Money’s getting tighter - is your family ready?

There’s big stuff happening behind the scenes in the global economy - and it’s starting to hit closer to home for Australian families and business owners.

Governments like the US, Japan, and even the UK are drowning in debt. And the world’s biggest bond markets are starting to crack under pressure - making long-term interest rates rise.

Think of the bond market like the world’s biggest credit card - and it’s maxing out.

When a government needs to raise money, they borrow it from investors. In return, they give investors a bond - a promise to pay the money back later, plus a bit extra (called interest). But government debt levels are now so high (and only getting higher) that investors are getting nervous - so they’re demanding higher interest rates for taking a higher risk.

That’s more than financial jargon - it means that future borrowing costs are going up. And the flow-on effects are already showing up with business profit margins getting squeezed, household budgets getting tighter, and families feeling mortgage stress.

The bottom line? The money game is changing fast.

What can families and business owners do?

Now’s not the time to panic - but it is the time to plan. Whether you're building family wealth, building a business or both, these actions can help you take control:

• Clear out unproductive debt: Credit cards and personal loans might seem manageable now, but they can quietly drain your cashflow. If it’s not helping you grow income or build assets, start clearing it out.

• Simplify your spending: Make conscious decisions. Want less. Buy less. Focus on what matters - your family, your wellbeing, and your long-term goals. A lighter lifestyle creates more space and less stress.

• Build a buffer: Uncertainty is part of the journey. Whether it's a dip in business revenue, a major family expense, or a delayed payment. A dedicated cash buffer isn’t just for emergencies, it’s strategic protection. It gives you breathing room to make smart decisions under pressure, without reaching for high-interest debt or interrupting long-term plans.

The bottom line

Uncertain times call for structure - not guesswork. The clearer your plan, the stronger your position. This is how we help families and business owners build long-term resilience.

More soon.