Effie Zahos is editor-at-large at Canstar and a financial commentator. She is the author of A Real Girl's Guide to Money: From Converse to Louboutins, and a regular money commentator on TV and radio across Australia. In 1999, a background in banking Effie helped kickstart Money, which she edited until 2019. Effie holds a Bachelor's degree in economics.
Banking outlook shows challenge for Big Four
The big four banks certainly brought home the bacon this year, announcing record profits for the financial year ending 2011 to the tune of $23.28 billion.
Lenders mortgage insurance an unwelcome slug
Lenders mortgage insurance allows lenders to offer higher LVRs while still theoretically protecting the economy in case of a large-scale property downturn. But does it have to cost so much?
High loan-to-valuation mortgages cause for concern
As competition to write new home loans grows, research from financial comparison site RateCity shows lenders are loosening the belt on loan-to-valuation rates.
Banks could be forced to repay excessive penalty fees
Hold on to bank statements, because a landmark court case could force banks to pay back all those pesky and excessive "penalty fees".
Credit card customers are still being ripped off
It's now clear that unless there is federal government invention credit card consumers will continue to be rorted.
Why a mortgage broker has hidden value for borrowers
Borrowers can benefit from inside information thanks to a mortgage broker.
Go shopping to help a worthy cause
While plenty of banks allow reward points on credit cards to be redeemed for donations, this is the first that allows you to support charity while shopping.
Should aspiring owners buy now or keep saving?
It's a real dilemma for budding home buyers - buy now, or wait and save?
RBA rate cuts raise question of locking in home loan
A glum RBA forecast points to more rate cuts, which raises the question for homeowners: is now the time to lock in?
Why you shouldn’t rush to repay your mortgage
The suggestion might sound a little absurd but, given record low mortgage rates, it can actually make sense to delay paying off your mortgage.
