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Stuart Wemyss

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InvestopolyInvestopolyEp: 368 Keep your powder dry: Sometimes it’s wise to invest lessRead full blog here.In this episode, Stuart explores why sometimes the smartest investment strategy is to do less. With global markets hitting all-time highs and every major asset class delivering positive returns in 2025, Stuart cautions against overconfidence. He explains why sitting on cash or keeping borrowing capacity in reserve can be a strategic move, not a missed opportunity. Drawing on recent market trends, including the unusual simultaneous rise of gold and bitcoin, Stuart unpacks why this environment feels disconnected from economic and political realities.He also discusses the impact of index investing on market...2025-08-0533 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantAll you need to know about purchasing a franchiseSend us a textIn this episode, Mena and Stuart take a close look at the pros and cons of purchasing a franchise and whether it’s truly the right path for aspiring business owners. They break down why buying into an established brand can fast-track revenue, provide a proven business model, and offer ongoing support in areas like training, marketing, and supply chain management. Stuart explains how franchises can simplify access to finance and deliver real advantages through economies of scale.But it's not all upside. Mena unpacks the hidden costs, such as hefty up...2025-07-2914 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A - Is no negative gearing a problem, when to use a family trust, it’s a ‘who’ not ‘what’ questionIn this Q&A episode, Stuart tackles a wide range of complex financial and property questions from listeners navigating wealth-building decisions. He begins with a couple considering converting their first home into an investment property. Stuart breaks down the implications of their joint ownership structure, refinancing strategy, and whether they've missed the opportunity for negative gearing, providing insight into how high- and middle-income earners can best structure property portfolios.He then addresses a nuanced question about the transfer of assets from a discretionary trust to a testamentary trust upon death. Stuart explains the differences, key considerations, and...2025-07-2133 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 364: Can annual property growth persist at 7% perpetuallyRead full blog here.In this insightful episode, Stuart Wemyss addresses a common investor question: Can Australian property values continue growing at 7% per year? He explains how compounding works over time and why adjusting future property values for inflation and income growth makes projections, like an $8 million home in 30 years, more relatable.Stuart dives into the impact of income distribution, noting that the top 20% of Australians earn nearly half of all disposable income and experience faster wage growth. These high-income earners drive demand for blue-chip, investment-grade property, often located within 2 to 20 km of major CBDs...2025-07-0833 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A - Structuring $200k p.a. retirement income, a common strategy mistake, and defining investment-grade property.In this insightful Q&A episode, Stuart Wemyss dives into three real-life financial questions that highlight the importance of strategic planning as retirement approaches. The episode begins with a deep dive into “Alex’s” situation a successful small business owner aiming to generate a $200,000 annual income in retirement. Stuart explores how Alex might structure assets post-business sale and whether selling an investment property could be necessary to meet income goals.Next, Francois raises a question about fixing a less-than-ideal property ownership structure. Stuart uses this as a springboard to discuss a common trap: designing your f...2025-07-0830 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 363: What are the best, safe, income-style investment options?Read full blog here.In this insightful episode, Stuart Wemyss explores the safest, most reliable income-generating investment options for risk-averse investors or those with short investment horizons. He begins by highlighting why fixed income investments deserve more attention, especially for portfolio stability, retirees, or anyone with a low risk tolerance.Stuart presents a clear hierarchy of choices, starting with mortgage offset accounts as the most efficient, risk-free return option, often outperforming taxable investments on a net basis. He then explores term deposits, which are secure but less appealing given flat interest rate curves....2025-07-0132 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 362: 4 property (evidence-based) golden rulesRead full blog here.In this episode, Stuart Wemyss distils insights from over a decade and 150+ blogs into four golden, evidence-based rules for successful property investing. He begins with the foundational principle: prioritise capital growth over income when buying, focusing on high-quality, investment-grade assets in tightly held, established suburbs. Income, he explains, can be improved later, but land location is forever.Rule two highlights the importance of understanding property cycles, and timing your purchases to coincide with upcoming growth phases can dramatically fast-track wealth building. Drawing on real client case studies from Brisbane, Stuart illustrates...2025-06-2434 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A: When to increase super contributions, offset or redraw, super or property and more…In this Q&A podcast episode, Stuart tackles timely questions on super contributions, property strategy, and how to structure wealth to optimise flexibility, returns, and tax outcomes—particularly as retirement nears.Jack opened the episode with a practical question about offset accounts versus redraw facilities. As he approaches retirement, he's focused on maximising flexibility and wanted clarification on how each structure works, especially with salary deposits, credit card repayments, and long-term access to funds.George, aged 58, sought guidance on how to best deploy $260,000 in spare cash after selling a Queensland investment property. Stuart explores the pr...2025-05-1231 minInvestopolyInvestopolyCase Study: Six-fold increase and now ready for retirementIn this case study episode, Stuart Wemyss shares the success story of a couple who experienced a six-fold increase in their investment assets, now positioning them for a comfortable retirement. When they first sought advice in 2015, the couple, aged 54 (him) and 51 (her), had a home valued at $900k with no debt, and co-owned three investment properties worth $1.2 million with $760k of debt. Their superannuation was $180k, and their combined income ranged from $300k to $400k annually.Fast forward to today, their home is now worth $1.6 million, and they have reduced debt on their properties, resulting in $760k...2025-05-0530 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A: Surprising tax saving on inheritance, investing in property overseas, repay mortgage or invest and more...In this Q&A episode, Stuart unpacks a range of nuanced financial strategies, from tax-effective investing for children to optimising debt, investment structure, and global property opportunities.He begins with Cara’s question about investing an inheritance for her children and explains the surprising tax concession available through testamentary trusts—highlighting how they can be used to minimise tax on investment earnings for minors, which is a rare opportunity under Australian tax law.Shawn’s question opens up a discussion on investing in international real estate. Stuart weighs up the potential benefits, like geographic diversification and af...2025-04-2131 minInvestopolyInvestopolyCase Study: An example of a perpetual portfolio in retirementNew Report: The Evidence-Based Approach to Investing in Property & Shares: download here.In this case study episode, Stuart Wemyss discusses a client’s journey to establishing a successful retirement strategy using a perpetual portfolio. The client, who began retirement with a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) balance of just under $2 million, faced significant losses from a poor stock pick. However, over seven years, the portfolio has grown despite drawing substantial pension payments. Stuart highlights key strategies employed to achieve this growth, such as selling underperforming active funds, including Magellan and Walter Scott, and shifting to a mo...2025-02-1031 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantWhat are things that business owners should be thinking about and working on at the beginning of the year?Send us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena kick off Season 5 of the HA podcast by highlighting the importance of business goal-setting at the start of the year. While personal New Year’s resolutions often take the spotlight, many business owners neglect to set clear targets—something Stuart and Mena argue can significantly impact success.They discuss key areas to focus on, starting with a review of 2024’s financial performance. From managing expenses and improving margins to assessing inventory and fixed assets, they break down how to optimise operations. They also stress the import...2025-02-0410 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 334: What important matters must you consider leading up to retirement?New Report: The Evidence-Based Approach to Investing in Property & Shares: download here.Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart Wemyss delves into the essential considerations for those planning to retire within the next five years. Drawing on his extensive expertise, Stuart outlines practical strategies to ensure a smooth transition into retirement, focusing on self-funded retirees.Key topics include resetting loan terms to maximise flexibility, adjusting or cancelling insurance as financial independence grows, and optimising your banking arrangements while still employed. Stuart also explains the tax-saving benefits of timing capital gains...2024-12-1031 minInvestopolyInvestopolyCase Study: Outperforming long-term median property growthNew Report: The Evidence-Based Approach to Investing in Property & Shares: download here.In this case study episode, Stuart Wemyss shares the 15-year wealth-building journey of long-term clients who successfully grew their investment assets from $479k to $3.9 million. Stuart details how this couple, now in their late 50s, strategically upgraded their family home, built a diversified property portfolio, and significantly enhanced their superannuation.Starting in 2009 with a net worth of under $500k, their disciplined approach to asset selection and cash flow management has yielded impressive results, including outperforming median property price growth by 1–1.2% annually. Ke...2024-12-0932 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A: Moving into an investment, gearing, backyard space and choosing between two locations...In this Q&A episode, Stuart answers diverse listener questions, offering valuable insights into navigating complex financial decisions. Whether you’re considering moving into an investment property, leveraging equity to build a share portfolio, or deciding between two locations for your next property purchase, Stuart provides clear, actionable advice tailored to different life stages and financial goals.He explores the implications of turning your investment property into your principal residence, unpacking tax considerations and how they impact long-term financial planning. For retirees with geared share portfolios, Stuart weighs the benefits of reducing debt versus maintaining market exposure, es...2024-12-0229 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A: Tax-effective Bonus Share Plans, hedging investments, Queensland versus Melbourne, failed investments and more...In this Q&A episode, Stuart tackles some of the most pressing financial and property questions from listeners. With a focus on practical strategies, Stuart shares insights into managing paid-off investment properties and how leverage can impact long-term returns. He also explores tax-effective investment options, including innovative ways to reduce taxable income through bonus share plans.For property investors, Stuart addresses concerns around rising land taxes in Victoria versus Queensland and whether investor sentiment aligns with actual holding costs. Additionally, he dives into strategies to hedge against currency fluctuations, particularly for those with significant international stock exposure...2024-11-2533 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 331: Maximising property returns: minimise holding costs while maximising growth (IRR)New Report: The Evidence-Based Approach to Investing in Property & Shares: download here.Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart Wemyss dives into the key strategies for maximising property investment returns by striking the right balance between holding costs and capital growth. Discover why compounding capital growth is the real driver of wealth accumulation and how to avoid common pitfalls of focusing too much on rental income.Stuart explains the concept of the internal rate of return (IRR) and how it measures the relationship between your investment and return. Using real-world...2024-11-1932 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 328: Smart strategies to manage the cost of personal insurancesNew Report: The Evidence-Based Approach to Investing in Property & Shares: download here.Read full blog here.In this podcast, Stuart shares smart strategies for managing the rising costs of personal insurance, covering income protection, life insurance, TPD, and trauma insurance. Recognising that insurance is often essential to avoid financial disaster, he explains that premiums for these products have significantly increased over the last decade. While many people see insurance as an all-or-nothing decision, Stuart suggests a more flexible approach: gradually reducing coverage as your financial position strengthens and your responsibilities shift, like when...2024-10-2933 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A: Commercial versus residential property, ownership structures and tax savings, Div.293 super tax and more...In this episode, Stuart Wemyss dives into some great listener questions covering a mix of financial strategies. He kicks off with advice on debt recycling, sharing practical tips on how to construct a solid share portfolio for long-term growth. Stuart also unpacks strategies for boosting super balances, especially for those with unique super funds, offering ideas on how to make the most of salary sacrifice and contribution rules.He then tackles a popular debate: residential versus commercial property as an investment. While commercial property might offer better returns, Stuart points out the risks and costs involved. For...2024-10-2129 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 326: Part 2: Pros and cons of using a wrap to invest your superRead full blog here.DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist hereIn this episode, Stuart Wemyss explores the benefits and drawbacks of using a wrap account to invest in superannuation. He explains that wrap accounts offer a similar level of transparency and control as self-managed super funds (SMSFs) but with lower costs and fewer administrative burdens. Stuart describes a wrap account as an investment platform that provides a wide array of options, including shares, ETFs, and managed funds, allowing users to build a diversified portfolio. It simplifies tax reporting, compliance, and pe...2024-10-1527 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantThe key to business success is fanatical disciplineSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena discuss the importance of fanatic discipline in achieving long-term business success. Drawing a parallel with health and fitness, Stuart explains that, just like staying in shape requires consistent effort over time, business success is driven by small, simple tasks executed with unwavering discipline over months and years.They explore the concept of "fanatical discipline," a term coined by Jim Collins, which refers to a business’s commitment to following specific practices and maintaining focus on long-term goals despite any external challenges. Mena highlights key characteristics of...2024-10-1513 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantUsing the flywheel concept to grow your businessSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena explore the powerful Flywheel concept, originally developed by Jim Collins, and how it can drive sustainable growth in business. They explain that great companies don’t rely on one key strategy but instead build momentum through a series of interconnected, reinforcing activities that create a cycle of success. The episode delves into the components of the Flywheel, using real-world examples to demonstrate how it works in practice.Stuart highlights the importance of continuous improvement and iteration, showing how companies can refine their processes and grow ov...2024-10-0812 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A- Barefoot Investor, ethical investing, how to make $1m to upgrade home in 5 yearsDOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here.In this insightful Q&A episode, Stuart Wemyss addresses a range of topics that are crucial for anyone looking to grow their wealth and make informed financial decisions. He shares his thoughts on choosing the right investment strategies, including how to balance fees and returns when selecting super funds. Stuart also explores the growing trend of ethical investing, discussing whether prioritising socially responsible investments could impact long-term returns.For those looking to upgrade their homes or build wealth for a major purchase, Stuart offers practical advice on how...2024-10-0732 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantHow to improve your business’ productivitySend us a textIn this episode, Stuart Wemyss and Mena explore strategies to enhance business productivity amidst Australia’s declining productivity rates. They begin by discussing the factors contributing to this decline, including a lack of competition, excessive bureaucracy, and a tight labour market. Both Stuart and Mena emphasise that businesses shouldn't wait for market forces to push them towards productivity but should actively seek improvements.They share actionable tips across five key areas: 1. Employee Productivity: Assess skills, set clear performance metrics, and foster open communication for feedback.2. Process Optimisation: Analyse wor...2024-10-0112 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 323: Warning: Don’t base decisions on property data!DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here.Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart sheds light on the pitfalls of relying too heavily on property data when making investment decisions. While data can be a valuable tool, he explains why it's often misleading in the property market, especially compared to the more reliable stock market data. Stuart dives into the wide variations between different data publishers—highlighting examples where property price changes ranged from 3.3% to 16.7% in the same year! He breaks down the key limitations of suburb-level data, explaining how thinly traded mar...2024-09-2428 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantFiring bullets and then firing cannonballsSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena introduce Jim Collins' book 'Great by Choice', focusing on how companies thrive in uncertain and chaotic environments. They explore the concept of "firing bullets, then cannonballs," where businesses test ideas with small, low-risk experiments before scaling successful ones. Using Apple as an example, they discuss how the iPod started as a small project but led to the launch of iTunes, which eventually became a multi-billion-dollar revenue stream.The episode highlights the disciplined strategies of 10X companies like Microsoft and Intel, which outperformed their industries by...2024-09-2408 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantInterest rates have a wide-reaching impact on businessSend us a textIn this episode, Mena and Stuart dive into the various ways rising interest rates can impact businesses. They explain how higher interest rates directly affect business valuation by reducing multiples, as higher required returns lower company values. The discussion also covers the increasing costs of holding inventory and tighter payment terms from creditors due to higher interest rates.They address the rising cost of capital for businesses seeking funding through credit cards, overdrafts, and bank bills, noting borrowing costs can now reach 7.5% to 8.5% per annum. Additionally, both consumer and business demand...2024-09-1706 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 321: Interest Rates in 2025: Cut or Comeback?DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here.Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart explores the ongoing debate about the future of interest rates and inflation, addressing key questions about when the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) might begin cutting rates. He highlights the disparity between the RBA’s forecasts, which predict inflation will only stabilise by 2026, and market expectations, which signal rate cuts as early as 2025. Drawing on historical trends and market insights, Stuart discusses the potential risks of prolonged inflation and how government spending and a tight labour market are contributing to th...2024-09-1029 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A: Regional v. blue-chip, sell 50% to my partner, when to take profits and moreDOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here.In this Q&A episode, Stuart tackles a variety of listener questions on property investment, super contributions, and share portfolios. One listener asks whether it’s wise to leverage for an investment property now, even if it might need to be sold in the next five years. Stuart emphasises the long-term benefits of property ownership, combining gearing with time, and suggests a strategy to buy an upgraded home and rent it out.Another listener seeks advice on redirecting voluntary super contributions to their mortgage for short-term cash flow re...2024-09-0928 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantWhy self-employed people favour investing in propertySend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena explore why self-employed individuals often gravitate toward property investment and the key considerations they should keep in mind. They discuss the appeal of property as an easily understood and tangible asset, particularly for those with strong incomes but limited cash reserves. Property investment can offer control, tax advantages through gearing, and the potential for self-employed individuals to purchase their business premises, further integrating their business and personal wealth strategies.However, they also highlight the common mistakes self-employed investors make, such as focusing on quantity over...2024-09-0314 minInvestopolyInvestopolyCase Study: Cleaning up investments and ownership structuresIn this case study episode, Stuart delves into the transformative journey of a couple who started working with Prosolution in their mid-40s, back in September 2016, with a $900k investment portfolio. Over the past eight years, they've grown their investment assets to $2.5 million, a remarkable 2.8x increase.Stuart discusses how Prosolution played a crucial role in cleaning up their investments and ownership structures, including eliminating expensive managed funds, optimising direct shares, and strategically using a trust with a corporate beneficiary. The clients also benefited from expert guidance on superannuation and smart allocation of surplus cash flow.2024-09-0229 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A: Answers to interesting listener questionsDOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here.In this Q&A episode, Stuart answers a range of insightful questions from listeners, covering various aspects of property investment, share market strategies, and borrowing capacity. He discusses the best vehicles for holding investments, such as companies, trusts, and superannuation, and offers his perspective on why the Adelaide property market has remained strong despite its economic challenges. Stuart also delves into the use of trust structures for building a property portfolio, weighing the benefits against the potential drawbacks like higher costs and reduced negative gearing benefits.Listeners will...2024-08-2626 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 318: Why does Australia’s share market always underperform?DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here.Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart delves into why Australia’s share market often seems to underperform compared to global markets, despite occasional bright spots. He reflects on the recent 6% market drop followed by a modest recovery in Australia compared to the US. While historical data shows a relatively small difference in long-term returns between Australian and international markets, Stuart highlights how recent years have been driven by the tech boom, particularly in the US. Companies like the "Magnificent 7" have propelled global indexes, but Stuart cautions th...2024-08-2029 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantHow to maximise your borrowing capacity from your businessSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena explore strategies to maximise borrowing capacity from your business profits. They stress the importance of having a knowledgeable broker who can effectively advocate for you with bank credit managers. The duo highlights the significance of financial "add-backs," such as interest and depreciation, which banks often consider when determining serviceability. Properly reporting these expenses can substantially enhance your borrowing position.They also discuss the distinction between regulated and unregulated credit, the benefits of using corporate tax rates for serviceability analyses, and when a corporate beneficiary might...2024-08-2011 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 317: Liveinvesting: is now the perfect time to consider this strategy?DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart revisits the concept of "liveinvesting," a strategy where you invest more in your family home to secure a prime location with strong growth potential. As property prices in cities like Melbourne are currently more affordable, Stuart explores whether now is the perfect time to implement this approach.He explains how liveinvesting can offer significant tax-free capital growth, improve your lifestyle, and boost your retirement savings by downsizing later. However, Stuart also highlights the...2024-08-1329 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantHow to structure your property developmentSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena delve into the complexities of property development, offering valuable insights on how to structure your projects effectively. They tackle common misconceptions about development feasibility, emphasising the importance of consulting with a holistic accountant before making any significant investment decisions. The discussion highlights the necessity of setting up a robust operating structure before beginning the planning process. Stuart and Mena stress the importance of clearly defining your intentions for the development, as tax treatments vary depending on whether you plan to build and sell or build a...2024-08-1309 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A: Answers to interesting listener questionsDo you have a question? Email questions@investopoly.com.au and Stuart may answer it in the podcast.In this episode, Stuart tackles a variety of financial questions, offering expert insights and practical advice on key dilemmas. He begins by discussing whether to sell an investment property to reduce a home loan or hold onto it for long-term growth, weighing the potential returns against the benefits of paying off a mortgage early.Next, Stuart examines the pros and cons of maintaining an investment property in retirement versus selling it to invest the proceeds into superannuation...2024-08-1230 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEP 316: 6 important considerations when selling a propertyDOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart delves into the six crucial considerations for selling a property, offering valuable insights to maximise your success. He begins by emphasizing the importance of presentation and making small improvements to attract buyers and achieve a higher sale price. Stuart discusses the best times to sell, noting that while spring is popular, other seasons might be more advantageous depending on your property's unique features and location.Choosing the right real estate agent is highlighted...2024-08-0634 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantHow to best protect your interests in the event of a relationship breakdownSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena delve into the crucial topic of protecting your interests in the event of a relationship breakdown, especially when owning a business or investment entity. They discuss proactive steps to take when entering a new serious relationship, including setting up a Binding Financial Agreement (BFA) with the help of a reputable family lawyer, structuring business affairs thoughtfully, and ensuring both partners have independent financial, legal, and accounting advice to avoid conflicts of interest.For those already in business, Stuart and Mena outline what to expect during...2024-08-0615 minInvestopolyInvestopolyCase Study: Residential & commercial property + super + sharesDo you have a question? Email questions@investopoly.com.au and Stuart may answer it in the podcast.In this case study episode, Stuart explores the impressive journey of a couple who have transformed their net worth from $868k in 2010 to over $5.4m today. Starting with a modest portfolio that included a primary residence, a Tasmanian property, shares, and superannuation, the couple strategically diversified and expanded their investments. Stuart highlights key moves such as acquiring a commercial property for their business, investing in shares, and navigating the challenges of cash flow management while funding private school fees.2024-08-0521 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEP 315: 2024: The best super fund is…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 delves into the critical topic of selecting the best super fund for 2024. With many super funds delivering impressive double-digit returns in the past financial year, Stuart highlights the disparity among funds, particularly in terms of transparency and risk. He emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing funds' investments, especially those with unlisted assets, and the potential conflicts of interest tied to industry funds' connections with trade unions and political parties.2024-07-3022 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantProtecting your business from cybersecurity threatsSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena tackle the crucial topic of protecting your business from cybersecurity threats. With 59% of losses reported to the ACCC's Scamwatch in 2022 affecting small and micro businesses, they delve into common cybersecurity threats like ransomware, malicious software, phishing, and business email compromise. They highlight essential cybersecurity practices, such as regularly updating software, using strong passwords with multi-factor authentication, and backing up critical data.Stuart and Mena offer practical steps for implementation, including setting up automatic updates, using password managers, maintaining a regular backup schedule, and developing basic...2024-07-3006 minInvestopolyInvestopolyQ&A: Answers to interesting listener questionsDo you have a question? Email questions@investopoly.com.au and Stuart may answer it in the podcast.In this case study episode, Stuart Wemyss shifts from case studies to an interactive Q&A format, addressing several listener inquiries. The episode kicks off with strategies for early retirement, where Stuart discusses balancing investment approaches, living expenses, and aggressive gearing techniques to achieve financial independence in your 40s. He also delves into superannuation contributions and managing the transfer balance cap.Next, he explores investment structures, focusing on family trusts and corporate beneficiaries. Stuart highlights the tax...2024-07-2930 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEP 314: How much super do you need for retirement?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 delves into the essential topic of how much superannuation you need for a comfortable retirement. Drawing on a recent discussion with James Kirby from The Australian newspaper, Stuart explores the complexities of retirement planning, including how long your retirement might last and the shortcomings of traditional super calculators. He emphasises the importance of a perpetual portfolio, where your investment returns exceed your living expenses, ensuring your capital remains intact.2024-07-2328 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantWhat insurance should you have for your business?Send us a textDo you have a question? Email questions@investopoly.com.au and Stuart and Mena may answer it in the podcast.In this episode, Stuart and Mena delve into the crucial topic of business insurance, outlining the various types of coverage business owners should consider to safeguard their operations. They discuss Public Liability Insurance, which covers third-party injuries and property damage caused by your business activities, and Product Liability Insurance, which protects against claims related to the products your business sells. Professional indemnity insurance is also highlighted, especially noting the type of...2024-07-2308 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEP 313: 4 alternative rules-based share index strategiesDo 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 dives into the world of share investing by exploring four alternative rules-based indexing strategies beyond the traditional market cap approach. He starts with a brief history of market cap indexing and highlights its major shortcomings, such as overexposure to overvalued stocks and rebalancing inefficiencies. Stuart then introduces four compelling alternatives:1. Equal Weight Indexing: This strategy allocates an equal amount to each company in an index, reducing the...2024-07-1632 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantAsset protection for business ownersSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena dive into the crucial topic of asset protection for business owners. They explore the various risks that business owners face, both from a business and personal standpoint. On the business side, they discuss the importance of maintaining a safe workplace, managing employee entitlements and ATO liabilities, and the dangers of trading while insolvent. On the personal side, they highlight risks like personal injury on your property and the complexities of relationship breakdowns.Stuart and Mena provide practical advice on how to safeguard assets through effective...2024-07-1613 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 312: Warning: Impact of cost-of-living ‘crisis’ on your retirementDo 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 for retirement. He explains that maintaining your standard of living now requires a larger wealth base, potentially delaying retirement plans. Stuart provides actionable advice on managing this crisis, including t...2024-07-0919 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantCreate a financial crystal ball for your businessSend us a textIn this episode, Mena and Stuart explore the power of financial modelling and why it's essential for your business. They discuss the limitations of standard financial reporting, which often provides a high-level overview but lacks the detail needed to make informed decisions. Financial models, however, are tailored to each business and offer a deeper insight into key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics that truly matter. Mena and Stuart explain how financial models can track specific objectives, such as revenue growth and expense management, offering a clearer picture of the underlying drivers a...2024-07-0907 minInvestopolyInvestopolyCase Study: Property in super, shares and the need for diversificationIn 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 acquisition of five apartments in Sydney and Melbourne, achieving significant long-term growth rates of 6.3% and 7.1% per annum, respectively.Stuart delves into the client's approach, which included geographical diversification and the strategic allocation of funds into shares within their superannuation. He also shares valuable insights...2024-07-0814 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 311: 6 reasons to not invest in property!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 not be the best investment choice for everyone. He explains how compounding returns require decades to materialise fully, making property a long-term commitment. He also discusses the hands-on nature of property management, the typically low...2024-07-0217 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantBusiness planning for a new yearSend us a textIn this episode, Mena and Stuart explore key strategies for planning your business for a successful new year. They start by emphasising the importance of reviewing the past year's performance through a thorough analysis of financial reports and key performance indicators, while also evaluating strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. They highlight the need to define clear, SMART goals that align with your business vision, and the importance of breaking down these goals into actionable projects and tasks.The discussion then moves to resource allocation and budgeting, ensuring you have the financial...2024-07-0210 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantHow to fire a bad customerSend us a textIn this episode, Mena and Stuart tackle the challenging but crucial topic of how to fire a customer that doesn’t suit your business. They explore the impact of bad customers, who not only fail to refer new clients but also take longer to serve, increase business risk, and are generally less profitable and enjoyable to work with. Mena and Stuart explain that bad clients can hinder business growth and make it difficult to attract and retain great staff. They stress that success often comes from saying no to certain customers, even though ma...2024-06-2507 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 310: Should you invest 100% of your super into 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 super, often diluting potential returns. He argues that volatility isn't a concern for long-term investors, and shares historically deliver higher returns over decades. Stuart also addresses potential risks, such as market concentration, and advises on using rules-based, low-cost index s...2024-06-2518 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantTop 5 reasons why businesses failSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena delve into the top five reasons why businesses fail and offer practical advice on how to avoid these pitfalls. They start with the crucial issue of running out of money, emphasising the importance of adequate working capital, maintaining a profit margin, and keeping a financial buffer. Next, they discuss the impact of a poor business model or marketing strategy, highlighting the necessity of understanding how your business operates and effectively reaching customers while managing acquisition costs.The conversation then shifts to poor margins, explaining that...2024-06-1807 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantOur top 10 hiring mistakes and learningsSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena delve into the top 10 hiring mistakes and the invaluable lessons they've learned along the way. They share candid insights on building a strong team, emphasising the importance of hiring slowly and firing quickly, and the necessity of quality over quantity. They pose a crucial question for business owners: "Would you enthusiastically rehire everyone in your business?" and suggest asking it regularly to stay ahead of potential issues.The hosts discuss the significance of having difficult conversations, setting clear expectations, and the pitfalls of making excuses...2024-06-1110 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantCustomer feedback surveys: everything business owners must knowSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena dive into the world of customer feedback surveys, uncovering essential insights for business owners. They explore the Net Promoter Score (NPS) introduced by Fred Reichheld, a straightforward yet powerful tool for gauging customer loyalty and forecasting business growth. NPS segments customers into Promoters, Passives, and Detractors, each offering unique insights into customer satisfaction and areas for improvement.Key takeaways include the importance of keeping surveys short, typically no more than 2-3 questions, and always acknowledging feedback to show customers their input is valued. The hosts...2024-06-0412 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantTax planning for End of Financial YearSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena provide 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, they break 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, their advice covers a range of scenarios and opportunities. From maximising super contributions and utilising unused caps to navigating tax brackets and deductions, he offers actionable steps to potentially save thousands in tax liabilities.2024-05-2809 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantShould I merge my business?Send us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena dive into the critical considerations surrounding business mergers, offering valuable insights for entrepreneurs and business owners contemplating this strategic move.They emphasise the paramount importance of cultural fit, exploring how aligning values, client bases, and work environments can make or break a merger's success. Stuart and Mena also delve into the potential opportunities and risks, such as expanding service offerings, achieving economies of scale, financial stability, valuation disparities, and potential control trade-offs.With a pragmatic approach, they discuss the need to thoroughly assess...2024-05-2108 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEP 304: What is a strategic asset allocation? Why does it matter?Read full blog hereIn 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 of mean reversion.He advocates for an approach that involves actively allocating new capital towards undervalued asset classes or geographical markets, rather than blindly following a one-size-fits-all asset allocation model. Stuart believes that this strategy, though potentially leading to imbalanced...2024-05-1412 minInvestopolyInvestopolyCase Study: Make life easier for your loved onesIn 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, having never been involved in the financial decision-making process. Stuart had to guide Grant's wife through understanding their investments, making important decisions about their home, and properly managing the estate.While everything eventually worked out, and Grant's...2024-05-1308 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 303: Melbourne property will deliver the strongest growth over the next decadeRead 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 prices are currently undervalued relative to other cities like Sydney.He presents data illustrating how Melbourne's median house prices have underperformed in recent years, suggesting that the market is due for a rebound in line with the...2024-05-0718 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantWhat to do if you are reliant on one customer?Send us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena discuss the challenges and potential strategies for businesses that are heavily reliant on a single major customer. They acknowledge that while having a large customer can be advantageous, it also poses significant risks due to the lack of diversification and potential loss of revenue if that customer relationship were to end.The hosts outline three main options for businesses in this situation: 1) Actively pursuing new customers, potentially through acquisitions, 2) Vertically integrating or expanding offerings in a way that complements the existing major customer, or 3) Embracing...2024-05-0707 minInvestopolyInvestopolyCase Study: Restructuring a share portfolio across two ownership structuresIn 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 importance of considering all components of investment returns, including income, growth, and tax credits. He also highlights how market corrections can present opportunities for investors. The episode offers a practical example of how Stuart's approach to...2024-05-0608 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantWhy you should outsource your bookkeeping functionSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena dive into the invaluable benefits of outsourcing your bookkeeping function, highlighting how it can be a game-changer for businesses seeking to streamline operations and boost profitability.They emphasise the importance of having an expert team deeply integrated into your business, ensuring accurate data flow and enabling your accountant to provide meaningful insights. By outsourcing bookkeeping, businesses can improve invoice and receipt management, leading to faster payment cycles and better cash flow management.Moreover, Stuart and Mena underscore the significant time savings that come...2024-04-3006 minInvestopolyInvestopolyCase Study: SMSF are often not necessaryIn 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's performance, Stuart found it had underperformed an industry fund by over 3% per annum.Rather than divesting the existing shareholdings, which were trading below fair value, Stuart recommended transferring the assets in-specie into separate super wrap accounts for the...2024-04-2909 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantConsidering financing an asset in your business? Here’s a few considerationsSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena dive into the different finance solutions available for asset finance and discuss the pros and cons of each option. They start by outlining the main types of asset finance:Chattel Mortgage - The lender takes a mortgage over a specific asset like equipment or vehicles and provides funding secured by that asset. This is one of the most common options.Hire Purchase - The financier purchases the asset and the client takes out a loan to pay it off over a fixed period, ultimately...2024-04-2307 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 300: Is it safe to borrow to invest in shares? If so, how?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 to share investments. The episode explores three borrowing options: margin loans, investment mortgages, and internally geared ETFs. Stuart addresses the higher volatility associated with shares and suggests mitigating strategies like regular investing and maintaining a conservative loan-to-value r...2024-04-1617 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantDebunking common tax minimisation mythsSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena debunk common tax minimisation myths perpetuated by some accountants to attract clients. They delve into strategies often marketed as tax-saving methods but may not necessarily be beneficial in the long run.One such myth revolves around the promise of quick tax refund turnaround times, which should not be the sole driving factor in choosing an accountant. Additionally, they address the misconceptions surrounding motor vehicle expenses and the potential pitfalls of focusing solely on negative gearing benefits when investing in property, which could lead to poor...2024-04-1506 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 299: 20 years of poor property growth… is the property party over?Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart delves into statistical analyses and economic insights, dissecting the nuanced factors influencing property market trends over the past two decades and speculating on their implications for future investment strategies.Commencing with a comparative analysis of median house price growth rates across major capital cities, Stuart uncovers a stark contrast between the preceding two-decade periods. He scrutinises inflation-adjusted growth figures, attributing a significant portion of the disparity to evolving economic landscapes and regulatory shifts.He delves into pivotal events such as the Global Financial Crisis and...2024-04-0915 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantWho’s going to look after your business when you die?Send us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena delve into a critical topic: "Who’s going to look after your business when you die?" Tune in as they navigate the complexities of estate planning for business owners, addressing key considerations to ensure the continuity and prosperity of your enterprise.From selecting capable executors to identifying competent successors, Stuart and Mena guide listeners through the crucial decisions that shape the future of your business. Explore the intricacies of determining whether your estate will retain or sell the business, and gain insights into crafting essential do...2024-04-0907 minInvestopolyInvestopolyCase Study: Rebuilding wealth post-divorceIn this captivating case study episode, Stuart delves into the real-life journey of rebuilding wealth post-divorce, offering invaluable lessons along the way.Following a client's separation in 2018, Stuart outlines the financial implications and strategic decisions made during the subsequent settlement in 2019. Despite the challenges, Stuart's guidance steered the client towards retaining key assets and formulating a plan for future financial security.Through meticulous planning and prudent investment choices, including property acquisitions and retirement strategies, Stuart demonstrates how resilience and strategic foresight can lead to successful wealth rebuilding post-divorce.Listeners gain actionable insights into...2024-04-0807 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantUnder what circumstances can businesses borrow?Send us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena delve into the intricate world of business borrowings, offering invaluable insights and strategies to navigate this crucial aspect of entrepreneurship. They shed light on the criteria commercial lenders use, emphasising the significance of future cash flows in lending decisions. Discussing security options like property or General Security Agreements, they provide clarity on tailoring these to suit your business needs effectively.Listeners gain insight into specialised banking sectors, including medico, property development, franchise, and more, ensuring a nuanced understanding of tailored financial solutions. Stuart and Mena...2024-04-0208 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantPowerful business insights – introduction to cost accountingSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena dive into the powerful world of cost accounting, unveiling strategies to gain deep insights into your business's profitability at the product or service level. They break down the essentials of cost accounting, sharing practical tips on how to accurately measure and analyse the true costs associated with each offering.Key topics covered include identifying and tracking all direct costs, as well as effectively allocating overhead expenses. Stuart and Mena provide guidance on setting up your accounting system, leveraging general ledger codes and tracking mechanisms to...2024-03-2607 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 297: Here’s what I think about cryptoRead the full blog here.In this episode, Stuart presents a compelling analysis of the merits and pitfalls of investing in digital assets. Despite recent surges in Bitcoin's price and endorsements from influential figures like Blackrock's CEO, he expresses significant scepticism about cryptocurrencies as a worthwhile investment. Stuart acknowledges the growing presence of fund managers and the proliferation of Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) as potential avenues for investment. However, he cautions against undue optimism, highlighting the commercial incentives of asset managers and the uncertain impact of ETFs on crypto's volatility. He argues that after over a...2024-03-2613 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 296: Should you ever prioritise short-term returns?Read full blog here.In this episode, Stuart Wemyss delves into the nuanced debate of prioritising short-term returns versus adopting a steadfast long-term investment strategy. Drawing from his extensive experience, Wemyss navigates the complexities of financial planning, urging listeners to reevaluate their approach amidst fluctuating market conditions.He articulates the inherent advantages of a long-term perspective, emphasising its ability to filter out short-term noise and minimise risks and costs associated with frequent trading. Through insightful analysis, he elucidates the unparalleled power of compounding returns, vividly depicting wealth accumulation over time.However, Wemyss acknowledges...2024-03-1912 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 295: Should you sell an underperforming apartment? Part 2Read full blog here.In Part 1, the podcast scrutinised the performance of apartment markets in major Australian cities over the past decade, uncovering reasons behind their underperformance and prospects for a new growth cycle. In this podcast episode, Stuart Wemyss provides a deep dive into the critical decision of whether to sell underperforming apartments in Australia's real estate market. Wemyss meticulously analyses the performance of apartment markets in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane over the past decade, shedding light on factors influencing their growth potential.Listeners gain valuable insights into the contrasting dynamics of a...2024-03-1215 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantHow to minimise land taxSend us a textIn this episode, Stuart and Mena unravel the intricacies of minimising land tax, a looming concern expected to rise in the foreseeable future. They demystify the concept of land tax, emphasizing its assessment based on property holdings as of December 31st. The hosts advise listeners to scrutinise notices carefully upon receipt, underlining the significance of proactive examination.The discussion delves into the financial barriers of changing ownership due to stamp duty and Capital Gains Tax (CGT), prompting consideration of alternative strategies such as grouping and discretionary trusts. Stuart and Mena explore...2024-03-1206 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 294: Should you sell an underperforming apartment? Part 1Read the full blog here.In this podcast episode, Stuart Wemyss delves into the intriguing dilemma of whether to sell underperforming apartments in Australia's real estate market. He dissects the prolonged underperformance of apartments in Melbourne, Sydney, and Brisbane, spanning over a decade, challenging investors to reconsider their strategies in light of stagnant growth rates.The episode navigates through the complexities of supply-demand dynamics, construction quality concerns, and shifting rental yields versus owner-occupier interest rates. Moreover, Wemyss offers insights into the evolving relationship between apartment and house prices, highlighting the current affordability gap and...2024-03-0516 minInvestopolyInvestopolyCase Study: Downsizing, business exit, inheritance and moreIn this episode, Stuart Wemyss unpacks a real-life case study covering downsizing, business exits, and inheritance. The client initially received fragmented advice, leading to confusion and inefficiencies in their financial strategy.Through our integrated approach, we optimised their SMSF investments, streamlined portfolios, and strategically sold underperforming assets. With proactive business restructuring and astute estate planning, we achieved substantial tax savings.In just 2.5 years, our collaborative efforts spanned business advice, portfolio management, tax structuring, and property guidance. This holistic approach highlights the value of a unified advisory team.Join Stuart as he simplifies financial...2024-03-0409 minInvestopolyInvestopolyEp 293: Why do some locations outperform blue-chip suburbs?Read the full blog here.In this podcast, Stuart Wemyss delves into the intriguing dynamics of property investment, challenging the conventional wisdom that blue-chip suburbs are always the safest bet. The episode begins by scrutinising misleading claims made by some buyers' agents, emphasising the importance of thorough due diligence in a market often lacking regulatory protection. The host addresses the recent boom in regional towns, exploring why seemingly secondary suburbs can outperform blue-chip counterparts.Drawing on extensive research and real-life examples, the podcast highlights the pitfalls of short-term performance data and the significance of focusing...2024-02-2719 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantOffering customers discounts – should you, when, how and why?Send us a textEmbark on a strategic journey to business excellence with Stuart and Mena in this enlightening episode, where they unravel the intricacies of understanding and enhancing your business model. Offering a comprehensive breakdown of the nine vital components, the hosts provide a roadmap for entrepreneurs keen on refining their business structure. From crafting a compelling value proposition to navigating distribution channels and revenue streams, this episode serves as a practical guide for entrepreneurs at any stage. Stuart and Mena delve into the key factors that contribute to a robust business model, emphasising elements such...2024-02-2709 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantUnderstanding & improving your business modelSend us a textDive into the intricacies of business success with Stuart and Mena in this illuminating episode, where they unravel the importance of understanding and improving your business model. The hosts break down the business model into nine essential components, providing a comprehensive framework that outlines how a company creates, delivers, and captures value. From defining the value proposition and identifying target customer segments to outlining distribution channels, customer relationships, and revenue streams, this episode serves as a roadmap for entrepreneurs seeking clarity on their business structure. Moreover, Stuart and Mena explore the factors that...2024-02-1915 minThe Holistic AccountantThe Holistic AccountantBusiness exit strategy - personal considerationsSend us a textJoin Stuart and Mena in this episode as they unravel the crucial considerations for business owners contemplating retirement. With a treasure trove of insights, the hosts guide listeners through the key factors that shape the decision-making process when determining the fate of your business post-retirement. The episode explores three primary options: retaining the business as a passive income streamselling it in full to maximize valueselling to staff to realize some value while maintaining a connection to the businessListeners are encouraged to introspect on their role within the business...2024-02-1309 minInvestopolyInvestopolyInvestment curveballs in 2023: 4 important lessons to remember for 2024Click here to read this blog online. Sidebar: Wealth Editor, James Kirby and I recorded an episode of The Australia’s Money Puzzle podcast yesterday discussing our expectations for the property market in 2024: see here. In this insightful podcast, Stuart Wemyss shares four key investment lessons gleaned from the tumultuous market of 2023, offering a compelling guide for potential listeners. Lesson one underscores the volatility of market expectations, urging investors to prioritise long-term goals over short-term forecasts. Lesson two explores the resilience required when faced with unexpected market deviations, emphasising the importance of...2024-01-1619 minInvestopolyInvestopolyBest of 2023 #1: How to buy the highest quality property within your budgetUnlock the secrets to securing prime real estate without breaking the bank, as I, Stuart Wemyss, walk you through the strategic maze of property investment. Get ready to learn how even with modest means, you can pinpoint properties set to soar in value, thanks to the invaluable insights offered in this episode. We're scrutinizing the real estate market's ever-present supply and demand imbalance and understanding why this could be your golden ticket. I'll also reveal why the economic underpinnings of your investments are more than just background noise—they're the pulse that could dictate the heartbeat of your financial fu...2024-01-0925 minInvestopolyInvestopolyBest of 2023 #3: What should be your priority: repaying your home loan or invest?Are skyrocketing interest rates making you question your investment strategy? I'm Stuart Wemyss, and on the Investopoly podcast, we tackle the dilemma facing many investors today: whether to pump surplus cash into investments or chip away at that home mortgage. As we bid farewell to the comfort of low interest rates and brace for the impact of significant hikes, this episode guides you through the emotional and financial intricacies of debt management versus investment growth.Bearing witness to history's lowest interest rates, many of us are now reeling from the sharp climb, questioning our next financial move...2023-12-2613 minInvestopolyInvestopolyUnraveling the Differences: Melbourne vs Sydney Property Markets and What's Ahead for 2024 Read the full blog here. Ever wondered why the Melbourne and Sydney housing markets are as different as chalk and cheese? Well, it's time to quench your curiosity! I'm your host, Stuart Wemyss, and in this fascinating episode, we'll be demystifying the disparities between these two major Australian cities. We'll dive deep into historical growth rates, scrutinise current property prices, and explore unique factors such as population demographics and geographical features that are making waves in these markets. We'll also confront the elephant in the room - the escalating issue of traffic congestion in both cities.2023-12-1217 min