Money

Super & Funds

Is the trend of running out of money in retirement increasing?

Australia is in the top five countries for life expectancy worldwide and Australians aged 64 now can expect to spend ...

As a nation, we're pretty optimistic. We like to think things will turn out for the best, and if they don't, we usually have a back-up plan to see us through. While it's one of the traits I like most about Australian culture, optimism alone doesn't always cut it.

Should you top up your nest egg now?

superannuation

With law changes looming, this year may be the last opportunity for some to boost their nest egg by making extra contributions into their super fund.

When financial advice is really independent

There is a hierarchy of independence when it comes to financial advice.

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has turned a blind eye to financial planning firms calling themselves "independently owned" when they don't meet the rules of independence.

Are DIY super trustees up to the job?

<P>

Anyone can manage their own super fund and do a dismal job, safe in the knowledge that in a worst-case scenario they have the age pension as a backstop.

Beware of bank staff spruiking their super funds

Big banks have been accused of side-stepping financial planner laws.

Industry Super Australia is alleging banks' front-line staff are spruiking the benefits of the banks' own super funds to their customers in a way that may be side-stepping financial advice laws.