Too many Aussie businesses aren't ready for a cyber attack. In this episode of talkBIG, we unpack the latest findings on Australia's cyber readiness. Take a close look at how ready Australian companies really are to tackle cybersecurity threats, dig into the main attack methods that cybercriminals use and discuss why it’s so important for companies to understand their vulnerabilities before they can be exploited. Tune in now. Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

How will the Federal Budget impact you? The Federal Budget 2025-26 is set to be handed down by Treasurer Jim Chalmers on 25 March, shaping economic policy and priorities in a pivotal election year. What will the key announcements mean for businesses, investors, and individuals? Join us for an in-depth webinar featuring our leading economist, tax experts, and finance advisers. They will break down the key measures, assess their implications, and explore the broader economic and policy landscape as we approach the federal election. Discussion highlights: ✅ Economic outlook and policy direction in an election year ✅ Tax and finance measures impacting businesses and individuals ✅ Key opportunities and risks to prepare for Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

Do you remember Neopets? 🌟 If you spent time online between 1999 and 2005, chances are you had a Neopets account or knew someone who did. In this episode of talkBIG, we’re exploring the fascinating world of Neopets, the online game that became a cultural phenomenon in the early 2000s. Join host Andrew Sykes as he chats with Peter Xi, a Partner from RSM Australia's Tax Advisory division, and Dominic Law, the new CEO of Neopets. They’ll dive into the business side of online gaming, discuss the cultural impact Neopets had on a generation, and share some exciting plans for the future of the game! 🎮💖 Whether you grew up with Neopets or you’re simply curious about the gaming industry, this episode offers a fun mix of nostalgia and insights that you won’t want to miss. Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

As Donald Trump takes office for a historic second term, the world stands at a crossroads. In this special episode of talkBIG, two top RSM economists from the US and Australia tackle the critical question: What does another Trump era mean for Australia, the US, and the global economy? Join RSM Australia's Chief Executive Partner, Jamie O'Rourke, as he hosts an unmissable discussion with renowned experts Joe Brusuelas and Devika Shivadekar. This compelling episode delivers sharp insights, bold predictions, and crucial strategies for navigating an era of economic uncertainty. Tune in now! Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

What can business owners do to manage rising costs? In this episode of talkBIG, host Andrew Sykes speaks to experts Jonathon Colbran, and Gavin Stacey to unpack the critical challenges facing Australian businesses—from taxation pressures to insolvency risks—and provide actionable strategies for navigating financial distress. Whether you’re battling rising debt or exploring ways to turn your business around, this episode offers practical advice and a roadmap to making informed decisions. Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

Have you ever wondered why Black Friday is popular in Australia? Our latest talkBIG episode dives deep into this phenomenon as host Andrew Sykes chats with economist Devika Shivadekar and data analytics expert Dr. Ian Tho, uncovering why Black Friday has become a major retail event Down Under. In a lively discussion, they trace the origins of Black Friday in Australia, explore its growing influence on consumer behaviour, and reveal how it's shaping our retail landscape. They also examine how Australian shoppers are adapting to changing retail strategies, the critical role of data analytics in predicting trends, and the ways AI is transforming the shopping experience. Highlights include: Why retail sales are booming during Black Friday sales in Australia. How data analytics is revolutionising consumer insights. The shift toward early shopping and online research. Practical strategies for small retailers to thrive amidst big sales events. How AI-driven insights are making personalised shopping easier and more effective. The critical importance of customer experience in driving loyalty. Tips for retailers to streamline the buying journey. How economic factors like interest rates are shaping spending habits. A look at the future of retail and how consumer behaviour continues to evolve. Tune in for an insightful episode packed with expert perspectives and actionable tips to understand the Black Friday phenomenon and succeed in the fast-changing world of retail! Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

Can ESG help you protect your wealth and business from the impacts of climate change? Climate change is a big topic, with wide-ranging impacts that have substantial financial implications. Consumers are increasingly demanding more eco-conscious practices, and regulations are becoming stricter worldwide, including here in Australia. We are already seeing proactive businesses adapting their strategies to align with a sustainable future. So, how can you protect yourself, your business and your wealth from the impacts of climate change? In this episode of talkBIG, we are exploring the big questions around climate change, sustainability and ESG to uncover how they intersect with business and wealth. Join host Andrew Sykes as he speaks to RSM Australia’s ESG and sustainability experts, Linda Romanovska and Karien Erasmus to gain practical insight into some of the most pressing challenges of the modern era. This conversation will challenge your perspective on money, wealth, and the future of our planet. Tune in now. Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

In this episode of the talkBIG podcast, host Andrew Sykes is joined by a lineup of seasoned professionals from RSM, each bringing their unique expertise to the table. We explore the wide world of professional services to try to pinpoint when, exactly, it’s time to speak to a professional. People often try a very DIY approach to things, and sometimes that’s appropriate – for example: you don’t need an electrician to change your lightbulb but you should hire one if you’re rewiring your kitchen. In this episode, we explore the question from a business and personal finance perspective to determine the exact line in various professional and personal scenarios where consulting a professional is not just advisable, it's mandatory. This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone seeking professional advice on a range of financial and business matters, from IPOs and wealth management to cyber security and R&D tax incentives. Tune in to gain valuable insights from these industry leaders and learn when it's time to call in the experts. Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

In this special episode of talkBIG, host Andrew Sykes leads a panel discussion on the recent Federal Budget with a live audience. Our expert panel includes RSM’s in-house economist Devika Shivadekar , financial expert Grace Bacon (Director, Financial Services), and tax specialist Tony Fulton (Director, Tax Services). Together, they analysed the details of the latest federal budget, providing insights and practical implications for various industries, businesses, and individuals. Key Takeaways The federal budget for 2024-2025 focused on the cost of living, with tax cuts, energy bill relief, and additional rent assistance. The rising cost of utilities, particularly energy, was a major concern for both individuals and businesses. The budget allocated funds for green hydrogen and critical minerals production. The fiscal outlook has deteriorated, with projected deficits and rising net debt. The budget had limited incentives for business investment, except for an extension of the Instant Asset Write-Off for small businesses. The budget included measures to support individuals, including tax cuts, superannuation changes, and cost of living subsidies. The impact on interest rates will depend on consumer confidence and inflation trends. Compliance and wage compliance are areas of focus, with increased funding for the ATO. There were no significant changes to R&D incentives. The budget did not address the taxing of unrealised profits in super funds. If you would like a more comprehensive breakdown of the Federal Budget 2024, download a free copy of RSM's report here . Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

Whether you're working for a salary, managing your own business, or planning for retirement, inflation is having an impact on your finances. You need to understand that impact to make sure you adjust your financial strategy in the right direction. Special guest David Berthon-Jones joins us to discuss the impact of inflation as well as strategies for managing finances and investments in a high-inflation economy. If you’re feeling the pinch of rising prices and wondering how to safeguard your financial future, tune in now. 📌Timestamps: 0:00 Intro 02:09 Generating profits through inflation 03:27 How does inflation impact the composition and allocation of investment portfolios? 06:22 Thoughts on the RBA lifting interest rates to control inflation 09:25 Finding the balance between risk and reward when adjusting portfolios for inflation 13:26 How much do investors change strategies during inflation? 15:24 What is a good, sustainable rate of return for a long-term investment? 18:22 What is the benefit of having a fund manager? 21:38 When is a good time to start building your wealth through investing? 24:37 What is the material value of getting financial advice? About David: David Berthon-Jones CFA is a founding partner and Joint Chief Investment Officer at Aequitas Investment Partners . With a stellar career as a professional asset consultant and a portfolio manager overseeing a $3bn portfolio, David brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. David is responsible for macro-economic analysis and dynamic asset allocation processes across a range of reliable multi-asset and direct equity portfolios. He was also one of the expert contributors for our thinkBIG report – the SME guide to inflation and interest rate rises. Please note: the information shared on this podcast is of a general nature only and does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person. Before making an investment or trading decision you should consult with your financial adviser & consider how appropriate the advice (if any) is to your objectives, financial situation and needs. For expert financial advice tailored to your personal situation, please reach out to one of our wealth management specialists . Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

Get ready for some money-saving strategies to help you stretch your hard-earned dollars. Join Andrew, Chris, and Young on the talkBIG podcast as they tackle the challenges of a high cost of living and rising interest rates. In this episode, the hosts reveal eight "accountant secrets" for smart money management and household budgeting. Learn about compound interest, paying yourself first, offset accounts, paying down your mortgage principal, and more. We know that the rising cost of living can put a strain on your finances, especially when interest rates start climbing. Whether you're a homeowner or renter, this episode is full of valuable tips to help you save on expenses and manage your finances effectively. From budgeting groceries to evaluating fixed rates versus variable rates, the talkBIG team has got you covered. Tune in now and start your journey towards financial well-being and a brighter future. Don't forget to like and subscribe for more money-saving tips. Share your thoughts, questions, and stories with us through our website, social media channels, or email, and let your input shape future episodes! Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

Looking to save money on your energy bill? Join hosts Andrew, Chris, and Young as they dive into the world of energy efficiency in this electrifying episode of talkBIG. Discover practical strategies that not only put cash back in your pocket but also contribute to a greener planet. The talkBIG crew sits down with Jacob Elkhishin, RSM's National Leader for Resources, Mining, Energy & Sustainability to take a deep dive into energy efficiency. They delve into the global factors influencing energy bills and explore ways to reduce daily energy usage, from upgrading appliances to triple-glazed windows. Jacob also shares his insights into ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and its impact on business profitability. Don't miss out on these energy-saving tricks that'll not only save you money but also enhance your long-term resilience. If you're tired of skyrocketing energy prices and eager to shrink your bills, tune in now. Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

talkBIG season 2 episode 8: - Cyber security and IT for small business – with guest Darren Booth Let's face it, cyber attacks have become so common that you can barely turn on the news without hearing about some sort of massive data breach. But don't worry, RSM is here to help. For this talkBIG episode, hosts Andrew, Young, and Chris sat down with RSM's National Head of Cyber Security and Privacy Risk Services, Darren Booth, to uncover some startling truths about the seedy underworld of cybercrime and how businesses can protect themselves from cybercriminals. You'll be surprised to learn that your hacker is more likely to be working 9-5 in a call centre run by organised criminals than a teenage hacker operating out of their parents' basement. Plus, did you know that people and processes can be a bigger risk than your IT system? With the recent data breaches of major Australian companies like Optus and Medibank still fresh in our minds, it's more important than ever to learn about the risks and how to protect your sensitive information. And maybe it's time to reconsider whether you need to keep some of that customer data in the first place. If you're worried that tech talk will go over your head, don't! Darren and the talkBIG crew break it down in an easy conversational style that you'll love listening to. They cover some great tips on where to start with cyber security, how people actually get hacked (you might be surprised!), whether cyber insurance is worth it, and the consequences for a business that experiences a breach. So what are you waiting for? Tune in now and get cyber smart with RSM and the talkBIG crew. Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

In part two of our talkBIG double episode, Andrew, Young and Chris discuss the final four trends from our thinkBIG report on the 8 key trends impacting small businesses in 2023. If you're a small business owner or private contractor, you won't want to miss this. First up, the talkBIG team talks about cyber security , and it's a big deal. Did you know that the dark web is now the third largest economy in the world? And a cyber crime is reported every 7 minutes! That's why it's crucial for businesses to safeguard their data and have a backup plan in case of a breach. It can cost a lot of money and even put you out of business. Don't take the risk of losing everything, tune in to learn how you can protect your business. The next hot topic our hosts weigh in on is staff shortages. It's tough for small businesses to compete with the big guys when it comes to hiring. The talkBIG gang share some strategies to help business owners overcome this hurdle, such as using technology to automate tasks and free up your staff to focus on higher value work. They also discuss how you can showcase your unique selling points to attract top talent. Cashflow is always a top concern for small business owners, but don't worry, there are more options than just taking out loans. Andrew, Young, and Chris suggest exploring government incentives and grants that you may be eligible for. With a bit of effort and research, you could find ways to boost your cashflow without taking on more debt. Finally, the talkBIG team talks about virtual CFO services , a great option for businesses looking to gain financial insights without hiring a full-time CFO. You'll learn how you can get financial analysis, identify risks and opportunities, and even negotiate with stakeholders and lenders. Plus, the insights gained from forecasting can help you decide if it's time to hire a permanent CFO or not. So there you have it, the final four trends from the thinkBIG report , delivered straight to your ears. Don't forget to subscribe to our channel for more business and finance insights, and check out our library for previous episodes that will help you make smart business decisions to keep your business thriving. Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…

In this two-part episode of talkBIG, hosts Andrew, Young and Chris explore the big trends affecting small businesses in Australia in 2023 and beyond. If you own a small business, listen up because this episode is just for you. The world is changing fast, so it’s important for business leaders to reflect on their strategies and look for ways to improve. Obviously, knowing what to expect makes it that much easier to plan ahead. Earlier this year, RSM released an in-depth report which identified 8 trends changing the Australian business world in 2023. Our talkBIG panel discuss the report, talking about each trend and what it means for the average Aussie small business owner. In part one of this two-part series, the gang talks about some pretty important topics that could make or break your business. First up, they cover wage compliance and how to stay on the right side of the law when it comes to paying your employees. Trust us, you don't want to get caught out on this one! Then, they delve into data privacy, discussing the hefty price tag that comes with collecting customer data. With data breaches on the rise and the government cracking down on privacy breaches, it's important to take data privacy seriously. Luckily, the guys have some tips on how to do just that. Next up, they tackle the topic of digital business and how to give your business a digital makeover. With remote working becoming the norm, it's time to start thinking about how you can use technology to improve your business and save money. Last but not least, they chat about data insights and how to use the data you collect to make smarter business decisions. By combining data from different sources and incorporating external data, you can gain valuable insights that will help you make informed decisions for your business. Stay tuned for part two, where we cover the remaining four trends impacting small businesses in Australia. Text us your questions! Thanks for listening! Visit the RSM Australia website to ask the hosts a question.…