RSM's talkBIG Podcast

In this episode of talkBIG, host Andrew Sykes explores the complex world of early wealth transfer with experts Grace Bacon and Taryn Ellerington. Discover the strategic advantages and pitfalls of gifting assets during your lifetime. Grace, a seasoned financial advisor, explains how rising property prices and longer lifespans make early giving more common, helping families support children into the...

In this episode of talkBIG, Andrew Sykes explores the critical role of data governance in AI with experts Srdjan Dragutinovic and Gerard Sayers from RSM Australia. Discover how effective governance transforms AI into a strategic enabler, preventing risks like bias and reputational damage.  Learn practical steps to align governance with your strategy, ensuring AI success and innovation. Tune in to...

As we start a new year, it’s a perfect opportunity to take stock and ask yourself: are your finances truly supporting your ambitions and life goals? In this episode, talkBIG, host Andrew Sykes is joined by RSM's financial experts, Grace Bacon and Robert Zammit, to explore practical strategies for future-proofing your finances and setting up your super for a comfortable retirement. What steps...

In this episode of the talkBIG podcast, host Andrew Sykes is joined by superannuation expert Katie Timms to break down the latest changes to Division 296 and what they mean for your retirement savings. Earlier proposals to tax unrealised gains on super balances over $3 million sparked widespread concern, but the government has now shifted to a tiered tax structure that targets actual income instea...

As technology makes it easier than ever to track employee activity, businesses are grappling with how to balance productivity with privacy. In this episode of talkBIG, host Andrew Sykes is joined by BAL Lawyers director Bill Pardy and RSM Australia’s Director of People & Culture Rebekah Mark to unpack the legal, ethical and cultural implications of monitoring remote teams. Together, they explo...

As revenue from the fuel excise continues to drop, Australia’s proposed solution is to make up the difference with a new tax for electric vehicle drivers. In this episode of talkBIG, host Andrew Sykes is joined by RSM Australia’s National Head of Tax Sam Mohammad and RSM Australia’s Sustainability Lead Nicole Mohan to explore the impacts of this controversial policy. Together, they debate the fair...

How do US tariffs and trade wars affect Australia’s economy? In this episode of talkBIG, host Andrew Sykes is joined by economists Joe Brusuelas and Devika Shivadekar, along with corporate finance expert Craig Amos, to unpack the global ripple effects of US trade policy. From Trump’s tariffs to shifting trade agreements, they explore how these policies impact Australia’s mining and resource sector...

Everything you need to know about division 296 tax on superannuation What is division 296 and why is it sparking such significant debate and concerns among superannuation holders?  Announced by the Australian Government in 2023, division 296 is proposed legislation set to enforce additional tax on earning from superannuation balances exceeding $3 million [AUD]. With both realised and unrealised ga...

Join special guest Kim Seeling Smith and host Andrew Sykes as they embark on a thought-provoking discussion about the revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the business landscape. From the future of work to navigating the increasing pace of change, this episode focuses on preparing individuals and organisations to face the changes that lie ahead.  The hosts explore the idea of pa...

Too many Aussie businesses aren't ready for a cyber attack. In this episode of talkBIG, we unpack the latest findings on Australia's cyber readiness.  Take a close look at how ready Australian companies really are to tackle cybersecurity threats, dig into the main attack methods that cybercriminals use and discuss why it’s so important for companies to understand their vulnerabilities be...

How will the Federal Budget impact you? The Federal Budget 2025-26 is set to be handed down by Treasurer Jim Chalmers on 25 March, shaping economic policy and priorities in a pivotal election year. What will the key announcements mean for businesses, investors, and individuals? Join us for an in-depth webinar featuring our leading economist, tax experts, and finance advisers. They will break down...

Do you remember Neopets? 🌟 If you spent time online between 1999 and 2005, chances are you had a Neopets account or knew someone who did. In this episode of talkBIG, we’re exploring the fascinating world of Neopets, the online game that became a cultural phenomenon in the early 2000s. Join host Andrew Sykes as he chats with Peter Xi, a Partner from RSM Australia's Tax Advisory division, and...

As Donald Trump takes office for a historic second term, the world stands at a crossroads.  In this special episode of talkBIG, two top RSM economists from the US and Australia tackle the critical question: What does another Trump era mean for Australia, the US, and the global economy? Join RSM Australia's Chief Executive Partner, Jamie O'Rourke, as he hosts an unmissable discussion with...

What can business owners do to manage rising costs? In this episode of talkBIG, host Andrew Sykes speaks to experts Jonathon Colbran, and Gavin Stacey to unpack the critical challenges facing Australian businesses—from taxation pressures to insolvency risks—and provide actionable strategies for navigating financial distress.  Whether you’re battling rising debt or exploring ways to turn your busin...

Have you ever wondered why Black Friday is popular in Australia? Our latest talkBIG episode dives deep into this phenomenon as host Andrew Sykes chats with economist Devika Shivadekar and data analytics expert Dr. Ian Tho, uncovering why Black Friday has become a major retail event Down Under. In a lively discussion, they trace the origins of Black Friday in Australia, explore its growing influenc...

Can ESG help you protect your wealth and business from the impacts of climate change?  Climate change is a big topic, with wide-ranging impacts that have substantial financial implications. Consumers are increasingly demanding more eco-conscious practices, and regulations are becoming stricter worldwide, including here in Australia. We are already seeing proactive businesses adapting their strateg...

In this episode of the talkBIG podcast, host Andrew Sykes is joined by a lineup of seasoned professionals from RSM, each bringing their unique expertise to the table. We explore the wide world of professional services to try to pinpoint when, exactly, it’s time to speak to a professional.  People often try a very DIY approach to things, and sometimes that’s appropriate – for example: you don’t nee...

In this special episode of talkBIG, host Andrew Sykes leads a panel discussion on the recent Federal Budget with a live audience. Our expert panel includes RSM’s in-house economist Devika Shivadekar , financial expert Grace Bacon   (Director, Financial Services), and tax specialist Tony Fulton (Director, Tax Services). Together, they analysed the details of the latest federal budget, providing ins...

Whether you're working for a salary, managing your own business, or planning for retirement, inflation is having an impact on your finances. You need to understand that impact to make sure you adjust your financial strategy in the right direction.   Special guest David Berthon-Jones joins us to discuss the impact of inflation as well as strategies for managing finances and investments in a hi...

Get ready for some money-saving strategies to help you stretch your hard-earned dollars. Join Andrew, Chris, and Young on the talkBIG podcast as they tackle the challenges of a high cost of living and rising interest rates. In this episode, the hosts reveal eight "accountant secrets" for smart money management and household budgeting. Learn about compound interest, paying yourself first,...

Looking to save money on your energy bill? Join hosts Andrew, Chris, and Young as they dive into the world of energy efficiency in this electrifying episode of talkBIG. Discover practical strategies that not only put cash back in your pocket but also contribute to a greener planet. The talkBIG crew sits down with Jacob Elkhishin, RSM's National Leader for Resources, Mining, Energy & Susta...

talkBIG season 2 episode 8: - Cyber security and IT for small business – with guest Darren Booth   Let's face it, cyber attacks have become so common that you can barely turn on the news without hearing about some sort of massive data breach. But don't worry, RSM is here to help. For this talkBIG episode, hosts Andrew, Young, and Chris sat down with RSM's National Head of Cyber Secu...

In part two of our talkBIG double episode, Andrew, Young and Chris discuss the final four trends from our thinkBIG report on the 8 key trends impacting small businesses in 2023. If you're a small business owner or private contractor, you won't want to miss this. First up, the talkBIG team talks about cyber security , and it's a big deal. Did you know that the dark web is now the thi...

In this two-part episode of talkBIG, hosts Andrew, Young and Chris explore the big trends affecting small businesses in Australia in 2023 and beyond. If you own a small business, listen up because this episode is just for you.  The world is changing fast, so it’s important for business leaders to reflect on their strategies and look for ways to improve. Obviously, knowing what to expect makes it t...

In a not-to-be-missed episode, the talkBIG hosts are joined by Julian Muldoon, Director and Founding Partner of 1Group Property who shares his insights into the state of the housing market in Australia and what we can expect to see throughout 2023.  Housing, renting and the investment property market has become a hot topic in Australia. With the recent RBA rate hikes leading to higher mortgage rep...