September Insights and Updates

Having just returned from a short break down south in Dunsborough this past week, I always find that taking a breath from my daily routine allows some time to reflect on the year so far.

Specifically, I like to reflect on the positive things that have happened and I always like to include my family in the exercise.

Though it takes very little time and no money, I really appreciate the benefits that reflection offers.

Here are three reasons that I find it to be a worthwhile exercise:

1. Reflecting on positive experiences encourages us to focus on the good things in life. Research confirms that gratitude is linked to greater well-being, increased happiness, and reduced stress levels. It can help shift our focus from challenges to achievements, enhancing a positive mindset and outlook on life.
2. Recalling a positive change, experience, or decision is a good mood booster because it triggers a positive emotional response. Reflecting on success or improvement can also increase your motivation by reminding you of how far you have come, reminding you of your capacity to overcome challenges and see positive change.
3. This exercise invites you to recognise meaningful experiences, contributing to a greater sense of purpose and fulfilment. Connecting with these deeper values can contribute to your long-term well-being and sense of life satisfaction.

If you were asked to reflect on the positive things that have happened in your life this year, what would you say?

Rob Pyne

2025 Aged Care reforms – Advice is paramount

The Aged Care Bill, tabled in Parliament on 12 September 2024, brings changes to the costs of aged care from 1 July 2025. At this point, the proposals are not yet law, but the Bill has been tabled with bipartisan support, so significant changes are unlikely.

Read more about the proposed changes and their potential impact here

Case study: Should business owners contribute to Super?

Alice and her partner Max owned a thriving business, and over the years, they regularly contributed to their superannuation account. Little did they know then, but those contributions would make a huge difference to Alice’s life later on.

Read the case study here.

Long-term investors, don’t let a recession faze you

Investors may be tempted to abandon equities and go to cash when there is a heightened risk of recession. But research has shown that stock prices incorporate these expectations and generally fall in value before a recession even begins.

Read more here.

The ups and downs of volatility

An upsurge in volatility in financial markets can test the nerve of many investors, particularly after a long period of relative calm. The big question is whether periods of volatility say anything about expected returns.

Read more here.

Meet the team: Nathan Morgan

After many years working in the world of investment and superannuation providers, Nathan decided to study a Graduate Diploma in Financial Planning and pursue a career on the advice side of the financial services industry. As someone who was very well known to us and a lot of other financial planners, it was a welcome endorsement that Nathan contacted us about making the switch and starting his financial planning career with HPH.

Originally a Geraldton boy, with strong family ties still in the town, Nathan has been a timely addition to our team and a wonderful support for our Geraldton office and clients.

Find out more about Nathan here.