Banking

With the holidays almost here, it’s a good time for home buyers to regroup. After all, it’s been a challenging time for both those stuck with high mortgage rates and those trying to break in amid lofty prices.

The weekend known for scoring incredible deals and discounts is almost upon us. Black Friday (29 November) through to Cyber Monday (2 December) is expected to be bigger and better than ever and that means you need to be prepped and ready with your wishlists, bookmarks and your payment choice.

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.

With Christmas fast approaching, the festive spirit is in full swing, but that doesn’t mean your wallet has to feel the pinch. Whether you’re hosting a family feast or simply want to add some holiday sparkle, you can create a magical atmosphere without overspending. Here’s how to craft a trendy, budget-friendly Christmas wonderland, drawing inspiration from this year’s hottest decorating trends.

This week the Australian government announced plans to outlaw debit card surcharges as part of a broader crackdown on consumer fees. This move comes in the lead-up to the federal election next year and is aimed at alleviating financial pressures on Aussie families.

After the RBA announced yet another hold in the cash rate on Tuesday, Commbank has cut most of its term deposit rates by 10-15 basis points from 4 months up to 5 years, while only increasing its 1-year rate by 35 basis points.

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.

Despite advances in how we send money overseas, there’s still a whopping $200 million in potential savings going untapped, according to the latest report from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).

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.