Inflation versus the ASX: Navigating financial challenges and opportunities in 2024

Are you feeling the pinch of financial pressures in retirement? 

In our rapidly evolving economy, many seniors are finding it increasingly tough to stretch their hard-earned savings and fixed incomes.

With living costs climbing, the money you’ve carefully saved over the years might not go as far as it used to.

Navigating these financial waters is more important than ever to protect the nest egg you’ve built for your golden years.

Understanding the impact of inflation on personal finances 

Lately, in Australia, inflation has been more than just a buzzword – it’s a reality impacting many, especially seniors.

Over the past year, inflation rates have climbed significantly, making every dollar in your pocket feel a bit lighter. As costs for everyday items rise, people living on fixed incomes or retirement savings are often the hardest hit.

In these times, smart financial management is not just helpful, it’s essential. You’ve worked hard for your savings, and now it’s crucial to make informed decisions to safeguard them.

It’s about more than just keeping your funds safe; it’s about finding ways to ensure your money keeps up with these changing times. Understanding how inflation can diminish your purchasing power is key to this.

The ASX opportunity: Navigating market highs

Another significant consideration is the current state of the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), which is on the verge of reaching a historic high.

This is not just a market statistic; it’s an opportunity that has caught the attention of investors seeking to capitalise on these high market capitalisations. Seniors, like other investors, have a chance to potentially sell shares and fortify their financial reserves during this unique market peak.

Unlocking hidden assets: The world of issuer-sponsored shares

Market research has revealed that a large portion of Australian investors often own shares that are not registered with a broker – commonly referred to as SRN (issuer-sponsored) shares.

These shares may have been acquired through various means, such as employment share schemes, inheritances, or as gifts.

The most common issuer sponsored (SRN) shareholdings are AMP, Commonwealth Bank, IAG (formerly NRMA), Telstra, and Woolworths, with an average value of roughly $11,500.

However, for many individuals, especially those with limited experience in the stock market, the idea of accessing the value of these shares independently can seem daunting and complex.

Traditional share selling challenges

The traditional method of selling issuer sponsored (SRN) shares generally involves a slew of paperwork and the need to open a trading account with a stockbroker.

This process alone can take weeks, with documents arriving via postal mail.

This can seem overwhelming and expensive – involving finding and engaging a stockbroker, scheduling meetings, and signing contracts that may include services you have no interest in.

In short, the traditional approach is far from practical for those seeking a simple one-off share sale.

Simplifying share selling: One Off Trades’ four-step approach 

One Off Trades has earned a reputation as Australia’s most trusted sell-only broker in Australia, having assisted over 50,000 clients in selling over $400 million in shares since its inception.

Its efficient and client-friendly approach demystifies the process of selling shares, making it accessible to a wider audience, including those with little to no experience in the share market:

1. Online share sale form: Clients complete an online share sale form to initiate the process.

2. ID verification: Clients verify their identity online for security purposes.

3. Share sale: One Off Trades proceeds to sell the nominated shareholdings on behalf of the client.

4. Funds transfer: The proceeds from the share sale are transferred directly to the client's nominated bank account. 

With its highly rated service, clear and concise process, friendly customer support, and options for rapid transactions, One Off Trades stands out as a dependable partner in selling issuer-sponsored shares.

It provides a vital service in the current economic landscape, especially for seniors looking to navigate these challenging times.

One Off Trades also offers the option of same-day sales, catering to clients who require faster access to their funds. 

Empowering financial control

Managing finances in an era of rising costs and economic uncertainty is a real challenge, especially for seniors.

To fully unlock the potential of their shareholdings, investors should understand the combined impact of inflation, the ASX’s current peak, and their own personal circumstances.

If you are looking to sell your issuer sponsored (SRN) shares, One Off Trades makes the process simple, efficient, and affordable.