Insights | Expert financial advice, superannuation tips and wealth creation strategies for every stage of life

Understanding the new US tariffs: What Trump’s ‘Liberation Day’ means for investors

Global markets took a hit after US President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs, under the banner of “Liberation Day.” While headlines described billions being “wiped” from markets, it’s worth noting the S&P 500, even after the drop, is still up over 18% from levels just three years ago.

Federal Budget 2025 – What it means for you

For most of our clients the cost-of-living announcements will be beneficial, while for the retirees receiving Centrelink pensions, the unfreezing of deeming rates is something to monitor.

Why trying to time the market doesn't pay

Timing the market is difficult and fraught with risk. Instead “time in the market” is the best approach for long-term investors who need consistent returns over different time horizons.

Accessing joint bank accounts when a loved-one dies

There are many practical and financial matters to consider amidst the emotional strain of losing a loved-one, particularly a spouse or partner.

Money the Biggest Test of Relationships

Romance may be in the air, but it’s not all wine and roses when two people combine their finances and aspirations in the name of love. According to Relationships ...

Make your financial New Year’s resolutions stick

Spending time relaxing and talking with family and friends over the holidays can make us reassess our goals and priorities. Many of us make resolutions which don’t last more than a month. In this article we explore what helps to make new habits stick.

FAQs

Why shouldn't I keep managing my own money, I've done all right so far?

Successful people are used to handling their own finances, but you may reach a point where financial management becomes too complex or time consuming and the consequences of financial mistakes far-reaching. At this stage it's wise to turn to a professional adviser who can help you build and protect wealth over the long-term.
Why do I need to meet with an adviser instead of talking on the phone?

If you value receiving expert advice (perhaps you're an expert in your field!) you know the importance of sitting down face-to-face to solve problems or improve your position. Our advisers don't give advice over the phone to new clients because we have a duty of care to consider your overall situation. That's best done in an initial consultation at our offices in Melbourne, Brisbane or Adelaide. We'll pick up the tab for the first meeting!
How do I know if I should seek professional financial advice?

Much like a personal trainer or career coach, your FMD adviser will help you set financial goals and hold you accountable. So you need to be ready to improve your financial position. If you are time-poor, have unresolved financial or investment decisions, need to plan for retirement or are facing lifestyle or career change, seeking advice can be a great relief. Many of our clients are successful executives or business owners who value expert financial advice so they can focus on what they do best.
How do I choose a financial adviser and why should I?

The title 'financial adviser' is often misunderstood, partly because it is used to describe advisers that work for or are affiliated with banks or superannuation funds. FMD Financial is not owned by or affiliated with another financial institution, and we charge a fee for service based our clients' individual needs. When choosing an adviser look for someone qualified and experienced, who is happy to offer client references. Choose someone you like and feel comfortable talking to. Over time they will become an important person during life's biggest challenges, like redundancy, divorce or the death of a loved one.
How does advice work and what does it cost?

Our clients know quality advice is an investment in the future and they partner with us for the long-haul because their investment pays off. We're committed to being open and transparent about our fees and what you can expect from our advice process so more people can experience the confidence and that comes from getting good advice.
Some useful website links relating to COVID-19

Australian Government Department of Health – facts and resources regarding COVID-19

Treasury – key economic response to COVID-19

Australian Taxation Office – COVID-19 support available

Centrelink – for those who expect to receive assistance if affected by COVID-19

Business.gov.au - Information and support for businesses affected by COVID-19

Tools & calculators

Profiler

The health, wealth and happiness profiler

At FMD financial we're on a mission to get more people on the road to Health, Wealth and Happiness, so we created Australia's most satisfying financial profiler.

Soon you'll discover your net worth and get your own personal balance sheet to see a true picture of your financial position.
Get Started

Videos

What to expect from a first meeting with an FMD adviser

It’s hard to know what to expect from a first meeting with a financial adviser, but getting your questions answered is worth it. Clients usually say ‘We wish we’d done it sooner! We’ll cover the cost of the first meeting, to ensure FMD and your chosen adviser is right for you (duration: 2:02)
What to expect from the Health Wealth and Happiness financial profiler

Get a picture of your financial position in 15 minutes using our quick and convenient online questionnaire.
You'll receive a personal balance sheet, see how your super is tracking and discover your net worth. You can also book a meeting with an FMD adviser to review your detailed personal report. We pick up the tab for the first meeting so there's nothing to loose and plenty to gain! (duration: 1:28)
Stop guessing and start planning your retirement now

We have the experience, financial modelling tools, and planning and investment expertise to show you how to make the most of your money and live the life you want.