News

Making lump sum contributions to super

I am 69 years of age and not working full time. I am living off the income from 2 rental properties and have the opportunity of part time employment. I have been advised that if I work 40 hours in a 30 day period I can make a lump sum contributation to superannuation. I do…

When is the best time to trade currencies?

When it comes to trading, everyone is trying to look for an “edge” but of course it is not easy to find. An edge can come in any form and is usually a small change that can make a difference. Many people, particularly new traders, do not realize that you can gain an edge in…

Commencing a transition to retirement strategy while still adding to super – Part 2

In Jeremy’s recent article “Commencing a transition to retirement strategy while still adding to super” he says (with reference to the 2009/10 financial year): “Secondly, at $30,000 taxable income you have optimised your personal tax situation. There is no point salary sacrificing below this level as things like low income earners rebate take you to…

A recession-proof stock

By Guy Carson, Clime Asset Management Beginning with the takeover of Foodland in 2005, Metcash Limited (ASX:MTS) has continued to establish itself as the significant third player in the Australian grocery market with 19% market share (See Figure 1). Its 2009 results released last month further emphasised its significant position within the market and reaffirmed…

Commencing a transition to retirement strategy while still adding to super

I am 60 and have commenced a transition to retirement pension. I am taking the minimum amount 2%. As I am still working I am in a position to put some of my savings back into my super fund. Am I correct in assuming that I can do this providing I do not exceed $450,000 over a…

How to analyse price charts and use trading tools before you trade the markets

Market trading, like any mental exercise, requires a bit of knowledge and expertise before you really can give it a go. For many traders, that knowledge starts with not only having a sound trading plan, but also in techniques that help analyze a market in question – whether one wants to track and trade commodities,…

Portfolio Watch – targeting stocks for long-term capital growth

Establishing a share portfolio can be one of the best investments you’ll ever make. But like most things in life, success will usually require commitment, dedication and homework. These essentials need to be mixed with personal objectives, time frame and firm decision-making. Stockbroker Mark Goulopoulos, of Patersons Securities, has established a share portfolio he believes…

Aussies ‘don’t understand their super’

It’s the average Australian’s second biggest investment, behind the family home, yet new research shows many Australians don’t understand their superannuation. Research by insurer Suncorp has found only four out of 10 people claimed to understand their superannuation statement. Vicki Doyle, executive general manager for superannuation and investments for Suncorp, said nearly half of the…

Price-to-Book Ratio

A handy measure used to assess whether a company’s share price is justified or not is the Price-To-Book Ratio (P/B ratio). The P/B ratio is calculated by dividing the closing price of the stock by the company’s latest book value per share (from its quarterly or annual statements). Many of you would be familiar with…

What are covered calls and how can you profit from them?

Trading Strategy: The Covered Call Carl holds 1,000 Woolworths (WOW) shares, currently trading at $26.50. He receives company dividends as income from holding these shares, but he is looking for an opportunity to generate additional income from his investment. Carl’s market outlook for WOW is for the share price to remain steady over the short…