3 Lessons from Investing’s “Moneyball” Moment

Michael Jensen, then an economist at the University of Rochester, used the data to analyze individual fund performance between 1945 and 1964. He found that individual mutual funds were unable, on average, to outperform a strategy that simply bought and held a marketwide portfolio. In fact, there was scant evidence that any individual fund delivered better returns than you’d expect by random chance.

After 100 years of data, the story has stayed the same. Only more so. Stock returns compounded at about 10% per year over the full century.

What does this mean for average investors? 

A look back at when the world feared the worst

The top 3 ways money probably didn’t make you happy in 2025… and the 3 ways it might in 2026

You’ve probably heard the saying, “money can’t buy happiness.” But for most of us it achieves something almost as valuable: it buys peace of mind.

Research consistently shows that financial stress is a common part of everyday life. With ongoing pressure from living costs and economic uncertainty, many households regularly worry about money, with around 70% of New Zealanders saying they’re concerned about money daily, weekly or monthly

MacDonald Wealth Summer Update

Following a volatile but generally profitable first three quarters of the year, the majority of markets delivered further gains over the final three months of 2025.

International share markets provided the strongest gains, with the New Zealand and Australian share markets taking a back seat over the quarter. Similarly, with global interest rates having receded from their post-Covid peaks, returns from fixed income assets delivered in line with expectations – moderately positive.

Self-Insurance: The In’s and Outs

Self-insurance is a financial strategy often misunderstood and surrounded by misconceptions. Many believe it’s only for the wealthy, because they have the funds available if needed, or that it means having no protection at al

Why younger people shouldn’t delay in getting health insurance

When you’re young and healthy, insurance might be the last thing on your mind. It’s easy to focus on the here and now - your studies, your career, your next trip. But here’s the thing: getting health insurance (and other personal cover) early is one of the smartest financial moves you can make. In fact, putting it off could cost you far more than you realise.

In times of uncertainty, investors with a plan should stick with the plan

Over the past few days as global politics create uncertainty and global share markets have responded, I thought it would be good to reflect on markets and provide some perspective on what is happening and as investors, what can or should we do about it, especially when it comes to our investments & KiwiSaver funds.

The longer I’ve been in this industry, the more my perspective on market downturns—corrections, recessions, and the like—has evolved.

Financial Planning for Your Retirement

Planning for retirement is a crucial step toward ensuring financial security in your later years. A key part of this process is determining your "retirement number"—the amount of savings required to maintain your desired lifestyle.

Understanding this number helps shape your savings strategy and investment decisions, guiding you toward a comfortable and secure retirement. 

Have Life Insurance? Here’s Why a Will is Just as Important

you’ve ever thought about making a will but put it off for another day, you’re not alone. It’s one of those tasks that many people push down the priority list, especially if life is busy and everything seems fine.
However, if you have life insurance, having a will is more important than you might think

Why you need a will, and how to write one

Everyone knows that having a will is really important, but it can seem overwhelming and hard to start the process of creating it.