Retirement

The pearling capital of the world is becoming a destination for those wanting a retirement blessed by idyllic weather, beautiful beaches and a snapshot of multicultural Australia.

Living the European dream in retirement has its attractions. But meticulous planning and a healthy wallet are necessary ingredients to ensure it doesn’t become a nightmare.

It can be hard to find good films starring older actors and about retirees. But it’s worth the reward when you find them. Here are five of the best to get you started.

Researcher Capital Preferences says super funds fail to appreciate the tension many retirees experience between their needs in their golden years and the size of their nest eggs.

Convivial drinking with friends is one of life’s pleasures in retirement. But it’s important to do so moderately as your capacity for alcohol diminishes with age.

Two experienced financial advisers draw up a roadmap on how to achieve a secure and happy retirement.

Nearly nine in 10 older Australians believe they’ll still be paying off a mortgage when they retire, and most are preparing for lifestyle downgrades, as new AMP research shows rising household debt levels are threatening the “Australian dream”.

Deciding to downsize involves a delicate balance between emotional ties and practical necessities. While the financial benefits can be worthwhile, it’s crucial that retirees approach this move with a clear understanding of their priorities and objectives.

A recent global retirement survey by investment manager MFS shows nearly 60 per cent of Australians are rethinking how they’ll retire because of inflation worries – a bigger hit to retirement confidence than any other recent economic shock, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

Calling for a product modernisation framework to remove barriers that stop investors from moving to better investments, the peak body said current rules keep too many people stuck in dated, underperforming products, costing retirees and the government big money.

Unfortunately, reaching the retirement milestone does not free investors from the vagaries of markets, a constant companion. A diversified portfolio and patience are two prerequisites for peace of mind in our golden years – and being prepared for the unexpected is key.

The Australian stock market has seen a stagnation in returns since 2006, leaving many questioning the wisdom of long-term equity positions. For retirees, it’s a particularly fraught issue, as their financial security depends on how these investments perform.