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.
The term deposit sweet spot: where to stash your cash
Term deposit holders face a dilemma. Since the GFC they've experienced some extraordinary returns. But premium rates on term deposits are falling fast.
What we like about this new home loan package
Everybody likes a discount which is why most home owners settle for a home loan package.
The home loan that lets you pay your mortgage and invest
An innovative new home loan lets you pay off your mortgage and invest for the same repayments. Effie Zahos hasn't been this excited about a home loan since redraw and offset were introduced in the '80s.
Why credit card surcharges are unreasonable
Special fees for paying by credit card still upset Effie Zahos. Here's why.
Relief from credit card surcharges could be in sight.
Inflated surcharges charged by airlines, hotels, taxis and other retailers for using a credit card (or debit card) could soon be a thing of the past.
What you need to know about mortgage exit fees
The ban on mortgage exit fees may have sparked a deal season but should we be refinance the mortgage?
Why credit card interest rates are on the rise
With almost $50 billion racked up in credit card debt, it always surprises me that unofficial rate hikes never seem to make front page news.
Mortgage brokers taking a bigger share
Mortgage brokers are keen to sell more than just home loans, says Effie Zahos.
Credit card reform could go further
When you pay your credit card, the payment will be applied to debt with the higher rate first. It took a government to force these reforms.
More Aussies are now eligible for a part pension
Self-funded retirees who have been borderline candidates for government assistance may now be eligible for a part pension, but there is a catch.
