The meeting focused on the simplest ways for Australians to invest in the S&P 500 and US stock markets, with a comparison of popular ETF options and step-by-step investment guidance.
Key factors discussed included ETF selection, management fees, diversification, expected performance, and practical investing steps using the Pearler app.
The speaker clarified the types of ETFs available, highlighted their differences, and stressed the importance of understanding costs and investment structures.
General advice was provided; for personal financial advice, attendees were encouraged to consult a licensed adviser.
Action Items
No specific tasks, deadlines, or owners were assigned during this session as it was primarily a presentation.
Investing Options for Australians
Three main methods to invest in the S&P 500 from Australia: ASX-listed ETFs (e.g., IVV, SPY), US-listed ETFs via brokerage apps (e.g., VOO, SPY), and managed funds (higher fees).
ASX-listed ETFs allow investing in AUD without currency exchange fees; US-listed ETFs require currency conversion and a W-8BEN tax form.
Managed funds are accessible but typically come with higher fees than ETFs.
S&P 500 ETF Comparison
Compared three major S&P 500 ETFs: IVV (ASX), VOO (US), and SPY (ASX & US).
5-year average annual returns: IVV (14.96%), VOO (14.92%), SPY (14.90%).
Dividend yields are similar across all three; all are highly liquid.
VOO offers the lowest management fee but is only available on the US exchange.
Alternative US ETFs
VTS (Vanguard US Total Stock Market ETF): Invests in ~4,000 US companies, offering greater diversification at a low management fee (0.03%).
NDQ (BetaShares NASDAQ 100 ETF): Focused on the top 100 NASDAQ technology companies; less diversified but offers greater tech exposure; 5-year average annual return is 2.19%.
Practical Investing Steps with Pearler
Step-by-step demonstration of purchasing both ASX- and US-listed ETFs via the Pearler app.
Instructions included selecting the ETF, entering the investment amount, and placing the order.
Pearler gives direct access to both Australian and US markets, but US investments require handling currency exchange and tax forms.
Decisions
No formal group decisions were made; this session was informative and instructional.
Open Questions / Follow-Ups
None noted; attendees were referred to the video description for the full financial services guide and to contact a financial adviser for personal questions.