Banking

Caught between high interest rates, a booming property market, and the cost of living crisis, the majority of homeowners in Australia are feeling the heat from their home loans.

If your New Year’s resolution involves more financial freedom, then paying off your debts is an excellent place to start. After all, we only want to take the lessons we’ve learnt into the new year, not our credit card balances.

The summer holidays are right around the corner, and while the kids might be focused on fun and games, it could also be the perfect time to tackle some budget-friendly home renovations. Whether you’re looking to boost your home’s value before selling or just want to refresh your space, there are plenty of smart, cost-effective projects that can make a big impact without breaking the bank.

Many of us are over physical money – some never even carry it. Check your wallet right now, it’s likely padded with debit cards but light on notes.

Financial security isn't just about having money saved, it's also about the peace of mind that brings.

Most people view their savings account as a safe place to keep their hard-earned cash. While this is true, that same bank account might also be quietly eroding wealth away. From fees, low rates, and the invisible hand of inflation, several factors could be diminishing your savings more than you imagine.

The decision to put some money away in a term deposit should factor in the overall economic outlook. Right now, most predictions centre on inflation.

End of year and Boxing Day sales are the perfect time to drive off with a new car at a bargain price. Whether you’ve got your eye on a new electric car model, a family sedan or your dream sports car, dealers are keen to clear stock before the New Year. But before you head to the showroom, it’s smart to ensure your finances are in order.

International money transfers (IMTs) – also known as remittances – are pretty common around Christmas and New Year. But these transactions can attract costly fees and exchange rates, making it expensive to send cash to family and friends over the holiday season.

Keeping track of your expenses and budget progress has advanced beyond spreadsheets, with the right tools being a huge asset to your financial goals.

Australians have been enthusiastic users of Buy Now Pay Later services, with RFIGlobal research showing that some 40% of Aussies regularly use BNPL as a payment method. Now the BNPL is to be regulated under the National Credit Act, it’s worth considering whether the rewards of Buy Now Pay Later outweigh the risks.