The Investor 14 June 2005
Investing offhore not as risky as it seems. It’s an oft-quoted excuse for not investing offshore: If you do, you take on foreign exchange risk. But is it really risky?
The Investor 3 May 2005
Index funds still the best, despite tax changes. An ice cream is still delicious without the chocolate dip. The same goes for index share funds. Since they made an appearance in New Zealand in the late 1990s, these funds have had a tax advantage over the other type of share funds, called active funds. It seems likely that the tax advantage will be removed soon. But even if it goes, I still think index funds are best.
The Investor 22 March 2005
Rentals not necessarily as good as they seem. Rental property is sometimes an excellent investment. There, I’ve said it, for all those who reckon I’m anti-rentals! Often, though, rentals are not quite as good as people think — and not just because the tax breaks are over-rated, as I said in my last column.
The Investor 8 March 2005
Rental property tax breaks don’t amount to much. I don’t get it. Politicians and economists have been complaining lately that rental property has tax advantages over shares. It’s hardly a new claim. But what are these advantages — beyond depreciation, which is vastly overrated?
Holm Truths Autumn 2004
‘His & Hers’ investment styles: How gender affects the way we invest. Also in this issue: From the Mailbox — Borrowing to invest, eg in a rental property.
Holm Truths Spring 2003
Life, limbs and livelihood: How much life, disability and income protection insurance do you need? Also in this issue: Great Debate — Australian v international shares.
Holm Truths Winter 2002
Getting into gear: Borrowing to invest makes a good investment better and a bad investment worse. Also in this issue: Great Debate — Fixed v floating mortgages.
Holm Truths Autumn 2001
Terms of enrichment: How long you want to tie up your money affects what you invest in. Also in this issue: Great Debate — Shares v rental property.