This episode answers five detailed listener questions spanning retirement income, structure, and the offset-versus-invest decision.

A listener retiring at 60 with $1.3m compares the Vanguard SpendSmart allocated pension against his current fund on fees, and asks whether a growth or balanced diversified option suits an account that will be his sole income stream.

A couple in pension phase, about to max their transfer balance caps with a further $300k left over in accumulation, ask how to invest the excess for both income top-ups and a legacy for grandchildren, and whether international shares (hedged, unhedged or a mix) are too risky in their 60s.

A Melbourne couple in their late 40s ask whether a downsizer-style investment property still stacks up under the new negative gearing and CGT rules, and whether to unwind the ASX shares held in their SMSF.

A listener holding two REITs (industrial and retail) paying strong distributions but weak capital growth asks whether they deserve a place in a portfolio. And a Western Sydney couple with a new first home and $138k across three offset accounts asks whether to leave it offsetting a 6.26% (soon possibly 6.76%) loan or debt recycle into shares, and whether their fortnightly contributions to the wife's and kids' ETFs would be better redirected.

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Over the years we've written hundreds of articles. These three bring our best thinking together on the topics that matter most right now: choosing a super fund, debt recycling, and navigating the new tax changes.

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Important

This podcast provides general information about finance, tax and credit. It doesn't take into account your specific objectives, financial situation or needs, so you need to assess whether it's relevant to your circumstances before acting on it. If you're not sure, speak to a licensed, trustworthy professional.