Moneysmart tips: Resisting the hard sell | Planning big life decisions
It’s the lead up and countdown to Christmas! So, this month we have tips for resisting sales pressure and saving on bank fees.
The recent severe storms and hail activity that impacted Qld and NSW in late November have been declared an Insurance Catastrophe, with more than 44,000 insurance claims received already. Unfortunately, catastrophes like this brew up scammers – namely disaster chasers who try to exploit someone’s distress.
Please read our information below about avoiding disaster chasers when you’re impacted by a natural disaster.
And if 2026 will be your year for big life decisions - whether it’s planning your retirement or moving out of home for the first time – we’ve got you covered with guidance.
How to spot a disaster chaser
The combination of financial and emotional cost after a natural disaster might make you vulnerable to disaster chasers.
Moving out for the first time?
From flatmates to furniture, here’s a checklist to help you (or your kids) figure out the basics before they move.
“I was ready to retire but still had a mortgage”
Across health management, debt decisions and investment choices, explore some of our retirement planning stories.
What is a lifetime income stream
A lifetime income stream is designed to give you income that lasts for the rest of your life. Learn how it can work for you in retirement.
$93 million of bank fees back to customers
ASIC’s recent report found that customers collectively paid over $93 million in fees that they didn’t have to, which banks committed to refund.
See if you’re eligible for a low-fee bank account.
Pump and dump: market manipulation
In the era of social outreach, pump and dump schemes have new oxygen. International regulators say these tricks are on the rise. Learn the signs to look out for.
Avoiding sales pressure
To help you avoid a post-Christmas hangover we’ve outlined sales techniques to watch out for, to keep your spending under control.