ASIC orders Cash Converters to pay out $12 million

An ASIC investigation into payday lender Cash Convertors has found that $10.8 million must be refunded to consumers who were wrongfully issued loans and a further $1.35 million will be paid to ASIC in penalty infringements.

Why now could be the time to fix your rate

A week ago today, the RBA decided to keep the cash rate on hold at the historic low of 1.5 per cent. With only one more meeting left this year and no meeting held in January, economists predict that the cash rate is likely to remain steady for at least a few months to come.

Expensive purchases that you won't regret

When it comes to purchases there are certain things where quality really matters. While with some items you can get away with a cheap fix, others require an investment of your hard earned cash.

Could you be eligible for a low doc home loan?

If your financial situation is best described as “complicated” you may find it difficult to secure a standard home loan with most lenders. Even if it is through no fault of your own, such as losing your job or a failed business venture, lenders have certain lending criteria they uphold for their protection and for yours.

Could you pay your mortgage if rates hit 7 per cent?

With mortgage rates kept low by the historic low cash rate, it’s fair to say that many borrowers are coasting along in an ideal situation. Rates lower than 4 per cent are no longer uncommon for owner-occupier mortgage holders with some equity built up in their property.

How can we fix the housing affordability crisis?

It seems as though there is no hotter topic than the housing affordability crisis and what needs to be done to solve it. From the endless news articles to the discussions had in homes around Australia, it’s a problem that strikes right at the heart of the Australian dream of property ownership.

Fat Cat super funds: Who tops the list this year?

Industry super funds continue to outperform most retail funds while managing to keep fees relatively low for members a new report shows.

Holidaying on the beach this summer won't break the bank

Who knew heading to one of Australia's pristine coastal holiday spots for your summer break could be so affordable?

Beware the housing black market

It has been called the housing black market and with good reason: dodgy schemes that promise to put you in your own home without a credit or history check.

Would you lie to get your mortgage approved?

Securing a mortgage and landing your dream home are goals shared by many Australians but how far would you go to make it a reality?