaver is $37,079, depending on your age. 

But does it really matter if you stack up to the nations averages? 

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While the economy is looking up, the forecasts from economists aren't sending a clear message. 

Some are saying that even with a positive GDP result this week, we still have tough times ahead - while others say the state of global economics is an opportunity for growth in New Zealand. 

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Is it worth working after the age of 65? Or is it more of a need than a choice? 

Martin Hawes joins The Weekend Collective to discuss the finances of retirement. 

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Amanda Morrall joins to discuss how you can stabilise your finances in the midst of an economy in turmoil.

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Tim was recently told about an employer who binned a young man's CV for using three different fonts. 

Max says it's not uncommon, and there are many small mistakes that will lose you the job. 

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The Reserve Bank of New Zealand cut the OCR by another 50 basis points this week. 

Homeowners and hopeful buyers alike have been eagerly watching recent OCR announcements as interest rates continue to fall. 

But why aren't the banks following suit? 

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New data from Centrix reveals that the number of homeowners behind on their mortgage increased by 1,100 in December alone.

With the interest rates dropping significantly recently, why is it that homeowners are falling behind? 

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Humans are wired to find the path of least resistance - but how can that be done when it comes to your finances? 

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January 26, 2025 41 mins

With a fresh year, and a wobbly economy, it's always a good idea to dust off the old CV and sure it's up to date. 

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With the cost of living relentlessly increasing year by year, Amanda Morrall joins Roman Travers to discuss how you can set yourself up for success in 2025, and how to boost your income outside of your base salary. 

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Martins Hawes joins Tim Beveridge to discuss whether cash is a good idea for Christmas gifts, and this week's disappointing GDP announcement. 

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The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment recently said that the Government is considering regulatory changes to enable KiwiSaver providers to increase private asset investments

What does this mean KiwiSaver funds and how could it impact New Zealanders? 

Harbour Asset Management Director, Portfolio Manager & Research Analyst Shane Solly joins with more. 

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Shortly after the new gang patch laws came into effect, police were seen in leaked pictures wearing confiscated patched vests. 

Leading into the silly season, what should you hold back on posting publicly that your management may see? 

Employment expert Max Whitehead joins with more. 

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The world of spending tracking apps is vast - but it's questionable as to whether they're even necessary. 

Personal finance coach Amanda Morrall joins to discuss creating sustainable change to your spending habits. 

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