Investopoly

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 f...

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 acquisitio...

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 n...

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...

Read full blog here. 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 su...

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...

Read full blog here. 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 discussio...

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...

Read full blog here. 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....

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 supe...

Read full blog here. 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 opportunitie...

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 consul...

Read full blog here. 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...

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 super...

Read full blog here . 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, Stu...

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 divers...

Read full blog here 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...

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,...

Read full blog here. 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...

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 importan...

Read full blog here. 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 conside...

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&apos...

Read full blog here. 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 li...

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 condit...

Read full blog here. 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...