Investopoly

Stuart Wemyss
Investopoly

Each episode is packed with concise tips, strategies, research, methodologies, case studies, and ideas to help you safely and effectively grow your wealth. Stuart Wemyss, a qualified financial advisor, accountant, tax agent, and licensed mortgage broker, delivers holistic advice. With four authored books, including "Investopoly" and "Rules of the Lending Game," Stuart shares his insights through a weekly blog, which is replicated on this podcast.

  1. 1D AGO

    Ep 356: How to choose an investment option in super

    Register for live event on 28 May at 7pm New Report: The Evidence-Based Approach to Investing in Property & Shares: download here. Read full blog here. In this episode, Stuart shares practical advice for one of the most important superannuation decisions you'll make: how to invest your super once you've chosen your fund. He explains the differences between pre-mixed investment options like Conservative, Balanced, Growth, and High Growth, and why you can't always trust the label. Some “Balanced” options are really aggressive, so always check the underlying asset allocation. Stuart breaks down the two key factors to consider: your time horizon and your risk tolerance. If you're under 50, the evidence clearly shows that growth assets (like shares and property) outperform over the long term—even if they’re more volatile. For those not accessing super for decades, that volatility is worth enduring. He also warns against common mistakes like mixing investment options, trying to manage your own asset allocation, or using DIY investment tools without advice. Instead, he recommends choosing one pre-mixed option that matches your goals and sticking with it. Whether you're just starting out or approaching retirement, this episode will help you make a smarter, evidence-based choice for your super. Tune in and take control of your long-term financial future. Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/ If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/ DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/ 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
  2. 2D AGO

    Q&A: When to increase super contributions, offset or redraw, super or property and more…

    In this Q&A podcast episode, Stuart tackles timely questions on super contributions, property strategy, and how to structure wealth to optimise flexibility, returns, and tax outcomes—particularly as retirement nears. Jack opened the episode with a practical question about offset accounts versus redraw facilities. As he approaches retirement, he's focused on maximising flexibility and wanted clarification on how each structure works, especially with salary deposits, credit card repayments, and long-term access to funds. George, aged 58, sought guidance on how to best deploy $260,000 in spare cash after selling a Queensland investment property. Stuart explores the pros and cons of contributing to super (both concessional and non-concessional), buying property (including the impact of Melbourne’s land tax), or investing in ETFs—especially during periods of market volatility. George’s goal is to retire at 62, and Stuart offers a strategy that balances growth potential with tax efficiency. Shan and his wife, both in their mid-30s, wanted to understand when it makes sense to increase super contributions, given they already have a mortgage-free home and neutral investment properties. Stuart outlines the questions young families should ask when weighing super versus other wealth-building paths during their peak earning years. Pat, 32 and a company director asked when a family trust becomes more beneficial than investing personally. With a growing share portfolio, he wanted clarity on the cost-benefit tipping point for using a trust structure—especially in a down market where transferring assets might carry lower CGT. Finally, Vanessa explored whether to use inherited funds to purchase a property within super or invest in ETFs now and contribute later. Stuart shares general insights on liquidity, long-term growth, and the trade-offs between inside and outside super environments. If you’re weighing super, property, ETFs or trust structures—or trying to figure out when to dial up your retirement strategy—this episode is packed with valuable insights. Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/ If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/ DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/ 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
  3. MAY 6

    Ep 355: Property ownership in personal names - factors to consider

    New Report: The Evidence-Based Approach to Investing in Property & Shares: download here. Read full blog here. In this episode, Stuart breaks down the key factors to consider when owning property in your personal name. While it is the most common structure among investors, there are important decisions to make that can have a lasting impact on your tax outcomes, cash flow, and asset protection. He outlines the three main ownership options: sole ownership, joint ownership, and tenants-in-common. Each structure comes with its own benefits. For example, sole ownership may maximise negative gearing if one spouse has a higher income, while a tenants-in-common split can be tailored for tax efficiency and cash management. Stuart also explains how ownership affects land tax thresholds, capital gains tax, and estate planning. He shares strategies using offset accounts to optimise loan structure, particularly for couples with uneven incomes. When it comes to your family home, Stuart covers when asset protection or future investment use might influence how it should be owned. The key takeaway is that changing ownership after purchase is usually expensive and triggers stamp duty or CGT, so it is essential to get it right from the start. If you are planning to buy property soon, this episode will help you choose the best ownership structure for both current and future circumstances. Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/ If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/ DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/ 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
  4. MAY 5

    Case Study: Six-fold increase and now ready for retirement

    In this case study episode, Stuart Wemyss shares the success story of a couple who experienced a six-fold increase in their investment assets, now positioning them for a comfortable retirement. When they first sought advice in 2015, the couple, aged 54 (him) and 51 (her), had a home valued at $900k with no debt, and co-owned three investment properties worth $1.2 million with $760k of debt. Their superannuation was $180k, and their combined income ranged from $300k to $400k annually. Fast forward to today, their home is now worth $1.6 million, and they have reduced debt on their properties, resulting in $760k of equity. A new investment property purchased in Melbourne in 2018 has added $600k in equity. Their superannuation has grown to $1.2 million, and family trust investments amount to $595k. Their net investment assets now total $3.15 million, a six-fold increase, with $1 million of that coming from debt reduction. Stuart highlights key strategies that contributed to their success, such as diversifying investments, optimizing super, and consistently investing in shares since 2020. He also discusses the importance of effective cash flow management and reducing unnecessary insurance cover. The couple, now 64 and 61 years old, are ready to retire comfortably. Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/ If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/ DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/ 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.

    30 min
  5. APR 29

    Ep 354: What to do if you are not ready for financial advice… yet

    New Report: The Evidence-Based Approach to Investing in Property & Shares: download here. Read full blog here. In this episode, Stuart shares smart, practical steps for those who aren’t quite ready to pay for full financial advice—but still want to make smart money moves. He explains the difference between straightforward and complex financial decisions. Early in your wealth-building journey, most choices are straightforward if you educate yourself on the fundamentals and find a great professional mentor—like a savvy mortgage broker or accountant—to guide and reassure you. Stuart also gives real-world examples of how mentorship and basic strategic advice have helped clients successfully build property portfolios and secure financial freedom—without initially needing full-service advice. However, he warns that when financial complexity increases, or if you lack confidence in making investment decisions, it’s crucial to know when to bring in a qualified financial advisor. If you’re early in your journey and wondering how to move forward wisely without overpaying for advice, this episode is essential listening. Stuart offers clear, experience-backed guidance to help you stay on track while you build your foundation. Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/ If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/ DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/ 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
  6. APR 28

    Q&A: Interest-only loans, transferring investment ownership, education bonds and more...

    In yesterday’s Q&A podcast episode, Stuart answered a wide range of listener questions about property investing, tax strategies, and long-term financial planning. He explained options for investors whose interest-only loan terms are ending, covering whether refinancing or switching to principal and interest repayments makes more sense depending on personal strategy. He also discussed the timing of paying down investment loans and different exit strategies for property investors. Another listener sought advice on structuring future ETF investments and whether it is worthwhile to transfer an existing portfolio into a family trust. Stuart broke down the key factors to consider, including capital gains tax implications and long-term flexibility. For those planning education funding, Stuart addressed whether education bonds are an efficient way to save for private school fees compared to a regular share portfolio, and the pros and cons of setting up one bond per child versus one combined bond. The episode also covered the nuances of land value growth for units versus houses, and how to think about the land-to-asset ratio when assessing long-term investment prospects. Finally, Stuart reviewed a detailed family financial plan involving superannuation consolidation, wrap platforms, education bonds, and SMSF management, offering broad principles to help guide listeners facing similar decisions. As referenced during the episode, you can also listen to Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late – Strategic Retirement Planning here. Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/ If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/ DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/ 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
  7. APR 22

    Ep 353: Are property plans worth paying for?

    New Report: The Evidence-Based Approach to Investing in Property & Shares: download here. Read full blog here. In this episode, Stuart takes a critical look at property planning services, which promise to help you build a portfolio by mapping out your borrowing capacity, cash flow, and investment strategy—for a price tag of $4,000 to $5,000. He explains why these plans might work if you’re committed to only ever investing in property. But if you want holistic advice that considers shares, super, tax, insurance, and retirement planning, property plans often fall short. Stuart outlines key limitations—like the lack of licensing, regulatory oversight, and inability to provide comprehensive tax or credit advice. He also questions whether these plans are truly tailored strategies or just templated sales tools aimed at generating buyers’ agent fees. That said, property plans can offer value in mapping geographic diversification and tenant profiles, especially for investors pursuing multi-property portfolios. But quality always trumps quantity—one $1.5M investment-grade property will likely outperform four $500K average ones. So, are property plans worth it? Stuart says: maybe—but only in narrow cases. For most people, you’re likely better off working with a financial adviser, accountant, and mortgage broker who can give broader, tailored, and regulated advice. Tune in for an honest, experience-backed breakdown of this increasingly common offering. Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/ If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/ DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/ 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
  8. APR 21

    Q&A: Surprising tax saving on inheritance, investing in property overseas, repay mortgage or invest and more...

    In this Q&A episode, Stuart unpacks a range of nuanced financial strategies, from tax-effective investing for children to optimising debt, investment structure, and global property opportunities. He begins with Cara’s question about investing an inheritance for her children and explains the surprising tax concession available through testamentary trusts—highlighting how they can be used to minimise tax on investment earnings for minors, which is a rare opportunity under Australian tax law. Shawn’s question opens up a discussion on investing in international real estate. Stuart weighs up the potential benefits, like geographic diversification and affordability, against challenges such as foreign tax laws, currency risk, and lack of local knowledge. In Tom’s case, the classic dilemma of repaying a mortgage versus investing is explored in detail. Stuart helps Tom assess whether to hold onto a non-investment-grade property, how to optimise surplus income post-property upgrade, and whether using equity to buy an investment-grade asset might deliver better long-term returns. Andy’s scenario focuses on property ownership structuring and tax efficiency. Stuart breaks down how adjusting ownership percentages between spouses can optimise negative gearing benefits, especially when incomes are uneven. He also addresses the often-overlooked role of bonds in asset allocation, particularly for those with mortgages and offset accounts. Finally, Stuart answers Adam’s niche query about testamentary trusts and corporate beneficiaries, clarifying the flow of profits and tax treatment when a company is owned by a trust, and whether the concessional tax treatment for minors still applies. Whether you’re investing for children, managing large-scale debt, exploring offshore property, or trying to perfect your tax setup—this episode delivers clarity, strategy, and actionable ideas. Tune in now! Do you have a question? Email: questions@investopoly.com.au or for a faster response, post a comment on the episode's video over on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@investopolypodcast/podcasts If you're interested in working with my team and me, discover how we can work together here: https://prosolution.com.au/prospective-client/ If this episode resonated with you, please leave a rating on your favourite podcast platform. Subscribe to my weekly blog: https://www.prosolution.com.au/stay-connected/ Buy a one of Stuart's books for ONLY $20 including delivery. Use the discount code blog: https://prosolution.com.au/books/ DOWNLOAD our 97-point financial health checklist here: https://prosolution.com.au/download-checklist/ 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

Hosts & Guests

About

Each episode is packed with concise tips, strategies, research, methodologies, case studies, and ideas to help you safely and effectively grow your wealth. Stuart Wemyss, a qualified financial advisor, accountant, tax agent, and licensed mortgage broker, delivers holistic advice. With four authored books, including "Investopoly" and "Rules of the Lending Game," Stuart shares his insights through a weekly blog, which is replicated on this podcast.

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada