Readers respond on KiwiSaver tax breaks. Three readers were unhappy with my last column, in which I said the KiwiSaver tax breaks expected in the upcoming Budget will benefit only some people, at the expense of New Zealand as a whole.
From the Mailbox. A mortgage-free couple wonder how to use the equity in their home.
Think again about those KiwiSaver tax breaks. Many readers were no doubt pleased to hear of Winston Peters’ recent hints that the May 17 Budget will include tax breaks in the KiwiSaver retirement savings scheme. But only some will benefit — and it will be at the expense of others, and the country as a whole.
KiwiSaver enticing enough already. KiwiSaver, the new retirement savings scheme starting July 1, is coming in for criticism that is doesn’t include more tax incentives. But I’m glad of that.
Q&As: Should we have a new 25c coin instead of a new 20c coin, and also a $5 coin?; Is tithing the way to go? One reader says yes, another no.
Owning your home not always the best option. Most New Zealanders grow up expecting to own their own home, but soaring house prices have made it harder for people to get into the market. Does that matter? Is home ownership all it’s cracked up to be?
Stay Away: Don’t rush to bring your shares back from overseas. Also in this issue: From the Mailbox — Giving the kids a great start with regular investing.
Q&As: Lessons from the Bible: Is borrowing bad?; Is luck or attitude the secret to wealth?; Sharebrokers shouldn’t always be expected to give ongoing advice.
Stuff and happiness: Buying things you don’t really need. Also in this issue: From the Mailbox — Should a young man buy himself a house?
Q&As: Can he retire?, 40-year-old asks; Couple about to retire wonder if their expenses will drop as they get older; Student loan interest ends. What happens if you go overseas?