The Changing Goals of Retirement

The Changing Goals of Retirement

At Newcastle Advisors, we’ve seen a significant shift in the retirement goals of Australians. Traditionally, the primary focus was on building a substantial nest egg to provide an income that meets lifestyle needs. However, the modern retiree's aspirations have evolved. Today, retirement is about more than just financial security; it's about having the freedom to choose whether to work, contributing to the community, feeling valued, and finding purpose.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
Inflation: A Growing Concern for Retirees and Their Families

Inflation: A Growing Concern for Retirees and Their Families

At Newcastle Advisors, we understand the financial challenges faced by retirees and those planning for retirement. Recent surveys highlight a pressing issue that’s causing significant stress for many: inflation. More than healthcare costs, the erosion of purchasing power due to inflation is a major concern for retirees. Understanding these challenges and preparing effectively can help ensure a more secure financial future for you and your family.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
Embracing the Future: How AI and Market Trends Could Shape Your Family's Financial Future

Embracing the Future: How AI and Market Trends Could Shape Your Family's Financial Future

In the ever-evolving landscape of the U.S. economy, one truth remains constant: change is inevitable. For over a decade, the lack of automation and ground-breaking general-purpose technologies (GPTs) has put a damper on economic growth. However, there's a silver lining on the horizon. According to new research by Vanguard, artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to become the next GPT, sparking a wave of above-trend growth that could significantly impact your family's financial well-being.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
Maximise Your TPD Claim: How a Financial Planner Can Help You Get More for Less

Maximise Your TPD Claim: How a Financial Planner Can Help You Get More for Less

If you're facing the daunting task of making a Total and Permanent Disablement (TPD) claim, you might be wondering, "What's in it for me?" Navigating this process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with physical and psychological challenges. Here's how choosing a financial planner over a lawyer can save you money, time, and stress, and ensure you get the best possible outcome.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
Navigating Total and Permanent Disablement (TPD) Claims: A Compassionate and Cost-Effective Approach

At Newcastle Advisors, we're committed to supporting Australians through their most challenging times, especially when it comes to making a Total and Permanent Disablement (TPD) claim. We understand the frustration and vulnerability that comes with navigating this process, and we're here to offer a more compassionate and cost-effective alternative to high legal fees.

The Problem with Legal Fees

It's disheartening to see vulnerable Australians, already struggling with conditions like PTSD, depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairments, being burdened with exorbitant legal fees. Some lawyers charge a fixed fee of $25,000 just to complete and submit a claim form to the insurance company or super fund. This fee can increase by 25% if the insurance payout is successful. On top of that, these lawyers often prioritize their payment above the client's financial well-being, even charging interest at 2% above the RBA cash rate for unpaid bills. This approach can leave clients in a worse financial position than before.

A Better Alternative: Financial Planners

Read More
Matthew McCabe
Navigating Economic Waters: How Immigration Policy Impacts Interest Rates and Australian Families

Navigating Economic Waters: How Immigration Policy Impacts Interest Rates and Australian Families

As financial planners, it's our duty to keep you informed about the economic landscape and its implications for your financial well-being. In recent times, discussions surrounding immigration policies and their effects on inflation and interest rates have gained prominence. With many economists now predicting an interest rate rise in coming months.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
House Deposit or HECS Debt: What is best?

We have received more questions in the past 6 months about HECS then we have in the past 18 years in providing financial advice.

The most significant change in recent years has been how the debts have been “indexed” at inflation.

For many, many years, we have enjoyed a low inflationary environment with debts being indexed at 2-3% per annum. These changes were not significant enough for students to feel the pinch.

House Deposit or HECS Debt: What is best?

However, on 1 June 2023, the indexation was made at 7.1%in line with inflation, sending student debts soaring. It has been the largest increase since 1990 and expectations are that this year’s rate will be between 4.2% and 4.8%.

Many students that I speak to do not understand what they signed up for, the terms of the HECs debt, what inflation is and how indexation is applied.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
The Cost of Ignorance: How Government Neglect Impacts Australians' Financial Wellbeing

The Cost of Ignorance: How Government Neglect Impacts Australians' Financial Wellbeing

It's time for the government to acknowledge this reality and take decisive action to empower its citizens with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the complexities of the modern financial landscape. After all, a financially literate population is not just a personal asset—it's a national treasure.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
Redefining Financial Freedom: Planning for Choice with Newcastle Advisors

Redefining Financial Freedom: Planning for Choice with Newcastle Advisors

In recent years, there has been a notable shift in the financial aspirations of individuals in their mid-30s to early 40s. More and more people are seeking to break free from the traditional notion of retirement and instead are focusing on creating a lifestyle that offers them the freedom to work on their own terms. At Newcastle Advisors, we are witnessing a growing number of clients in this demographic who are proactively planning for a future where they have the choice and autonomy to live life on their own terms.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
Bridging Your Financial Goals: A Personalised Approach with Newcastle Advisors

In the complex landscape of personal finance, navigating the path towards your financial goals can often feel daunting. At Newcastle Advisor, we understand the significance of this journey and are committed to guiding you every step of the way. Our approach is rooted in listening, understanding, and crafting tailored strategies that align with your unique circumstances and aspirations.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
The SUPERmen Podcast - Episode 2 - Six Horror Stories of Retirement

In this podcast you are in for a treat.

The two financial planners, Lionel O'Mally & Matt McCabe, discuss how they came up with the name 'The SUPERmen Podcast’.

Before taking a look at some recent financial articles that pricked their ears and they discuss how they would approach each situation with their clients.

They explore the article 'six horror stories in retirement' in more detail, linking some of these issues faced in retirement to several of their clients that they have supported over the years, exploring their experiences, mistakes, and learnings.

Then they finish the podcast with a segment talking about Lionel & Matt's favourite wines.

Tune in to see if the boys have improved in their second episode.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
SUPERmen Podcast - Episode 1 - The Teaser

The Supermen Podcast is a dynamic and insightful show hosted by two seasoned financial planners from Australia, who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.

In this episode Lionel O'Mally & Matt McCabe introduce themselves to the listener and discuss what to expect on the new podcast.

Whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting to think about your financial future, the Supermen Podcast offers something for everyone. 

Tune in and come along for the ride.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
Loneliness is the silent killer of the baby boomer generation.

Loneliness is the silent killer of the baby boomer generation.

Our Retirement Specialist Financial Planner, Matthew McCabe from Newcastle Advisors, shares his recent experiences with several of his male retiree clients, what they have experienced, how little answers and information is available, and a few tips that may help Australian Men who are moving into retirement.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
Setting Goals For 2024

Start making your goals today and see where they take you tomorrow.

Our financial planners discuss how to set goals, why goals are important, why setting goals can be difficult and how a financial planner can support you in setting your goals and putting a plan in place to achieve your goals

Read More
Matthew McCabe
Top Financial Goals For 2024

What are the top financial goals for 2024?

Recent research from CBA has revealed the top financial goals for 2024. Our Newcastle Financial Planning Advisers discuss five practical tips to support you and where you can go for expert financial advice.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
2023: The Year We Shook It Off

As we wave goodbye to 2023, it's time to reflect on a year that's seen optimism return to investment markets around the globe.

With the official end of the COVID-19 pandemic and as the risk of a recession subsides, global markets have exceeded expectations in 2023, suggesting we may be Out of the Woods. This upturn is thanks in large part to the mega-cap technology stocks known as the Magnificent Seven, which have woven a Love Story with the markets. As we observe would might be the End Game of economic uncertainty, investor sentiment has shifted from “a recession is coming” to “a soft landing is around the corner”, a situation where everyone needs to be Ready for It.

Read More
Matthew McCabe
Financial Abuse

Financial abuse of the elderly, a troubling yet often unspoken issue, is becoming an increasingly prevalent trend. We see cases where adult children, typically in their 40s, 50s, or 60s, subtly or overtly exert influence over their aging parents' financial decisions.

Read More
Matthew McCabe