Investopoly

Stuart Wemyss & Campbell Wallace

Investopoly is a twice-weekly podcast designed to help you make better financial decisions and build wealth with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Stuart (tax adviser, financial adviser, and mortgage broker) and Campbell (senior financial adviser), each episode delivers concise, practical insights grounded in real-world strategy, research, methodologies, and case studies. You will get two episodes each week: a main episode that deep-dives into a single wealth-building topic, and a Q&A episode that answers listener questions and real scenarios. Send your questions to questions@investopoly.com.auWe also writes a weekly blog, and many podcast topics build on those ideas and frameworks. Stuart's forthcoming book, Wealth by Design, will be available in July 2026.

  1. Ep 403: Lump sum share market investing: risky or rational

    HACE 2 DÍAS

    Ep 403: Lump sum share market investing: risky or rational

    Read Full Blog Here Investing a large lump sum into the share market can feel risky, but is spreading it out actually safer, or just more comfortable? In this episode, Stuart revisits his own evolving view on lump sum investing versus dollar cost averaging. Drawing on decades of market research, he explains why lump sum investing has historically outperformed staged investing around two-thirds of the time, and why the real cost of caution is often missed opportunity, not reduced risk. But this is not just about timing. Stuart explores how the decision should also depend on what you’re investing in, from expensive markets like the Nasdaq to more attractively valued regions globally. He also unpacks the role of cash sitting in offset accounts, and how that changes the equation when comparing guaranteed returns versus market exposure. The episode dives into the psychology behind staged investing, including loss aversion and the fear of regret, and introduces a practical middle ground: enhanced dollar cost averaging. Stuart also breaks down common misconceptions around debt recycling, explaining why it does not automatically accelerate home loan repayment—and when it can still make sense. A clear, evidence-based discussion on balancing logic, emotion, and strategy when investing significant capital. My new book out in mid-2026: To join the pre-order waitlist and get a bonus. More info go to: https://prosolution.com.au/book-preorder-bonus Do you have a question for the podcast? Email us at questions@investopoly.com.au. If you're interested in working with our team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/family-office-services If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://prosolution.com.au/stay-connected IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

    25 min
  2. Q&A - When good options compete: property, super & the art of the trade-off

    HACE 3 DÍAS

    Q&A - When good options compete: property, super & the art of the trade-off

    In this week's Q&A episode, Stuart works through real-life scenarios where the challenge isn't finding a good option; it's choosing between several. A Canberra couple planning a move to Queensland face a layered dilemma: how to fund a $3M home while managing a defined benefit pension, a potential inheritance, and a preference to hold quality assets. Stuart weighs selling, renting, and carrying debt into retirement, and why flexibility may matter more than certainty at this stage. The episode also covers structuring investments for children (informal versus discretionary trusts), cash flow and loan strategies for business owners and high-income earners, and how to decide whether an underperforming property is worth holding or cutting loose. Across every case study, the same tension surfaces: flexibility, tax efficiency, and long-term growth rarely all point in the same direction. A practical, honest episode for anyone navigating big financial decisions where no single path is obviously right. My new book out in mid-2026: To join the pre-order waitlist and get a bonus. More info go to: https://prosolution.com.au/book-preorder-bonus Do you have a question for the podcast? Email us at questions@investopoly.com.au. If you're interested in working with our team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/family-office-services If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://prosolution.com.au/stay-connected IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

    33 min
  3. Ep 402: The real risk in retirement: working too long and spending too little

    31 MAR

    Ep 402: The real risk in retirement: working too long and spending too little

    Read Full Blog Here In this episode, Stuart explores a lesser-discussed but increasingly important risk in financial planning: not running out of money, but failing to use it when it matters most. While much of the conversation around retirement focuses on avoiding financial shortfall, this episode flips the script. For those in a strong financial position, the greater danger may be underspending during the early, high-health years of retirement when time, energy, and freedom are at their peak. Stuart introduces a practical framework for thinking about retirement in two phases: the active “high-health” years and the later, lower-spending phase. He explains why a successful plan often involves intentional drawdown of capital, not just preserving it, and how shifting from accumulation to decumulation is as much psychological as it is financial. The episode also outlines how to build confidence in spending through simple guardrails dividing wealth into core, contingency, and discretionary capital—and why liquidity and asset structure play a critical role in enabling flexibility. This is a thoughtful discussion about aligning money with life, permitting yourself to spend, and ensuring that financial success actually translates into a richer, more fulfilling retirement. My new book out in mid-2026: To join the pre-order waitlist and get a bonus. More info go to: https://prosolution.com.au/book-preorder-bonus Do you have a question for the podcast? Email us at questions@investopoly.com.au. If you're interested in working with our team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/family-office-services If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://prosolution.com.au/stay-connected IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

    27 min
  4. Q&A - Can you retire early without taking big risks?

    30 MAR

    Q&A - Can you retire early without taking big risks?

    In this episode, Stuart explores a powerful theme across multiple listener scenarios: is it possible to achieve early retirement without aggressive risk-taking, and what trade-offs does that require? A couple in their late 40s shares a disciplined, “late starter” journey and a clear downsizing strategy to fund retirement within five years. Stuart unpacks whether their plan to bridge the gap to super using shares and cash flow is realistic, and the key risks that could derail it. The conversation then broadens to include several compelling case studies: how to allocate proceeds from a property sale when nearing retirement, whether to prioritise super versus accessible investments, and how to structure a portfolio to fund the critical pre-super gap. Stuart also tackles the psychology of risk: Should wealthier investors take on more growth exposure, or reduce risk as they approach retirement? And for those pursuing early retirement primarily through shares, what are the key considerations when navigating volatility, sequencing risk, and income needs? This episode is a deep dive into retirement strategy, highlighting that while simple plans can be effective, success ultimately comes down to managing timing risk, maintaining flexibility, and aligning your portfolio with your real-world lifestyle goals. My new book out in mid-2026: To join the pre-order waitlist and get a bonus. More info go to: https://prosolution.com.au/book-preorder-bonus Do you have a question for the podcast? Email us at questions@investopoly.com.au. If you're interested in working with our team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/family-office-services If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://prosolution.com.au/stay-connected IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

    38 min
  5. EP 401: Beyond the median: What actually drives property outperformance in Melbourne

    24 MAR

    EP 401: Beyond the median: What actually drives property outperformance in Melbourne

    Read Full Blog Here In this episode, Stuart challenges the idea that Melbourne property has been a poor performer by digging beneath the median data and uncovering what actually drives outperformance. While headline figures suggest modest growth since 2010, a deeper look reveals many individual properties have significantly exceeded the average. Stuart walks through 10 real case studies across investment-grade Melbourne suburbs, highlighting the common characteristics that contributed to stronger long-term results even during relatively flat market conditions. The discussion focuses on key drivers of outperformance, including structural scarcity, walkable lifestyle appeal, strong local demographics, and positioning within tightly held pockets. He also explains why factors like land size and heritage overlays may matter less than investors assume, and how well-executed renovations can enhance both value and buyer demand. Importantly, Stuart emphasises that property investing is both art and science data can guide decisions, but nuance and local expertise often make the difference. The episode reinforces a critical message: you don’t need a booming market to achieve strong results. By focusing on high-quality assets with enduring fundamentals, investors can outperform the median and harness the real power of long-term compounding. My new book out in mid-2026: To join the pre-order waitlist and get a bonus. More info go to: https://prosolution.com.au/book-preorder-bonus Do you have a question for the podcast? Email us at questions@investopoly.com.au. If you're interested in working with our team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/family-office-services If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://prosolution.com.au/stay-connected IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

    31 min
  6. 23 MAR

    Q&A - When your dream home conflicts with your wealth plan

    In this episode, Stuart unpacks a complex and relatable dilemma: what happens when your long-term wealth strategy collides with a major lifestyle goal. A Sydney-based investor with a substantial property portfolio is aiming to retire at 60 with a high passive income. Still, a recent PPOR upgrade and plans for an $800k–$1M knockdown rebuild have put that goal under pressure. With borrowing capacity already stretched and income likely to fall, the question becomes clear: is it possible to fund the build without selling assets, or is compromise unavoidable? Stuart explores the trade-offs between holding investment-grade property for long-term compounding versus freeing up capital to fund lifestyle decisions today. He also discusses the realities of serviceability constraints, the risks of overextending, and why sometimes even strong portfolios require strategic simplification. The episode also touches on broader themes, including how to optimise concessional super contributions in retirement, how risk tolerance should evolve as wealth grows, and a fascinating case study involving a farmer weighing up a $11M lump sum versus long-term income from a solar lease. A thoughtful discussion on balancing ambition, lifestyle, and financial reality when not everything can be optimised at once. My new book out in mid-2026: To join the pre-order waitlist and get a bonus. More info go to: https://prosolution.com.au/book-preorder-bonus Do you have a question for the podcast? Email us at questions@investopoly.com.au. If you're interested in working with our team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/family-office-services If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://prosolution.com.au/stay-connected IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

    32 min
  7. Ep 400: CGT discount changes: what property investors should do now

    17 MAR

    Ep 400: CGT discount changes: what property investors should do now

    Read Full Blog Here Register Here In this episode, Stuart breaks down the growing political debate around capital gains tax (CGT) and what potential changes could mean for Australian property investors. Following a Senate committee review, policymakers are now discussing the possibility of reducing the CGT discount and even limiting negative gearing to a small number of properties. Stuart examines the claims behind these proposals, including whether investor tax incentives are really responsible for rising house prices, and why housing supply remains the dominant driver of affordability. He then walks through modelling that compares three potential CGT systems: the current 50% discount, a reduced 33% discount, and the original inflation indexation model used when CGT was first introduced. Using a 30-year property investment example, Stuart shows how reducing the discount would affect after-tax returns, internal rate of return (IRR), and the overall profit investors might expect from a leveraged property strategy. The episode also explores how these tax changes could alter the investment landscape. If property tax advantages are reduced, borrowing to invest in shares, particularly tax-efficient global equity portfolios, may become comparatively more attractive. Finally, Stuart discusses lessons from the UK, where investor-focused tax reforms reduced landlord participation and tightened rental supply, contributing to rising rents. My new book out in mid-2026: To join the pre-order waitlist and get a bonus. More info go to: https://prosolution.com.au/book-preorder-bonus Do you have a question for the podcast? Email us at questions@investopoly.com.au. If you're interested in working with our team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/family-office-services If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://prosolution.com.au/stay-connected IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

    35 min
  8. 16 MAR

    Q&A - Preparing for retirement: prioritising debt reduction, super contributions, and liquidity

    Register Here In this Q&A episode, Stuart tackles three complex retirement planning scenarios involving superannuation strategy, debt reduction, and financial independence. First, a Melbourne couple in their 50s asks whether surplus cash should be prioritised toward their large PPOR mortgage offset or contributed to their SMSF. With significant property exposure and relatively low super balances, Stuart explores how to think about the trade-off between liquidity, tax efficiency, and retirement readiness. Next, a Sydney couple in their late 40s wonder if it’s still possible to pay off their home loan and retire within 15 years. Stuart examines whether buying an investment property for growth ahead of the Brisbane Olympics is a sensible strategy, or whether a more conservative path, boosting concessional super contributions while paying down their mortgage, may provide a stronger outcome. Finally, a FIRE-oriented listener asks how to bridge the gap between early retirement and super preservation age when most wealth already sits inside super. Stuart discusses withdrawal rates, sequence-of-returns risk, and how to determine the appropriate level of investments required outside super. A thoughtful episode on balancing flexibility, tax efficiency, and risk when planning for retirement across different life stages. My new book out in mid-2026: To join the pre-order waitlist and get a bonus. More info go to: https://prosolution.com.au/book-preorder-bonus Do you have a question for the podcast? Email us at questions@investopoly.com.au. If you're interested in working with our team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/family-office-services If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://prosolution.com.au/stay-connected IMPORTANT: This podcast provides general information about finance, taxes, and credit. This means that the content does not consider your specific objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is crucial for you to assess whether the information is suitable for your circumstances before taking any actions based on it. If you find yourself uncertain about the relevance or your specific needs, it is advisable to seek advice from a licensed and trustworthy professional.

    36 min

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Investopoly is a twice-weekly podcast designed to help you make better financial decisions and build wealth with clarity and confidence. Hosted by Stuart (tax adviser, financial adviser, and mortgage broker) and Campbell (senior financial adviser), each episode delivers concise, practical insights grounded in real-world strategy, research, methodologies, and case studies. You will get two episodes each week: a main episode that deep-dives into a single wealth-building topic, and a Q&A episode that answers listener questions and real scenarios. Send your questions to questions@investopoly.com.auWe also writes a weekly blog, and many podcast topics build on those ideas and frameworks. Stuart's forthcoming book, Wealth by Design, will be available in July 2026.

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