Rising government bond yields spooks equity investorsLocal and global equity markets fell this week on concerns that potentially higher inflation in the US may force the US central bank to be less accommodative. Read More |
Equity investors fret over US inflation fearsBoth local and global equity markets were softer this week as investors fretted over potentially higher US inflation which could lead to missteps or reduced stimulus from the US central bank. Read More |
Equity markets mixed on US-China concernsMixed results for equity markets this week with most markets flat or lower (ASX) Read More |
Markets buoyed by lower cases and vaccine newsBoth local and global stocks rose this week buoyed by positive vaccine news, declining virus cases, and potential US fiscal stimulus. Read More |
Equity markets fall on vaccine rollout concernsLocal and global equity markets fell this week on concerns regarding vaccine rollout and on whether company reporting season will be enough to justify the lofty valuations on some stocks. Read More |
Equity markets push higher on fiscal stimulus callsEquity markets rallied strongly this week, boosted by improving investor sentiment and comments from key officials supporting more fiscal stimulus. Read More |
Biden goes big with 1.9 trillion fiscal packageA mixed week for equity markets by region and by time, Asian markets performing strongly whilst all other markets weakened earlier in the week due Covid and US political concerns before rising later in the week Read More |
2020 - a year to forget, a year to remember, a year to learn fromThere are many things to take out of 2020; a year where records were broken multiple times, a year where it seemed we had multiple years of events crammed into one Read More |
Investors focus on vaccines as US and Europe lockdownLocal and global share prices rose this week on vaccine optimism. Read More |
A Christmas Message from MaximWe write to wish you all a relaxing and peaceful Christmas. Read More |
Investor optimism fades as risks riseLocal and global equity markets finished a little weaker this week as economic data underwhelmed whilst risks overwhelmed including rising virus cases, US fiscal stimulus stalemate, and EU-Britain trade quagmire. Read More |
Australian recession ends as China relations worsenIn local stock news, Treasury Wine Estate’s share price fell sharply and trading in the shares were suspended after China followed through with their threat to impose significant tariffs on Australian wine... Read More |
Investors buoyed by more positive vaccine newsLocal and global equity markets moved higher this week buoyed by more positive vaccine news as another vaccine showed positive phase 3 results whilst another provider asked for emergency use authorisation. Read More |
Second positive vaccine result not enough to spur marketsEquity markets had a mixed week, with global markets flat to slightly lower on virus concerns, whilst the local market finished higher. Read More |
Vaccine news puts a rocket under Value stocksLocal and most global equity markets rose whilst the US equity market looked likely to finish flat for the week, as the positive vaccine news saw investors rotate into more virus and economically exposed companies. Read More |
Investors unfazed by uncertain US election resultLocal and global equity markets rose this week, with investors seemingly comfortable with undecided US election outcome. Read More |
Australian Property and the US ElectionThe Australian property market remains in a state of flux, but the outlook looks significantly better than it did back in March, thanks to a combination of extraordinary fiscal and monetary stimulus and other government measures, which were needed following the government’s chosen virus policy path of suppression (ie. lockdowns). Read More |
Equity markets slide as virus cases riseLocal and global equity markets weakened this week as the US failed to pass any new stimulus and rising virus cases in Europe saw significantly increased restrictions. Read More |
Aussie shares rise on expected RBA stimulusThe Australian equity market rose this week as investors continued to digest the Federal Government’s huge budget whilst the RBA Governor seemed to indicate that more stimulus will be provided at the November meeting. Read More |
Monster budget propels Aussie market higherLocal and global stock markets rose strongly this week, getting a boost from President Trump’s swift recovery from the virus and a potential increase in household stimulus, whilst local stocks got a boost from the Federal Budget. Read More |
Federal Budget – 2020-21Last night, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg handed down the postponed and much anticipated 2020-21 Federal Budget in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. Read More |
2020 Federal BudgetThe Government is spending - here’s how it might affect you: Read More |
Australia awaits bumper budget announcementThe US market rose this week whilst all other major markets weakened. Read More |
Aussie dollar takes a dive as risks riseA mixed and topsy-turvy week for equity markets with Aussie and US markets trading sideways whilst European and Asian markets fell. Read More |
Investors disappointed with lack of new stimulusLocal and global equity markets weakened this week as investors wanted to see more stimulus from central banks but got platitudes instead. Read More |
Tech sector gets the wobbles as profit taking continuesLocal and global equity markets largely fell this week as profit taking and concerns regarding technology company valuations continued. Read More |
What's happening now and what happens next...Welcome to Spring where the weather becomes warmer, the days get longer, and there is increasing discussion about what happens after JobKeeper. Read More |
Profit taking sees sharp Tech sector falls drive markets lowerLocal and global equity markets took a sharp u-turn lower overnight and today, pushing the market into the red for the week, as investors took significant profits from an overbought technology sector. Read More |
US Fed announces significant policy changeGlobal equities rose this week whilst Australian equities tread water as investors digested Australian company reporting season. Read More |
RBA calls on government to do moreLocal and global equity markets largely tread water this week. Read More |
Better virus data supports equity marketsLocal and global equity markets rose this week. Read More |
New employees potentially eligible for JobKeeper NOW!While we wait for clarity over key aspects of the extension of JobKeeper past 27 September, an announcement by the Government on 7 August included changes to employee eligibility effective now in relation to the current JobKeeper program. Read More |
Gold surges through US$2,000Local and global equity markets tracked higher for the week. Read More |
Markets finally take some notice of poor economic dataEquity markets largely saw selling pressure this week as virus and economic concerns dampened investor sentiment. Read More |
Government extends job stimulusEquity markets mostly finished flat for the week. Read More |
Thoughts on AfterPayIn client reviews, one of the most frequent questions we get asked is what we think of AfterPay and is it in the portfolios? Over the past two years AfterPay has been the top-performing stock on the ASX, up 550% despite numerous equity raisings and insider selling; proving the doubters wrong (so far). Indeed, AfterPay is no longer a small technology stock that can safely be ignored by fund managers. Read More |
Markets higher on vaccine optimismLocal and global equity markets moved higher this week buoyed by optimism regarding promising results for both treatments and vaccines for the virus. Read More |
Quarter in Review - June 2020The June quarter saw markets and economics continue their path of divergence, with equity markets providing one of the strongest quarters ever seen off the March lows, whilst the economic outlook showed little improvement. Read More |
Virus surge saps investor sentimentLocal and global equity markets fell this week on continued concerns regarding rising virus cases and potential further lockdown measures. Read More |
Investors buoyed by better economic dataLocal and global equity markets moved higher this week on stronger than expected economic data globally, with US jobs numbers and European and Chinese manufacturing data all coming in above economist expectations. Read More |
Investors nervous as easing of virus restrictions haltedLocal and global stock markets fell this week as some countries were forced to halt reopening plans whilst others were re-imposing some restrictions. Read More |
Market rise stalled by rising virus casesLocal and global equity markets rose strongly early in the week before trending sideways on rising virus numbers in the US and China. Read More |
Markets fall on 2nd wave concernsLocal and global equity markets fell this week following downbeat comments and forecasts from the US central bank and rising concerns regarding a virus second wave as reopening continues. Read More |
Australian Market Rallies as Covid Cases DeclineLocal and global equity markets pushed higher this week, almost completely ignoring increased US/China tensions and an America on fire. Read More |
Learnings and Actions during Covid-19 that can Shape your FutureMost business owners have experienced the impact of Covid-19. We provide an outline of key matters to consider, current learnings from this pandemic and issues you may wish to take action moving forward Read More |
Maxim Virtual Economic Breakfast - May 2020Maxim Director, Chris Sneddon, recently chatted with CEO of Police Bank Greg McKenna and former Newcastle Permanent & Aussie Home Loans CEO Stephen Porges. Read More |
Maxim Investment Market UpdatesMaxim is bringing you specialist commentary on a regular basis from leading fund managers who have input to client portfolios. Keep an eye on our website and socials for more updates. Read More |
Market sentiment improves on hopes for a vaccineLocal and global shares inched higher this week, getting some support from hopes of a vaccine and more economies opening back up. Read More |
Your Personal Finances with Scott NorrishScott recently partnered with The Travel Hub Industry to discuss managing your personal finances in the current economic environment. Read More |
Investor sentiment sours on poor economic dataLocal and global equity markets fell this week as poor economic data overwhelmed investor sentiment, which was also hit by concerns regarding rising virus infection rates on some countries re-opening. Read More |
NSW Land Tax ReliefFollowing the NSW Government announcement of land tax relief for commercial and residential landowners they have now opened the application process. Read More |
Equity markets higher on reopening plansLocal and global equity markets rose this week, with investors buoyed by hopes of economies reopening. Read More |
ASX posts its best month in 32 yearsLocal and global share prices moved higher this week, with investors buoyed by additional central bank stimulus and positive results from a drug trial treatment for the virus. Read More |
Investors Take a Back Seat as Economic Fears Hit HomeLocal and global equity markets fell this week as concerns regarding the economic contraction began to be felt. Read More |
ATO announces blanket lodgement deferralsThe Australian Taxation Office has announced blanket lodgement deferrals for the 2018-19 tax year due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Read More |
Small Business COVID-19 Support Grant for up to $10,000The State Government has introduced small business COVID-19 support grant for small business that have experienced a significant decline in revenue as a result of COVID-19. You may be eligible for the small business support grant of up to $10,000. Read More |
Markets buoyed by re-opening plansLocal and global equity markets moved higher this week, buoyed by comments from leaders around the world regarding gradual re-opening plans and dates. Read More |
It's time to prepare your business to receive the JobKeeper PaymentsBy now every business owner and employee in the country will have heard something about the JobKeeper stimulus announced by Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg just over a fortnight ago, with entitlements for payments of $1,500 per employee, to be provided as subsidies for eligible businesses commencing effectively 30 March 2020. Read More |
JobKeeper UpdateWhile the legislation was passed overnight, there is still not much clarification over the mechanics of the JobKeeper payment. Read More |
Webinar: Financial strategies for your business during the COVID-19 pandemicMaxim CEO, Scott Norrish, in collaboration with The Travel Industry Hub, have hosted a Webinar discussing the issues currently affecting businesses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Read More |
Extraordinary Stimulus Continues As Virus Worsens in the USGlobal equity markets fell this week whilst the Australian equity market was slightly higher at time of writing. Read More |
COVID-19 Information and Resource SupportThe COVID-19 pandemic has presented, and will continue to present, unprecedented challenges for businesses and individuals alike. Read More |
Covid-19 Update - Federal Government Third Stimulus - 4:40PM 30 MarchPrime Minister Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg announced the third round of Federal government stimulus measures, in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Read More |
Fiscal and Monetary Stimulus Buoys Investor HopesLocal and global equity markets finished higher for the week, at time of writing, with sentiment boosted by significant central bank and government stimulus. Read More |
COVID-19 UPDATE: Federal Goverment Second StimulusEarlier today (Sunday 22nd March 2020), Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a second round of Federal government stimulus measures, in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Read More |
Covid-19 Central Bank Policy ResponseSome of you may have seen or heard of the recent policy action from central banks around the world in response to the significant economic and market impact caused by the response to control the spread of the virus. Read More |
COVID-19 - Support for You and Your Business in These Tough TimeLike you, we have been closely following the events of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic as it continues to disrupt health systems, economies and financial markets across the globe. Read More |
Economic Stimulus PackageIn the wake of the current economic environment, the Australian Government has announced a $17.6 billion economic plan to assist the Australian economy, part of which will be allocated to support small to medium sized businesses. Read More |
Market Update - 13 March 2020No doubt many of you would’ve seen the large falls in equity markets over the last couple of days. Today will be no different, given the large falls we saw overnight in global equity markets. Read More |
Investors undecided on the path forwardWelcome to our weekly blog written by our Investment Consultant Chris Lioutis. Read More |
The role of a trusted advisorSo what does a trusted advisor mean? Read More |
Equity markets take a breather on coronavirus concernsLocal and global markets finished flat to slightly lower this week as concerns rose regarding the spread of coronavirus and US President Trump stepped up tariff threats on the EU. Read More |
Aussie and US Equity Markets Push Through New HighsLocal and global equity markets moved higher this week, with investor sentiment buoyed by the official signing of the US-China trade deal Read More |
Year in Review and Outlook for 2020It’s fair to say that 2019 was a bittersweet year, characterised by some of the highest political and economic risks we’ve seen in some time with the backdrop of some of the best investment returns we’ve seen in the last decade. Read More |
Financial Planning Weekly Update - Week ending 6 December 2019Equity markets confused on mixed trade war messaging Read More |
2020 VisionAre you clear on where your business is headed? As we approach year 2020, it is a great opportunity to consider what you really want for you and your business. Read More |
Maxim Economic Breakfast with Philip GardnerWe invite you to attend our upcoming breakfast with guest speakers, Wests Group and Newcastle Knights CEO, Philip Gardner and Maxim's resident economist, Greg McKenna. Read More |
Why is succession planning so important?We don’t always get the chance to decide exactly when we leave our business. It may come as a result of sickness, illness, a relationship break-down, or many other reasons. If we don’t have a plan we may need to make one on the fly, or worse still, be dictated by someone else making one for us. Read More |
5 steps to not only survive, but thrive!One of the best pieces of advice I have received is “If nothing changes, nothing changes”. If businesses become complacent and just continue to do what they did yesterday, it is only a matter of time before they lose their competitive edge, technology takes over, or they just simply become complacent. Read More |
Maxim EventsMaxim prides itself on delivering quality information and events to our clients. We have created a significant network of like-minded people including our clients, referral partners and prominent individuals in the Newcastle area with which is valued amongst those involved. Read More |
Every business owner needs to know - the difference between profit and cashIf I had collected “2 bob” from every good customer who has posed the question; “where has my profit gone?” …well, I’d have quite a few extra dollars. Read More |
Maxim Economic Insights - June 2019In the space of a few months Australia’s financial regulators – APRA and the RBA – have reacted aggressively to the economic slowdown and housing market falls which were threatening to derail Australia’s almost three decade run of economic growth without recession. Read More |
5 ways to make your life more simple!If managing life’s everyday complexities only seem achievable when you’re daydreaming about the chef, cleaner, personal assistant or nanny that you don’t have, you’re probably not alone. Read More |
Total & permanent disability insuranceTotal & permanent disability insurance provides cover if you (as the name suggests) become permanently disabled from a serious accident or illness. Like life insurance, TPD cover pays out as a lump sum & can be held either personally or through your superannuation. Life & TPD insurance are generally provided together within superannuation funds by default, however like these covers may be smaller than required amounts that decrease with age. Read More |
Aliferous (Alfie) - Our girl with wingsThe Maxim team is currently racing a 3-year-old thoroughbred called Aliferous, affectionately named “Alfie” in the office. Read More |
Maxim Economic BreakfastWe invite you to attend our upcoming economic breakfast with guest speakers, Tony Brasier of PRDnationwide and Maxim's resident economist, Greg McKenna. Read More |
The importance of scaleBusinesses that do not grow their revenues to achieve the appropriate “scale” will always struggle to provide the appropriate financial return to the business owner to reward the inherent risk of business. Read More |
Tax planning: Being proactive will save youHave you done your homework? For those clients who've already had your 2018 tax planning meeting, or who are currently meeting your Maxim advisor, this is the time to refresh on those action plans. What do you need to do before 30 June, to lock in those tax savings? Read More |
An interesting week for financialsNormally the most important dates in the financial calendar for investors are the releases of their six-monthly profit results in February and August, but for most shareholders in Australian companies, the most important date for 2019 was not the announcement of their annual earnings this morning, but rather the release of the Hayne Report on Monday afternoon. Read More |
Life insuranceAs the old saying goes, there are two certainties in life: death & taxes. If these things are certainties of life it makes sense that every person should have two things: a good accountant & life insurance. If you are reading this currently, odds are you already have a great accountant but what is less certain is you having the correct amount of life insurance. Read More |
Don't risk losing your money machineImagine a scenario where you went to the store and came across a machine that was able to produce income worth tens of thousands of dollars for 50+ years, how much do you think something like that would cost? Read More |
Success is what you make it!Being a business owner is not easy and, in most cases, can be quite lonely. If you are a relatively new business owner you may be asking yourself, am I doing this right? What can I do better? Read More |
Staff first, customers second, shareholders thirdSir Richard Branson lives by the credo of “Put your staff first, your customers second and your shareholders third.” Like everything Branson, an interesting proposition, but what, how and when? Read More |
CybercrimeCyber Threats come in all varieties – and no two ever attack your business from the same angle or in the same way. Threats can occur directly from the outside, while others may have some insider help. Read More |
Maxim presents Matt HallMaxim presents Matt Hall from Matt Hall Racing Read More |
Key business lessons learned from the Smithink 'Young Guns' workshopEarlier in the year, I was given the opportunity to speak at the Smithink Young Guns Workshop, a two-day conference for young(ish) accounting professionals held at the Hilton, Surfers Paradise Read More |
Is mine as big as yours?It’s human nature to compare ourselves to others. How we look, what we own, and how successful we are. The same applies to business. Read More |
Common frustrations in business - Part 1The question I often ask business owners is…. Do you have any frustrations in business? Let’s explore this a little more and look at what actions can be taken to reduce any frustrations. Read More |
Maxim presents Mark McCrindleMaxim Advisors, McCrindle Research and NAB Partners present Newcastle's 'Business Confidence Briefing' event Read More |
Common frustrations in business - Part 2In Part 1, I mentioned two of the four common frustrations in business, namely cashflow and staff. The other two common frustrations I hear are ‘How do I grow my business’, and ‘Work/life balance’. Read More |
KPI's for Newcastle's cafe coming of ageWith the revitalisation of Newcastle in recent years, we’ve seen a growing number of cafés opening their doors around town and our suburbs. Novocastrians have embraced the crema and aromas; some even say we’re coffee snobs. But what makes one café buzz long-term while another falls flat? Read More |
Corporate structures - Does yours fit?Tax Efficient? Wealth Protection? Have you ever ordered something online that didn’t quite fit? Read More |
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