The True Cost of Financial Advice vs DIY Investing in 2026
Breaking down the real costs of traditional financial advice versus self-directed investing, including hidden fees that can erode returns over decades.
AlphaIQ Blog
Wealth intelligence for
Australian investors
Practical guides on super, CGT, retirement planning, property investment, and portfolio management — written for self-directed Australian investors.
How RBA Rate Changes Impact Your Investment Property Returns
The RBA cash rate directly affects mortgage costs, rental yields, and property values. Understanding these connections helps property investors make smarter decisions.
ASX Dividend Investing: Key Metrics Every Australian Should Know
Master dividend investing on the ASX by understanding franking credits, payout ratios, and sustainability metrics. Learn what separates reliable dividend stocks from dividend traps.
How much super do you need to retire at 60 in Australia?
The $1 million benchmark is outdated. Here's how to calculate your real number — accounting for inflation, property equity, age pension, and the lifestyle you actually want.
CGT discount Australia: the complete guide for investors
The 50% CGT discount can save Australian investors tens of thousands of dollars — but only if you understand the rules. Here's exactly how it works for shares, property, and super.
Financial independence in Australia: calculating your FI number
The 4% rule was designed for US investors. Here's how to adapt it for the Australian context — with super preservation age, franking credits, and investment property in the mix.
Negative gearing Australia: how it actually works (and when it doesn't)
Negative gearing is probably the most misunderstood tax strategy in Australian property investing. Here's the real maths — when it works, when it costs you more than it saves, and how to calculate your true after-tax position.
Salary sacrifice super Australia: the complete guide for 2026
Salary sacrificing into super is one of the most tax-efficient strategies available to Australian workers. Here's exactly how it works, the caps, the carry-forward rules, and how to calculate your saving.
Portfolio concentration risk: when a winning position becomes a dangerous one
A single stock growing to 30%, 40%, or 50% of your portfolio is one of the most common — and most ignored — risks in self-directed investing. Here's how to identify it, quantify it, and decide what to do.