Cheques and Balances
Whether you're buying your first home, tackling debt, or building long-term wealth, we’ll show you how to make smarter money moves. With over 20 years of combined experience as qualified financial advisers, James Blair and Michael Vincent share straight-talking advice, practical strategies, and real conversations about money - all to help you take control of your financial future with confidence.
Episodes
The 10 Most Critical Years in Retirement ft. Ben Brinkerhoff | Episode 535
Saving enough for retirement is only half the battle - knowing when to spend it could be just as important.James sits down with Ben Brinkerhoff, Head of Advice at Consilium, to unpack why the first 10 years of retirement matter so much, the psychology that stops retirees spending their wealth, how retirement spending changes with age, preparing for market downturns, and why your 40s and 50s could
National Expands 5% Deposits for First Home Buyers: Does It Stack Up? | Episode 534
A 5% deposit could get thousands more Kiwis into their first home - but is it really as good as it sounds?James and Mike unpack National’s proposed changes to the First Home Loan scheme, including the new $300,000 income threshold, what buying with just 5% actually looks like, the risks of taking on more debt, and whether bringing more first-home buyers into the market could ultimately push proper
OCR Hike: The 5 Factors Driving Mortgage Rates | Episode 533
The OCR is up but that doesn’t tell you the whole story about where mortgage rates are heading.James and Mike break down what actually determines your interest rate, unpacking the OCR, swap rates, wholesale funding, customer deposits and bank competition, before looking at what rising rates could mean for borrowers and the property market.Next Steps: Want to understand what rising rates could mean
The Next Economic Shock: What’s Your Plan? | Episode 532
Another economic shock is coming. Is your money ready for it?James and Mike break down the financial fundamentals that can help you weather whatever comes next, from setting clear goals and building an emergency fund to managing your budget, investing consistently and taking action instead of waiting for the perfect time.Next Steps: Help your team feel more confident with money - check out our Fin
New Build Townhouses: Why They Lost 40% in Value | Part 2
Owning the wrong property is one thing. Working out what to do next is the hard part.In Part 2, James, Mike and Adam break down the options for investors stuck with an underperforming townhouse, including whether to hold or crystallise the loss, how to assess the ongoing cashflow, when selling and reinvesting could make sense, and why buying another property could actually improve your position.Mi
New Build Townhouses: Why They Lost 40% in Value | Episode 530
Not all new-build townhouses are created equal.In this episode, Adam Farrell, Property Director at Lighthouse Financial, joins us to unpack real examples of townhouses that have lost hundreds of thousands in value and break down what went wrong, from oversupply and poor locations to impractical layouts, lack of parking and large developments plus the fundamentals buyers should look for when choosi
The Best and Worst Property Titles: What Buyers Need to Know | Episode 529
Not all property titles are created equal.We break down freehold, cross-lease, unit, and leasehold titles, including what each means for buyers, the potential lending and renovation implications, and the key things you should check before making an offer on a property.Next steps: Found a property you’re interested in? Get in touch with the Lighthouse Mortgage team to understand your lending option
National Promises No New Taxes: Can NZ Afford It? Ft. Matt Harris | Episode 528
National says no new taxes, but can New Zealand actually afford that promise? James, Mike and Matt unpack National’s “No New Taxes” pledge, how the Government could return to surplus without raising new taxes, the debate over spending and economic growth, and how it stacks up against Labour’s capital gains tax and other tax proposals.Watch our episode breaking down Labour’s tax policyNext Steps: N
The Best & Worst KiwiSaver Funds in 2026 Revealed | Episode 527
Some KiwiSaver funds are smashing it. Others are leaving investors wondering what they’re paying for.In this episode, we reveal the top-performing KiwiSaver funds across balanced, growth and aggressive categories, unpack the impact of fees on long-term returns, and explain what you should actually look at when deciding whether your KiwiSaver provider and fund are right for you.Next steps: Compare
Labour’s Proposed Tax Plan: Could This Save Small Business? Ft Matt Harris | Episode 526
Could Labour’s latest tax proposals give small business the break it needs?James, Mike and Matt unpack Labour’s proposed changes to payment terms, the asset write-off threshold and GST registration, what they could mean for New Zealand’s small-business sector, and the tax changes Matt believes could help get businesses and the wider economy moving again.Next steps: Running a business and want to m
1 Million Downloads Special: Our Personal Wealth Journey Part 2
From corporate careers to property investing, this is where things really started to change.In Part 2 of Mike and James' personal wealth journey, they unpack leaving corporate banking, taking the leap into Lighthouse, building their careers and wealth, investing in property, the financial decisions they wish they'd made earlier, and what success looks like today.Missed Part 1? Watch it her
Buying Your First Home? 3 Ways Your Parents Can Help | Episode 524
Your parents don’t need a pile of cash to help you buy your first home. James and Mike break down three ways parents can help first home buyers in NZ get onto the property ladder, from a gifted deposit or family loan to using parents’ equity, plus the lending requirements and risks to consider when buying your first home.Next steps: Looking to buy your first home but not sure how to pull together
How to Avoid Going Broke in Retirement | Episode 523
Retirement is when you finally get to spend your money - but how do you make sure you don’t run out?James and Mike break down withdrawal rates, sequencing risk, market downturns, cash buffers and how to structure your investments so you can enjoy retirement without eating through your capital too quickly.Missed Part One? Before you start spending your retirement savings, you need to know how to in
Building an Emergency Fund in a Cost of Living Crisis | Episode 522
Building an emergency fund is hard when everyday life already costs so much.James and Mike break down how to build your first $1,000 emergency fund, where to find extra money in your budget, whether to save or pay down debt first, how much you should ultimately have set aside, and where your emergency savings should actually live.Next Steps: Want to get a better handle on where your money is going
The Future of New Zealand: Sam Stubbs' Plan to Make NZ Wealthier | Part 2
What would it actually take to make New Zealand wealthier?Sam Stubbs, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Simplicity, shares his blueprint for New Zealand’s future, exploring tax reform, inequality, KiwiSaver, domestic investment, AI, infrastructure and why saving and investing more could be the key to building a wealthier country for generations to come.Next steps:Explore Simplicity's approac
The Future of New Zealand: Why Sam Stubbs Is So Optimistic | Part 1
The future isn't as bleak as you think.Sam Stubbs explains why he believes New Zealand is on the verge of one of its greatest economic opportunities, exploring the future of KiwiSaver, entrepreneurship, capital investment, infrastructure, productivity, wealth creation, and why the next generation of Kiwis could be better positioned than ever before.Next steps:Learn more about InfraKiwi and its vis
How to Build Wealth for Retirement: 5 Investing Rules Everyone Should Know | Episode 519
Most investing advice is either too complicated or focused on chasing the next big thing. In this episode, James Blair and Michael Vincent break down the five investing principles they believe every Kiwi should know. So whether you're retiring in one year, five years or twenty years, these five golden rules will help you make the most of your retirement savings so you can build lasting wealth
NZ's Inflation Crisis: Why Getting Ahead Feels Harder Than Ever | Episode 518
Why does it feel like you're working harder but getting nowhere?From rising living costs and inflation to mortgage strategies, KiwiSaver, emergency funds and practical ways to build financial resilience, James and Mike break down why so many Kiwis are feeling the squeeze and the steps you can take to strengthen your finances in today's economy.Next steps: Feeling the pressure of rising cos
1 Million Downloads Special: Our Personal Wealth Journey Part 1
Before the wealth came the mistakes, side hustles, setbacks and plenty of hard lessons.To celebrate one million podcast downloads, James and Mike share the personal stories they've never told before - from their childhood relationships with money and first jobs to dropping out of university, building careers in banking, early investing lessons and the work ethic that shaped their financial jou
Is War Funding Your Retirement? Ft. Lily Richards | Episode 516
Could your KiwiSaver be investing in something you don't agree with?Around $900 million of KiwiSaver money is now invested in weapons-related companies. James and Mike sit down with Lily Richards, Chief Marketing and Client Officer at Pathfinder KiwiSaver Plan to explore ethical investing, how to check what's inside your KiwiSaver, whether responsible investing impacts returns, and why und
How to Know It's Time to Sell an Investment | Episode 515
Selling because you're nervous can be one of the most expensive investment decisions you make.When should you actually sell an investment? James and Mike break down the difference between emotional reactions and smart financial decisions, covering market crashes, changing life goals, underperforming investments, investment fees, diversification, inherited assets, and the key signs it's tim
Should We Want House Prices To Double Every 10 Years? | Episode 514
The property market isn't broken... but expectations might be.Should New Zealand expect house prices to keep doubling every 10 years? James and Mike unpack the key drivers behind long-term property growth, including migration, interest rates, inflation, wages, affordability, and whether endless house price growth is actually good for the country's future.Next steps: If you're wondering
Inflation Hits 4.1% Is the Worst Still to Come? | Episode 513
Inflation is back above 4%... but is the worst still to come?James and Mike break down New Zealand's latest 4.1% inflation result, why petrol prices are driving almost all of the increase, whether higher interest rates are actually the right solution, what it means for mortgages, businesses and household budgets, and where they believe the economy is heading over the next 12 months.Next steps:
Want to Build a Home? Watch This Before You Talk to the Bank | Episode 512
Building your dream home? Don't talk to the bank until you've watched this.From construction loans and stage payments to hidden building costs, budget blowouts, fixed-price contracts, and choosing the right builder, we break down everything you need to know before building a home. We also uncover the common mistakes that can quickly turn your dream build into an expensive headache.Next Steps: Thin
Can't Refinance Your Mortgage? Here's What To Do Instead | Episode 511
Think you're stuck with your mortgage? You might have more options than you realise.In this episode, Mike and James break down what to do if you can't refinance your mortgage, including how to negotiate with your current bank, when breaking a fixed rate makes sense, cash retention payments, low equity traps, and the simple strategies that could save you thousands without switching lenders.
Property Market Insights: What Smart Investors Are Watching Right Now | Episode 510
The headlines are noisy, but the data tells a very different story.In this episode, Mike and Adam break down the property market indicators they're watching most closely, including construction activity, building costs, auction clearance rates, GDP, long-term price trends, and why Christchurch continues to stand out as one of New Zealand's strongest investment markets.Next Steps: Thinking
From Debt to Financial Freedom on a Single Income | Inside a Financial Plan Ep 2
A simple financial plan can change everything.In episode two of Inside a Financial Plan, James walks Julia through her personalised financial roadmap, explaining why building an emergency fund comes before paying off debt and why he's recommending a switch to her KiwiSaver fund. Together, they map out a step-by-step plan to become mortgage-free sooner and build more than $2 million in retirement i
The First OCR Hike in 3 Years: What It Means for Your Mortgage | Episode 508
Wondering what the latest OCR hike means for your mortgage? Here's what homeowners need to know.Mike Vincent and Jess Hargreaves break down why the OCR hike wasn't a surprise, how banks have already reacted, where mortgage rates are likely to head next, and what homeowners should consider when fixing, refinancing, or reviewing their mortgage.Next Steps: If your mortgage is coming up for re
Building Wealth on a Single Income: Inside a Financial Plan | Episode 1
A single income doesn't have to mean putting your financial goals on hold.In this episode of Inside a Financial Plan, we meet Julia, a single mum rebuilding her finances after divorce. James works through her goals, debt, budgeting, KiwiSaver, retirement planning, emergency fund, mortgage strategy and the personalised roadmap to help her build long-term wealth.Next Steps: If you'd like you
Live Webinar: How Property Investors Can Reduce Their Tax Bill | Episode 506
Many property investors are paying more tax than they need to.Matt Harris and Mike Vincent explain how debt structuring, ownership structures, lending strategies and tax planning can reduce unnecessary tax, improve cash flow, and help investors make the most of today's property market.Next Steps: Whether you need advice on property structures, trusts and tax planning, or you'd like to review your
How We Bought Our First Home With Just 5% Deposit | Episode 505
They thought they weren’t ready to buy a home - until one conversation changed everything.In this episode, we follow Harsh and Hiral's first home buying journey, from budgeting struggles and saving a 5% deposit to navigating pre-approvals, real estate agents, failed offers, due diligence, KiwiSaver withdrawals, and ultimately securing their first home in Auckland.Next Steps: Thinking about buying
Auckland Is Broken: Can Wayne Brown Fix It? | Episode 504
Is Wayne Brown's plan enough to turn Auckland around?James and Mike react to Wayne Brown's five-point plan for Auckland, discussing transport, rates, council spending, housing, infrastructure, economic growth, and whether the mayor can actually deliver meaningful change for the city's future.For more money tips follow us on:
NZ Debt Is Rising: Why Kiwis Can't Quit Afterpay | Episode 503
That $75 payment might be costing you more than you think.In this episode, James and Mike unpack the rapid rise of Afterpay and buy now, pay later services, why nearly 100,000 Kiwis are behind on repayments, how short-term debt spirals out of control, the impact on budgeting and mortgage applications, and what to do if you're already stuck in the debt cycle.Next Steps: If debt, cashflow, or budget
National's KiwiSaver Changes: Good or Bad for Your Retirement? | Episode 502
Could these be the biggest KiwiSaver changes since the scheme began?James and Mike break down the National Party's proposed KiwiSaver reforms, including compulsory contributions, higher employer contributions, a $1,500 KiwiSaver kickstart for newborns, parental leave support, over-65 contributions, and whether these changes could improve retirement outcomes and help New Zealand close the wealt
The Real Cost of Homeownership in New Zealand | Episode 501
Owning a home is expensive, but it's often the hidden costs that hurt the most.In this episode, James and Mike break down the true cost of homeownership in New Zealand, exploring rising rates, insurance premiums, water charges, maintenance costs, property repairs, and why many homeowners underestimate the ongoing expenses that come with owning a property.For more money tips follow us on:
KiwiSaver Balance By Age: Are You On Track For Retirement? | Episode 500
Are you on track for retirement, or falling behind?In this episode, James and Mike break down the latest KiwiSaver balances by age, discuss why the average retirement balance may not be enough, explore the growing KiwiSaver gender gap, compare top and bottom-performing funds, and explain the key decisions that could add hundreds of thousands of dollars to your retirement savings.Next Steps: Want t
Is The NZ Economy Broken? Rising Business Liquidations Explained | Episode 499
NZ businesses are folding at the fastest rate in 15 years.In this episode, James and Mike unpack why more than 3,000 New Zealand companies have entered liquidation, which industries are being hit hardest, whether government policy is helping or hurting businesses, and what needs to change to get the NZ economy moving again.Next Steps: If you're a business owner feeling the pressure, speak with
What The Panama Papers Exposed About NZ Trusts Ft. Matt Harris | Episode 498
The world's biggest financial leak changed New Zealand trust law forever.In this episode, James, Mike and Matt unpack the Panama Papers, explain how New Zealand became linked to foreign trusts, shell companies and tax transparency concerns, explore the reforms that followed, and discuss how trusts are used today for asset protection, estate planning and wealth management.Next Steps: If you'
The Right Property For Every Type of Investor Ft. Adam Farrell | Episode 497
Not every property is right for every investor.In this episode, James and Lighthouse Property Director Adam Farrell break down which property types suit different investors, from townhouses and standalone homes to renovations, multi-unit properties and commercial real estate, while exploring risk, cash flow, capital growth, retirement planning, and when property may not be the right investment at
Can ChatGPT Replace Your Mortgage Broker? | Episode 496
Don't mistake information for advice.In this episode, James and Mike discuss whether ChatGPT can replace a mortgage broker, unpack a real-life example where AI mortgage advice conflicted with professional advice, explore the difference between information and personalised advice, and explain where AI can help and where it can get things wrong.Next steps: Need help making the right mortgage dec
6 Mistakes Stopping You From Buying an Investment Property ft. Ilse Wolfe | Episode 495
Most people don't miss out on their first investment property because of the market - they miss out because they're focused on the wrong things.In this episode, Mike and Jess sit down with Ilse Wolfe, Director of Wolfe Property, to unpack the six biggest mistakes holding Kiwis back from their first investment property, including affordability, equity, financial foundations, timing, expecta
Trades vs Degrees: Which Builds More Wealth? | Episode 494
The degree debate is changing.In this episode, James and Mike break down the real numbers behind trades versus degrees, comparing income, student debt, house deposits, KiwiSaver balances, graduate job opportunities, the impact of AI on future careers, and whether university is still the best path to building long-term wealth.For more money tips follow us on:
A Thriving Business In A Tough Economy: How Did They Do It? | Episode 492
Most businesses are feeling the pressure but some are still finding ways to grow.In this episode, James and Jess sit down with Cruze and Pearl, founders of One & Only, to discuss building a business from scratch, taking calculated risks, relocating from Wellington to Auckland, growing through relationships and referrals, balancing business and personal wealth, and the lessons they've learned s
Are New Build Townhouses Dead? Ft. Adam Farrell | Episode 492
Not all townhouses are created equal.In this episode, James and Lighthouse Property Director Adam Farrell break down the oversupply of new build townhouses, what separates a quality development from a dud, how supply and demand influence property values, why rental yields and developer quality matter, and whether high-density housing is an unavoidable part of New Zealand's future.Next Steps: T
NZ Budget 2026: Did The Government Get It Right? | Episode 491
The Budget is out but will it actually make Kiwis better off?In this episode, James and Matt break down NZ Budget 2026, discussing the biggest winners and losers, infrastructure spending, health investment, fuel price relief, banking levies, FIF tax changes, business challenges, and whether the Government's plan to return to surplus will help or hinder New Zealand's economic recovery.Next
The Infrastructure Problem Holding NZ Back | Episode 490
Is new infrastructure the answer to NZ’s problems? What if New Zealand’s biggest economic problem isn’t interest rates or housing… but infrastructure?In this episode, James and Mike break down why Christchurch has become one of New Zealand’s most liveable and resilient cities, what Auckland and Wellington can learn from its rebuild, whether better infrastructure could improve productivity and econ
Forward Fixing: How To Lock In Your Interest Rate Early | Episode 489
In this episode, we break down what forward fixing actually is, how rate locks work, what rising interest rates could mean for borrowers in 2026, and the key mistakes to avoid when locking in your next mortgage rate.Next steps: Speak to the Lighthouse Mortgages team about whether forward fixing or restructuring your lending could make sense before rates move again. For more money tips follow us on
Australia’s Capital Gains Tax Changes: Is NZ Next? | Episode 488
Australia’s tax overhaul could become New Zealand’s opportunity.In this episode, we break down Australia’s major property and capital gains tax changes, what ring-fencing and reduced CGT concessions mean for investors and business owners, why some believe these policies punish aspiration, and whether New Zealand could benefit from an influx of capital, businesses, and entrepreneurs across the Tasm
National Debt Crisis: Is NZ Broke? | Episode 487
New Zealand’s debt is exploding… but is it actually a problem?With Budget 2026 around the corner, we break down New Zealand’s $182 billion debt position, whether the country should be worried about rising interest costs, how our debt compares globally, and why borrowing isn’t always a bad thing. James and Mike debate whether the Government is too focused on cutting costs instead of growing the eco
Australia's Tax Crisis: New Zealand's Golden Opportunity | Episode 486
Australia just changed the game on tax and New Zealand might be the biggest winner.In this episode, we break down Australia’s new capital gains tax changes, why business owners and startups could start looking at New Zealand differently, the impact on entrepreneurs, tech companies and investment, the opportunity for New Zealand’s economy to attract talent and capital, how tax policy shapes product
Why You’re Underprepared For Retirement | Episode 485
Most Kiwis are heading towards retirement with far less than they think they need. The difference between struggling in retirement and living comfortably often comes down to just a few KiwiSaver decisions.In this episode, we break down the real factors that can dramatically change your retirement outcome, including KiwiSaver fund selection, contribution rates, provider performance, NZ Super concer
Rich vs Wealthy in 2026: Why High Income Isn’t Enough Anymore | Episode 484
More money doesn’t always mean more freedom.In this episode, we break down the difference between being rich and actually building wealth in 2026, including lifestyle inflation, social media pressure, budgeting, debt, delayed gratification, investment properties, shares, multiple income streams, raising financially capable children, and why many high-income households still feel financially stress
The Problem With Owning Too Much Property | Episode 483
You can own millions in property and still feel financially trapped.In this episode, we break down why bigger property portfolios don’t always create financial freedom, including the risks of being equity rich but cashflow poor, why many investors struggle to retire despite large portfolios, the difference between growth and income-focused investing, restructuring strategies, commercial property,
The Harsh Reality of Renting in Retirement | Episode 482
Retirement is changing fast and owning a home no longer guarantees financial security.In this episode, we break down the growing reality of retiring without a home, why more Kiwis are becoming asset rich but cash poor, the risks of long-term renting in retirement, reverse mortgages, downsizing traps, build-to-rent developments, and the financial decisions people are now making to maintain lifestyl
Will Interest Rates Rise Again? How To Prepare Your Mortgage Now | Episode 481
Interest rates could be heading back up and most mortgage holders aren’t ready for it.In this episode, we break down why rate rises may not be over yet, how inflation, oil prices, and Reserve Bank decisions impact your mortgage, plus the practical steps borrowers can take now to reduce risk, lock in certainty, and avoid getting caught rolling onto higher rates later this year.Next Steps: If your f
Upgrade Your Home or Buy an Investment Property? | Episode 480
Upgrading your home feels right… but it might be costing you hundreds of thousands in the long run.In this episode, we break down the real wealth trade-off between owner-occupied homes and investment properties, including how equity is used to invest, the impact of debt and cashflow, rental income vs no income assets, and a real scenario showing how holding your home and buying an investment prope
SpaceX IPO Explained: Should You Buy the Biggest IPO Ever? | Episode 479
The biggest IPO in history is coming… but is it a once-in-a-generation opportunity or a massive trap?In this episode, we break down the potential SpaceX IPO, covering what an IPO actually is, the eye-watering $1.75-$2 trillion valuation, lack of profitability, concerns around no lock-up periods, exit liquidity risks, and why hype-driven investing could leave retail investors holding the bag.Next S
What the Oil Crisis Means for Your Portfolio: Q1 Investment Update | Episode 478
Markets held up better than expected but the story underneath is where it gets interesting.In this quarterly update, we break down how the Middle East oil shock impacted global markets, why NZ equities underperformed, where money is rotating (value, infrastructure, emerging markets), and what it all means for your portfolio heading into the next quarter.Next steps: If you want a portfolio built to
$9.3 Billion Tax Bill: Why NZ Businesses Are Struggling | Episode 477
New Zealand’s $9.3 billion tax bill reveals how tax arrears, rising costs, and cashflow pressure are impacting businesses nationwide.In this episode, we break down how tax paid in arrears, rising costs, post-COVID pressure, and compounding penalties have pushed businesses into debt, why IRD is cracking down harder than ever, and what it means for the wider economy.Next steps: If you’re behind on t
From First Home to Forever Home: How to Upgrade Property in NZ | Episode 476
Upgrading your home isn’t about buying bigger - it’s about making the numbers work.In this episode, we break down how to actually move into your “forever home” - from using equity and navigating bridging finance to timing your sale, getting pre-approval, and avoiding the common mistakes that can set you back years.Next Steps: If you’re thinking about upgrading, the smartest next step is getting cl
Why New Zealand’s Economy Is Falling Behind (And How to Fix It) Ft. Luke Kemeys & Simon Rolland | Episode 475
New Zealand isn’t broken but the way we think about money, risk, and business might be.In this episode, we sit down with Luke Kemeys and Simon Rolland to unpack New Zealand’s productivity problem - from risk-averse mindsets and property obsession to aging business owners, talent leaving overseas, and what actually needs to change to build a stronger economy.For more money tips follow us on:
The $3,800% Return: Pokémon Cards vs S&P 500 | Episode 474
Pokémon cards beat the market… but that doesn’t mean they should be your strategy.In this episode, we break down the eye-watering 3,800% return of Pokémon cards versus the S&P 500, unpack how alternative assets like collectibles, wine, and luxury goods actually gain value, and explain the real risks - from speculation and hype cycles to lack of cashflow, valuation challenges, and why most inve
Why 30% of Couples Break Up After Buying a House | Episode 473
Buying a home together might be the dream but for many couples, it’s where things start to fall apart.In this episode, we unpack Charlie Munger’s “ladies, liquor, and leverage” rule, diving into how property debt, rising interest rates, and financial pressure are driving relationship breakdowns, the risks of going all-in on leverage, and what happens legally and financially when couples split afte
Why 8/10 People Should Sell Their First Home | Episode 472
Most first homes don’t make good investment properties but people keep holding them anyway.In this episode, we break down why so many Kiwis become “accidental property investors,” covering low rental yields, rising costs, cashflow top-ups, emotional decision-making, and when holding your first home actually does make sense.Next steps: If you’re thinking about your next move with property, speak to
Why It Feels Harder Than Ever To Get Ahead in New Zealand | Episode 471
It feels harder than ever to get ahead right now - even if you’re doing everything right.In this episode, we break down the reality behind that feeling - juggling mortgages, kids, careers, and ageing parents - while unpacking rising living costs, financial pressure, comparison culture, and how to think about progress, balance, and long-term wealth through different seasons of life.Next Steps: If t
Property Prices Are Stuck: Should You Buy in 2026? | Episode 470
With NZ property prices flat in 2026, should you be buying or waiting it out?In this episode, we break down whether 2026 is actually a smart time to buy property in New Zealand, covering market equilibrium, regional differences, investor sentiment, interest rate uncertainty, and why long-term strategy matters more than trying to time short-term growth.Next Steps: Thinking about buying in 2026 but
Fuel Crisis vs COVID: Which Hits NZ Economy Harder? | Episode 469
It feels like COVID all over again… but is it?In this episode, we break down the key difference between a demand-driven crisis like COVID and today’s supply-driven fuel shock, covering inflation, oil prices, interest rate impacts, government response, and what it means for households and the New Zealand economy over the next 12–24 months.Next Steps: If you’re unsure how rising costs and interest r
KiwiSaver vs. Property: What Builds More Wealth In Retirement? | Episode 468
KiwiSaver vs your first home deposit… are you building wealth or slowing yourself down? In this episode, we break down whether you should use your KiwiSaver to buy your first home or leave it invested for retirement, covering deposit requirements, interest rate impacts, compounding vs debt, and how this decision affects your long-term wealth strategy in New Zealand.Next Steps: If you’re unsure whe
OCR Predictions: Petrol Prices Are Spiking - Do Interest Rates Follow? Ft. Jarrod Kerr | Episode 467
In this episode, We sit down with Kiwibank Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr to unpack the upcoming OCR decision, why rising oil prices are driving inflation, how demand destruction is already hitting spending, and what it all means for interest rates, mortgages, and the broader NZ economy over the next 3-6 months.For more money tips follow us on:
NZ Economic Update: Inflation Rising, Growth Falling Ft. Jarrod Kerr | Episode 466
Is New Zealand heading into stagflation? Inflation is rising, growth is slowing and the outlook is shifting fast.We sit down with Kiwibank Chief Economist Jarrod Kerr to break down the NZ economic outlook, including inflation, interest rates, OCR expectations, oil price shocks, and whether a recession or stagflation is actually on the cards. We also cover what this means for your KiwiSaver, mortga
The Tax on Shares That’s Costing Kiwi Investors Thousands | Episode 465
Your Sharesies account might be quietly draining thousands in tax and most Kiwis don’t even realise it.We break down how tax actually works on shares in New Zealand - from dividends and PIE funds to the $50K foreign investment threshold, FIF rules, and why the way you invest (not just what you invest in) can significantly impact your returns.Next Steps: If you’re investing and unsure how tax is im
Is NZ’s Economic Recovery at Risk? The Long Term Effects of the Oil Crisis | Episode 464
A global oil shock could quietly reset New Zealand’s recovery - and most people aren’t ready for the flow-on effects.In this episode, we break down how rising oil prices are driving inflation, impacting supply chains, pushing mortgage rates higher, and forcing tough decisions from the Reserve Bank - while unpacking what it all means for borrowers, businesses, and long-term financial plans in an in
A 30 Year-Old’s Retirement Plan | Episode 463
Build a 30 year retirement plan by starting with your first home.In this episode, we use a real first home buyer case study to break down deposits, KiwiSaver decisions, mortgage affordability, budgeting habits, insurance, and how to turn one property into a long-term wealth plan.Apply Now: We’re picking one Cheques & Balances listener to build a personalised financial plan with and we’ll docu
2026 Financial Plan: Step-by-Step to Fix Your Money | Episode 462
If you’re not on track with your 2026 financial plan yet - this is where you fix it.In this episode, we break down how to build a practical financial plan from scratch, covering goal setting, budgeting, KiwiSaver, debt management, investing, and the exact step-by-step roadmap to get ahead financially in today’s market.Apply Now: We’re picking one Cheques & Balances listener to build a personal
First Home Buyers Guide NZ: Step-by-Step Process | Episode 461
Buying your first home in NZ isn’t about finding “the one” - it’s about not getting burned in the process.In this 2026 first home buyers guide, we break down everything you need to know - from deposits (5% vs 10% vs 20%) and mortgage pre-approval to affordability, property valuation, auctions, negotiation, and due diligence so you don’t overpay or miss out.Next Steps: Want to know exactly what you
5 Signs You’ll Have to Work Until 70 (And How to Avoid It) | Episode 460
Most Kiwis won’t realise they’re on track to work until 70… until it’s too late.In this episode, we break down the 5 key signs you’re heading for delayed retirement - from carrying debt into your 60s and having no clear spending visibility, to relying too heavily on NZ Super and KiwiSaver - and more importantly, the practical steps you can take now to build a plan, create consistency, and avoid ru
KiwiSaver, Investing & Mortgages: Listener Money Questions | Episode 459
Real money questions from listeners - covering KiwiSaver, investing, mortgages, and how to actually build wealth in New Zealand.In this Listener Hotline episode, financial advisors James and Jess answer real audience questions about KiwiSaver contributions, emergency funds, investing during market volatility, retirement planning, spending habits, term deposits vs shares, and whether couples should
Meth Contamination: The Silent Killer of the NZ Property Market | Episode 458
Meth contamination in NZ property is a growing risk that buyers and investors often overlook.In this episode we explain how meth contamination happens, the testing process, remediation costs, new 2026 standards, and why banks are tightening lending when meth is detected in a property.For more money tips follow us on:
Will War Push Interest Rates Higher? What It Means for Your Mortgage | Episode 457
War headlines are everywhere - but what could global conflict actually do to interest rates?In this episode, the team breaks down how the US-Iran conflict, rising oil prices, and global economic uncertainty could affect inflation, the Reserve Bank’s decisions, swap rates, and ultimately the interest rates Kiwis pay on their mortgages.Tune into Markets, Mystics and Mayhem to learn moreFor more mone
Oil Prices Surge 50%: What War Means for Markets | Episode 456
While the human cost of war is devastating, many investors are asking the same question - what does it mean for markets?In this episode, James and Jess break down the Iran conflict and its impact on markets, oil prices, petrol costs and inflation, explaining why crude oil has surged nearly 50%, how global markets have reacted so far, and what long-term investors should actually do when geopolitica
