Investing Compass
Business & Finance
About
Investing compass is brought to you by Morningstar Australia. We’ll run through the fundamentals of investing, taking a deep dive of concepts and offer practical explanations, tools and resources that will allow you to invest confidently. The information contained in this podcast is general in nature, it does not take into consideration your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
- Why you shouldn’t take tips from professional investors
This episode explores the differences between professional investors and individual investors, highlighting how professional constraints can lead to different investment opportunities and choices. It discusses how individuals can navigate…
- Is the relationship between risk and return broken?
This episode explores the traditional finance assumption that higher risk leads to higher returns, examining market trends and the insights of quantitative investor Bob Haugen. It also announces a new book, "Invest Your Way," by the podcas…
- The investing mistake I never want to make
This episode of Investing Compass explores common investing mistakes, focusing on why optimal financial decisions don't always lead to the best life outcomes. It also mentions the book "Invest Your Way" by the hosts.
- Listen to these tips before giving a financial gift
This episode of Investing Compass discusses important considerations for investors before giving financial gifts to family members. It covers potential consequences and key issues to review when transferring money or assets to loved ones.
- How much you need in super if you retire without a home
Mark and Shani discuss the financial challenges of retiring while renting in Australia, considering how the retirement system expects home ownership. They explore modeling and potential solutions for achieving a comfortable retirement with…
- How much you need to invest if you started late
Mark and Shani explore strategies for individuals starting their investment journey in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. They discuss how to build wealth and improve financial outcomes despite not beginning in their 20s.
- The big bets you’re taking in passive investments
Mark and Shani explore the structural exposures within popular passive index ETFs in Australia and discuss how these products can represent active bets for investors. The hosts also offer potential alternatives for those looking to adjust…
- Lessons from the GFC (correction)
Mark and Shani discuss the lessons investors can learn from the Global Financial Crisis (GFC). The episode also includes information about their new book, Invest Your Way.
- Lessons from the GFC
Mark and Shani discuss lessons for investors based on the Global Financial Crisis (GFC). The episode also includes information regarding the hosts' book, Invest Your Way.
- Underappreciated benefits of cash
Inspired by Morgan Housel's book Same As Ever, Mark explores three underappreciated benefits of holding cash in this episode of Investing Compass.
- How much you need to replace your salary with passive income
Mark and Shani discuss the requirements for the average Australian to replace their salary with passive income. This episode also includes information about the hosts' book, Invest Your Way.
- Mark's new super approach
Mark discusses his personal decision to change his superannuation and details the adjustments he made. The episode also includes information about the Morningstar team's new book, Invest Your Way.
- Most surprising tax rules in 2025–2026
Mark and Shani discuss surprising tax rules for the 2025–2026 period, drawing insights from Adrian Raftery's book. They highlight specific rules that stand out from the 101 listed by the author.
- Why I don't like dividend stocks
In this episode of Investing Compass, James Gruber of Firstlinks joins a debate with host Mark regarding the merits of dividend stocks. The discussion explores why some investors choose to avoid dividend-paying stocks.
- Three ways to make your family's life easier
This episode of Investing Compass explores three steps listeners can take to simplify the estate planning process for their families. It provides advice on how to offer peace of mind and minimize future difficulties for loved ones.
- Lessons for investors from Droneshield (ASX: DRO)
This episode of Investing Compass examines the business of Droneshield (ASX: DRO), the factors influencing its share price volatility, and the key lessons investors can learn from the company's recent performance.
- 2026 Market Outlook
This episode of Investing Compass examines the market outlook for 2026 and provides guidance for investors on navigating the year ahead. The hosts also share an update on their new book, Invest Your Way.
- 5 considerations for new ETFs
In this episode of Investing Compass, guest Shamir Popat from Morningstar discusses his research regarding five key factors investors should evaluate before investing in new ETFs.
- [BEST OF 2025] Dividend ETFs
In this episode of Investing Compass, the hosts examine dividend ETFs by analyzing four specific investment examples. This segment is presented as part of the show's top episodes of 2025.
- [BEST OF 2025] One of the most generous tax breaks in Australia
In this episode of Investing Compass, Mark and Shani examine the capital gains tax (CGT) exemption for primary residences in Australia, including rules for renting out a property. They discuss tax policy, suitable circumstances for the exe…
- [BEST OF 2025] Cage fight: US & Australian retirement systems
This episode looks back at 2025 and revisits a listener-requested discussion comparing the retirement systems of the United States and Australia. The hosts also share updates regarding their new book, Invest Your Way.
- [BEST OF 2025] 3 ETF portfolio in 2025
This episode reviews a 3 ETF portfolio strategy for 2025 using Morningstar's Manager Research Medalist ratings, featured as part of the podcast's best-of-2025 series. The hosts also provide an update on their new book, Invest Your Way.
- Are you a maximiser or a satisficer?
Mark and Shani discuss the differences between maximisers and satisficers in the context of investing. They explain how to identify which type of investor you are and the implications for your investment portfolio.
- Christmas gifts for investors 2025
In this annual holiday episode of Investing Compass, Mark and Shani discuss gift ideas for investors and exchange gifts. The hosts also announce the release of their new book, Invest Your Way, which provides a guide to successful investing.
- Where a CIO sees market opportunities
Matt Wacher, Chief Investment Officer, APAC at Morningstar Investment Management, joins the show to discuss current market opportunities, valuations, and investment approaches. The hosts also announce the release of their new book, Invest…
- Tax free earnings Aussies are taking advantage of
Shani and Mark discuss strategies for utilizing offset accounts effectively while maintaining financial balance. This episode also highlights the release of their new book, Invest Your Way, which provides guidance for successful investing.
- A fatal error with super
Mark and Shani discuss predatory practices involving companies that encourage individuals to inappropriately access their retirement savings. This episode focuses on the methods these entities use to target superannuation funds.
- Are we in a bubble?
Lochlan Halloway from Morningstar discusses the current state of market bubbles and provides insights on lessons learned from past financial crashes for investors. Mark and Shani also announce the release of their new book, Invest Your Way.
- 3 question quiz to see if you're financially literate
Mark and Shani discuss a three-question financial literacy quiz developed by the Global Financial Literacy Excellence Centre at Stanford University, which has been utilized in more than 20 nations. They review the quiz questions and add a…
- Is buying a home the right decision for you?
Mark and Shani explore the decision of buying a home, guiding listeners through questions to assess if it aligns with their personal financial goals. The episode references a full article and offers insights from the hosts' investing journ…
- Morningstar's forecasted returns for asset classes
Bianca Rose, Senior Portfolio Manager at Morningstar Investment Management, shares Morningstar's forecasted returns for asset classes, explaining how this information aids in making informed decisions about asset allocation and portfolio c…
- 6 life changing tips
In this episode of Investing Compass, hosts Mark and Shani discuss six life-changing financial tips that Shani presented during a financial literacy course for high school students. They encourage listener engagement by inviting tip submis…
- Key lessons from Morgan Housel's Same As Ever
Investing Compass shares key lessons for investors from Morgan Housel's book, Same As Ever. The hosts also introduce their new book, 'Invest Your Way,' which offers actionable insights and practical applications for successful investing.
- How to invest outside of super
In this episode, the hosts discuss investing and balancing financial goals outside of superannuation. The episode also includes information regarding the presale of the book Invest Your Way.
- Red flags for ETFs
In this episode of Investing Compass, Mark and Shani discuss three lesser-known red flags to consider when selecting exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The hosts also share information regarding their new book, Invest Your Way.
- Is there a better option than an SMSF?
In this episode of Investing Compass, Mark and Shani discuss Self-Managed Super Funds (SMSFs) and explore direct investment options as an alternative for investors seeking portfolio control without administrative burdens.
- The largest asset manager in the world doesn't think you will achieve your goals
Mark and Shani discuss BlackRock's perspective that the traditional 60/40 portfolio needs to be rethought and examine the potential returns of a 70/30 portfolio. They also explore practical steps investors can take to help achieve their fi…
- Should Mark sell this underperforming share?
Mark reviews his investment in CSL to determine if the underperforming share still aligns with his original thesis and belongs in his portfolio.
- Can you lower your tax with a trust?
Mark and Shani discuss whether trusts can help lower an investor's tax burden. They cover which investors might benefit, and highlight that establishment and maintenance fees can be a disadvantage if a trust doesn't suit individual circums…
- The pathway to financial freedom
Mark and Shani discuss how unrealistic portrayals of investing success might be hindering progress. They share their personal investing journeys and insights on how to achieve financial goals.
- Advisers are investing in droves in this product
This episode of Investing Compass explores the rise of Separately Managed Accounts (SMAs), detailing their benefits and the reasons behind their increasing popularity among financial advisers. The hosts also mention their book, 'Invest You…
- How to avoid losing your super
Investing Compass discusses how to protect your superannuation, particularly after events like the First Guardian collapse. Hosts Mark and Shani also mention their new book, 'Invest Your Way', which focuses on the investor rather than spec…
- {REPLAY} The Value of Franking Credits
This episode of Investing Compass examines the impact of franking credits on investor returns and questions the extent to which they should be prioritized.
- Can you value a share just using dividends?
The Investing Compass episode discusses the value of dividends in share valuation and explores mean reversion strategies. It also touches on rethinking the 60/40 portfolio, Guzman y Gomez
- Your thoughts on Australia's super system
This episode of Investing Compass examines Australia's superannuation system, with host Mark grading aspects and comparing them to Morningstar reader averages. It also covers navigating investments during economic uncertainty, the benefits…
- Market returns are secondary to this driver of returns
This episode of Investing Compass discusses how behavioral mistakes can negatively impact investment portfolios, offering advice on prevention. It also features segments on ETF analysis, the use of trusts for tax purposes, a comparison of…
- One of the most generous tax breaks in Australia
This episode of Investing Compass, hosted by Mark and Shani, examines Australia's Capital Gains Tax (CGT) exemption for homes. They delve into the specifics of this tax concession, including how it allows homeowners to rent out their prope…
- Are you wealthy?
This podcast episode explores traditional and alternative metrics for assessing wealth, focusing on End of Financial Year reviews and portfolio ratios. It also delves into Australia's housing market, deep value investing strategies, and po…
- Private Assets 101
This episode of Investing Compass covers private assets, including their history, risks, and benefits. It features discussions on private credit, strategies for maximizing investment returns, identifying potential takeover targets, and the…
- How to defer income tax until you sell your shares
This episode of Investing Compass explains the differences between Dividend Reinvestment Plans (DRPs) and Dividend Substitution Share Plans (DSSPs), highlighting the benefits of each to help investors choose the most suitable option for th…