Market Madness: The Stocks Flying and Failing

It’s been a volatile start to 2026 for the Australian share market, with some stocks surging and others struggling.

On this episode of the Friends With Money podcast, Money’s Tom Watson is joined by Dale Gillham, chief investment analyst at Wealth Within, to discuss the standout stocks, underperformers and what investors should look for in the months ahead.

00:00 Introduction

01:52 A tale of two markets

04:24 Macro forces and the market

07:09 Resource sector shines

10:02 CSL slump and other underperformers

12:33 Investor playbook for the second half of 2026

16:15 Conclusion

#friendswithmoney #tomwatson #dalegillham #shares #investing

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Two million households are expected to consider downsizing in the next five years — but is it always the right move financially or emotionally?

On this episode of the Friends With Money podcast, Money’s Tom Watson is joined by Catriona Graham, financial planner at Bridges Financial Services, to explore the costs, trade-offs and timing of downsizing, and what Australians should consider before making a move.

00:00 Introduction

01:19 What is downsizing?

02:56 Key benefits and motivations

04:38 Hidden costs and risks

05:50 Downsizer super contributions

Clarification: To be eligible to make downsizer contributions from the sale of your home, your home must have been owned by you and/or your spouse for at least ten years before the sale. The sale must also qualify for the main residence capital gains tax exemption – either fully (e.g. you’ve lived in it the whole time) or partially (you’ve both lived in it and rented it out).

07:50 Downsizing and the Age Pension

08:53 The importance of timing

10:33 Lifestyle options and retirement living

11:23 Final tips

#friendswithmoney #tomwatson #catrionagraham #downsizing

Podcast Links:

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Money Website

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Email Us: podcast@moneymag.com.au

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Federal Budget 2026: CGT discount ends, negative gearing tightens & new tax offsets explained

From major tax changes to new housing initiatives, the 2026 federal budget was packed with measures set to shape Australians’ finances.

On this episode of the Friends With Money podcast, managing editor Vanessa Walker is joined by senior journalist Tom Watson to break down the key financial measures outlined in the budget and what they mean for your money.

00:36 CGT discount overhaul

01:46 New CGT rules explained

03:20 Negative gearing shakeup

04:33 Housing Supply Measures

07:03 Working tax offset

08:43 Instant $1000 deduction

09:40 Trust tax minimum rate

Links:

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Listen on Spotify

Money Website

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Email Us: podcast@moneymag.com.au

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