46% of Kiwis are worried about money. Whether it is just making it to the next payday, trying to get onto the property ladder, paying down credit card debt or saving for retirement. James Blair and Michael Vincent have been in financial services in New Zealand for 20 years combined. Cheques & Balances is a weekly podcast where James and Michael share their insights on how to get ahead financially and achieve financial freedom. Check out our website below: lighthousefinancial.co.nz
Why does it feel like you're working harder but getting nowhere?From rising living costs and inflation to mortgage strategies, KiwiSaver, emergency funds and practical ways to build financial resilience, James and Mike break down why so many Kiwis are feeling the squeeze and the steps you can take to strengthen your finances in today's economy.Next steps: Feeling the pressure of rising costs? Speak to the Lighthouse Financial team for personalised advice on your mortgage, KiwiSaver, investments and cash flow.Can't Refinance Your Mortgage? Watch This Episode Learn More About Balance Transfers HereReview Your Insurances HereFor more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Before the wealth came the mistakes, side hustles, setbacks and plenty of hard lessons.To celebrate one million podcast downloads, James and Mike share the personal stories they've never told before - from their childhood relationships with money and first jobs to dropping out of university, building careers in banking, early investing lessons and the work ethic that shaped their financial journeys.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Could your KiwiSaver be investing in something you don't agree with?Around $900 million of KiwiSaver money is now invested in weapons-related companies. James and Mike sit down with Lily Richards, Chief Marketing and Client Officer at Pathfinder KiwiSaver Plan to explore ethical investing, how to check what's inside your KiwiSaver, whether responsible investing impacts returns, and why understanding where your retirement savings are invested could be just as important as how much they earn.Next Steps:Learn more about Pathfinder Check out the Mindful Money websiteCreate Your Own: Mini Ethical Investment Policy Want to make sure your KiwiSaver matches both your financial goals and your personal values? Speak with the Lighthouse Wealth team for a KiwiSaver review and find the fund that's right for you. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Selling because you're nervous can be one of the most expensive investment decisions you make.When should you actually sell an investment? James and Mike break down the difference between emotional reactions and smart financial decisions, covering market crashes, changing life goals, underperforming investments, investment fees, diversification, inherited assets, and the key signs it's time to review your portfolio.Next Steps: Not sure whether your investments still align with your goals? Speak with the Lighthouse Wealth team for a discovery call today.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
The property market isn't broken... but expectations might be.Should New Zealand expect house prices to keep doubling every 10 years? James and Mike unpack the key drivers behind long-term property growth, including migration, interest rates, inflation, wages, affordability, and whether endless house price growth is actually good for the country's future.Next steps: If you're wondering what today's property market means for your own plans, whether you're buying your first home, investing, or reviewing your mortgage, get in touch with the Lighthouse Property and Mortgage team today.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Inflation is back above 4%... but is the worst still to come?James and Mike break down New Zealand's latest 4.1% inflation result, why petrol prices are driving almost all of the increase, whether higher interest rates are actually the right solution, what it means for mortgages, businesses and household budgets, and where they believe the economy is heading over the next 12 months.Next steps: Need help navigating rising interest rates? Speak with the Lighthouse Mortgage team today.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Building your dream home? Don't talk to the bank until you've watched this.From construction loans and stage payments to hidden building costs, budget blowouts, fixed-price contracts, and choosing the right builder, we break down everything you need to know before building a home. We also uncover the common mistakes that can quickly turn your dream build into an expensive headache.Next Steps: Thinking about building, buying, or refinancing? Get in touch with the Lighthouse Mortgages team for personalised advice before you make your next move. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Think you're stuck with your mortgage? You might have more options than you realise.In this episode, Mike and James break down what to do if you can't refinance your mortgage, including how to negotiate with your current bank, when breaking a fixed rate makes sense, cash retention payments, low equity traps, and the simple strategies that could save you thousands without switching lenders.Next Steps: If you're unsure whether you can refinance or simply want to know if you're getting the best deal the Lighthouse mortgage team can review your options and help you build a strategy that works for your situation.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
The headlines are noisy, but the data tells a very different story.In this episode, Mike and Adam break down the property market indicators they're watching most closely, including construction activity, building costs, auction clearance rates, GDP, long-term price trends, and why Christchurch continues to stand out as one of New Zealand's strongest investment markets.Next Steps: Thinking about buying your next property or wondering what these market shifts mean? Speak to the Lighthouse Property team today to explore your options.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
A simple financial plan can change everything.In episode two of Inside a Financial Plan, James walks Julia through her personalised financial roadmap, explaining why building an emergency fund comes before paying off debt and why he's recommending a switch to her KiwiSaver fund. Together, they map out a step-by-step plan to become mortgage-free sooner and build more than $2 million in retirement investments while raising her daughter on a single income.Next Steps: Ready to build your own financial plan? Get in touch with James and the Lighthouse Wealth team to create a personalised roadmap tailored to your goals and financial situation.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Wondering what the latest OCR hike means for your mortgage? Here's what homeowners need to know.Mike Vincent and Jess Hargreaves break down why the OCR hike wasn't a surprise, how banks have already reacted, where mortgage rates are likely to head next, and what homeowners should consider when fixing, refinancing, or reviewing their mortgage.Next Steps: If your mortgage is coming up for review or you're simply unsure what this OCR announcement means for your situation get in touch with the Lighthouse Mortgages team. They'll compare lenders, review your loan structure, and help you find the best option for your goals.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
A single income doesn't have to mean putting your financial goals on hold.In this episode of Inside a Financial Plan, we meet Julia, a single mum rebuilding her finances after divorce. James works through her goals, debt, budgeting, KiwiSaver, retirement planning, emergency fund, mortgage strategy and the personalised roadmap to help her build long-term wealth.Next Steps: If you'd like your own personalised financial plan, the Lighthouse Wealth team can help you create a strategy tailored to your goals, income and future.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Many property investors are paying more tax than they need to.Matt Harris and Mike Vincent explain how debt structuring, ownership structures, lending strategies and tax planning can reduce unnecessary tax, improve cash flow, and help investors make the most of today's property market.Next Steps: Whether you need advice on property structures, trusts and tax planning, or you'd like to review your lending and mortgage strategy, the Lighthouse Accounting and Mortgage teams are here to help.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
They thought they weren't ready to buy a home - until one conversation changed everything.In this episode, we follow Harsh and Hiral's first home buying journey, from budgeting struggles and saving a 5% deposit to navigating pre-approvals, real estate agents, failed offers, due diligence, KiwiSaver withdrawals, and ultimately securing their first home in Auckland.Next Steps: Thinking about buying your first home but not sure where to start? Speak to the Lighthouse Mortgages team today and get a clear plan to understand your borrowing power, budget, and next steps.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Is Wayne Brown's plan enough to turn Auckland around?James and Mike react to Wayne Brown's five-point plan for Auckland, discussing transport, rates, council spending, housing, infrastructure, economic growth, and whether the mayor can actually deliver meaningful change for the city's future.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
That $75 payment might be costing you more than you think.In this episode, James and Mike unpack the rapid rise of Afterpay and buy now, pay later services, why nearly 100,000 Kiwis are behind on repayments, how short-term debt spirals out of control, the impact on budgeting and mortgage applications, and what to do if you're already stuck in the debt cycle.Next Steps: If debt, cashflow, or budgeting is becoming a source of stress, our team can help you create a plan to regain control and build a stronger financial future. Speak To Out Budgeting and Cashflow team today.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Could these be the biggest KiwiSaver changes since the scheme began?James and Mike break down the National Party's proposed KiwiSaver reforms, including compulsory contributions, higher employer contributions, a $1,500 KiwiSaver kickstart for newborns, parental leave support, over-65 contributions, and whether these changes could improve retirement outcomes and help New Zealand close the wealth gap with Australia.Next steps: If you're unsure whether your KiwiSaver is on track for retirement, get in touch with the Lighthouse KiwiSaver team for a personalised review.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Owning a home is expensive, but it's often the hidden costs that hurt the most.In this episode, James and Mike break down the true cost of homeownership in New Zealand, exploring rising rates, insurance premiums, water charges, maintenance costs, property repairs, and why many homeowners underestimate the ongoing expenses that come with owning a property.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Are you on track for retirement, or falling behind?In this episode, James and Mike break down the latest KiwiSaver balances by age, discuss why the average retirement balance may not be enough, explore the growing KiwiSaver gender gap, compare top and bottom-performing funds, and explain the key decisions that could add hundreds of thousands of dollars to your retirement savings.Next Steps: Want to know if your KiwiSaver is working hard enough for you? Book a free KiwiSaver review with the Lighthouse Financial team today. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
NZ businesses are folding at the fastest rate in 15 years.In this episode, James and Mike unpack why more than 3,000 New Zealand companies have entered liquidation, which industries are being hit hardest, whether government policy is helping or hurting businesses, and what needs to change to get the NZ economy moving again.Next Steps: If you're a business owner feeling the pressure, speak with the Lighthouse Financial team about cash flow, tax planning, business structure, and strategies to navigate a tougher economic environment.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
The world's biggest financial leak changed New Zealand trust law forever.In this episode, James, Mike and Matt unpack the Panama Papers, explain how New Zealand became linked to foreign trusts, shell companies and tax transparency concerns, explore the reforms that followed, and discuss how trusts are used today for asset protection, estate planning and wealth management.Next Steps: If you'd like advice on trusts, asset protection or estate planning, get in touch with the Lighthouse Accounting team to see whether the right structure could help protect your wealth.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Not every property is right for every investor.In this episode, James and Lighthouse Property Director Adam Farrell break down which property types suit different investors, from townhouses and standalone homes to renovations, multi-unit properties and commercial real estate, while exploring risk, cash flow, capital growth, retirement planning, and when property may not be the right investment at all.Next Steps: Thinking about your next property purchase? Speak with the Lighthouse Property team to build an investment strategy that matches your goals, risk profile, and long-term financial plan.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Don't mistake information for advice.In this episode, James and Mike discuss whether ChatGPT can replace a mortgage broker, unpack a real-life example where AI mortgage advice conflicted with professional advice, explore the difference between information and personalised advice, and explain where AI can help and where it can get things wrong.Next steps: Need help making the right mortgage decision? Speak with the Lighthouse Mortgages team for personalised advice tailored to your goals, not generic answers from the internet.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Most people don't miss out on their first investment property because of the market - they miss out because they're focused on the wrong things.In this episode, Mike and Jess sit down with Ilse Wolfe, Director of Wolfe Property, to unpack the six biggest mistakes holding Kiwis back from their first investment property, including affordability, equity, financial foundations, timing, expectations, and choosing the right location to build long-term wealth.Next Steps: Thinking about your first investment property? The Lighthouse Financial team can help you understand your borrowing power, structure your finances, and create a plan to build long-term wealth with confidence.Learn more about Wolfe Property hereFor more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
The degree debate is changing.In this episode, James and Mike break down the real numbers behind trades versus degrees, comparing income, student debt, house deposits, KiwiSaver balances, graduate job opportunities, the impact of AI on future careers, and whether university is still the best path to building long-term wealth.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Most businesses are feeling the pressure but some are still finding ways to grow.In this episode, James and Jess sit down with Cruze and Pearl, founders of One & Only, to discuss building a business from scratch, taking calculated risks, relocating from Wellington to Auckland, growing through relationships and referrals, balancing business and personal wealth, and the lessons they've learned scaling a business through challenging economic conditions.Interested in working with One & Only? Connect with Cruze and Pearl hereNext Steps: If you're looking to align your business success with your personal wealth goals, get in touch with the Lighthouse Wealth team to build a financial plan tailored to your future.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Not all townhouses are created equal.In this episode, James and Lighthouse Property Director Adam Farrell break down the oversupply of new build townhouses, what separates a quality development from a dud, how supply and demand influence property values, why rental yields and developer quality matter, and whether high-density housing is an unavoidable part of New Zealand's future.Next Steps: Thinking about investing in property? Speak to the Lighthouse Property team about finding investment opportunities that align with your goals, cashflow, and long-term strategy.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
The Budget is out but will it actually make Kiwis better off?In this episode, James and Matt break down NZ Budget 2026, discussing the biggest winners and losers, infrastructure spending, health investment, fuel price relief, banking levies, FIF tax changes, business challenges, and whether the Government's plan to return to surplus will help or hinder New Zealand's economic recovery.Next Steps: Want to make smarter financial decisions in a changing economic environment? Whether it's your investments, property portfolio, mortgage structure, tax position, or long-term financial plan, Lighthouse Financial can help. Get in touch with our team today.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Is new infrastructure the answer to NZ's problems? What if New Zealand's biggest economic problem isn't interest rates or housing… but infrastructure?In this episode, James and Mike break down why Christchurch has become one of New Zealand's most liveable and resilient cities, what Auckland and Wellington can learn from its rebuild, whether better infrastructure could improve productivity and economic growth, and why throwing billions at projects doesn't automatically fix a country's problems.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
In this episode, we break down what forward fixing actually is, how rate locks work, what rising interest rates could mean for borrowers in 2026, and the key mistakes to avoid when locking in your next mortgage rate.Next steps: Speak to the Lighthouse Mortgages team about whether forward fixing or restructuring your lending could make sense before rates move again. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Australia's tax overhaul could become New Zealand's opportunity.In this episode, we break down Australia's major property and capital gains tax changes, what ring-fencing and reduced CGT concessions mean for investors and business owners, why some believe these policies punish aspiration, and whether New Zealand could benefit from an influx of capital, businesses, and entrepreneurs across the Tasman.Next Steps: If you want to structure your investments, business, or property portfolio more effectively in a changing tax environment, get in touch with the Lighthouse Accounting team today.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
New Zealand's debt is exploding… but is it actually a problem?With Budget 2026 around the corner, we break down New Zealand's $182 billion debt position, whether the country should be worried about rising interest costs, how our debt compares globally, and why borrowing isn't always a bad thing. James and Mike debate whether the Government is too focused on cutting costs instead of growing the economy, the risks around productivity and public sector cuts, and whether debt used for infrastructure, healthcare, and long-term growth could actually make New Zealand wealthier over time.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Australia just changed the game on tax and New Zealand might be the biggest winner.In this episode, we break down Australia's new capital gains tax changes, why business owners and startups could start looking at New Zealand differently, the impact on entrepreneurs, tech companies and investment, the opportunity for New Zealand's economy to attract talent and capital, how tax policy shapes productivity and growth, and why this could become one of New Zealand's biggest economic opportunities in years.Next Steps: If you own Australian property or you're considering investing across the Tasman, now's the time to understand what these tax changes could mean for your portfolio. Speak to Lighthouse Accounting today. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Most Kiwis are heading towards retirement with far less than they think they need. The difference between struggling in retirement and living comfortably often comes down to just a few KiwiSaver decisions.In this episode, we break down the real factors that can dramatically change your retirement outcome, including KiwiSaver fund selection, contribution rates, provider performance, NZ Super concerns, the risks of switching funds at the wrong time, why most Kiwis are underprepared for retirement, and how consistent long-term investing could mean the difference between retiring with a few hundred thousand dollars or several million.Next Steps: If you're unsure whether your KiwiSaver is actually set up to support the retirement you want, speak with the Lighthouse KiwiSaver team today for a free KiwiSaver review.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
More money doesn't always mean more freedom.In this episode, we break down the difference between being rich and actually building wealth in 2026, including lifestyle inflation, social media pressure, budgeting, debt, delayed gratification, investment properties, shares, multiple income streams, raising financially capable children, and why many high-income households still feel financially stressed despite earning more than ever.Next Steps: If you're earning good money but still feel like you're not getting ahead, now's probably the time to review your structure, cashflow, and long-term plan. Reach out to the Lighthouse Wealth team if you'd like help building a strategy focused on creating actual wealth, not just maintaining a lifestyle. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
You can own millions in property and still feel financially trapped.In this episode, we break down why bigger property portfolios don't always create financial freedom, including the risks of being equity rich but cashflow poor, why many investors struggle to retire despite large portfolios, the difference between growth and income-focused investing, restructuring strategies, commercial property, diversification, debt pressure, and why understanding your “why” matters more than simply accumulating more assets.Next Steps: If you're building wealth through property but unsure how your portfolio actually supports your long-term lifestyle, retirement, or cashflow goals, Lighthouse Wealth can help you create a strategy that works beyond just capital growth.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Retirement is changing fast and owning a home no longer guarantees financial security.In this episode, we break down the growing reality of retiring without a home, why more Kiwis are becoming asset rich but cash poor, the risks of long-term renting in retirement, reverse mortgages, downsizing traps, build-to-rent developments, and the financial decisions people are now making to maintain lifestyle and flexibility later in life. Next Steps: Want to understand whether your current retirement setup is actually sustainable? Get in touch with the Lighthouse Wealth team to build a personalised retirement and cashflow plan.Read the full article here For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Interest rates could be heading back up and most mortgage holders aren't ready for it.In this episode, we break down why rate rises may not be over yet, how inflation, oil prices, and Reserve Bank decisions impact your mortgage, plus the practical steps borrowers can take now to reduce risk, lock in certainty, and avoid getting caught rolling onto higher rates later this year.Next Steps: If your fixed rate is rolling off soon and you want to understand your options before rates potentially move higher, get in touch with the Lighthouse mortgage team.Register for our upcoming webinar now: 'Reduce Your Tax Bill in 2026: Optimise Your Property Structure' now.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Upgrading your home feels right… but it might be costing you hundreds of thousands in the long run.In this episode, we break down the real wealth trade-off between owner-occupied homes and investment properties, including how equity is used to invest, the impact of debt and cashflow, rental income vs no income assets, and a real scenario showing how holding your home and buying an investment property could leave you ~$670K better off over time.Next Steps: If you want to map out whether upgrading or investing actually puts you in a stronger financial position, our team at Lighthouse can build a plan around your numbers and goals.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
The biggest IPO in history is coming… but is it a once-in-a-generation opportunity or a massive trap?In this episode, we break down the potential SpaceX IPO, covering what an IPO actually is, the eye-watering $1.75-$2 trillion valuation, lack of profitability, concerns around no lock-up periods, exit liquidity risks, and why hype-driven investing could leave retail investors holding the bag.Next Steps: Want to build a portfolio that doesn't rely on hype? Get in touch with Lighthouse Financial to create a strategy grounded in long-term fundamentals.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Markets held up better than expected but the story underneath is where it gets interesting.In this quarterly update, we break down how the Middle East oil shock impacted global markets, why NZ equities underperformed, where money is rotating (value, infrastructure, emerging markets), and what it all means for your portfolio heading into the next quarter.Next steps: If you want a portfolio built to handle volatility like this, speak to the Lighthouse Wealth team about structuring your investments for the long term.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
New Zealand's $9.3 billion tax bill reveals how tax arrears, rising costs, and cashflow pressure are impacting businesses nationwide.In this episode, we break down how tax paid in arrears, rising costs, post-COVID pressure, and compounding penalties have pushed businesses into debt, why IRD is cracking down harder than ever, and what it means for the wider economy.Next steps: If you're behind on tax or want to avoid it snowballing, speak to the Lighthouse team to structure a plan, reduce penalties, and get back in control early. For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Upgrading your home isn't about buying bigger - it's about making the numbers work.In this episode, we break down how to actually move into your “forever home” - from using equity and navigating bridging finance to timing your sale, getting pre-approval, and avoiding the common mistakes that can set you back years.Next Steps: If you're thinking about upgrading, the smartest next step is getting clarity on your numbers - get in touch with Lighthouse Mortgages to map out exactly what's possible for you.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
New Zealand isn't broken but the way we think about money, risk, and business might be.In this episode, we sit down with Luke Kemeys and Simon Rolland to unpack New Zealand's productivity problem - from risk-averse mindsets and property obsession to aging business owners, talent leaving overseas, and what actually needs to change to build a stronger economy.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Pokémon cards beat the market… but that doesn't mean they should be your strategy.In this episode, we break down the eye-watering 3,800% return of Pokémon cards versus the S&P 500, unpack how alternative assets like collectibles, wine, and luxury goods actually gain value, and explain the real risks - from speculation and hype cycles to lack of cashflow, valuation challenges, and why most investors are better off sticking to proven wealth-building fundamentals.Next Steps: If you want a clear plan that balances investing, property, debt, and long-term wealth, the Lighthouse team can help you structure it properly.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Buying a home together might be the dream but for many couples, it's where things start to fall apart.In this episode, we unpack Charlie Munger's “ladies, liquor, and leverage” rule, diving into how property debt, rising interest rates, and financial pressure are driving relationship breakdowns, the risks of going all-in on leverage, and what happens legally and financially when couples split after buying a home.Next steps: Thinking about getting on the property ladder? Talk to the Lighthouse Mortgages team today and make sure you're set up the right way from the start.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
Most first homes don't make good investment properties but people keep holding them anyway.In this episode, we break down why so many Kiwis become “accidental property investors,” covering low rental yields, rising costs, cashflow top-ups, emotional decision-making, and when holding your first home actually does make sense.Next steps: If you're thinking about your next move with property, speak to the Lighthouse mortgage team - we'll help you understand your lending position and what you can actually do from here.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
It feels harder than ever to get ahead right now - even if you're doing everything right.In this episode, we break down the reality behind that feeling - juggling mortgages, kids, careers, and ageing parents - while unpacking rising living costs, financial pressure, comparison culture, and how to think about progress, balance, and long-term wealth through different seasons of life.Next Steps: If this feels like you right now, it might be time to step back and build a plan that actually works for your stage of life - that's exactly what we help clients do at Lighthouse Wealth.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
With NZ property prices flat in 2026, should you be buying or waiting it out?In this episode, we break down whether 2026 is actually a smart time to buy property in New Zealand, covering market equilibrium, regional differences, investor sentiment, interest rate uncertainty, and why long-term strategy matters more than trying to time short-term growth.Next Steps: Thinking about buying in 2026 but not sure how to navigate interest rates or structure your lending? Chat to the Lighthouse Mortgage team to build a strategy that works in today's market.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
It feels like COVID all over again… but is it?In this episode, we break down the key difference between a demand-driven crisis like COVID and today's supply-driven fuel shock, covering inflation, oil prices, interest rate impacts, government response, and what it means for households and the New Zealand economy over the next 12–24 months.Next Steps: If you're unsure how rising costs and interest rates could impact your financial position, reach out to the Lighthouse Mortgage team todayFor more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
KiwiSaver vs your first home deposit… are you building wealth or slowing yourself down? In this episode, we break down whether you should use your KiwiSaver to buy your first home or leave it invested for retirement, covering deposit requirements, interest rate impacts, compounding vs debt, and how this decision affects your long-term wealth strategy in New Zealand.Next Steps: If you're unsure whether to use your KiwiSaver or how to structure your first home purchase, the Lighthouse Financial team can help you build a plan tailored to your situation.For more money tips follow us on:FacebookInstagramThe content in this podcast is the opinion of the hosts. It should not be treated as financial advice. It is important to take into consideration your own personal situation and goals before making any financial decisions.
© 2020-2026 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
