Christmas may be a time of giving, but it pales into insignificance compared to the amounts we hand over in inheritances and gifts. The recent Productivity Commission report into what economists call wealth transfers shatters a few myths, including the size of the Bank of Mum and Dad. It also answers some fascinating questions suggesting that the less well-off benefit more from inheritanc... read more>

A study has shown smiling contributes to the perception of aging unless you are over 60. By then, it's too late as the damage is done! Should this news cause those sensitive about their appearance to scowl instead of smile, hoping to rob a few months' wear off their face, it's a pity. Do we really need to care if a simple smile makes us look a tad older when surely it also makes us look n... read more>

Just when you thought it was safe to venture out into the wider world, along comes a variant to put you right back in your place. Border closures, multiple COVID tests, extensive quarantine requirements, all with differing demands between states, let alone nations. So is it wise or worthwhile to rely on any travel plans, especially overseas excursions, in the near future? And how do yo... read more>

Enough already. We have just dredged up 25-year old videos, long lost guests and even my original wedding suit as part of our silver anniversary celebrations. Others, such as TV journalist Lisa Wilkinson, go even further for their anniversaries, with vow renewal ceremonies and full-scale dress-ups. Given many FiftyUp members, if your unions have survived, would have or be knocking on clos... read more>

Big changes are coming to the energy market on July 1, but almost nobody knows anything about it. So how does it affect us? What do we need to do to be prepared? What will a good energy deal look like post-July 1? Christopher Zinn speaks to One Big Switch campaign director Joel Gibson, who explains all of what we know so far. Gibson lays out the facts in a way the average consumer will... read more>