Join Tim Ewen, risk insurance manager, and Rory O'Neill, Financial Adviser, Director and General Manager of Stewart Group, as they delve into the pressing issue of the Reserve Bank's recent OCR cut and its implications for financial planning in New Zealand.

In this episode, Tim and Rory share their insights on how the OCR cut is impacting interest rates, the importance of diversifying investments, and the challenges faced by young Kiwis in the current economic climate.

The conversation covers the reasons behind the OCR cut, its contribution to national inflation, and the broader economic implications. Tim and Rory also explore the significance of setting long-term financial goals, the need for an emergency fund, and the benefits of consulting a financial advisor.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how the Reserve Bank's decisions affect your finances and what you can do to navigate your financial journey responsibly.

Read the full 'Navigating New Zealand’s Economic Crossroads' article HERE

Time Stamps:

Introduction and Overview

• 00:00:59 - Introduction and overview of the podcast episode

OCR Cut and Interest Rates

• 00:01:22 - Discussion on the ongoing downward trajectory in the official cash rate (OCR) and its impact on struggling Kiwis
• 00:01:57 - The obsession with interest rates and their impact on mortgages, term deposits, and property investments

Investment Strategies and Diversification

• 00:03:17 - Questioning past investment strategies in property and their relevance today
• 00:03:44 - The dangers of relying solely on property for wealth generation and the importance of diversification

Unemployment and Economic Challenges

• 00:07:13 - Addressing the rising unemployment rate and its implications
• 00:07:39 - The impact of rising unemployment on businesses and the economy

Challenges for Young Kiwis

• 00:08:44 - Challenges young Kiwis face in home ownership and their tendency to leave the country
• 00:09:20 - The lack of opportunities for young people in New Zealand and their decision to move overseas

Financial Planning Advice

• 00:12:15 - Financial planning advice for different types of listeners

The Adviser Talk is available on all popular streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. 

Rory O'Neill is a Financial Adviser as well as the Director and General Manager at Stewart Group, a Hawke's Bay and Wellington-based CEFEX-certified financial planning and advisory firm. Stewart Group provides personal fiduciary services, Wealth Management, Risk Insurance & KiwiSaver solutions. 

The information provided, or any opinions expressed in this show, are of a general nature only and should not be construed or relied on as a recommendation to invest in a financial product or class of financial products. You should seek financial advice specific to your circumstances from an Authorised Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions. A disclosure statement can be obtained free of charge by calling 0800 878 961 or visit our website, www.stewartgroup.co.nz

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rate increases, or daylight robbery?

Join Nick Stewart, CEO and financial advisor at Stewart Group, and Tim Ewen, risk insurance manager, as they delve into the pressing issue of local authority rates in New Zealand. In this episode, Nick shares insights on the rates crisis, discussing the financial challenges faced by local councils and their impact on residents.

The conversation covers the reasons behind rising council rates, their contribution to national inflation, and the broader economic implications. Nick and Tim also explore the accountability of councils, the need for fiscal prudence, and the importance of voter engagement in local elections.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how local government decisions affect your finances and what you can do to advocate for responsible spending.

Read the full 'Rates Crisis' article HERE

Important Time Stamps:

• 00:01:01 - Introduction
• 00:01:37 - Nick shares insights from his latest article about the rates crisis
• 00:03:26 - Explanation of local authority rates and their importance
• 00:05:34 - Discussion on council rates as a major contributor to national inflation
• 00:07:51 - The impact of rising council rates on residents
• 00:12:44 - Comparison of council accountability to business accountability
• 00:14:06 - Perceived arrogance and unaccountability of councils
• 00:17:46 - Questions voters should ask their mayoral candidates
• 00:23:34 - Final message to voters and the importance of asking difficult questions

The Adviser Talk is available on all popular streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Nick Stewart is a Financial Adviser and CEO at Stewart Group, a Hawke's Bay and Wellington-based CEFEX-certified financial planning and advisory firm. Stewart Group provides personal fiduciary services, Wealth Management, Risk Insurance & KiwiSaver solutions. 

The information provided, or any opinions expressed in this show, are of a general nature only and should not be construed or relied on as a recommendation to invest in a financial product or class of financial products. You should seek financial advice specific to your circumstances from an Authorised Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions. A disclosure statement can be obtained free of charge by calling 0800 878 961 or visit our website, www.stewartgroup.co.nz

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You can't bank time for later - you've got to use it today.

That's the key message from our latest podcast, where Brent Allcock, our Financial Adviser from the Wellington office, discusses why procrastination can negatively impact your financial security. With Kiwis feeling the pressure from rising costs, he provides practical tips to take control of your finances.

When it comes to managing your money, taking action today is far better than waiting until tomorrow. Don’t let procrastination erode your financial well-being.

⏰ Important time-stamps

(01:09) Do we really have time when it comes to finances?

(01:29) Reflections on time, money and the importance of acting now

(02:36) Budgeting tips and lifestyle adjustments

(05:12) The need for planning

(06:51) Mindset shift

(09:02) Rising living costs and planning for retirement

(12:44) Are people reconsidering investing during uncertain times?

(14:33) Kiwisaver performance and diversified portfolios

(16:35) Brent’s top tip

The Adviser Talk is available on all popular streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. 

• Brent Allcock is a Financial Adviser at Stewart Group, a Hawke's Bay and Wellington-based CEFEX certified financial planning and advisory firm. Stewart Group provides personal fiduciary services, Wealth Management, Risk Insurance & KiwiSaver solutions.  
• The information provided, or any opinions expressed in this show, are of a general nature only and should not be construed or relied on as a recommendation to invest in a financial product or class of financial products. You should seek financial advice specific to your circumstances from an Authorised Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions. A disclosure statement can be obtained free of charge by calling 0800 878 961 or visit our website, www.stewartgroup.co.nz 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Just like modern cars come equipped with essential safety features, your investment portfolio should be built with protection in mind.

In this episode, our General Manager and Financial Adviser, Rory O’Neill, joins host Tim Ewen, our Risk Insurance Manager and avid car enthusiast, to explore how the safety systems in today’s vehicles mirror the protective strategies found in smart investment portfolios.

Think about it: you wouldn’t put your family in an unsafe vehicle, so why risk your financial future with an unprotected investment strategy?

If you would like to read the article by Nick Stewart, our CEO and Financial Adviser, here is the link: https://www.stewartgroup.co.nz/we-love-to-write/modern-protection-in-vehicles-and-investments

⏰ Important time-stamps

(02:14) Introduction

(2:31) Car safety vs. investment portfolios

(5:43) The role of Financial Advisers

(6:53) Early warning systems in vehicles and investment portfolios

(10:30) Quality and protection go hand-in-hand

(12:14) Trust the experts

(14:06) Behind the scenes: Portfolio Protection

(15:31) Fee transparency and custodial services

(17:18) Adaptive cruise control vs. portfolio management

(18:38) Accident alerts vs. limit break reports

(19:40) Rory's car choice

(20:41) Key message from Rory on portfolio management

The Adviser Talk is available on all popular streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. 

• Rory O'Neill is a Financial Adviser as well as the Director and General Manager at Stewart Group, a Hawke's Bay and Wellington-based CEFEX-certified financial planning and advisory firm. Stewart Group provides personal fiduciary services, Wealth Management, Risk Insurance & KiwiSaver solutions. 
• The information provided, or any opinions expressed in this show, are of a general nature only and should not be construed or relied on as a recommendation to invest in a financial product or class of financial products. You should seek financial advice specific to your circumstances from an Authorised Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions. A disclosure statement can be obtained free of charge by calling 0800 878 961 or visit our website, www.stewartgroup.co.nz

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In today’s financial landscape, it’s easy for investors to get caught up in popular catchphrases like “They're not making any more land” or “Buy the dip”.

Bruce Jenks, our Financial Adviser from our Hastings office, warns that when these phrases replace critical thinking, investors may make decisions based on hype instead of fundamental market truths.

Catchphrases can be appealing, but they often oversimplify complex decisions and overlook individual circumstances. Successful investing requires discipline that goes beyond catchy phrases.

Check out the article by our CEO, Nick Stewart, that was published in Hawke’s Bay Today and NZ Herald Online: When Catchphrases Replace Common Sense: The Dangerous Allure of Investment Folklore

⏰ Important time-stamps

(1:53) Introduction

(3:26) Catchphrase: "Don't put all your eggs in one basket"

(4:15) Diversification explained

(6:00) Marketing & promotion of investments

(7:51) Investing in bricks and mortar

(8:41) Catchphrase: "They're not making any more land"

(9:37) Catchphrase: "Time in the market beats timing the market"

(10:57) Why you should talk to your financial adviser instead of reacting to headlines

(15:16) Financial advice isn’t one-size-fits-all

(16:22) Catchphrase: "Buy the dip"

(18:07) Role of Stewart Group

(19:49) Does Stewart Group take a long-term view in financial planning?

(20:38) What it means to be fiduciary advisers at Stewart Group

The Adviser talk is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

• Bruce Jenks (AIF, J.P.) is a Financial Adviser at Stewart Group and the Director of Stewart Group Trustee Companies, a Hawke's Bay and Wellington-based CEFEX-certified financial planning and advisory firm. Stewart Group provides personal fiduciary services, Wealth Management, Risk Insurance & KiwiSaver solutions. 
• The information provided, or any opinions expressed in this article, are of a general nature only and should not be construed or relied on as a recommendation to invest in a financial product or class of financial products. You should seek financial advice specific to your circumstances from an Authorised Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions. A disclosure statement can be obtained free of charge by calling 0800 878 961 or visit our website, www.stewartgroup.co.nz

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government has rolled out the biggest KiwiSaver shake-up in years, and it's going to impact everyone from teens to top earners.

These adjustments could influence your retirement savings. If you’re curious about how they might affect your plans, check out this podcast where Tim Ewen chats with our Financial Adviser, Paula Enticott. They discuss the recent changes to KiwiSaver announced by the government and its potential impact.

You can also read her blog on this topic: KiwiSaver Changes in Budget 2025: What This Means for Your Retirement

⏰ Important time-stamps

(1:18) Introduction

(2:10) KiwiSaver changes and the impact

(2:59) Retirement mindset in New Zealanders

(4:21) Changes introduced in the 2025 budget

(05:05) Increase in employer contribution

(05:48) Benefits for younger Kiwis entering the workforce

(6:22) Should employers be concerned about increased employer contributions?

(07:23) Government contribution update

(08:30) ACI Funds in Financial Planning

(11:17) ACI Funds investment options

(12:27) ACI Funds investment strategy and policy

(13:15) Unsure about your KiwiSaver scheme?

(14:36) Connect with Stewart Group

The Adviser talk is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcast. 

• Paula Enticott is a Financial Adviser at Stewart Group, a Hawke's Bay and Wellington-based CEFEX-certified financial planning and advisory firm. Stewart Group provides personal fiduciary services, Wealth Management, Risk Insurance & KiwiSaver solutions. 
• The information provided, or any opinions expressed in this article, are of a general nature only and should not be construed or relied on as a recommendation to invest in a financial product or class of financial products. You should seek financial advice specific to your circumstances from an Authorised Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions. A disclosure statement can be obtained free of charge by calling 0800 878 961 or visit our website, www.stewartgroup.co.nz

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Nick Stewart, our CEO and Financial Adviser, takes a deep dive into the 2025 Budget delivered by Finance Minister Nicola Willis.

From proposed KiwiSaver changes to pay equity adjustments, the budget has sparked plenty of discussion—and concern. Nick unpacks the key elements, explores the challenges ahead and asks the big question: Is this truly a “Growth Budget,” a bold step forward, or just wishful thinking?

Don’t miss Nick’s article featured in Hawke’s Bay Today and the NZ Herald Online: Budget 2025: King Canute's Economic Delusion

⏰ Important time-stamps

(1:01) Introduction

(02:05) Nick’s economic insights were mentioned on NewsTalk ZB during a conversation between PM Christopher Luxon and Mike Hosking

(02:51) Nick’s take on the 2025 New Zealand Budget

(04:46) Is this truly a “growth” budget?

(7:13) Productivity for Tradies

(8:45) Broader thoughts on productivity and efficiency

(12:13) NZ Budget 2025: “Robbing Peter to pay Paul”?

(15:24) Impacts of KiwiSaver changes

(24:14) Cuts made to pay parity and other areas

(28:51) Lessons from King Canute

(30:48) Where can you find Stewart Group

The Adviser Talk is available on all popular streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

• Nick Stewart is a Financial Adviser and CEO at Stewart Group, a Hawke's Bay and Wellington-based CEFEX-certified financial planning and advisory firm. Stewart Group provides personal fiduciary services, Wealth Management, Risk Insurance & KiwiSaver solutions. 
• The information provided, or any opinions expressed in this show, are of a general nature only and should not be construed or relied on as a recommendation to invest in a financial product or class of financial products. You should seek financial advice specific to your circumstances from an Authorised Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions. A disclosure statement can be obtained free of charge by calling 0800 878 961 or visit our website, www.stewartgroup.co.nz

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Brent Allcock, our Financial Adviser at Stewart Group in Wellington, reminds us that some of the most powerful financial lessons often come from Mums!

Research consistently shows that women tend to make smarter investment decisions. They’re more likely to:

• Prioritise long-term outcomes over short-term gains
• Set ego aside when making financial choices
• Seek advice when needed

So, what can we learn from the timeless wisdom of “Mum knows best” when it comes to money? Tune in to the podcast to find out!

Check out the article by our CEO, Nick Stewart, that was published in Hawke’s Bay Today and NZ Herald Online: "Mum Knows Best: Financial Lessons from Our Mothers."

⏰ Important time-stamps

(1:01) Introduction

(4:12) Mums & Financial lessons

(5:59) Budgeting that stood the test of time

(8:04) Why women are better investors

(9:07) The right way to approach joint financial planning

(11:29) Estate planning and joint accounts

(13:05) Importance of joint ownership in insurance policies

(14:43) Investing as a shared journey for couples

(16:58) Do women get the credit they deserve for managing finances?

(17:59) Brent's role as a financial coach

(19:55) Brent’s key message for aspiring financially savvy individuals

The Adviser Talk is available on all popular streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

 Follow Stewart Group on Facebook for the latest updates and articles from our team of expert financial advisers. Looking to get your financial house in order, and keep it that way? We can help.

• Brent Allcock is a Financial Adviser at Stewart Group, a Hawke's Bay and Wellington-based CEFEX certified financial planning and advisory firm. Stewart Group provides personal fiduciary services, Wealth Management, Risk Insurance & KiwiSaver solutions.  
• The information provided, or any opinions expressed in this show, are of a general nature only and should not be construed or relied on as a recommendation to invest in a financial product or class of financial products. You should seek financial advice specific to your circumstances from an Authorised Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions. A disclosure statement can be obtained free of charge by calling 0800 878 961 or visit our website, www.stewartgroup.co.nz 

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we are joined by Bruce Jenks, our Financial Adviser at Stewart Group, who shares valuable insights on legacy planning.

Legacy planning goes beyond simply writing a will, it involves ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and protecting the people you care about most. Procrastinating on this important task can lead to unnecessary complications for those you leave behind.

It's important to remember that legacy planning is not just for the wealthy or the elderly. Your legacy deserves your attention and proactive action—don’t leave it to chance.

📖 Want to dive deeper? Read an article on this topic by our CEO and Financial Adviser, Nick Stewart: Legacy Planning: Preparing for Tomorrow Today

⏰ Important time-stamps

(1:00) Introduction.

(02:02) Legacy planning explained.

(02:18) Understanding Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA).

(3:24) Is legacy planning only for the elderly or wealthy?

(04:32) Risks of not having a will or an Enduring Power of Attorney.

(07:58) Transferring physical assets smoothly.

(10:49) The role of an executor & choosing the right one.

(12:27) How trusts fit into legacy planning.

(13:17) What is a Memorandum of Wishes (MOA)?

(14:56) Bruce’s recommendation on how to get started with legacy planning.

(17:13) Who to contact for help and guidance?

(18:30) Why estate plan is essential?

(19:35) Finding Stewart Group.

The Adviser talk is also available on Spotify and Apple Podcast. 

• Bruce Jenks (AIF, J.P.) is a Financial Adviser at Stewart Group and the Director of Stewart Group Trustee Companies, a Hawke's Bay and Wellington-based CEFEX-certified financial planning and advisory firm. Stewart Group provides personal fiduciary services, Wealth Management, Risk Insurance & KiwiSaver solutions. 
• The information provided, or any opinions expressed in this article, are of a general nature only and should not be construed or relied on as a recommendation to invest in a financial product or class of financial products. You should seek financial advice specific to your circumstances from an Authorised Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions. A disclosure statement can be obtained free of charge by calling 0800 878 961 or visit our website, www.stewartgroup.co.nz

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Tim Ewen has a chat with Rory O'Neill, our Director and Financial Adviser, about why financial planning matters, especially when markets are volatile.

At Stewart Group, we believe everyone should have a plan for their financial future, regardless of where they are in life. Whether you're kicking off your career or gearing up for retirement, our team is here to guide you through the highs and lows of your financial journey.

Don't let market fluctuations keep you up at night – stick to your plan and let us work behind the scenes to make the most of your investments.

⏰ Important time-stamps

(1:05) Introduction

(01:56) Tariffs and their impact on Kiwis

(03:02) Market dips - a buying opportunity?

(04:37) Long-term financial planning

(06:19) Human behaviour during volatility

(06:59) Reassurance for KiwiSaver clients

(08:13) KiwiSaver and easte planning

(9:22) Is budgeting a part of financial planning?

(10:55) Is financial planning a complex process?

(11:47) Key areas to understand for a smooth financial future

(13:04) The FOMO effect and materialism

(14:27) Engaging with Stewart Group

(14:43) ACI Funds account for children

(14:55) Risk insurance & financial planning

(16:20) Stick to your plan!

(16:49) Finding Stewart Group

If you'd like to read Rory's blog, Trump's Tariff Gamble: What It Means for New Zealand. Here's the link to it: https://bit.ly/3GzJxQX

The Adviser Talk is available on all popular streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple Podcasts. 

• Rory O'Neill is a Financial Adviser as well as the Director and General Manager at Stewart Group, a Hawke's Bay and Wellington-based CEFEX-certified financial planning and advisory firm. Stewart Group provides personal fiduciary services, Wealth Management, Risk Insurance & KiwiSaver solutions. 
• The information provided, or any opinions expressed in this show, are of a general nature only and should not be construed or relied on as a recommendation to invest in a financial product or class of financial products. You should seek financial advice specific to your circumstances from an Authorised Financial Adviser before making any financial decisions. A disclosure statement can be obtained free of charge by calling 0800 878 961 or visit our website, www.stewartgroup.co.nz

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.