Tom Watson is a senior journalist at Money magazine, and one of the hosts of the Friends With Money podcast. He's previously worked as a journalist covering everything from property and consumer banking to financial technology. Tom has a Bachelor of Communication (Journalism) from the University of Technology, Sydney. Connect with Tom Watson on LinkedIn.
Friends With Money #255: Federal Budget 2026
Last night the government released its big brave budget. Tom Watson and Vanessa Walker pick through the papers to tell you how the big changes affect you.
Budget tax changes put all investors on notice
New 2026 budget rules from Treasury target CGT and negative gearing, with changes from July 2027 affecting property, shares and crypto.
Mortgage holders hit again as RBA raises rates
Another RBA rate rise is set to push mortgage repayments higher, with the cash rate now at its highest level since 2011.
Cooling prices haven’t helped first home buyers
Despite falling prices in Sydney and Melbourne, Cotality data shows lower-priced homes are rising faster, leaving first home buyers under pressure.
Fuel shock reignites Australia’s inflation problem
Petrol and power prices have sent inflation back to 4.6%, reviving fears of another RBA rate hike.
15 weird investing terms you need to know in 2026
What do terms like black swan, poison pill and penny dreadfuls actually mean? Here are 15 quirky investing terms explained for everyday investors.
Inside the life of AMP economist Diana Mousina
AMP economist Diana Mousina shares her career story, her Soviet-era childhood, and why people quiz her about the RBA at children's birthday parties.
Do tradies really earn more than uni grads in Australia?
Is a uni degree still the smartest path to a high-earning career, or will a trade give you better value in the AI era?
Smashed avo lie: Economist exposes the wealth gap
What if the smashed avo myth was a distraction all along? Economist Thomas Walker reveals what's actually keeping young Australians from getting ahead.
How to protect your mental health during money stress
Money worries keeping you up at night? Here are five expert-backed ways to protect your mental health when financial stress starts to take over.
