In the ring with Keating
By
Charlie Corbett
Mon 07 May 2007
Paul Keating is a man who doesn't mince his words. Whatever your opinion of him politically, you can't deny he has charisma - something sadly lacking in all politics these days.
Paul Keating is a man who doesn't mince his words. Whatever your opinion of him politically, you can't deny he has charisma - something sadly lacking in all politics these days.
When compared to the rather grey John Howard and the new kid on the Labor block, Kevin Rudd, then Keating at least wins on entertainment value.
Christine St Anne spoke exclusively to the former Labor prime minister for this week's cover story and, as expected, he pulled few punches.
All statements from politicians - especially ex-politicians - should be taken with a large dose of salt, and perhaps a dash of humbug, but Keating lives up to his name as the master of the scathing remark.
The interview keeps tight to the theme of superannuation, an industry now worth $1 trillion and an industry he was instrumental in creating. Or in his own words: "It was Bill [Kelty] and I who really got the show on the road."
He spoke about its origins, its future, the current Labor Party's policies and what he thinks about the recent choice-of-fund legislation. The Future Fund also gets more than a passing mention.
We hope you enjoy his outlook on the industry.
Our feature focuses on more immediate concerns for investors. Where in the world to invest to best diversify their returns? The answer could perhaps be German property.
The German property market is a sleeping giant. Over 70 per cent of it is held in private hands - where it has been for generations.
Recently passed real estate investment trust legislation, however, could reverse this situation.
The generous tax breaks it allows for when selling commercial property could lead to a torrent of property deals in Germany, and a market some estimate could be worth up to €140 million within years.
This is a German revolution few would want to miss out on. Investor Weekly looks at the potential opportunities for Australian investors as well as the pitfalls and tax implications of investing in German property.
Our trustee profile for this week is on Don Luke, former chief executive of Sunsuper, who left the $10 billion industry fund this year after 10 years at the helm.
As always, if you would like to make any comments regarding articles published in Investor Weekly, don't hesitate to get in touch at corbett@investorinfo.com.au or on 02 9004 7133.
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