In this month's Big Picture Podcast, we step back from the headlines and look at what's really going on beneath the surface in our economy, our property markets, and the world of wealth creation Ken Raiss and I discuss a range of topics of importance to property investors .

Lenders are changing their rules. Rates are sending mixed signals. Tax policy is tightening. The ATO is sharpening its pencils. And to top it off, the ABS has released disturbing new data showing that people with disability are far more likely to be victims of fraud.

None of these issues live in a vacuum. Together, they paint a very different picture of the environment in which investors and affluent families are operating today.

Takeaways

· The economic landscape for property investors is shifting rapidly.

· Lending restrictions are becoming more selective, impacting borrowing capacity.

· Interest rates are unlikely to decrease in the near future.

· The ATO is tightening regulations around tax deductions for holiday homes.

· Land tax changes in New South Wales could increase financial burdens on property owners.

· Investors should view land tax as a cost of doing business, not a deterrent.

· Vulnerable populations, especially those with disabilities, are at higher risk of financial fraud.

· Proper estate planning is crucial for protecting assets and ensuring financial security.

· Using trusts can be beneficial, but they must be set up correctly to avoid complications.

· Strategic planning is essential for successful property investment.

Chapters

00:00 Key shifts in lending rules, tax changes and new fraud data.

01:38 Lenders restrict trusts and SMSF borrowing as risk tightens.

03:20 Why misguided "trust stacking" advice caused today's clampdown.

08:12 Fixed rates rise early as markets signal no cuts ahead.

12:40 ATO targets holiday-home deductions and tightens compliance.

17:56 NSW freezes land-tax thresholds, increasing investor exposure.

Links and Resources:

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Michael Yardney

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Ken Raiss, Director of Metropole Wealth Advisory

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