How to spot and avoid investment scams.
Investment scams are becoming more sophisticated, and they can affect people at any stage of life. Scammers often present themselves as legitimate professionals, such as financial advisers or investment managers, and may even impersonate well-known organisations. They use convincing stories, professional-looking documents and realistic online dashboards to create the impression that your money is growing. […]
Where the locals go: for an eco-friendly Easter.
Did you know that the Easter holiday generates more than 4,000 tonnes of waste annually? The bulk of this waste originates from single-use plastics like Easter baskets, artificial grass and plastic containers posing environmental threats often discarded after the celebrations. This Easter lets focus on being mindful of our environmental impact while we celebrate the […]
Watch out for email invoice scams.
Email invoice scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and they don’t just target businesses. Recently, a Summerland Bank customer lost more than $25,000 after paying what appeared to be legitimate Xero invoices. Criminals had altered the bank account details before the invoices were received. By the time the fraud was identified, the funds could not be […]
Essential tips for a smooth and fast loan application.
Applying for a loan is an exciting step, whether you’re buying your first home, refinancing or investing. One of the simplest ways to keep the process moving smoothly is providing all required information and documentation upfront. It’s not about red tape. It’s about saving time, reducing stress and helping everyone involved stay on track. Why it matters When an application includes all the correct […]
New year, new beginnings.
The start of a new year brings a sense of opportunity and is often a time when we set goals and dream big. Your new year goal might be hitting the gym, getting a new job, starting a business, or even growing your family, the opportunities are endless. But let’s face it, fear of failure […]
Budgeting for a baby.
Welcoming a new baby is an exciting milestone that brings immense joy, but it also comes with its share of financial responsibilities. Preparing your finances ahead of time can help alleviate some of the stress and ensure you’re well-equipped for the journey ahead. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to effectively budget for […]
Get organised for back to school. Save time, stress, and money.
The return to school doesn’t have to be chaotic. With a little planning, you can set your family up for a smooth and stress-free start to the year. Helpful tips: Make a checklist: Gather the essentials—uniforms, lunchboxes, stationery, and tech—and tick them off as you go to ensure nothing is missed. Set a budget: Stick […]
How to manage money anxiety after the holiday season.
The holiday season is full of joy and generosity, but it can also leave a noticeable dent in your wallet. You’ve splurged on gifts for kids, parents, teachers, and even the dog. As the festive cheer fades, the bills keep rolling in, leaving many of us feeling the financial strain. If this sounds familiar, don’t […]