How bad is this going to get—and how fast could we recover?
In this episode of Prime Time, I’m joined by economist Malcolm Wood, Head of Institutional Research and Asset Allocation at Ord Minnett to unpack the uncomfortable question so many are asking.
How bad is this going to get—and how fast could we recover?
In this episode of Prime Time, I’m joined by economist Malcolm Wood, Head of Institutional Research and Asset Allocation at Ord Minnett to unpack the uncomfortable question so many retirees and pre-retirees are quietly asking: How bad is this going to get—and how fast could we recover?
Markets have been shaky. Super balances are bouncing around. There’s a lot of economic noise in the media right now—headlines full of political chaos, tariff announcements, rate cut speculation, and global uncertainty. It’s hard to know what’s signal and what’s just noise.
Malcolm offers a calm, clear, and surprisingly optimistic take on what’s going on—and what it all means for investors, especially those nearing or in retirement.
We dig into the ripple effects of Trump 2.0 and why this version of Trumpism is landing faster and harder than many expected. Malcolm talks through six big themes he’s tracking in the global economy right now, and how they affect everything from currency markets to property prices to your super fund's performance.
We also look at Australia’s economic position, our unique vulnerabilities in a world shifting away from China and towards more protectionist trade settings, and what the potential outcomes of our own looming federal election could mean for market reforms.
If you’re managing your finances carefully in the second half of life—and you’re wondering whether this rough patch will last—this episode is packed with practical insights and a grounded view of where we’re heading next.
LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE OF THE PODCAST HERE:
Highlights of this episode:
Trump 2.0 hits hard: Why this second term is different, and how a rolling wave of tariffs is reshaping global trade and fuelling economic uncertainty.
Sticky inflation & interest rates: Why inflation isn’t falling as fast as central banks would like—and why we might still see rate cuts sooner than expected.
The Australia challenge: Malcolm explains why Australia is more exposed than it appears, thanks to our dependence on China and lack of productivity growth.
Super funds and share markets: Why the Australian share market is expensive—and what role our $3.5 trillion super system plays in that.
Valuation caution: Malcolm shares why he’s still cautious on equities, even after recent dips, and which asset classes he’s favouring instead.
Recovery speed: Could things bounce back quickly if global leaders act with intent? Malcolm believes it’s possible—and explains the signs to watch for.
Retiree strategy check: Practical advice for those managing super, pensions, or savings in this market: where to lean in, where to pull back, and what to consider next.
The cover reveal of Prime Time: 27 lessons for the new midlife
I promised you a cover-reveal of my new book on this week’s newsletter, and here it is… Prime Time: 27 Lessons for the New Midlife.
It’s inspired by this podcast (or maybe this podcast was inspired by my curiosity for the book). It will be released in bookstores on the 30 July, 2025.
You can pre-order your copy on Amazon, here: https://amzn.to/3G0yxfh
Here’s the blurb from my publisher’s website, because honestly, they nailed the pitch:
“From Bec Wilson, hit podcast host and bestselling author of How to Have an Epic Retirement, comes the ultimate guide to modern midlife. We're now living longer, saving smarter, working more flexibly and seeking meaning at every turn. In 27 practical lessons, let Bec guide you on everything you need to know to make your Prime Time count.
The period from your late 40s well into your 70s is what Bec calls your 'Prime Time'. These years can be some of the best of your life - if you make the right choices. Far from winding down, this is the time to truly live.
In this essential handbook, Bec guides you through the key pillars of power, money, health, work, purpose, happiness, family and travel. This isn't just about adjusting to a longer lifespan - it's about creating a richer, more fulfilling life.
Prime Time: 27 Lessons for the New Midlife isn't just a roadmap to retirement - it's a playbook for a life lived with intention, energy, joy, and financial confidence. With Bec Wilson as your guide, you can embrace this incredible stage and truly make the most of your Prime Time.
Money takes centre stage in this guide, with strategies that go beyond the basics. Learn how to make the most of superannuation, invest with purpose, maximise compounding and franking credits, understand spending and layering of income and how to leverage tax concessions. Beyond simply reaching 'enough to retire', Bec shows you how to build flexible financial foundations that will allow you to enjoy these years to the fullest.
Along with the financial foundations, this guide is packed with insights for building purpose and joy into every day, with practical advice for extending or reshaping your career, crafting a purpose-driven 'second act', creating work-life flexibility, strengthening family ties and looking after your changing body.
Ready to make the most of your Prime Time? Then you need this book now!”
So — tell me what you think?
Before you quit your job and sell the house... read this!
Everything I share here is general information, not personal financial, legal or tax advice. It hasn’t been tailored to your specific life, goals, money situation, or brilliant retirement plans—so before making any big decisions, please chat to a licensed financial adviser or relevant professional who can look at your individual circumstances.
I do my best to keep things accurate and current, but I can’t guarantee it (rules change, governments shuffle things around, and I’m only human). Any figures or examples are just that—examples—to help explain things, and they might not reflect the latest laws or your actual numbers.
Use this as a helpful guide, not gospel.
ok
bear runs can go 3 years and longer wheres the bottom zero in some cases
oh those margin calls ouch ouch noooo must sell noooo
a fraction may survive and then take years to rebuild
Interesting take. But this has also caused other countries to move away from the USD and towards BRICs. Historically this fuck over the rest of the world by America has worked because they control the markets through the USD. But this is no longer the case. There are already trade deals being made in Yuan not USD. The Russian Ruble was never a threat but the Yuan just might be.