{"id":148897,"date":"2025-02-10T17:37:12","date_gmt":"2025-02-10T17:37:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/websitedesigns.com.au\/elankanew\/?p=148897"},"modified":"2025-02-10T17:38:27","modified_gmt":"2025-02-10T17:38:27","slug":"noel-news-70","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/websitedesigns.com.au\/elankanew\/noel-news-70\/","title":{"rendered":"NOEL NEWS"},"content":{"rendered":"

\u00a0NOEL NEWS<\/span><\/h2>\n

\"NOEL<\/p>\n

“You aren\u2019t wealthy until you have something money can\u2019t buy.”<\/span><\/p>\n

GARTH BROOKS<\/span><\/p>\n

Welcome to our February newsletter<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Well, this one\u2019s a biggie. A real milestone. Not just any milestone – one of those giant ones, like the old mile markers on the Bruce Highway, the kind that made you sit up and take notice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Because, believe it or not, I\u2019ve just turned 85. And if that\u2019s not enough to make you blink, this month also marks 50 years since I started writing for newspapers. Yes, it all kicked offback in 1975 with a humble little column in a local rag, and -well, you know how it goes – one thing led to another. Newspaper columns, talkback radio, and then books. Lots of books.<\/span><\/p>\n

To mark the occasion, I\u2019ve dug up a few photos – snapshots of the journey so far.<\/span><\/p>\n

People often come up to me and ask, \u2018So when are you going to retire?\u2019 And I always givethem the same answer: Retire? What would I do that for? I love what I do! As long as I\u2019vegot the strength, I\u2019ll keep going.One of the greatest joys is hearing from people – folks who email to say my books changed their lives, or the ones who stop me in the street to tell me the same thing, right then and there. That\u2019s what keeps me going.<\/span><\/p>\n

And remember – financial knowledge is one of the greatest assets you can have. So don\u2019t just keep it to yourself. Share it. Give a book to someone who needs it. You never know whose life you might change.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"NOEL<\/span><\/p>\n

My second book came out in 1990 – just as I was turning 50.<\/span><\/p>\n

Seems like a long time ago now.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"NOEL<\/span><\/p>\n

This one was published in the Financial Review. It was taken in the study of our old home in Carindale, Brisbane. Have a look at the desk – notice how much computers have changed?<\/span><\/p>\n

\"NOEL<\/span>
\nNow here\u2019s a blast from the past – a roadshow in 1990. Can you pick the faces? From left to right: Ross Greenwood, Robert Gottliebsen, Michael Pascoe, David Koch, Jan Summers, and yours truly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"NOEL<\/span><\/p>\n

Welcome to our February newsletter<\/span>
\nWell, this one\u2019s a biggie. A real milestone. Not just any milestone – one of those giant ones, like the old mile markers on the Bruce Highway, the kind that made you sit up and take notice.<\/span><\/p>\n

Because, believe it or not, I\u2019ve just turned 85. And if that\u2019s not enough to make you blink, this month also marks 50 years since I started writing for newspapers. Yes, it all kicked offback in 1975 with a humble little column in a local rag, and -well, you know how it goes – one thing led to another. Newspaper columns, talkback radio, and then books. Lots of books.<\/span><\/p>\n

To mark the occasion, I\u2019ve dug up a few photos – snapshots of the journey so far.<\/span><\/p>\n

People often come up to me and ask, \u2018So when are you going to retire?\u2019 And I always givethem the same answer: Retire? What would I do that for? I love what I do! As long as I\u2019vegot the strength, I\u2019ll keep going.One of the greatest joys is hearing from people – folks who email to say my books changed their lives, or the ones who stop me in the street to tell me the same thing, right then and there. That\u2019s what keeps me going.<\/span><\/p>\n

And remember – financial knowledge is one of the greatest assets you can have. So don\u2019t just keep it to yourself. Share it. Give a book to someone who needs it. You never know whose life you might change.<\/span><\/p>\n

My second book came out in 1990 – just as I was turning 50.<\/span><\/p>\n

Seems like a long time ago now.<\/span><\/p>\n

This one was published in the Financial Review. It was taken in the study of our old home in Carindale, Brisbane. Have a look at the desk – notice how much computers have changed?<\/span><\/p>\n

Now here\u2019s a blast from the past – a roadshow in 1990. Can you pick the faces? From left to right: Ross Greenwood, Robert Gottliebsen, Michael Pascoe, David Koch, Jan Summers, and yours truly.<\/span><\/p>\n

One of the things I\u2019ve always loved doing – still do, in fact – is talkback radio on 4BC.<\/span><\/p>\n

It kicked off at 6am every Saturday morning. People used to say, \u201cWho\u2019d listen to a money show at that hour on a Saturday?\u201d They forgot that plenty of folks would roll home late on Friday night, forget to turn off their alarm, and – there they were – wide awake. And in those pre-internet days, you needed to tune in for the fishing tips and the scratchings.<\/span><\/p>\n

It turned out to be a huge audience. And that\u2019s where the idea for<\/span><\/p>\n

Making Money Made Simple<\/a> first took shape.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Podcast<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Renowned broadcaster John Deeks and I discuss all the big topics covered in this newsletter in detail each month.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"elanka\"<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n


\nListen Now on Spotify
\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Staying healthy for longer<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

For more than half a century I\u2019ve been writing about ways people can become financially savvy, manage their money and secure a prosperous future. Financial health is vital \u2013 but honestly, wealth means little if you don\u2019t have the good health to enjoy it. As we all grow older, many retirees seem to be shifting focus from building wealth to figuring out how to live a longer life.<\/span><\/p>\n

But let\u2019s not kid ourselves: a long life needs to be a happy one too. I can\u2019t think of anything worse than becoming like Bryan Johnson, a 45-year-old tech entrepreneur who\u2019s reportedly spending millions trying to cheat death. Apparently, this poor fellow even goes so far as to ingest blood from his father and son in some bizarre ritual so that he can \u2018live forever\u2019. If that\u2019s what it takes, I\u2019d rather go out with a smile and die young.<\/span><\/p>\n

Over the years, I\u2019ve gathered a library of books on how to live longer. They\u2019ve started to blend; they all sing the same tune. But last week, I stumbled across an absolute game-changer: Growing Young by Marta Zaraska. The cover and blurb grabbed me right away: If you care about the length and quality of your life but can\u2019t stomach yet another diet or workout routine, this book is for you.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"NOEL<\/span><\/p>\n

Zaraska agrees that exercise and diet are crucial for a long, healthy life but points out that they aren\u2019t the whole story. This eye-opening book explores how relationships, kindness and mindset can profoundly impact well-being.<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s not all brand-new material. In Retirement Made Simple I wrote about a 2014 study by Dr Gillian Sandstrom, from the University of Essex, who found that casual encounters with acquaintances \u2013 like neighbours, baristas or gym classmates \u2013 boost happiness and a sense of community. Her research shows that talking to strangers fosters connection and contentment, challenging the notion that such encounters are trivial or unworthy of our time. Dr Sandstrom pointed out that speaking to even one new person weekly can bring unexpected joy and meaning into your life.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"NOEL<\/span>
\nImage by tirachardz on Freepik<\/span><\/p>\n

What makes Growing Young unique is its explanation of how everyday events influence your body\u2019s chemistry. For instance, smiling at someone \u2013 a stranger or a supermarket cashier \u2013 triggers the release of chemicals like oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin in both you and the other person. These chemicals promote happiness, bonding, and well-being.<\/span><\/p>\n

In contrast, stress triggers cortisol, the \u2018stress hormone\u2019, which can lead to anxiety, increased heart rate and long-term health problems when elevated chronically. This dynamic highlights the profound impact of our interactions and emotions on physical health.<\/span><\/p>\n

A key takeaway is that humans are wired for connection. Loneliness, Zaraska explains, is as harmful as smoking, while strong relationships can add years to life. For retirees, replacing workplace interactions with hobbies, volunteering or community groups can greatly enrich life. Zaraska also highlights how viewing retirement as an opportunity rather than a decline predicts longer, healthier lives.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"Image<\/span><\/p>\n

The book\u2019s case studies and conclusions are compelling. A profound message for retirees is to consider more than climate or cost of living. Key questions include: What activities foster connections? How does the environment support purpose? Equally important, what will your partner\u2019s social life look like if you pass away first?<\/span><\/p>\n

Reading Growing Young is like following a roadmap to aging well. Zaraska\u2019s insights are grounded in robust science but remain accessible and engaging. The book reminds us that aging doesn\u2019t mean growing apart. The choices we make today \u2013 nurturing relationships, fostering positivity and staying engaged \u2013 can profoundly shape our future years.<\/span><\/p>\n

Taxes on super<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

There\u2019s been much discussion about the tax on unrealised capital gains for those with superannuation balances exceeding $3 million on 30 June 2026.<\/span><\/p>\n

Opposition to this measure seems to be increasing as people recognise its unfairness, but we\u2019re not in the clear yet. I understand some independents remain undecided. If you can, I recommend speaking with your local federal member. The only positive news is that the opposition has pledged to prevent this law from being enacted if they win government.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"NOEL<\/span><\/p>\n

Image by Brett Lethbridge<\/span><\/p>\n

Story time<\/strong><\/span>
\nFrom one of my readers:<\/span><\/p>\n

\"elanka\"<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

We needed to update our wills, so I bought Wills, Death & Taxes Made Simple.<\/span><\/p>\n

I wanted my eldest daughter in WA as executor, but she wasn\u2019t sure about the role. I told her to read your book first. Big mistake – now she\u2019s demanding all sorts of lists and flying over next month to check on me! Lucky I keep good records.<\/span><\/p>\n

We decided on a joint bank account so she could access funds if needed. Then, last night, I reread your book and saw the reader\u2019s tale about joint account nightmares (p.147). That got me worried. I went to the Bank of NSW, where she banks. \u201cBoth of you need to be here,\u201d they said. Not possible. Heritage Bank said the same. CBA? Forget it – three local branches closed, service long gone.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"NOEL<\/span><\/p>\n

Then I remembered the CBA at Goodna in Brisbane, where I used to bank. I dropped in and explained. The young teller frowned, ducked off to the manager, then reappeared with CBA Form 3552. We filled it in, and he uploaded it to my portal. \u201cShe won\u2019t have a problem,\u201d he said.<\/span><\/p>\n

Sceptical, I emailed her a copy. Sure enough, the first teller at CBA in Kalgoorlie said, \u201cNever seen this before.\u201d But an older staffer knew the system, checked the portal, and there it was. Her details were already on file from an old account, but nobody asked why she\u2019d moved to the Bank of NSW.<\/span><\/p>\n

Now, I\u2019m off to ask the local Bank of NSW why they don\u2019t have a form like CBA 3552. Wish me luck!<\/span><\/p>\n

I’m just glad they got the chance to sort this out now rather than later.<\/span><\/p>\n


\nGet the Book
\n<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

It just happened. I was in Sydney last weekend and came across the Kinokuniya bookstore hidden away on the third floor of a building at 500 George Street, Sydney<\/a> \u00a0right opposite the Queen Victoria building. It\u2019s a huge operation \u2013 like a Costco for books.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"NOEL<\/span><\/p>\n

I introduced myself and they gave me a big welcome, and asked me to sign some books. They also told me Wills, death & taxes made Simple was one of their best selling books. This is unique publication and is a must for every household.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"NOEL<\/span>
\nIt’s available from my website and much cheaper if you buy bundles as we pay the postage.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"elanka\"<\/a><\/span>
\nWills, death & taxes and Super Made Simple Bundle<\/span>
\n$44.95<\/span><\/p>\n

Buy Now<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

\"elanka\"<\/a><\/span>
\nWills, death & taxes and Retirement Made Simple Bundle<\/span>
\n$49.99<\/span><\/p>\n

Buy Now<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The automatic renewal scam<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The digital age has brought us many conveniences, but it\u2019s also opened the door to new forms of exploitation. One of the most pervasive is the con of automatic renewal payments. The root of the problem lies in the system that conditions us to mindlessly accept terms and conditions, often without a second thought.<\/span><\/p>\n

\"NOEL<\/span><\/p>\n

Image by Brett Lethbridge<\/span><\/p>\n

Whether it\u2019s approving the latest software update or simply reserving a restaurant table, we\u2019re all too familiar with the endless \u2018I agree\u2019 checkboxes. These terms and conditions can \u2013 in theory \u2013 be read elsewhere, but hardly anybody does. And that\u2019s not by chance, but by design. Most are as long as a novel and full of legal jargon. It\u2019s no wonder that, according to a Deloitte survey, over 90% of consumers accept terms and conditions without reading them, highlighting just how widespread this issue is.<\/span><\/p>\n

A particularly sneaky tactic is the so-called \u2018free trial\u2019. Whether it\u2019s for seven days, fourteen days or a month, the process is always the same. You\u2019re required to subscribe, providing your payment details up front, then cancel within the specified timeframe if you\u2019re not satisfied. Of course, life gets busy, and before you know it, the trial period has lapsed. Suddenly, you\u2019re hit with an automatic renewal notice for a service you didn\u2019t even realise you\u2019d agreed to continue.<\/span><\/p>\n

This scenario is not hypothetical \u2013 it\u2019s personal. In the last month alone, I\u2019ve fallen victim to it twice. The first time was with SurveyMonkey, a popular website for creating surveys. The second was with MyHeritage, a platform for tracing your ancestry. Both instances highlight how these systems are rigged against consumers and exploit user oversight of the terms and conditions.<\/span><\/p>\n

SurveyMonkey hit my American Express card for a charge I was confident I hadn\u2019t approved. I rang up American Express and told them to reverse it. Their response? \u2018SurveyMonkey says you authorised it.\u2019 How? By clicking a link, apparently. After 30 years as a cardholder without ever disputing a charge, you\u2019d think they\u2019d give me the benefit of the doubt. Nope. It wasn\u2019t until I lodged a complaint with the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) and pushed back that American Express finally refunded the money.<\/span><\/p>\n

MyHeritage was worse. They took $407. When I called them out, they smugly pointed to their automatic renewal terms. I threatened to take it to AFCA if they didn\u2019t give me a refund. First, they offered to refund 50%. I said no. Eventually, they caved and refunded the full amount. But it shouldn\u2019t take this level of persistence to get your money back.<\/span><\/p>\n

These stories are just the tip of the iceberg. Companies are banking on us being too distracted or too busy to notice these sneaky charges. And why wouldn\u2019t they? The system is set up to exploit us. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) reports that over 30% of consumer complaints involve unauthorised charges linked to automatic renewals.<\/span><\/p>\n

But let\u2019s face it: we can\u2019t solve this problem one consumer at a time. We need regulators to step up. Opt-in renewals, clearer disclosures, and stricter rules around subscription transparency are essential. The UK has already introduced stronger protections in this area. It\u2019s time Australia followed suit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Until then, stay sharp. Be the squeaky wheel. Because if we don\u2019t hold these companies accountable, who will?<\/span><\/p>\n

Secrets of sleep<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Quality sleep is about the most important thing you can do for your health – so I\u2019m thrilled to highlight my son James\u2019s latest<\/span><\/p>\n