I hope this message finds you well and enjoying everything the new year brings.

It was a strong finish to 2023 for global share markets despite geopolitical uncertainty, with moderating inflation providing a platform for likely reductions in interest rates throughout 2024.

The Labor Government also recently announced an overhaul of the stage-three tax cuts, citing the cost-of-living crisis as the key reason for the changes. These tax cuts now skew to benefiting low- and middle-income earners whilst halving the planned benefit to higher earners. These changes are due to be implemented in July, pending parliamentary approval.

Closer to home this year marks a significant milestone in our firm’s history, with the celebration of our centenary! We were founded in Hobart in September 1924 as Shadforth’s Limited. Today we have grown to one of Australia’s leading financial advisory firms, employing over 280 staff and managing over $14 billion for our 10,000 client families. To commemorate our 100 years, we have designed this centenary mark that we will proudly display on our website and across all our collateral and brand advertising.

We are obviously extremely proud of our history and cognisant our success and growth over the past century would not have been possible without the trust and support of our loyal clients.

I hope you enjoy this edition - as always if you have any feedback regarding our service, advice or investments please do not hesitate to contact me at ceo@sfg.com.au.