Happy New Year, and brace yourself for a year of financial insights that might just challenge everything you thought you knew!
As we step into 2026, let’s take a moment to reflect on the wealth of knowledge shared in 2025. Last year, Firstlinks published over 400 articles, a testament to the dedication of our sponsors, contributors, and regular writers like Noel Whittaker, Harry Chemay, Ashley Owen, Kaye Fallick, Roger Montgomery, Tony Dillon, and Jon Kalkman. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made this possible. But here’s where it gets controversial—I’ve handpicked 20 articles that not only informed but also sparked debates, and I’m not afraid to say I don’t agree with all of them. That’s the beauty of Firstlinks—we embrace diverse perspectives, even if they make us uncomfortable. And this is the part most people miss: these articles aren’t just informative; they’re conversation starters, pushing us to think deeper and question more.
From the heated debate over the $3 million super tax to the eye-opening analysis of generational inequities, these pieces cover it all. Did you know that the AI investment boom might end more like a rerun than a revolution? Or that the $5.4 trillion wealth transfer could be a generational tragedy? These aren’t just headlines—they’re calls to action, inviting you to dive deeper and form your own opinions.
Let’s explore some of these thought-provoking articles, shall we?
Which Generation Had It Toughest? (Mark McCrindle, 6 August 2025)
Every generation claims its struggles are unique, but what does the data say? Mark McCrindle dissects the generational hardship debate, revealing a more nuanced story than the headlines suggest. But here’s the kicker: Is it possible we’re all missing the bigger picture?
Simple Maths Says the AI Investment Boom Ends Badly (Harris Kupperman, 27 August 2025)
Remember the fiber craze of 2000, shale in 2014, or cannabis in 2019? Harris Kupperman argues that the AI boom might follow a similar pattern—real technology, brutal capital cycle. Controversial question: Are we overestimating AI’s long-term impact?
What History Reveals About Market Corrections and Crashes (Andrew Mitchell and Steven Ng, 19 March 2025)
The S&P 500’s recent correction had investors on edge, but history offers a reassuring perspective. High rates, unemployment, or global shocks often drive corrections, but there’s reason for optimism. But here’s where it gets interesting: Could today’s market be an exception?
Supercharging the ‘4% Rule’ to Ensure a Richer Retirement (James Gruber, 27 August 2025)
Bill Bengen, the creator of the 4% rule, has new strategies to outlive your retirement savings. His advice? Hold fewer stocks early on, then increase allocations. Thought-provoking question: Is this the retirement strategy we’ve all been waiting for?
The Case for the $3 Million Super Tax (Harry Chemay, 28 May 2025)
The proposed super tax has been met with backlash, but Harry Chemay argues it’s a reasonable step toward long-term sustainability. Controversial take: Could this tax actually benefit the retirement system?
Why the $5.4 Trillion Wealth Transfer Is a Generational Tragedy (James Gruber, 12 March 2025)
The housing boom-driven wealth transfer is widening economic inequality and stifling social mobility. Bold statement: The solution isn’t taxing wealth—it’s fixing the housing problem.
Pros and Cons of Labor’s Home Batteries Scheme (Noel Whittaker, 23 April 2025)
Labor’s $2.3 billion program aims to slash home battery costs, but practical challenges loom. Question to ponder: Will this initiative live up to its promise?
Is This the Real Reason for Gold’s Surge Past $3,000? (Jeremy Pessemier, 9 July 2025)
Gold’s rise seems tied to U.S. fiscal concerns rather than geopolitics or interest rates. Controversial interpretation: Could this be a sign of deeper economic issues?
The Case for and Against U.S. Stock Market Exceptionalism (Duncan Lamont, 15 January 2025)
Will the U.S. market’s supremacy continue in 2025? Duncan Lamont challenges readers to consider both sides of the debate. Provocative question: Are we too quick to assume U.S. dominance?
What’s Next for 2026?
Roger Montgomery’s 2025 predictions were spot on, but his 2026 advice is more nuanced. What’s his take this time? Meanwhile, Romano Sala Tenna suggests ASX stocks might soon outpace U.S. equities—a bold claim in today’s market. And Don Stammer’s X-Factor series concludes with a surprising winner for 2025. Final thought: What unexpected influences will shape 2026?
As you dive into these articles, I encourage you to question, debate, and share your thoughts. Which piece resonated most with you? And more importantly, where do you stand on the controversial points raised? Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments—your perspective matters!
