Cranage News 

As the days grow longer and Melbourne comes alive ahead of the 2025 AFL Grand Final, we’re reminded that spring is the perfect time to reflect on growth—both in our gardens and in our financial futures. 

In this edition, we explore the evolving landscape of intergenerational wealth transfer, highlight major updates to the Home Guarantee Scheme, and share the latest market insights to help you and your family thrive. Whether you’re planning for the next generation or looking to make your first home a reality, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Intergenerational Wealth Transfer: What You Should Know

As families grow and evolve, so do their financial priorities. One of the most meaningful shifts in wealth management today is the intergenerational transfer of assets—the process of passing wealth from one generation to the next. This isn’t just about inheritance; it’s about strategic planning, emotional connection, and financial empowerment.

Why Act Now?

Clients are increasingly choosing to transfer wealth during their lifetime rather than waiting for estate distribution. The key drivers include:

• Financial Confidence: Strong asset positions and retirement planning give clients the confidence to support their children without compromising their own future.
• Legislative Uncertainty: Potential changes to superannuation laws (e.g. Division 296) create urgency to act while current rules are favourable.
• Housing Market Concerns: Many clients worry about their children’s ability to enter the property market and want to help sooner.

Benefits of Early Wealth Transfer

Educating the Next Generation

Preparing beneficiaries to manage wealth responsibly is a key part of the process. This includes:

• Financial literacy programs
• Formalised loan agreements
• Succession planning workshops

These strategies help ensure that wealth is not only transferred—but preserved and grown.

Ready to start the conversation?
Let’s explore how you can make a meaningful impact across generations.  Book a strategy session with your lead adviser today.

Big Changes to the Home Guarantee Scheme from 1 October 2025

We’re excited to share important updates to the Home Guarantee Scheme, designed to make home ownership more accessible for Australians. These changes take effect from 1 October 2025 and significantly expand eligibility and support.

What’s New?

• Unlimited Places Available
  No cap on the number of guarantees issued – eligible applicants can apply at any time.
• Income Cap Removed
  There are no longer income limits, allowing broader access regardless of earnings.
• Higher Property Price Caps
  Purchase price limits have increased across all regions. 
• Simplified Regional Access
  The Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee has been merged into the First Home Guarantee for easier access.

Who Can Apply?

• First Home Buyers
• Buyers who haven’t owned property in Australia for over 10 years
• Single parents with at least one dependent

All applicants must intend to purchase an owner-occupied home.

Check Your Eligibility

Use the official tool to confirm your eligibility and view the updated property price caps by region:

Housing Australia – Scheme Updates

If you have any questions or would like assistance with your application, feel free to reach out to our expert lending team. We’re here to help you take the next step toward home ownership.

Economic and Market Observations

Here are the key themes from the June 2025 quarterly and August 2025 monthly market updates:

Market Volatility & Recovery

• Markets were highly volatile due to global policy changes (especially US tariffs) and geopolitical tensions, but ultimately delivered strong gains, led by the US and Australia. Technology and materials sectors outperformed 

Interest Rates & Bonds

• Bond prices rose, with yields fluctuating due to central bank rate cut expectations and increased fiscal spending. Short-term yields fell on hopes of easier monetary policy; long-term yields rose as governments increased spending 

Currency Movements

• The US dollar weakened, supporting gains in the Australian dollar and other major currencies 

Commodities

• Gold reached record highs, driven by central bank buying and a weaker US dollar. Oil prices fell due to demand concerns and increased supply 

Australian Market Outlook

• Australia is well positioned for growth, with anticipated rate cuts and improving business conditions. However, some sectors—like financials—remain stretched on valuations 

Investment Approach

• Given ongoing volatility, a diversified and selective approach is recommended for both equities and fixed income. Staying globally diversified and focusing on quality assets will help manage risk in uncertain times 

Looking for a deeper dive, please find attached the latest market updates:

• Quarterly Market & Economic Update – June 2025: Key developments and trends from the June quarter. (Click here to view PDF)
• Monthly Market Update – August 2025: Highlights and performance insights for August. (Click here to view PDF) 

Thank you for joining us as we welcome the new season and new opportunities. If you have questions about intergenerational planning, the Home Guarantee Scheme, or your investment strategy, our team is ready to help you make the most of what spring has to offer.