The Christmas countdown and rush to get things done is on! Please call us at the office on 03 9429 9775 as soon as possible if you have any matters that need finalising before the end of the year. We’re here to help.

The CFS office closes for the holiday break on December 23rd at 12pm and opens on January 10th 2011.

We would like to thank all of our home loan and financial planning clients for your ongoing business in 2010. It is always a pleasure to work with you.

We would also like to wish you a safe, happy, holiday season and fantastic new year in 2011.

Below are a few notes to keep you up to date with CFS news, interest rates and the investment outlook.

Warm regards
Kris Court
Director

• Legislation introduced this year means that mortgage brokers are now regulated by ASIC and must apply for a license from ASIC to operate.

• The Licence application process is thorough and detailed and we are pleased to announce that because of our diligent processes, experience and expertise, Court Financial Services was among the first group of brokers to be granted a licence.

• CFS welcomes regulation of the mortgage broking industry. We believe it will raise the standard of expertise and experience offered by mortgage brokers and therefore benefit consumers.

• The opinion of many economists at present is that the Reserve Bank will keep the cash rate on hold for summer however an increase is likely in March or April next year.

• Home loan clients should keep this in mind when you’re budgeting and make extra repayments now if you can.

• If you are concerned about making higher repayments, please call Kris or Daniel at the office on 03 9429 9775 to discuss your options.

• In broad terms, the Australian economy entered the final quarter of 2010 in a reported “soft patch” as a result of lower than expected GDP growth in quarter 3. However our terms of trade and the level of private investment is strong, and this is expected to provide the economy with a significant boost. A lot of uncertainty remains, and volatility in share markets is expected again in 2011.

• Please contact Nigel on nigel@courtfs.com.au if you would like to talk your investments or if you would like to receive a summary of share market performance for 2010.

• If you’re over the age of 50, next year is the time to take advantage of the $50,000 cap on employer and or salary sacrifice contributions because in June 2012 this cap will be cut back to $25,000.

• If you would like more information about this, please call Nigel or Kris at the office on 03 9429 9775.

1.5 cup diced seedless watermelon
1/3 cup apple juice
1/2 teaspoon bitters
Champagne

Blend the watermelon, apple juice and bitters.
Divide this between 4 cocktail glasses, and top up with champagne.