Insights

In many ways, the current global monetary environment is quite extraordinary. There has been unprecedented money creation by the world's major central banks. Policy interest rates are negative across much of Europe. Long-term government bonds yields in most advanced economies are the lowest in recorded history. Lending rates for many private sector borrowers are the lowest ever. And some banks in Europe are now charging customers to accept deposits.

China set the lowest economic growth target in more than 15 years and flagged increasing headwinds as leaders tackle the side effects of a generation-long expansion that spurred corruption, fueled debt and hurt the environment.

Traders continue to trek further away from the allusive 6000 mark, as downward pressure is concentrated to materials and REIT-based stocks. The RBA's decision on Tuesday to sit idle has sent ripples through to equity market.

Rock-bottom interest rates challenge one of the golden rules of wealth creation.

This relatively new offering from fund managers offers a new choice to income seeking investors with new risks attached.

Critics are still peddling myths on the 'cost' of super. It's time to step up.

Evaluating the process of setting up a company trustee for your SMSF and reducing fees payable on name changes.

If government does lift taxes in super, investors have plenty of other options.

A struggling government would make a mistake lifting taxes in this crucial area.

More female participation at executive levels delivers better investment returns.

Shorting stocks, ISIS and investing in Magellan's exchange-traded managed fund.

The Australian market recently hit fresh multi-year highs, which has triggered a debate about whether local stocks are overvalued. There is no doubt there is some short-term risk in Australian equities, which was reflected in yesterday's sharp sell-off after the Reserve Bank held rates steady. However we believe the short-term outlook is reasonably positive.

Portfolio Manager of the Platinum Asia Fund, Joseph Lai, explains the investment case for China in this video.

This is the second article in a three part series. Combined, the articles explain that bonds are appropriate investments across all economic cycles. There are three different bonds that work best under different economic conditions: fixed rate, floating rate and inflation linked.

This is the third and final article in this series. Combined, the articles explain that bonds are appropriate investments across all economic cycles. There are three different bonds that work best under different economic conditions: fixed rate, floating rate and inflation linked

Lower overseas markets are likely to see a cautious tone on our market this morning on what looks like being a relatively quiet day in terms of fresh news.