Spring clean your finances in 5 simple steps

By Christopher Giaouris

October 25 2019
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With spring upon us, now is the perfect time to not only spring-clean your house, but also clean up your finances, according to the Financial Planning Association’s Christopher Giaouris.

Steam-clean your big picture

Focus on longer-term strategies that can have a much bigger impact on your financial position, rather than getting caught up on the more immediate things.

Optimising tax strategies and seeking higher returns on your investments are some longer-term strategies that can help your financial growth.

Give your investments a new coat of paint

Always remember, short-term volatility is the price you pay for long-term growth. But it doesn’t mean that you should put all your eggs in one basket – be it shares, property or cash under the bed! It’s easy to get complacent with your investments, so take a minute to revisit the “why” to make sure your strategy is still in line with the end goal.

If you haven’t reviewed your investments in a few years, there may be new alternatives you can utilise which allow you to enhance how you invest. You can freshen up your investments by reducing your fees or increasing diversification.

Blow the cobwebs off your old business plan

We are business owners ourselves and we work with many Australians who run their own show. Regardless of what it is you do, we find it’s common for the self-employed to get caught up in doing the things that keep the lights on day in, day out. If you’re not innovating, you better believe your competitors are!

Put a spring into your savings by taking advantage of freebies

There are a range of tax offsets, deductions, superannuation benefits and incentives that can make a real difference when combined with the power of compound interest. Incentives such as the government’s co-contribution and a “spouse contribution” are just some of the ways you can rejuvenate your budget. These won’t make you a millionaire overnight, but over time, with the power of compound interest, this type of thing can make a real difference.

Make sure your money is in the right hands

You should be asking yourself, “What is the best way for me to hold this asset?”

This simple question can provide serious benefits in the short and long term. Should you be using a complex structure like a company or trust? Should you be holding assets jointly or only in the name of one spouse? Getting this right can provide many benefits, not just related to tax.

If you aren’t sure what the best option for you is, seek advice from others such as a financial adviser.

Chris Giaouris is a partner and principal adviser for Chronos Private wealth management.

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