New Zealand’s public healthcare system provides essential medical services for eligible residents, including free hospital care for emergencies and serious conditions. But while it’s a solid foundation, it may not always meet every healthcare need — especially when it comes to timing, treatment options, or access to non-urgent care. That’s where private health insurance can […]
Author Archives: Kieran
Riding the ups and downs: Making sense of market volatility
If you’ve been watching your investment or KiwiSaver balance and noticed it’s dipped recently, you’re not alone. Market ups and downs—also known as volatility—can feel unsettling, especially when the news is full of talk about inflation, interest rates, and global uncertainty. So what’s actually going on? And what should you do (or not do) when […]
Emergency funds and income protection: Your financial safety net
Life can throw unexpected challenges your way, and having a financial safety net in place can help you navigate these times with less financial stress. Combining an emergency fund with income protection insurance can be a solid strategy for safeguarding your financial wellbeing, offering both short- and long-term protection. Why an emergency fund is essential […]
How to give yourself a financial checkup
Regularly reviewing your financial situation is crucial for staying on top of your finances and working toward your long-term goals. A financial checkup helps you assess your current position, identify areas for improvement, and ensure you’re making the most of your money. By taking the time to review key aspects of your financial health, you […]
Smart ways to keep health cover costs down
Health insurance is an important part of financial security, helping to cover medical costs when needed. However, premiums can be a significant expense. While reducing costs is possible, it’s essential to ensure you’re not compromising necessary coverage. Here are some general strategies that may help lower health insurance premiums while maintaining adequate protection. Compare plans […]
Financial goals for couples: Building a strong future together
Setting financial goals is an empowering way to build a secure and thriving future together. When couples align their financial objectives, they not only lay a strong foundation for financial success but also enrich their relationship through trust, communication, and teamwork. Here’s how you and your partner can set and achieve financial goals that benefit […]
Demystifying: ‘Locking in your losses’
When markets fluctuate or asset prices fall, the common advice is to “stay put” to avoid locking in your losses. But what does that mean, and how can you make informed decisions during market volatility? Let’s break it down. What does ‘Locking in your losses’ mean? Market downturns can reduce the value of your investments—whether […]
10 simple financial habits for a healthier financial future
A healthy financial future starts with small, consistent actions. By developing positive habits, you can create a strong foundation for long-term financial success. Here are ten simple habits to adopt that can make a meaningful difference. Set clear financial goals The first step is to clearly identify what you want to achieve. Whether it’s saving […]
Money lessons from 2024 to take into 2025
There’s nothing like seeing the calendar switch over into a new year to focus your mind on the lessons learnt from the previous 12 months. You might be thinking about what you achieved, what went well and what could have been better. And if you’re setting some goals for 2025, the experience of 2024 may […]
2024 in review: Key economic lessons to take into 2025
2024 was a tumultuous year for many people. While there were bright spots – such as inflation falling back within the Reserve Bank’s target band, and interest rates coming down – tough economic times persisted. Unemployment steadily rose through the year, retail spending took a hit but lifted 0.6 percent in October, and there were […]