NewsBite

Ask an expert

Advertisement
There’s no easy answer when comparing shares to property, but the latter certainly involves more ingredients.

We’ve paid off the house. Where should we invest our money now?

For years, people have argued over the benefits of shares versus property. But I think there is one clear winner.

  • Noel Whittaker

Latest

Combining two super accounts? Beware any untaxed portions.

Why did I have to pay $18,000 in tax when consolidating my super?

Untaxed components in super accounts are relatively rare these days, and they all have to be taxed eventually.

  • Paul Benson
For retirees in aged care, rising costs can start to weigh you down.

Why have my aged care costs risen over 30 per cent?

While it can be easy to pass off rising costs as profiteering by retirement village operators, the truth isn’t so simple.

  • Noel Whittaker
Adding an investment property to your portfolio is not an easy ride.

All my friends are buying investment properties. Should I buy one too?

I understand the allure of property from an investment perspective, but being more conservative can often pay off in the long run.

  • Paul Benson
Property investment is not for the faint of heart.

My parents are pushing me to buy an investment property. Should I?

Your parents might think you “can’t go wrong” with property, but I wouldn’t recommend it for a first-time investor.

  • Paridhi Jain
If your parents are spending beyond their means, it may be time for an uncomfortable conversation.

My retired parents don’t trust anyone with their money. What can I do?

Unfortunately, sometimes when people don’t want to be helped, there isn’t much you can do.

  • Paul Benson
Advertisement
Letch death taxes tax

Can we avoid the ‘death tax’ if we leave our super to charity?

Superannuation money left to a non-dependent suffers a 17 per cent tax, made up of the 15 per cent contributions tax plus 2 per cent Medicare levy.

  • Noel Whittaker
When it comes to choosing between keeping your money in your mortgage, or investing it, it all comes down to your appetite for risk.

I don’t want to be a landlord. What other investments provide regular income?

It might not compare to rental income, but a diversified portfolio of funds would probably achieve the outcome that you are after.

  • Paul Benson
Taxation.

Why is the ATO withholding 50% of my kids’ investments?

When it comes to children’s investments, there’s a chance you could be paying far more tax than you need to.

  • Noel Whittaker
Tax minimisation by the ultrawealthy is often unpalatable, but not everyone asking for advice falls into that bracket.

I think financial advice columns are unethical. Can you prove me wrong?

Despite how it might seem, people writing to financial columns for advice are not billionaires or even mega-millionaires looking to save millions in taxes.

  • Paridhi Jain

Original URL: https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/topic/ask-an-expert-1qi