While investors continue to chase returns with little regard for risk, we remain focussed on the preservation of capital.

After a long period of somewhat stable markets, volatility returned during the February company profit season.

While share price performance over the last 12 months may appear somewhat lacklustre, the underlying earnings for many of these companies continues to grow in line with our expectations.

Last August’s reporting season gave little signs of earnings growth to support valuations.

Our Market Update in July highlighted our view that Australian equity valuations were full considering lowered earnings expectations ahead of reporting season.

The Brexit referendum in the United Kingdom delivered a surprise outcome, with the decision to leave the European Union (EU).

This year we celebrated 20 Years in business. The event was a celebration of the past, it was also a great opportunity to look to the future.

Superannuation is perhaps the most tax effective structure to hold your wealth.

Residential property in Australia, and indeed Western Australia, has enjoyed strong returns for more than two decades. At the same time, Australia has experienced a period of unbroken economic growth for more than 25 years. A feat unheard of in other developed economies.

We often hear comments when people are planning for retirement that suggest the next phase of their life will be significantly different to their current situation.

To better understand the opportunities in super it is important to understand that superannuation is not an investment but an investment structure; one that offers significant tax concessions.

Reporting season gives us confidence to continue to invest in the defensive companies that have a high degree of earnings certainty and are likely in industries that are less impacted by economic and market conditions.