Welcome to the Winter edition of the Pinnacle Brief.
We’re a little later than usual in delivering our June edition—thank you for your patience. It has been a particularly busy month across the team, with staff changes, training, and a high volume of pre-30 June strategies keeping everyone well and truly on their toes.
The Current Market Landscape
Since the last quarter, there has been no shortage of developments to keep markets—and investors—on edge.
The Federal Budget, delivered by Treasurer Dr Jim Chalmers, has attracted significant attention and scrutiny, particularly in relation to proposed changes to negative gearing, capital gains tax, and the potential restructuring of discretionary trust arrangements. As expected, these proposals have prompted extensive commentary, with further debate likely in the months ahead.
Closer to home, the Reserve Bank of Australia held the cash rate steady at 4.35% in June, noting that inflation—both headline and underlying—remains above target.
Oil prices have eased slightly in recent weeks; however, energy and commodity costs remain elevated compared to pre-Middle East conflict levels. While there has been some temporary relief at the bowser, from 1 July fuel prices are expected to increase, with the fuel excise reduction halving from 32 cents to 16 cents per litre.
The Australian share market has remained relatively stable, with the S&P/ASX 200 trading around the 8,800–8,900 range and tracking towards a modest gain for the quarter.
Broader market sentiment continues to be influenced by global factors, particularly developments in US–Iran relations and their impact on energy markets and investor confidence. In addition, investors remain focused on the Reserve Bank’s policy outlook and the timing of any potential rate adjustments.
Globally, the situation surrounding Donald Trump’s proposed peace discussions with Iran remains fluid. While early indications suggested potential easing in shipping disruptions, progress has been gradual, highlighting the ongoing uncertainty in geopolitical conditions.
Strengthening SMS Security
From 1 July, you may notice a change in how business SMS messages appear on your phone.
New Australian Government legislation requires businesses to register their Sender ID to help reduce fraud and impersonation scams. Going forward, all legitimate Pinnacle messages will appear under the Sender ID “PinnacleWM.”
Messages from unregistered senders will display as “unverified,” providing an additional layer of transparency and security.
Team Changes & New Faces
It has been a period of change across the team over recent months.
We have temporarily farewelled Arabella Fleming, who is preparing to welcome her first child in July. Arabella will be taking 12 months of maternity leave, and we look forward to welcoming her back in due course.
We also farewell, Belinda Bialas, who has moved on to further her career and Kelly Collins, who has taken up a role closer to home.
While farewells are never easy, these transitions create opportunities for new talent and fresh perspectives within the business.
We are pleased to welcome:
Charlie Vulpiani, joining as a Junior Paraplanner while completing his Bachelor of Commerce degree, mastering in Financial Planning. While new to the industry, Charlie brings plenty of enthusiasm and is keen to learn as he builds his career in financial services.
Lorraine Noble, our new Client Services Manager, who brings more than 20 years of industry experience from the UK. Lorraine and her family moved to Australia from Scotland three years ago and are really enjoying life here – you’ll likely notice her lovely Scottish accent when booking your next appointment!
We are also continuing our search for an additional experienced Client Services Manager and will provide updates in due course.
Turning to the Year Ahead
As we move into the new financial year, we anticipate a continued environment of both challenge and opportunity.
We remain focused on helping you navigate changing market conditions with clear, considered advice.
As always, we sincerely thank you for your continued trust and support. Whether markets are calm or volatile, we are here to assist you whenever needed.
Chris Launer – Principal