Articles & Questions
Every week I publish a fun new article on a money topic I think you’ll find interesting. I also answer a handful of reader questions. Subscribers to my newsletter get to see everything first — but you can browse some of my past articles & questions on this page.
My Best Articles
Not sure where to start? Below I’ve handpicked a few of my favourites. And if you like what you see, don’t forget to subscribe to my free newsletter to get new issues before anyone else!
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Should I ditch Comminsure?
Hi Scott,I'm a single self-employed professional. I took out income protection insurance (and the full suite including trauma, total and permanent disability and life insurance) when I bought my first house, with CommInsure.
Negotiating with the big boys
Hi Scott,Can you help me negotiate for a better deal with my superannuation provider? I've already asked them to reduce my fees twice, but they seem reluctant.
What’s the Go with Kidman & Co?
Hi Barefoot,We've been looking for a small australian based investment to have a dabble and came across the sale of S. Kidman & Co Ltd.
Cancer Stricken Battler ... Lends a Hand?
Hi Scott, I’m in my 50s, and have just battled cancer. I foolishly helped out my partner with $112,000 credit cards that he put in my name over a 10 year period.
Real Estate Mistakes: How to Turn $90,000 into $2.4 million
I’m writing this to you today from my study, which overlooks the rolling hills of my family farm. It’s really peaceful out here.
Mum was a Survivor
Hi Scott,I’m 48 and a stay-at-home mum of three children. Until recently I was also carer of my mum, but sadly she didn't survive heart surgery.
The Financial Fatty
Hi Scott, I’m a successful professional who achieves big goals: I have multiple degrees and a great job -- and I recently lost 12kg. Yet I have a $280k mortgage, a $36k credit card debt, and no savings.
Becoming a Shipping Magnate
Hi Scott, I recently heard about investing in shipping containers through a company based in Hong Kong called Pacific Tycoon. They lease the containers owned by individuals and rent them to the shipping industry.
Why you should invest like a girl
It was International Women’s Day last week, so I’d like to talk to you about a Q&A session I’m doing next week at a high school with a bunch of teenagers.I’ve done a lot of work in schools over the years, and here’s what I can tell you: if you push them for an answer, most teenage girls will tell you that they see themselves getting married, buying a house, and having kids.
How Do I Pay Less Tax?
Dear Scott I work 80 hours a fortnight and am the main provider for my family. Four months ago I got a new job that pays $86,000 a year.
The Great Grandmother
Hi Scott,I’m in my seventies, and I’m very anxious. One of my grandchildren doesn't have enough savings to qualify for a housing loan, and is short by about $160,000.
Insane in the Membrane
Hi Scott, Warning: we’re completely insane. I’m married with two kids (1 and 3 years old).
The 93 Year Old Barefooter
Hello, I am a 93 yr old self-funded retiree. We’re in a comfortable position, however the drop in rates has dented our income badly.
Donald Trump Effect
Hi Scott, Should investors panic if Donald Trump wins the Republican nomination for president....or only panic if he actually wins the presidency?
Whisky...as an Investment?
The Lord moves in mysterious ways. An interview I’d hoped to bring you this week fell over at the very last minute - leaving me staring at a blank screen.
Should I set up a SMSF?
Hi Scott, I have inherited $500,000. My existing super fund balance is $140,000.
Single Mum Wants Security
Hi ScottMy home insurance is up for renewal and (like Tegan who wrote in last week) I'm looking for a total replacement policy. You said you use an insurance broker -- is that the right step for everybody?
A Super Simple Question
Hi Scott, I am 42 and a high-income earner ($260,000 a year) and my wife is a stay-at-home mother. I know I am able to make an after-tax contribution to my wife -- but am I able to make a pre-tax contribution to her super account?
Are we in a housing bubble?
Are prices going to crash by as much as 50 per cent, as some experts predicted in the news this week? Will the government have the ticker to change the negative gearing rules?