Maxim Virtual Breakfast - Economic and Property Update

Investors buoyed by more positive vaccine news

Local 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.

Second positive vaccine result not enough to spur markets

Markets:

Equity markets had a mixed week, with global markets flat to slightly lower on virus concerns, whilst the local market finished higher.

Vaccine news puts a rocket under Value stocks

Local 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.

Investors unfazed by uncertain US election result

Local and global equity markets rose this week, with investors seemingly comfortable with undecided US election outcome.

Australian Property and the US Election

The 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).

Equity markets slide as virus cases rise

Local 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.

Aussie shares rise on expected RBA stimulus

The 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.

Monster budget propels Aussie market higher

Local 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.

Federal Budget – 2020-21

Last night, Treasurer Josh Frydenberg handed down the postponed and much anticipated 2020-21 Federal Budget in light of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

2020 Federal Budget

The Government is spending - here’s how it might affect you:

Australia awaits bumper budget announcement

The US market rose this week whilst all other major markets weakened.

Aussie dollar takes a dive as risks rise

A mixed and topsy-turvy week for equity markets with Aussie and US markets trading sideways whilst European and Asian markets fell. 

Investors disappointed with lack of new stimulus

Local and global equity markets weakened this week as investors wanted to see more stimulus from central banks but got platitudes instead. 

Tech sector gets the wobbles as profit taking continues

Local and global equity markets largely fell this week as profit taking and concerns regarding technology company valuations continued.

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.

Profit taking sees sharp Tech sector falls drive markets lower

Local 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.

US Fed announces significant policy change

Global equities rose this week whilst Australian equities tread water as investors digested Australian company reporting season.

RBA calls on government to do more

Local and global equity markets largely tread water this week.

Better virus data supports equity markets

Local and global equity markets rose this week. 

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.

Gold surges through US$2,000

Local and global equity markets tracked higher for the week. 

Markets finally take some notice of poor economic data

Equity markets largely saw selling pressure this week as virus and economic concerns dampened investor sentiment.

Government extends job stimulus

Equity markets mostly finished flat for the week. 

Thoughts on AfterPay

In 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.

Markets higher on vaccine optimism

Local and global equity markets moved higher this week buoyed by optimism regarding promising results for both treatments and vaccines for the virus.

Quarter in Review - June 2020

The 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. 

Virus surge saps investor sentiment

Local and global equity markets fell this week on continued concerns regarding rising virus cases and potential further lockdown measures.

Investors buoyed by better economic data

Local 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.

Investors nervous as easing of virus restrictions halted

Local and global stock markets fell this week as some countries were forced to halt reopening plans whilst others were re-imposing some restrictions.

Market rise stalled by rising virus cases

Local and global equity markets rose strongly early in the week before trending sideways on rising virus numbers in the US and China.

Markets fall on 2nd wave concerns

Local 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.

Australian Market Rallies as Covid Cases Decline

Local and global equity markets pushed higher this week, almost completely ignoring increased US/China tensions and an America on fire.

Learnings and Actions during Covid-19 that can Shape your Future

Most 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

Maxim Virtual Economic Breakfast - May 2020

Maxim Director, Chris Sneddon, recently chatted with CEO of Police Bank Greg McKenna and former Newcastle Permanent & Aussie Home Loans CEO Stephen Porges. 

Maxim Investment Market Updates

Maxim 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.

Market sentiment improves on hopes for a vaccine

Local and global shares inched higher this week, getting some support from hopes of a vaccine and more economies opening back up.

Your Personal Finances with Scott Norrish

Scott recently partnered with The Travel Hub Industry to discuss managing your personal finances in the current economic environment. 

Investor sentiment sours on poor economic data

Local 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.

NSW Land Tax Relief

Following the NSW Government announcement of land tax relief for commercial and residential landowners they have now opened the application process.

Equity markets higher on reopening plans

Local and global equity markets rose this week, with investors buoyed by hopes of economies reopening.

ASX posts its best month in 32 years

Local 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.

Investors Take a Back Seat as Economic Fears Hit Home

Local and global equity markets fell this week as concerns regarding the economic contraction began to be felt.

ATO announces blanket lodgement deferrals

The Australian Taxation Office has announced blanket lodgement deferrals for the 2018-19 tax year due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. 

Small Business COVID-19 Support Grant for up to $10,000

The 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.

Markets buoyed by re-opening plans

Local and global equity markets moved higher this week, buoyed by comments from leaders around the world regarding gradual re-opening plans and dates.

It's time to prepare your business to receive the JobKeeper Payments

By 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.

JobKeeper Update

While the legislation was passed overnight, there is still not much clarification over the mechanics of the JobKeeper payment. 

Webinar: Financial strategies for your business during the COVID-19 pandemic

Maxim 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.

Extraordinary Stimulus Continues As Virus Worsens in the US

Global equity markets fell this week whilst the Australian equity market was slightly higher at time of writing.

COVID-19 Information and Resource Support

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented, and will continue to present, unprecedented challenges for businesses and individuals alike.

Covid-19 Update - Federal Government Third Stimulus - 4:40PM 30 March

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Treasurer Josh Frydenberg announced the third round of Federal government stimulus measures, in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Fiscal and Monetary Stimulus Buoys Investor Hopes

Local and global equity markets finished higher for the week, at time of writing, with sentiment boosted by significant central bank and government stimulus.

COVID-19 UPDATE: Federal Goverment Second Stimulus

Earlier today (Sunday 22^nd March 2020), Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a second round of Federal government stimulus measures, in response to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Covid-19 Central Bank Policy Response

Some 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.

COVID-19 - Support for You and Your Business in These Tough Time

Like 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. 

Economic Stimulus Package

In 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.

Market Update - 13 March 2020

No 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.

Investors undecided on the path forward

Welcome to our weekly blog written by our Investment Consultant Chris Lioutis.

The role of a trusted advisor

So what does a trusted advisor mean?

Equity markets take a breather on coronavirus concerns

Local 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.

Aussie and US Equity Markets Push Through New Highs

Local and global equity markets moved higher this week, with investor sentiment buoyed by the official signing of the US-China trade deal

Year in Review and Outlook for 2020

It’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.

Financial Planning Weekly Update - Week ending 6 December 2019

Equity markets confused on mixed trade war messaging 

2020 Vision

Are 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.  

Maxim Economic Breakfast with Philip Gardner

We 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.  

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.

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.

Maxim Events

Maxim 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. 

Every business owner needs to know - the difference between profit and cash

If 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.

Maxim Economic Insights - June 2019

In 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. 

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.

Total & permanent disability insurance

Total & 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.

Aliferous (Alfie) - Our girl with wings

The Maxim team is currently racing a 3-year-old thoroughbred called Aliferous, affectionately named “Alfie” in the office.

Maxim Economic Breakfast

We invite you to attend our upcoming economic breakfast with guest speakers, Tony Brasier of PRDnationwide and Maxim's resident economist, Greg McKenna. 

The importance of scale

Businesses 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.

Tax planning: Being proactive will save you

Have 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?

An interesting week for financials

Normally 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.

Life insurance

As 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.

Don't risk losing your money machine

Imagine 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?

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?

Staff first, customers second, shareholders third

Sir 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?

Cybercrime

Cyber 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.

Maxim presents Matt Hall

Maxim presents Matt Hall from Matt Hall Racing 

Key business lessons learned from the Smithink 'Young Guns' workshop

Earlier 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

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.

Common frustrations in business - Part 1

The 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.

Maxim presents Mark McCrindle

Maxim Advisors, McCrindle Research and NAB Partners present Newcastle's 'Business Confidence Briefing' event

Common frustrations in business - Part 2

In 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’.

KPI's for Newcastle's cafe coming of age

With 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?

Corporate structures - Does yours fit?

Tax Efficient? Wealth Protection? Have you ever ordered something online that didn’t quite fit?