Credit card debt can be overwhelming, especially when it feels like there’s no room in your budget to get ahead. But with the right plan, you can regain control and start making progress. In this edition of Ruth's Two Cents, Ruth addresses the challenges of juggling essential expenses while tackling credit card balances.
Money tips
Are you considering a breakup with your bank? Just like any other relationship, sometimes it's time to move on when your bank no longer meets your needs. From unexpected fees to outdated systems, Ruth explores why changing banks might be the right move for you, and how to navigate the process smoothly.
Money tips
Running a business inherently exposes you to greater risk, necessitating a tailored approach to insurance coverage. While many of the traditional forms of insurance remain relevant, there are specific policies uniquely suited to the needs of self-employed individuals. Accountant Sam Harith shares the essential components of protecting your business and personal assets when you’re self-employed.
Money tips
Navigating international banking hurdles while traveling can feel like a test of patience and resilience. From unexpected security measures to inconvenient time zone disparities, accessing your accounts abroad can become a daunting challenge. Rachel shares her recent experience of feeling frustrated and stranded in unfamiliar territory.
Money tips
Looking to ditch the dullness of traditional banking? Say hello to the future with tech-forward neobanks and money apps tailored for Aussies. From sleek interfaces to innovative features, these digital-first platforms are redefining how we manage our finances. Emma's sharing her curated list of digital disruptors top picks.
Money tips
In the latest edition of Ruth's Two Cents, she explores the fiery philosophy of Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE). Is it necessary to live minimally to achieve financial independence, or is there a more personalized path to balancing enjoyment today with financial security tomorrow?
Money tips
Learning to be ‘Good With Money’ can be stressful and overwhelming. In her debut book, The Broke Generation, Emma Edwards uses real-life examples to help readers create a sense of financial calm, not chaos. How do you build a better relationship with money, while enjoying the things that add most value to your life? Read on to find out!
Money tips
Ever felt a pang of envy listening to your business-owning pals talk about their endless array of tax deductions? Accountant Sam Harith explores essential tax deductions available for employed individuals, shedding light on often-overlooked opportunities for tax relief in New Zealand.
Money tips
"These four apps form part of my financial ecosystem and help me keep my systems and processes watertight and on track." Aussies have a fair few choices of excellent personal finance apps. Emma shares her top four fair dinkum apps for managing her money.
Money tips
One of the significant decisions you'll face as a couple is merging your finances. It's a pivotal step that requires careful consideration and open communication. From sharing bank accounts to setting joint financial goals, Ruth explores how to approach this milestone in the latest edition of Ruth’s Two Cents.
Money tips
Dealing with the intricacies of managing multiple currencies as a digital nomad can be a daunting task, especially when your financial tools need to keep up with your ever-changing lifestyle. Rachel shares how PocketSmith transformed her financial management from "just okay" to exceptional, seamlessly integrating multi-currency support and live feeds to create a truly comprehensive system.
Money tips
Reassessing finances is crucial, and for many, their home loan takes center stage. With interest rates fluctuating and economic dynamics shifting, refinancing emerges as a strategic move. However, amidst the promise of lower rates lie potential pitfalls. Finder’s Rebecca Pike shares this guide on how to refinance to save money, avoiding fees while still getting all the features.
Money tips
Ever wondered how small changes in your spending habits could lead to significant financial gains? Inspired by the success of her own experience with a "no new clothes" challenge, Emma is sharing five new ideas challenge ideas to test yourself and improve your financial wellbeing in 2024.
Money tips
Reducing your working hours from the typical 9-5 can be done for all sorts of reasons. For Ruth and her husband Jonny, it was a matter of changing priorities — while still remaining financially stable. Hear how she made the transition, and how it's still working for her a few years down the road.
Money tips
Embarking on a journey to far-flung destinations is an exhilarating experience, but it often demands a fresh perspective on our finances. As intrepid traveler Rachel discovered, a system as personalized as her PocketSmith system needed some TLC to stay that way when her circumstances changed. Read how she's adapted her PocketSmith setup to match her lifestyle changes with confidence.
Money tips
When it comes to budgeting, health insurance often lands on the chopping block for many. Insurance expert Tim from Finder helps us grasp the fundamentals of Australia's health insurance framework, and shares insights into his own personal insurance position to highlight the nuances of health insurance decisions.
Money tips
"Cats can have a little salami, as a treat" is a classic meme of the late 2010s. Just as cats deserve the occasional indulgence, we delve into how people are redefining their financial strategies to include small financial treats whenever the urge arises. But it begs the question — are they part of a healthy financial lifestyle, or something more unfavorable?
Money tips
Looking to leave a legacy once you go? A will is crucial for helping outline your wishes. Offering clarity and guidance, a will can help alleviate the burden on your loved ones, helping spare them from the anguish of guesswork or potential disputes regarding your wishes. Public Trust CEO Glenys Talivai explains how a will empowers you to shape the legacy you envision.
Money tips
When it comes to investing, you’ve got a lot of (stock) options. Whether you prefer the simplicity of ETFs or the potential rewards of stock picking depends on your investment goals and risk tolerance. In this edition of Ruth’s Two Cents, Ruth explores two different investment strategies.
Money tips
Au revoir, sayonara, and all those nice goodbyes. Rachel, one of our treasured guest writers, has said “see you later” to the homeland and gone traveling on her big O.E. Read how PocketSmith helped her prep for such a big move, and how it’s playing a part in her new digital nomad lifestyle.
Money tips
A poor credit score can feel like a financial ball and chain, limiting your access to funds and opportunities. If your credit score currently leaves much to be desired, don't despair. Shawn Plummer, CEO of The Annuity Expert, shares seven proven tactics to fix your credit score, from regular credit bureau check-ups to debt consolidation and expert guidance.
Money tips
Barbie's been putting the "doll" in "dollar" since forever ago. From childhood playmates to coveted collectibles, Barbie has played a significant role in our lives. But did you know that the Barbies you adore might reflect certain aspects of your financial personality? As a tribute to one of our favorite movies of the past 12 months, find what your fave Barbie says about you and your money.
Money tips
Our money beliefs often act as abstract barriers that hinder us from reaching our full financial potential. These beliefs create limiting mindsets, and can even instill fear and anxiety. In this final part of the series, Kate asks us to challenge our limiting beliefs and cultivate healthy financial behaviors.
Money tips
Why do we avoid talking about money? The silence surrounding this topic often leads to increased stress and feelings of isolation. Kate explores the idea that by providing a supportive space for financial dialogue, we can help alleviate the burden and isolation that many individuals experience due to their financial challenges.
Money tips
In a world where the demands of today often clash with the aspirations for tomorrow, finding an equilibrium between living in the moment and securing our future is an age-old challenge. Kate shares her thoughts on managing present pleasure and future preparedness for a healthy money mindset.
