Informed Decisions Independent Financial Planning & Money Podcast artwork

Informed Decisions Independent Financial Planning & Money Podcast

302 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 days ago - ★★★★★ - 3 ratings

Take control of your financial future by joining us on Ireland's Independent & award-winning Investment & Retirement Planning Podcast, with Paddy Delaney (QFA RPA APA).

Join Paddy & guests as they cut through the noise, nonsense and smoke-n-mirrors of financial services in Ireland. We want you to avoid costly mistakes and to make informed financial decisions in your investments and retirement planning.

Paddy Delaney QFA RPA APA

Investing Business Education pension psychology savings budgeting entertainment investing personalfinance
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Episodes

The Wealth of Health #294

April 15, 2024 17:31 - 17 minutes - 23 MB

In this week's podcast, I talk about the Wealth of Health.  Something slightly off-topic this week, and something far more concise that usual. I hope it helps you. A definition of wealth is 'a plentiful supply of a particular desirable thing'. Money is a desirable thing - and we put a lot of focus here on accumulating and protecting that in an efficient, stress-free and proven way. What else is desirable to most of us? I hope it helps.

Are Fisher Investments Ireland Any Good? #293

April 08, 2024 18:22 - 21 minutes - 26.4 MB

In this week's podcast I take a look at Fisher Investments Ireland. Fisher Investments have been around the USA a long time apparently, and recently set-up shop in Ireland, but are Fisher Investments Ireland any good, I hear some ask? Are they a fish out of water, or are they a saviour landed on our shores! Lets find out! I hope it helps.

Bitcoin ETFs & Nvidia - Lets Be Having You!? #292

March 11, 2024 20:45 - 20 minutes - 24.2 MB

One of my favourite podcasts is The Compound & Friends featuring hosts Josh Brown and Michael Batnick of 'Ritholtz Wealth' in the US. They are irreverent, funny, informative and between them and their varied guests (they call them 'friends'!) share some great insights and information. In recent weeks they have touched on a wide variety of topics, but two in particular caught my attention most, and I felt might be worth sharing with you in this weeks' podcast. I hope it helps.

A Lesson From The UK? Scandals & Over-Charging #291

March 04, 2024 21:19 - 15 minutes - 18.1 MB

In this week's podcast I talk about the scandal of UK investment firm Saint James' Place. It is a monstrous financial advice and investment firm regulated by the FCA in the UK. It has been marred by scandals over the past few years. They've been accused of it all; from 'rogue' investment managers (whose clients are still trying to get their money back), to recent over-charging claims. Is there a lesson for us to learn here about it? Lets take a quick look.   I hope it helps.

Investing in Retirement #290

February 26, 2024 22:36 - 17 minutes - 21.9 MB

In this week's podcast we talk about Retirement Investment: The Case for Equity Over Bonds. Research published in October 2023 suggests a significant shift in retirement investment strategies is merited. The research indicates that retirees often benefit more from an equity-focused portfolio rather than the traditional equity/bond split.  In Ireland, embracing an all-equity portfolio comes with its distinct advantages and challenges for retirees. I hope it helps.

Should I Go All-In On The S&P500? #289

February 19, 2024 18:52 - 24 minutes - 29.4 MB

In this week's podcast I talk about S&P500 and if it's a good idea or not to go All-In. Should you bet all your investment or pension assets on the good 'ol S&P500? Or would you be considered 'bananas' to do so?!? As with a lot of my podcasts, this is inspired by a recent conversation. Conversations that I love to have and to explore with clients. Could one say that a financial advisor is not doing right by their clients if they are NOT advising all their clients to go all-in on S&P500 o...

Pension Lifestyling - A Blessing or a Curse For Retirees? #288

February 12, 2024 22:08 - 24 minutes - 29.2 MB

Pension Lifestyling in Ireland is rampant. By my reckoning, the vast majority of people with pensions are invested in insurance company pension schemes using 'Pension Lifestyling'. This week I explore if that is a prudent approach for you as a pension holder on the cusp of retirement, or a useless sales tool that you should avoid like the plague.   I hope it helps.

Anne Lester Your Best Financial Life: Save Smart Now for the Future You Want #287

January 29, 2024 20:45 - 1 hour - 51.8 MB

In this week's podcast Paddy has a fantastic chat with Anne Lester.   Anne Lester is a retirement expert, author, media commentator, top-rated speaker and former Head of Retirement Solutions for JPMorgan Asset Management, where she worked almost 30 years. In 2020, Anne was recognized for her extraordinary lifetime contributions to Americans’ economic security with the prestigious Ray Lillywhite Award.     Anne, like Paddy is on a mission, her mission is to help rising leaders to re...

Simplicity is The Ultimate Complexity #286

January 22, 2024 20:54 - 15 minutes - 14.7 MB

Something a little different, and a lot shorter this week. Far too often, when a prospective client asks me to run the rule over their financial affairs, I see complexity and sophistication, and resultant negative outcomes. It is not their fault, it is the fault of 'experts' plying their 'sophisticated' trade. I hope it helps.

Best Investments of 2022 and 2023 in Ireland #285

January 15, 2024 17:46 - 16 minutes - 14.5 MB

On this week’s podcast, Paddy talks about which investments of the past few years in Ireland were the best. He will analyse two very different investment approaches; one a middle of the road insurance company approach, the other an aggressive multi-national fund manager approach. And before delving in, consider what you believe the meaning of 'best investment' is!?   Depending on your perspective it could be any of the following; Least volatile Lowest cost Most transparent Highest ...

Retirement Planning For Business Owners in Ireland #284

December 18, 2023 18:42 - 15 minutes - 15 MB

In this week's podcast, we talk about retirement planning strategies for business owners in Ireland. Retirement marks a significant milestone in life. And I believe it fair to say that it is especially so for many business owners, who have often spent years nurturing their beloved businesses! In Ireland, effective retirement planning is crucial, not just for ensuring a comfortable retirement but also for optimising tax liabilities. The main reason I am choosing this short topic this we...

Auto Enrolment Pensions In Ireland # 283

December 11, 2023 18:33 - 18 minutes - 17.7 MB

In this week's podcast, we talk about Auto-Enrolment Pensions. In the second half of 2024, Ireland is hoping to introduce Auto-Enrolment Pensions. Many people will have heard whispers, and some may be fully aware of it. However, for many employers, there is a bit of concern as to exactly what they may or may not need to do about it all! Let’s take a quick look. To register for this free webinar CLICK HERE to book your spot.

Tax Pitfalls To Avoid with Christine Kearney CTA #282

December 06, 2023 20:10 - 35 minutes - 34.5 MB

In this week's podcast, we chat with Christine Kearney CTA from VengaPeople. Christine offers tax and business advice to people living in Ireland and Irish people living abroad. Key topics Business exit and expansion planning Estate planning Residency planning I hope it helps.   Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike Christine Kearney

Gifting 2m Tax Free To Family in Ireland #281

November 27, 2023 18:37 - 23 minutes - 22.5 MB

Gifting €2m to your family tax free. At first glance, this seems impossible and/or undesirable but with smart planning it is possible to avoid all tax burdens on such a gift, legally and legitimately. In Ireland, the tax landscape, especially concerning wealth transfer, can be a bit like navigating a maze. The culprit? Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT), with a hefty 33% rate for gifts and inheritances. This is what we are now conditioned to, but it is frustrating when you see that in the USA f...

20 Investment Tips For Irish Investors To Navigate #280

November 20, 2023 16:48 - 15 minutes - 14.3 MB

I recently came across a wonderful infographic showing 20 mistakes that investors make, and which they should try to avoid. It reminded me that sometimes we in the investing world talk down to retail investors, many of whom are way smarter than those actually in the investment world! It also reminded me of a parenting tip I got once. That was to always encourage a child to do something in a certain way, as opposed to telling them what not to do! So, instead of saying 'Don't bloody drop t...

Severance Payments and Taxes in Ireland #279

November 06, 2023 18:59 - 19 minutes - 18.5 MB

When it comes to leaving a PAYE job or winding-up your own company, there are various types of payments you might receive, or give yourself!   But what about the tax implications of these payments? In Ireland, the tax treatment of payments on cessation of employment can seem like pie in the sky for many people – I'm here to clear the air for you!   I hope it helps.

ARF Incomes and PRSI Considerations #278

October 23, 2023 18:27 - 20 minutes - 26.2 MB

In this week's podcast, we talk about how taxation of ARF and your Tax works in Ireland. We will put to bed the question of how much tax you pay when you reach retirement and draw State and Private pension incomes. We'll talk about how tax of ARFs works when you make withdrawals and for inheritance and how PRSI works when it comes to an ARF. Hope you find it helpful.

The Intersection Of AI and Investing with CEO Ravi Koka. Podcast #277

October 16, 2023 18:23 - 43 minutes - 38.3 MB

Today we have a very interesting and unique chat with Ravi Koka, CEO and found of StockSnips. Paddy talks with Ravi about how AI is affecting our world and also how it affects the investing and wealth management world. Hope you find it helpful and would love to hear your thoughts!    The Man Who Solved the Market: How Jim Simons Launched the Quant Revolution by Gregory Zuckerman | Goodreads StockSnips

Money Market Funds - Real or Unreal #276

October 09, 2023 18:02 - 13 minutes - 12.3 MB

Only last week I talked about Money Market Funds in Ireland and how they should and should not be used by businesses to generate some returns on their liquid cash. But I want to explore whether Money Market Funds in Ireland are a real and valuable investment vehicle that everyone should consider, or if they are purely a sales tool used by financial advice firms to get money in the door!?  I hope it helps!

Money Market Funds For Business Cash #275

October 02, 2023 20:43 - 29 minutes - 27.7 MB

In this week's podcast, we embark on an oceanic exploration of a topic of paramount significance to every discerning business owner, whether or not to use Money Market Funds for Company cash! Indeed, this topic can and will apply to business owners and non-business owners alike, it's just that business owners are usually more concerned about having large amount of money sitting in cash!   I hope it helps!

Property Pensions & PRSAs with Glenn Gaughran #274

September 25, 2023 16:37 - 54 minutes - 51.6 MB

In this week's podcast, we talk to Glenn Gaughran, Head of Business Development & Marketing at Independent Trustee Company (ITC), about PRSAs and Pension Property.   With big changes in 2023 to PRSAs, Glenn tells us some great nuggets about what opportunities are available to those who have or wish to set up a PRSA. Key points: What are Trustees PRSA 2023 changes Who can benefit from PRSA changes Master Trusts Property in pensions I hope it helps!  

The 5 Trends In Progressive Financial Advice #273

September 18, 2023 14:44 - 25 minutes - 23.9 MB

I was fortunate to attend FutureProof last week, the world's biggest Wealth Management and Financial Advice conference, attended by c3,000 Financial Advisors. It was held in L.A, California and so was attended mostly by US and Canadian advisors and institutions. And given US/Canada are probably 15 years ahead of us in progressive advice in clients' interests, it is a great place to get ideas and inspiration as to how best serve clients here in Ireland. This week, you benefit from some of ...

Don't Jump Ship on Bonds #272

September 04, 2023 17:11 - 24 minutes - 22.1 MB

In the ever-evolving ocean of investments, where trends and fads can shift like the currents of the oceans beneath us, it's essential to keep a steady hand on the wheel. Amid the chorus of voices clamoring for the latest high-flying assets, one must pause and reconsider the tried-and-true: bonds. As financial advisors, it's our duty to ensure our clients make informed decisions. That's why we'll discuss why abandoning bonds might not be the wisest move, especially in today's dynamic mark...

Johnny Sexton The (pension) Legend #271

August 29, 2023 06:21 - 19 minutes - 17.6 MB

This week I share some lessons we can learn from Johnny Sexton's reported pension planning in recent weeks! I've not even met the man (yet!) but he is a sporting legend, and I admire everything that he's done (even balling the referees for some of their Cup Final decisions!). And he has set yet another fine leadership example in terms of his pension planning. Let's learn from the boss!   I hope you enjoy it!

Talking Personal Finance with Brad Barrett – A $5Bn Planning Firm MD #270

August 22, 2023 10:04 - 1 hour - 78.2 MB

In this week's podcast, Paddy has a fantastic chat with Brad Barret the MD of a $5Bn planning firm. Brad is a Managing Director with One Capital Management. He advises private individuals and families on their personal investment and advanced planning needs. In addition, he oversees the firm's Retirement and Corporate Services practice. His firm manages nearly $5 Billion dollars for thousands of families across the United States and abroad.  Brad is the author of, Retire Right: ...

Cash Is King? Podcast 269

August 14, 2023 17:54 - 23 minutes - 25.4 MB

Today I share some thoughts on holding cash, some saucy Central Bank of Ireland research on Irish households, and a warning about going all-in! Irish Household Wealth Aside from their regulatory role over financial services, Central Bank of Ireland share some really interesting research and reports. One such recent report was their 'Quarterly Financial Accounts' for Ireland. For me, one of the greatest signals of our financial health as a nation is our 'Household Debt'. This rate hit a h...

5 Challenges to Independent Investment Advice in Ireland #268

July 31, 2023 18:48 - 30 minutes - 36.8 MB

Independent investment advice in Ireland is a rare thing, at least under current Central Bank of Ireland regulations. Currently, only an investment advice firm in Ireland that does not receive any form of commission can call themselves 'Independent'. So does that mean getting independent investment advice in Ireland is deeply flawed, not at all! This week I'll help you learn about; Key considerations before you invest Knowing the source of your advice If any investment advice is truly ...

Important Questions About Retirement Planning #267

July 24, 2023 17:14 - 30 minutes - 37.8 MB

If securing a high-quality retirement income is high on your agenda, nailing the answers to the following questions ought to be high on your list of priorities. Whether you are just starting your career or approaching retirement age, 'today' is the next-best time to explore these, if you haven't already done so. With the intention of helping you make informed decisions, here are 9 important retirement planning questions to consider and answer. I hope it helps!

A Look Back at the Popular 'A Listener's Journey' Series #266

July 17, 2023 18:32 - 58 minutes - 80.3 MB

This week we bring back episode one in the popular 'A Listerner's Journey' podcast series with William Lacey.   Throughout this series, William talks about his journey of escaping full-time employment. This is an insightful and helpful series that discusses many of the concerns, thoughts, priorities, and actions that many of us face as we transition to retirement.   If you enjoy episode one, you can listen to the rest of the series as follows:   Part 2     Part 3     ...

Flashback To a Classic: Lars Kroijer Interview 'Can We Beat the Market' #265

July 03, 2023 17:04 - 54 minutes - 69.8 MB

While Paddy is off enjoying his annual leave we bring you a classic and popular podcast from 2021.  Lars is a former hedge fund manager, author, and entrepreneur from Denmark.  Can we beat the market? If we can’t what should we do? Lars and Paddy talk about investments, hedge funds, beating markets, and much more that we hope you will find helpful.

Inheriting a House in Ireland #264

June 19, 2023 18:50 - 21 minutes - 25.7 MB

Inheriting a house can be a significant financial event. It carries its own set of implications and considerations.  From taxes to inheritance thresholds, the financial aspects of inherited property can are worth considering if it is on your horizon, or that of your beneficiaries! In this week's podcast, I will explore: The intricacies of inheriting a house in Ireland The implications of taxes and how they affect inheritance tax thresholds Why many people choose to sell an inherited h...

What We Need From Financial Advisors #263

May 29, 2023 18:37 - 22 minutes - 27.5 MB

Like any individual in any profession, every Financial Advisor will have different strengths and weaknesses. They each have different skill sets. None of them are perfect, and I include myself in that! In this short piece, I will delve into the importance of what financial advisors can do with and for their clients, even though many clients receiving said advice might not immediately recognise what they are actually helping them do, achieve and avoid! Key Points Avoiding fear-mongering ...

Changes in Retirement Planning with Clive Slattery #262

May 22, 2023 20:40 - 54 minutes - 46.8 MB

This week we have something a little different. We recently hosted a webinar with Pension and Revenue expert Clive Slattery. If you missed the webinar, here is the audio, which I hope you find helpful. Clive will talk about recent PRSA changes. - The implications for PAYE & Business Owners - How & Why these changes have come about - The significant tax opportunity that exists   PRSAs are relevant to most people as it is a pension that anyone can start. Thanks   Sunday Times...

Death In Service Pension Benefit #261

May 15, 2023 18:44 - 22 minutes - 28.3 MB

What happens to my pension benefits if I suffer a death in service? (die while being an employee and a member of the company pension scheme!).   On a regular basis, we help clients to manage their pension planning, so as to avoid potential pitfalls in this area. Reason being, it has the potential to have a hugely negative impact on one's financial future. What you'll learn: How Personal Pension assets are treated on death (with simple example!) How Company Pension assets are treated...

3 Keys To Preparing For A Successful Retirement #260

May 08, 2023 21:10 - 1 hour - 91 MB

This week we are joined by William Lacey who we followed on his transition to retirement in a series of podcasts. William talks about the lessons he has learned from his journey and the key things he would do if he were to transition to retirement again. The goal is to hopefully, by sharing his experiences help others that are on their retirement journey. I hope it helps

Estate Planning: Should I Bother? #259

April 24, 2023 17:57 - 22 minutes - 28.5 MB

This week I talk about Estate Planning; what to think about and what is important. While it might not be a topic that gets you all revved up, Estate Planning is considered to be a key aspect of managing one's long-term personal finances, regardless of how simple or complex their financial situation.    Key Estate Planning Points Make use of the small gift exemption to the max you can Ensure you have a will in place Is section 72 really a good idea Estate planning is an essential...

Why Do I Need a Will #258

April 17, 2023 18:22 - 17 minutes - 21.3 MB

Even subconsciously, the question surely pops into most people's heads; "Why Do I Need A Will?" Given that a large percentage of the human race is reluctant to take action now that will benefit their future self, it is no surprise to hear that the majority of people in Ireland haven't made a Will (which will benefit their heirs and loved ones, and not themselves!). The Farmer's Journal put that figure at 70% of Irish people do not have a Will as of 2022. In this week's episode, in an eff...

Entrepreneur Relief Vs Pension Contributions - Which Is Best? #Our 1st Guest Post# #257

March 27, 2023 20:16 - 18 minutes - 22.8 MB

This week we bring you our first-ever Guest-Post, all about Entrepreneur Relief versus Pension Contributions. I will keep the author a surprise until the end of the piece (don't fast forward!), and it might indeed be a fairly big surprise when you do discover who wrote it! Entrepreneur Relief Principles Pension Contribution Watch-Outs Comparison of the two approaches A practical comparison of doing €1m on both All I (Paddy) will say, is that I sure hope you don't like this style bet...

Do You Think You're Ready To Retire? What Are The Signs? #256

March 13, 2023 20:24 - 20 minutes - 25.6 MB

This week I share 12 clear signs it's time to retire from your full-time job. Perhaps it is to start some new professional journey, a new personal journey, or a combination of both. I share this piece in the hope that it will give you hope! Give you hope if you are on the cusp of retirement and doubting if you can or you can't. Give you hope if you are wondering if you are alone, mad, or simply wrong to retire.  Key Takeaways Your pension fund is healthy and can provide you with a comfor...

Unregulated Investments Ireland #255

March 06, 2023 20:25 - 29 minutes - 36.9 MB

If you have ever heard of Custom House Capital, Dolphin Trust, or Solar 21, you will know that Unregulated Investments in Ireland are commonplace and contentious. I'm certainly not an expert on these types of products, but I know enough to realise that I wouldn't touch unregulated investments with my own money, never-mind someone who trusts me to mind theirs! So this week, I'll share with you: What are Unregulated Investments It's all about the money! Do they go wrong? How to spot i...

The Jason Parker Interview #254

February 27, 2023 21:57 - 51 minutes - 59.3 MB

This week Paddy chats with Jason Parker. Jason is the author of Sound Retirement Planning, the host of the Sound Retirement Radio podcast, a frequent guest on ABC, NBC and Fox, and the inventor of the Retirement Budget Calculator. Key talking points: Key things to know if you'll be ok in retirement Retirement Budget Calculator Retirement cashflow What questions should you be asking about your money when you retire Temporary safety vs. long-term strategy Reinforcing your discipli...

Financial Advisor in Ireland - Prostitute, Escort or Spouse?? #253

February 20, 2023 18:33 - 35 minutes - 44.5 MB

Choosing a Financial Advisor in Ireland is not an easy task! There are many different types of advisors, operating in different ways, being remunerated differently, and all delivering different services.  In this piece, I will share with you; How to recognise the different types of financial advisors in Ireland Why Financial Advisors are comparable to prostitutes, escorts and spouses! How different types of advisors are paid for what they do Why all Financial Advisors are not the sam...

The Paul Merriman Interview #252

February 13, 2023 22:40 - 1 hour - 84 MB

In this episode, Paddy has a great chat with Paul Merriman from The Merriman Financial Education Foundation in the USA. The foundation is dedicated to providing financial education to those of all ages. Paul shares his wealth of knowledge from decades of experience from starting his own Merriman Wealth Management after retiring to setting up his foundation.  Key topics covered: Investing successfully Equity asset classes Emotions of Investing Hardest thing about investing Math...

Important Pension Changes in Ireland #251

January 30, 2023 19:14 - 15 minutes - 19.3 MB

This week I bring you some facts, no metaphors, no story, just facts about recent and important pension changes in Ireland! Important changes to PRSAs Upcoming changes to UK State Pension benefits (applicable to all those in Ireland with some time accrued in HMRC UK State Pension) Recent changes to Lump Sums from foreign pensions (including Malta etc.)  

5 Emotional Stages Of Retirement #250

January 23, 2023 22:14 - 17 minutes - 21.2 MB

I estimate that there are approximately 100 people retiring today, and tomorrow etc. etc. Of these c100 people retiring each day of the week, some are really well prepared and will have a smooth journey. However, others will be less prepared and so face a little more challenge and hurdles. My hope is that this piece will help a few to blow any hurdles out of their way with ease!

3 Investment Lessons To Take From 2022 #249

January 16, 2023 20:53 - 17 minutes - 22.7 MB

2022 was a testing investment year for many. Rather than jump headlong into 2023, let's take a few minutes to reflect and observe what we can learn from 2022! To me, there are 3 main investment lessons to be taken from last year: Inflation continues to be the real risk Diversification matters Embrace uncertainty

Escaping Full Time Employment With William Lacey. Part 5 #248

December 12, 2022 18:22 - 49 minutes - 59.1 MB

Welcome back to the latest Informed Decisions podcast: Transitioning from full time employment. This week we have William Lacey back to talk about his journey toward retirement. We continue to talk about his progress, his thoughts, and his reflections on what he has learned since he began this journey with us in February 2022.   Zen Habits  – Leo Babauta Die with Zero - Bill Perkins Dr. Mark Hyman Fritz Gilbert - The Bucket Strategy In A Bear Market - The Retirement Manifesto

Best Investments Ireland? #247

December 05, 2022 20:27 - 14 minutes - 18.7 MB

Investing in Ireland can be like staring into a fog at the best of times, until now of course! You have stumbled upon the oracle which will clear that fog for you! In today's podcast I will talk about: The 'best investments' Ireland offers How you can get your hands on them! Why all of this may be utter nonsense! I hope it helps

Leaving Employment - What Happens To My Pension #246

November 28, 2022 20:44 - 24 minutes - 31.5 MB

You have decided to make a career change or take a redundancy offer but can’t help but ask, ‘what happens to my pension benefits?'. When leaving your job, apart from the small matter of securing your financial future, what to do with your pension benefits is one of the most important things you need to consider. This can be especially so if you and your employer have been diligently contributing to your pension scheme for many years! Key Points: Beware 'Advisors' that tell you to move it...

Retirement Spending Changes To Expect #245

November 14, 2022 18:25 - 17 minutes - 23.8 MB

One of the biggest questions for people who are transitioning from full-time employment is ‘how does spending change in retirement?’. It is a difficult question to answer, but there is a lot of research out there, which points to some key takeaways. Retirees can expect to spend less on food and clothing You can expect to spend less on transportation in retirement Expect healthcare costs to increase Many retirees plan to spend more on gifting More favourable tax rules apply to retir...

Guests

Daniel Crosby
2 Episodes

Books

You've Been Warned
2 Episodes

Twitter Mentions

@gspier 1 Episode
@fgoulding 1 Episode