Thoughts on money, from a Financial Planner in Perth
Michael O'Hara 
We all know that news headlines are there to catch our attention. We know that they simply cannot possibly convey all of the minutae and context of what is actually going on in any given event. However, in a time deprived world the news headlines are often all that we get to see or notice. … Read more
Isn’t it great when someone actually gets around to doing something that you’ve been nagging friends and family about? You know, when Great Idea No 726 actually comes to life? Well, here is my example… The New York Times has being doing its patriotic duty, and following the trials and tribulations of US politicians trying … Read more
Sometimes it seems like the whole world is holding its breath. That is about where we are at right now in financial circles. The major currency and debt markets are hushed in tension as they await the outcome of the standoff between the IMF, ECU Central Bank, Germany, the Greek government and the population of … Read more
Here is a 6 minute update on where the Australian sharemarket currently stands, including a brief discussion of the major issues currently impacting on share prices. httpvh://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HJ8ZKfQp48 Australia’s sharemarket is scaring people There is a lot of fear and misinformation out in the marketplace at the moment. A good deal of it appears to me … Read more
The sharemarket is a mystical place – we’ve touched on some of the areas in which it exhibits this trait before. However, today we are going to ponder the flights-of-fancy that come with reading charts on various sharemarket performances. Take my word for it, there is a reason that we are doing so at this … Read more
Some would argue that the sharemarket makes no sense in the long term either but that is an argument easily dismissed through 4 or 5 years of intensive discussion, research, correspondence, argument and analysis. So for the moment, let’s just say that it does make sense in the long term but there is room to … Read more
The world is going to end but you can save yourself by subscribing to… These self-help newsletters, websites and email lists are getting a little bit carried away with themselves.
Yes, that’s right. You heard all about it here first. The good news of the day is the successful launch of Fosters’ wine business as a company of its own – Treasury Wine Estates. I for one, intend to celebrate that with a lovely glass of red at the earliest convenience. And while i’m at … Read more
You may recall a previous post in which the idea of international volunteer work and overseas philanthropy was discussed. Following on from that post, you now have an opportunity to have an informal chat with Mark and Mar and find out first hand some of the benefits and brickbats a commitment to volunteering can deliver. … Read more
When is inflation not inflation? A rather rhetorical question for a Friday, to be sure. However, this particular pondering has been brought on by one of WSP’s business partners – John – who has been looking at the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA’s) recent attempts to keep inflation under control. John’s comments are that big … Read more