In this episode of Money Made Simple, Liv sits down with Robbie Paul, CEO of Icehouse Ventures, to unpack how venture capital really works in New Zealand - and what it takes to build successful startups in a small, but globally connected market. From arriving in NZ as an unpaid intern to leading one of the country’s most influential venture capital firms, Robbie shares his journey, lessons learned, and why he’s more optimistic than ever about the future of Kiwi entrepreneurship. 

 This episode covers:

• What venture capital actually is, and how it differs from private equity
• How Icehouse Ventures supports Kiwi founders from idea stage through to global growth
• Why New Zealand’s startup ecosystem is stronger and more vibrant than ever
• The role KiwiSaver and institutional capital can play in funding high-growth companies
• The reality of startup success and failure, and why patience matters more than perfection
• What successful founders tend to have in common, beyond just a good idea 

You’ll come away from this episode with a clearer understanding of how venture capital fits into the wider investing landscape, why startup success usually takes FAR longer than headlines suggest, and how Kiwi entrepreneurs are quietly building world-class companies from the bottom of the globe. It’s an optimistic, grounded look at risk, reward, and the long game... whether you’re curious about investing, startups, or how innovation actually gets funded. 

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this (crowd-sourced) episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv dive into the best money tips submitted by our lovely Simplicity community! From simple mindset shifts to clever day-to-day hacks, this episode brings together the collective wisdom of everyday Kiwis navigating saving, spending and investing during a pretty tough cost-of-living environment.

This episode covers:

•  Why starting small and starting early matters (and why it’s never too late to begin)
•  How to get clear on where your money actually goes - both emotionally and literally
•  The pros and cons of single shares vs managed funds, and why diversification matters
•  Smart ways to avoid lifestyle creep and use pay rises intentionally
•  How to build a realistic emergency fund and avoid guilt around spending
•  Why automating your money can make all the difference
•  Community-favourite tools and educators worth checking out 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Mr Money Mustache – community-recommended financial education: https://www.mrmoneymustache.com

- Frances Cook – personal finance books and podcast host: https://www.francescook.co.nz

- Money King NZ – investment education and reviews: https://moneykingnz.com

- Sorted NZ – tools, guides and calculators: https://sorted.org.nz

- MoneyHub NZ – financial guides and comparisons: https://www.moneyhub.co.nz

- NZ Government FamilyBoost (childcare subsidy): https://www.ird.govt.nz/roles/in-work/familyboost

- Free Financial Mentoring (via MoneyTalks): https://www.moneytalks.co.nz

This episode provides stack of practical ideas you can try today - from making your budget actually work for you, to automating your investing, and finding fresh ways to save without sacrificing joy. Getting better with money isn’t about being perfect… it’s about being consistent, curious and willing to try new things!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

KiwiSaver has changed the way New Zealanders save - but with an ageing population and growing fiscal pressures, the current system won’t be enough to support future generations. In this episode, Simplicity Chief Economist Shamubeel Eaqub lays out his vision for KiwiSaver 2.0: a bolder, more sustainable approach to retirement savings that draws inspiration from successful global models.

He explains why New Zealand’s "pay-as-you-go" superannuation system is becoming increasingly unaffordable, what we can learn from Australia’s compulsory Super regime, and the simple changes that could transform KiwiSaver into a powerful long-term asset for both individuals and the economy.

This month's episode covers:

• Why New Zealand’s ageing population makes our current public finances - especially Superannuation and healthcare - increasingly unsustainable
• How KiwiSaver has shifted household saving behaviour, but why policy hasn’t kept pace
• The case for compulsory employer contributions, modelled on Australia and other high-performing pension systems
• How smarter hardship rules and “sidecar” savings could help low-income earners build both resilience today and more security for retirement
• The idea of “Baby KiwiSaver” - enrolling children at birth to harness the long-term power of compounding returns
• Why a stronger KiwiSaver system could meaningfully boost New Zealand’s investment capacity, infrastructure, and long-term productivity

Shamubeel breaks down complex retirement and fiscal challenges we're facing to show how a bigger, better KiwiSaver could give future generations more choices and help New Zealand shift from a capital-shallow economy to a capital-rich one.

You should come away from this episode with a clearer understanding of why KiwiSaver needs to evolve, and what meaningful reform could look like in the years ahead.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv dive into a topic that can make even seasoned investors nervous - market volatility. What causes the sudden ups and downs in your KiwiSaver or Investment Fund balance? And what should you do when markets are unsettled?

From global news and investor emotion to algorithms and exchange rates, this episode explains what’s really behind those squiggly lines in your fund performance graph - and why they’re not always a bad thing.

This episode covers:

• What volatility really means, and why it’s a normal part of investing
• The big drivers of market swings - uncertainty, emotion, and new information
• How events like wars, elections, and interest rate changes ripple into KiwiSaver returns
• Why international markets and currency movements matter more than you might think
• Real-world case studies: the Global Financial Crisis and COVID-19 crash
• Why staying calm and staying invested is the smartest long-term strategy
• Tools to help you match your fund to your time horizon and risk tolerance
• How volatility, while uncomfortable, can actually help long-term investors grow their wealth

Resources mentioned in this episode:
Sorted's KiwiSaver fund finder - sorted.org.nz/tools/kiwisaver-fund-finder/ and for other managed fund investments smartinvestor.sorted.org.nz/
Simplicity Fund Sector - simplicity.kiwi/calculators/kiwisaver/fund-selector

Jennie and Liv explain in plain English why markets rise and fall, and why keeping calm, staying invested, and focusing on the long game is the best approach - especially when things feel uncertain. Volatility is the price we pay for growth, and for those with time on their side, it’s worth it.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

The silly season is here! But, of course, so are the ongoing bills and cost of living crunch. In this festive episode, Jennie and Liv tackle one of the toughest challenges of the year: how to enjoy Christmas without blowing the budget. They share some practical, creative ideas for saving money, setting expectations with family, and finding fun in over summer even when times are tough.

This episode covers:
• How to set realistic expectations with friends and whānau around Christmas spending
• Creative ways to save money on food, gifts, and decorations
• Potluck dinners, Secret Santas and DIY gifts that still feel special
• Reframing the guilt around money and celebrating what really matters
• Why it’s okay to focus on “now” instead of “later” when times are tough

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Simplicity KiwiSaver & Investment Funds – gift a KiwiSaver or investment fund contribution this Christmas: https://simplicity.kiwi/gifting-funds

- Auckland Council – Movies & Music in Parks (free local experiences): aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

- City Mission Christmas Appeals – donate food or gifts: aucklandcitymission.org.nz

Christmas doesn’t have to mean chaos - or credit card debt. We're here to remind you that joy doesn’t come from spending big, but from connection, creativity, and community. Whether it’s a kindness advent calendar, a thrifted Secret Santa, or simply a beach breakfast in your togs and PJs, there are plenty of ways to make the season special (and stress-free) on any budget.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Liv chats with the sassy but very savvy Sabby Jey, the creator of the viral series Boujee on a Budget. They discuss how she turned her upbringing, values, and financial smarts into a platform that helps thousands ok Kiwis live luxuriously without overspending. From second-hand fashion, to smart saving hacks and mindful money habits, Sabby shares her personal journey, business insights, and practical ways to make your money go further (and still enjoy the good stuff).

 This episode covers:

• How Sabby turned her refugee-family background and finance degree into a thriving content career
• The origins of Boujee on a Budget and how it went viral on TikTok
• Smart “savvy not stingy” spending habits that actually build wealth
• Avoiding lifestyle creep and the pressures of social media perfection
• Simple, realistic savings and budgeting hacks anyone can start today

Resources mentioned in this episode:
 - Sabby Jey’s Boujee on a Budget series on Instagram
- The Libby App (free access to ebooks and magazines via Auckland Libraries) 

Sabby’s story is a reminder that being “boujee” doesn’t mean breaking the bank. With the right mindset, creative money hacks, and a willingness to learn, you can thrive - even in a cost-of-living crisis! Learn how small, consistent savings can build confidence, how to find a little joy in frugality, and how financial empowerment starts with everyday habits that make you feel good about your money.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this special guest episode of the Economy Made Simple, Shamubeel Eaqub sits down with Geoff Cooper, CEO of the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, to unpack the country’s infrastructure crisis: why it exists, what keeps driving costs up, and how we can start fixing it. They explore why and how NZ keeps falling behind when it comes to maintaining essential infrastructure, the political and geographic challenges at play, and the practical steps we could take to build smarter for the future.

This episode covers:

• How New Zealand’s geography and spread-out population make infrastructure costly to deliver
• The long-term impacts of under-maintaining existing assets 
• How better asset management and smarter funding could (literally) save billions in the long run
• The political economy behind infrastructure decisions - why “taking the politics out” isn’t realistic
• Lessons from Japan and South Korea on adapting infrastructure to aging populations
• The importance of making infrastructure "boring" again - maintenance, transparency, and long-term planning

This episode goes beyond the headlines to explain why NZ’s infrastructure struggles aren’t just about money; they’re about priorities, planning, and people. You’ll learn how we got into this stiicky situation, and how a few smart, practical changes could set us up for a more resilient (and prosperous) future. 

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this much-requested episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv (finally!) demystify hedging, the financial safety net that can help protect your KiwiSaver and investment balances from foreign currency fluctuations. They explain what it means in a general sense (outside and inside of investments), why fund managers use it, and when being “hedged” or “unhedged” can make a difference to your returns.

Whether you’re investing for the long term or just want to sound smart next time someone mentions “hedged vs unhedged funds,” this one’s for you. This episode covers:

 • What hedging is and why it exists in the world of investing (and elsewhere)
 • Simple, everyday examples of hedging (like fixing your mortgage rate or locking in travel exchange rates)
 • How hedging works within global investments and KiwiSaver funds
 • The pros and cons of being hedged vs unhedged when it comes to investing
 • How Simplicity uses hedging to help protect members’ investments

By the end of this episode, you’ll hopefully understand how hedging helps manage volatility (but - plot twist - only in one area), why it's relevant to KiwiSaver members, and how it quietly works behind the scenes without you needing to lift a finger.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this inspiring episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie sits down with Hannah Porter - founder of baby and kids' brand Bear & Moo - to talk about building a successful startup from scratch, while juggling family life and financial realities. From starting with just $6,000 to growing into a thriving online and retail store, Hannah shares what it’s really like to take a calculated risk and create something that works for your lifestyle, and helps build financial success.

This episode covers:

• How Hannah went from corporate jobs to launching Bear & Moo with only a small amount of savings
• The balance between family life, risk, and financial stability when starting a business
• The growth journey through COVID, supply chain issues, and economic slowdowns - it hasn't been easy!
• Why knowing your numbers and cashflow is vital for small business survival
• Tips on household budgeting, running multiple bank accounts, and teaching kids about money

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Bear & Moo website – https://bearandmoo.co.nz/
Tenancy Services (for household budgeting references): https://www.tenancy.govt.nz/

By the end of this episode, you’ll feel inspired (and maybe a little more organised!) to take control of your own finances - whether that’s starting a side hustle, improving your family’s budget system, or simply getting more confident about your money decisions. So go forth and conquer!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

Spring might be in the air, but the economy hasn’t quite joined the party yet. In this quarterly economic update, Shamubeel Eaqub, Simplicity’s Chief Economist, breaks down what’s really going on in New Zealand and across the globe. He explains why the economy still feels sluggish, what's happening re: the cost of living crisis, and what to watch for next.

This episode covers:

• Why the New Zealand economy is experiencing one of its longest and deepest slowdowns in decades
• How global uncertainty - from wars to trade tensions and political instability - is shaping financial markets as well as household confidence
• What the Reserve Bank is doing with interest rates, how much time it might take to see the impacts of these levers
• The unusual signals in jobs, consumer spending, and business confidence that make this cycle different
• When Shamubeel sees (cautious) optimisim returning, and what that might mean for everyday Kiwis

Shamubeel is here to explain complex economic trends in plain language, helping you understand how global shocks and local policy decisions flow through to your wallet. Hopefully you’ll leave with a clearer picture of where we are in the cycle - and what to watch for as we (hopefully) move toward a strong recovery.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv unpack one of the most simple and powerful (yet often misunderstood) tools for building wealth: index funds. They explain what index funds are, why they’re so popular with investors worldwide, and how they actually stack up against actively managed funds. Using strawberries, gift hampers, and a couple of screw-ups along the way (we never said we were perfect!), they strip back the jargon to make index investing easy to understand - and get started!

This episode covers:

• What an index fund actually is and what "mirroring a market" means
• Why index funds are generally lower cost than actively managed funds
• How diversification works in terms of owning “a little bit of everything” 
• The long-term performance data showing how index funds compare to actively managed funds over time
• The role of ethical screening and how one can align index funds with their personal values
• Downsides and risks of index funds compared to other investments

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Sorted.org guide to investment funds

- SPIVA (S&P Indices Versus Active) research reports

- Bogleheads investing community and information page

Index funds won’t promise a quick win or let you “beat the market,” but they’ve proven to be one of the simplest, lowest-cost, and most effective ways for everyday investors around the world to grow their wealth over the long term. So dive in to the podcast now!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv take on the top five money myths that keep holding Kiwis back from building financial confidence - and wealth! From saving when money is tight to whether credit cards are always “bad,” they tackle some of the most common misconceptions with real-life examples and practical advice you can actually use. 

This episode covers:

• Why “I don’t earn enough to save” is almost never true
• The truth about credit cards: when they can be helpful, and when they become dangerous
• Why buying a house isn’t always better than renting, and how to think about what’s right for you
• Busting the belief that you need to be rich to invest (spoiler: you don’t!)
• How budgeting doesn’t kill your fun; it can actually make spending more enjoyable!

By the end of this episode, you’ll see that a lot of the financial “rules” we grew up hearing don’t stack up. We aim to provide you with a clearer view of how to make your money work better for you, no matter where you’re starting from.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Economy Made Simple, Shamubeel Eaqub sits down with Sam Stubbs, founder of Simplicity, to explore the intersection of personal journeys, global finance, and the future of New Zealand’s economy. From growing up in the depths of West Auckland to investment banking at Goldman Sachs, Sam shares lessons from his career and why he ultimately came back to try and build something for everyday New Zealanders.

Together, Shamubeel and Sam unpack what global capital flows mean for a small country like New Zealand, the unique opportunity being created by KiwiSaver, and how leadership, luck, and resilience shape both personal and national success stories. This episode covers:

• Sam’s journey from West Auckland to Goldman Sachs, and back home again
• How the global finance industry views New Zealand... and why we often get overlooked
• The role of KiwiSaver in reshaping capital flows and creating opportunities for local investment
• What New Zealand can learn from Australia’s superannuation model and strong infrastructure growth
• Why leadership, culture, resilience and curiosity matter for building great organisations - and great economies

By the end of this episode, you’ll gain a fresh perspective on how global and local capital interact, why KiwiSaver could be a game-changer for New Zealand’s future, and what it takes to lead with resilience and humility in this tricky, rapidly changing world.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv tackle the common Kiwi dilemma: Should you rent forever, or is it better to save up and buy your own home? They unpack the real-world costs on both sides (not just mortgage vs rent), discuss the lifestyle trade-offs, and how today’s market settings can tilt the decision either way. You'll get a run down of general ownership expenses, rent realities, and practical ways to stress-test what’s right for you and your whānau. This episode covers:

• The latest NZ home-ownership and house pricing trends - and what they might mean for first-time buyers
• The upfront and ongoing costs of owning a house, vs renting it
• How to compare a “typical” mortgage on a $1m home with current rent levels in big centres 
• Lifestyle trade-offs: flexibility and predictability of renting vs stability and control of owning 
• A simple framework to help you decide what fits your budget, goals and season of life 

Resources included in this episode:

- REINZ monthly housing market data

- Statistics NZ Census data on home ownership

- CoreLogic's Housing Affordability report

- MoneyHub's guide to home insurance

- Sorted.org's Home Buying Guide

By the end of this episode, you'll hopefully have a clearer idea of the pros and cons of renting vs buying, along with a realistic view of the actual costs for each so you can make your own informed decision!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In Part 2 of our “Save and Spend” series, Liv and Jennie are back to talk about the fun side of money: spend spend spend! But even spending can go sideways if you’re not intentional about it (cue: Jennie's fave Want Monster). This episode explores how to spend smarter, not harder - and how investing in the right things can save you money, stress and regret down the track! This episode covers:

• Why “buying cheap” often costs more in the long run
• How to balance quality with affordability on everything from clothes to cookware
• Why and how spending on yourself is the smartest investment
• How to plan and nail big-ticket spending like upgrading your home
• Why it’s worth spending money on professional advice for the big decisions in life

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Sorted.org's great budgeting tool to get your spending under control

- The Sorted KiwiSaver fund finder

- MoneyHub's guide: Frugal decisions that backfire

- Sorted.org's savings calculator

- The list of independent Financial Advisers (thanks to MoneyHub!)

Whether it’s investing in your health, buying quality over quantity, or avoiding false savings, this episode encourages a more conscious approach to spending. We encourage you to look at your next purchase through a long-term lens - checking "Will this serve me in the long run?".

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this very special episode of the Economy Made Simple, Shamubeel Eaqub sits down with Sir Ashley Bloomfield, New Zealand’s former Director-General of Health, to talk about what we’ve learned from the COVID-19 pandemic - and how those lessons could help shape our collective future.

This thoughtful conversation touches on the complex intersection between public health, the economy, leadership and trust. It’s an honest but also hopeful discussion that sheds light on what it takes to lead through uncertainty - and how we might rebuild a more resilient, empathetic society.

This episode covers:

• Sir Ashley's background, what led him to his Director-General role and where he's gone since
• What New Zealand did well (AND not so well) during the COVID-19 pandemic
• The link between public health and a strong economy
• How leadership, communication and trust matter in moments of crisis
• Lessons from the lockdowns that still apply today, from wellbeing to social cohesion
• Sir Ashley’s reflections on personal resilience and what drives him today

Whether you're interested in leadership, public policy or simply navigating uncertain times, this episode offers a timely perspective on what it takes to foster resilience — in ourselves, our communities, and our economy.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

*Please note that nothing in this podcast is personalised financial advice or recommendations. We recommend that people seek independent financial advice when it comes to making decisions around their mortgages, insurances and/or general financial situation.*

As the cost of living crisis continues to squeeze Kiwi wallets, Jennie and Liv are back with practical, real-world ideas to help you save money without sacrificing everything you love. From tackling big-ticket expenses like housing and insurance, to finding creative ways to earn a little extra or make the most of what you already have, this episode is packed with ways to help you think bigger and smarter when it comes to saving.

This episode covers:

• Ideas around reviewing and renegotiating big costs like your mortgage, rent and insurance
• The benefits of switching providers for power, internet and mobile to save money
• Ways to cut down on your transport costs
• Making use of your home space to offset expenses
• The benefits of micro-saving tools and building an emergency fund
• The role of side hustles and time-based spending swaps

Resources mentioned in this episode:

- Sorted.org.nz’s Guide to saving and investing

- Sorted.org.nz's  KiwiSaver calculator

- MoneyHub’s Guide to saving money in NZ

- MoneyHub’s Insurance comparison guide

- Consumer NZ’s PowerSwitch tool

- The changes being made to KiwiSaver announced in Budget 2025

This episode is all about empowering you to make smart, intentional, enduring change - whether that’s trimming unnecessary costs or finding small, creative ways to save more in the long-term. With a little effort and some fresh thinking, you may just find that it's possible to spend less without feeling like you’re missing out!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Economy Made Simple, Shamubeel Eaqub breaks down what’s going on in the New Zealand economy - and what’s coming next. Are we still in a recession? Why has it affected people so differently? And what signs should we look for to know that a recovery is finally taking shape?

From global wars and rising oil prices to interest rates and job ads, Shamubeel gives a clear-eyed update on the forces shaping our economy right now, and what might lie ahead. This episode covers:

• Why this recession has been different - with fewer job losses, but more business pressure and closures
• The surprising resilience of the labour market (businesses holding onto workers) and how it could speed up the recovery
• Signs of stabilisation (and optimism) after a year of economic decline
• Why interest rates are expected to drive growth later this year
• The bright spot in the economy - the primary sector
• How wars, trade, inflation, migration and government spending cuts will continue to shape the outlook
• What to watch for next, including increase in job ads and lending activity

It’s a challenging time, but not without hope. Shamubeel shares why he’s cautiously optimistic about a stronger second half of 2025 - and what needs to happen for that to become reality.

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Liv and Jennie unpack the recent changes to KiwiSaver announced in Budget 2025 - what’s changing, why it matters, and how it could impact you both now, and in the long term.

From personal contribution increases to government contribution cutbacks, it’s a mixed bag. Some changes are great, particularly for younger savers and long-term investors, but others (like the halving of the government contribution)  may feel like a step backwards.

This episode covers:

• The increase in compulsory KiwiSaver contributions from 3% to 4%, and why it’s being phased in slowly
• What the drop in the government contribution from $521 to $261 means for your savings
• The new income cap - earn over $180,000 and you’ll no longer receive any government contribution
• Good news for younger workers - 16 and 17-year-olds will now receive government contributions and next year, employer contributions
• What these changes could mean for self-employed Kiwis
• How to opt out of the increased contributions (and why that might cost you long-term)
• Why it might be time to revisit your KiwiSaver settings and contribution strategy

Whether you’re just starting out, self-employed, or looking to retire one day with a decent nest egg, this episode helps make sense of the updates and how to make them work for you.

Resources mentioned:

• Watch Shamubeel Eaqub's webinar on Budget 2025 & changes to KiwiSaver
• Latest blog on KiwiSaver changes

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Liv sits down with Josh Taylor — or JT — co-founder of Tax Traders and Taxi, two innovative businesses making waves in the world of tax. While tax might not sound like a glamorous industry, Josh’s entrepreneurial journey is packed with insight, hard-won lessons, and inspiring moments of resilience.

From getting made redundant to selling the family home to start a business, JT shares what it really takes to build a company from the ground up, and why the best opportunities often come disguised as problems.

This episode covers:

• Why JT never thought he’d work in tax - and how it ended up changing his life
• The early days of Tax Traders and how cashflow challenges inspired their first product
• What tax pooling is (and why it matters for businesses of all sizes)
• How failure, uncertainty and grit shaped their approach to growth
• The origins of Taxi and how Simplicity’s Private Equity Fund got involved
• Top tips for entrepreneurs - including when to trust your gut and when just to let go
• The power of listening to customers and solving real problems
• What’s next for JT and his team, including their new product, ProvCheck

Whether you’re dreaming of starting a business or just love a good story about determination and hard work, this episode is for you.

Websites or resources mentioned in this episode:

• Tax Traders
• Taxi
• Simplicity Private Equity Fund

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Economy Made Simple, Shamubeel Eaqub breaks down one of the most pressing challenges facing Aotearoa today - our ongoing housing crisis. Why are homes so unaffordable? How did we end up here? And what do we need to do to make things better? From historical policy shifts to the present day shortage, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the system’s failure... and how we might fix it. This episode covers:

• Why house prices have risen from 3x to 8x the average household income
• The long-term supply issues stemming from the reforms of the 1980s
• The rise of Generation Rent, and the growing unaffordability of home ownership
• How poor-quality, insecure housing is impacting health and wellbeing
• What needs to change - from better zoning and infrastructure to more social and affordable housing stock
• The role organisations like Simplicity and other KiwiSaver providers can play in housing solutions

Shamubeel explains in simple terms how housing went from a basic right to a national crisis, and the growing inequality between those who own and those who rent. And while we can't fix this overnight, progress is possible - let him tell you how and why. 

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie is joined by Tom Hartmann, personal finance lead at Sorted and part of Te Ara Ahunga Ora Retirement Commission. Together, they break down KiwiSaver in simple, practical terms to help you feel - and help you actually get - sorted when it comes to planning for your nest egg. Whether you're just starting out or have been contributing for years, this episode is packed with insight and easy-to-understand tips to get your KiwiSaver settings right. This episode covers:

• Why KiwiSaver is an investment, not just a savings account
• How managed risk in KiwiSaver can lead to better long-term rewards
• Common misunderstandings about balances, fees and fund performance
• Why percentages (like fees) can be misleading without looking at the total dollar amounts
• How to set your fund type to match your risk profile and goals
• What to do at retirement - why you don’t have to (and maybe shouldn't!) take it all out at 65
• Tools that make comparing funds and planning your KiwiSaver future easier

Resources mentioned in this episode, all thanks to Sorted.org.nz:

- KiwiSaver projection calculator: https://sorted.org.nz/tools/kiwisaver-calculator

- KiwiSaver fund finder: https://sorted.org.nz/tools/kiwisaver-fund-finder/

- Sorted's Smart Investor tool: https://smartinvestor.sorted.org.nz/

- A range of KiwiSaver guides: https://sorted.org.nz/guides/kiwisaver

- Your guide to KiwiSaver hardship withdrawals: https://sorted.org.nz/guides/kiwisaver/applying-for-a-kiwisaver-hardship-withdrawal/

 This episode should help you better understand the why behind your KiwiSaver settings, the how of choosing the right fund, and the importance of sticking with your plan for the long term. With insights from one of New Zealand’s leading financial educators, we're hoping to help you grow your financial confidence one podcast at a time! 

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Liv sits down with Simplicity member Rugved Deshpande to share his real-life finance journey. From childhood savings jars and pocket money to index funds, KiwiSaver choices, and building wealth his own way. As a second-generation Indian Kiwi and management accountant, Rugved reflects on how his upbringing shaped his money mindset, and how that mindset has evolved over time to where he is at today. This episode covers:

Rugved’s early memories of money, shaped by his parents’ immigrant experience and a strong culture of saving vs investing

• His transition from saving everything to building confidence with investing
• The importance of routine and "payday automation" for budgeting and long-term investing
• Why he switched KiwiSaver providers and how he feels about fund choice and contribution levels today
• His long-term financial goal of working by choice, not necessity
• Why home ownership isn’t currently part of the big plan
• The three lessons he’d give his younger self when it comes to money

This episode explores how your background influences your money habits, why early investing doesn’t have to be perfect, and how small, consistent actions (like automated investing and setting goals) can quietly grow your financial future over time. We're so grateful to Rugved for taking the time to open up and chat with us!

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Economy Made Simple, Chief Economist Shamubeel Eaqub unpacks how government finances actually work – and why they matter to us all. From tax and spending to investment and debt, he breaks down the jargon we hear so often in political debates and media headlines, and explains how public finance is really just a larger version of household budgeting - with long-term consequences for our country's future. This episode covers:

• Where New Zealand’s government revenue comes from, including income tax, GST and other smaller sources
• What our taxes pay for, from superannuation and healthcare to infrastructure and public services
• The key difference between the govt's day-to-day spending and long-term investment
• When government borrowing makes sense – and when it doesn’t
• Why conversations about debt and deficits often confuse short-term costs with long-term value
• The trade-offs we face as a country: higher taxes vs fewer services, short-term fixes vs long-term gains

This episode aims to shed light on why and how debates about tax, spending and government borrowing affect everyone – and why no matter what’s promised, there are always trade-offs. Shamubeel explains how to cut through the noise, ask better questions, and understand the bigger picture behind political headlines.

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.

In this episode of Money Made Simple, Jennie and Liv dive into the not-so-sexy but super important topic of tax – specifically how it works inside your KiwiSaver.

Tax might not be everyone’s idea of a good time (trust us, we get it), but understanding the basics can make a big difference to how confident you feel about your KiwiSaver. Whether you've noticed your balance dropping in March, or you're just trying to figure out what a PIR is, this episode is for you.

This episode covers:

• Where, when and how your KiwiSaver is taxed
• What PIE funds are (hint: nothing to do with food unfortunately) and how tax works inside them
• The difference between how NZ and international investments are taxed
• Why you still pay tax even when your fund has made a loss
• How your Prescribed Investor Rate (PIR) affects your tax bill – and how to check it’s right
• What happens when you move overseas or have a kids’ KiwiSaver fund or joint investment fund
• Why paying more tax could actually be a good thing!

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• IRD’s PIR Calculator – work out your correct PIR
• Sorted – online resource for financial planning tools and information
• MoneyHub’s tax guide 
• Canstar's blog – Is KiwiSaver Taxed?
• Simplicity’s tax FAQ

At the time of year, tax is one of the most common topics our Investor Services team gets asked about – and for good reason. So tune in and get the lowdown on KiwiSaver tax (with a few very average tax jokes thrown in for good measure - sorry in advance).

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Please help us share the good word (and make Kiwis richer and smarter with money) - the more we grow, the more good we can do %) Don't forget to follow, subscribe and rate the podcast if you found it useful!

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Disclaimer: This podcast contains personal opinions and is intended to provide educational information only. It doesn't relate to your particular financial situation or goals and is not financial advice or recommendations. Simplicity New Zealand Limited is the issuer of the Simplicity KiwiSaver scheme and investment funds. For product disclosure statements please visit Simplicity's website simplicity. kiwi.