Mark Bristow is RateCity's Home & Personal Finances Editor, and an experienced analyst, researcher, and producer. While primarily focused on Australian mortgage and home loan expertise, he has experience across energy, home and travel insurances. Mark has been a journalist and writer in the financial space for over ten years, previously researching and writing commercial real estate at CoreLogic. In the years since, Mark has worked for the Winning Group, Expedia, and has seen articles published at Lifehacker and Business Insider.
1039 articles written by Mark Bristow
Insurance pushing cost of living upwards – how’s your cover?
It may surprise no-one to learn that Australia’s cost of living has increased over the past quarter. However, it was higher insurance premiums across house, home contents and motor vehicles that contributed to some of the largest price rises. Which could mean now is as good a time as ever, to be looking carefully at your current policies and comparing some alternatives to see if you could be getting better deals.
Mark Bristow -
08 Feb, 2024 -
3 min read
Will you grow your wealth this year? Some of the top-rated savings accounts in February 2024
Australia’s inflation may be falling faster than previously predicted, which could make it easier for savers to grow their wealth. However, it’s important to consider more than just interest rates when comparing savings account options.
Mark Bristow -
07 Feb, 2024 -
3 min read
Would new emissions standards affect which car you’ll buy? Some of the top-rated car loans in February 2024
Australians bought record numbers of new vehicles in January 2024, with most being SUVs and Light Commercial vehicles. However, with new emissions standards potentially on the cards, how could this affect your choice of vehicle, and in turn your choice of car loan?
Mark Bristow -
07 Feb, 2024 -
3 min read
Apply now or wait? Some of the top-rated home loans in February 2024
With interest rates on hold for the time being, the next question for many Australian borrowers and refinancers is whether they should apply for a home loan now or later. In either case, it’s important to compare home loan options and make the best decision to suit your financial situation and personal goals.
Mark Bristow -
06 Feb, 2024 -
3 min read
What to expect from the RBA meeting in February 2024
In the leadup to the first meeting of the year for the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) board, economists from Australia's leading banks are in agreement that interest rates should stay on hold this month. That leaves two questions: how long will it take for inflation to fall into the RBA’s target band, and when will the first interest rate cut arrive?
Mark Bristow -
02 Feb, 2024 -
5 min read
Inflation growth at two-year low: does this mean no more rate hikes?
The latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) show that Australia has experienced its lowest rate of inflation growth in two years. So, what does this mean for Australia’s interest rates in 2024, and for Australian home loans in turn?
Mark Bristow -
31 Jan, 2024 -
3 min read
11 home loan cashback deals available in January 2024
If you’re considering refinancing this year, or looking for your first home loan, a cashback deal could be a competitive perk to prioritise when comparing home loans.
Mark Bristow -
23 Jan, 2024 -
4 min read
What are savings account conditions?
Earning the maximum interest from a savings account may require you to meet certain conditions, such as making regular deposits or minimal withdrawals. If you don’t fulfil these conditions, you may earn less interest on your savings, or even none at all.
Mark Bristow -
22 Jan, 2024 -
4 min read
The latest Gen Z trends? Saving and budgeting
As inflation and the cost of living put the squeeze on more Australian budgets, one generation is actively taking steps to save money and stay ahead of the curve. But how effective could these strategies be for reaching your savings goals?
Mark Bristow -
22 Jan, 2024 -
3 min read
Some of the top-rated car loans in January 2024
Australians bought cars in record numbers last year, with the number of new vehicle sales reaching an all-time high in 2023. But if you’re still looking to buy a set of wheels in 2024, it may be worth making sure that you have access to car finance that suits your needs and goals.
Mark Bristow -
16 Jan, 2024 -
3 min read