March 2025 E News

The start of 2025 has brought significant shifts to both global and Australian financial markets, creating a mix of challenges and opportunities for investors. Trade tensions, economic slowdowns, and central bank policies have influenced market dynamics, with key developments anticipated in the months ahead. Businesses and individuals impacted by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred may be eligible for extended tax lodgment deadlines, and employers should be aware of important changes to Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) regulations. We also invite you to join a FREE business planning webinar on 11 April, hosted by Russell Meadley, to gain valuable insights into building a successful business plan. Lastly, don’t miss out on local community events and be sure to note our office closures for Easter and Anzac Day.

As you may have already observed, the US sharemarket has recently experienced a significant correction, and despite a minor rebound, the substantial selloff in the S&P 500 has understandably generated concern among investors here in Australia. This downturn has been particularly evident within the technology sector, where the prominent "Magnificent 7" stocks – Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet (Google), Amazon, Nvidia, Meta (Facebook), and Tesla – have seen considerable declines following a period of remarkable expansion, prompting a closer look at the magnitude of these shifts and the underlying reasons for this market recalibration.

With key tax lodgment deadlines approaching, businesses and individuals affected by Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred in New South Wales and Queensland may be eligible for extensions. Those in government-declared disaster recovery areas have until 11 April 2025 to lodge Monthly Business Activity Statements (BAS) originally due on 21 March 2025 and Individual, Trust, and Small Business income tax returns originally due on 31 March 2025. The ATO will indicate eligibility on tax accounts, and accountants can verify this. Additional support is available through the ATO for those facing difficulties meeting their obligations.

With the 2025 Fringe Benefits Tax (FBT) year ending on 31 March, employers must ensure compliance with lodgment and reporting requirements. FBT liabilities for benefits provided between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025 must be reported and paid by 21 May 2025, while registered employers with no liability should notify the ATO. Key changes include the option to use existing records instead of travel diaries for some benefits and the end of the FBT exemption for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles from 31 March, unless certain conditions are met.

Join a FREE webinar on Friday, 11 April 2025, from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM, to explore the fundamentals of business planning, whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out. A well-structured business plan serves as a blueprint for success, and this session will provide practical strategies to create and implement one with ease. Key topics include what to include in a business plan, available templates, and how to tailor a plan to your specific business needs. The session is led by Russell Meadley, who has spent over a decade guiding businesses across various industries toward sustainable growth. With only 50 spots available, secure your place today.

The Northern Rivers holds regular Community Events. See what's on and keep up to date on all the fantastic opportunities available and help to support local. There is plenty to do.

A reminder, there are some important lodgement dates and office closure dates to note this month.

We extend our warmest wishes to you and your family for a happy and peaceful Easter.

The WD Nicholls Team

As you may have read or watched the US Sharemarket has had a correction. Though there has been a small rebound the recent selloff in the S&P 500 has understandably raised concerns among investors. This correction has been particularly pronounced in the technology sector, with the so-called "Magnificent 7" stocks—Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet (Google), Amazon, Nvidia, Meta (Facebook), and Tesla—experiencing significant declines after a period of remarkable growth.

Magnitude of the Decline: The Magnificent 7 by the Numbers

The selloff has impacted each of the Magnificent 7 stocks differently (at the bottom of the sell off):

Nvidia (NVDA): Down approximately 18% from its recent peak, the largest decline among the group as investors reassess the timeline for AI-related revenue growth.
Tesla (TSLA): Fallen nearly 16% amid concerns about competition in the EV space and lower-than-expected deliveries.
Meta Platforms (META): Dropped around 14% as investors question the continued heavy investment in the metaverse alongside regulatory challenges.
Amazon (AMZN): Declined approximately 12% following concerns about consumer spending and cloud computing growth deceleration.
Microsoft (MSFT): Down about 10% despite strong cloud performance, affected by the broader tech selloff and valuation concerns.
Apple (AAPL): Fallen approximately 9% amid iPhone sales concerns in China and questions about new product cycles.
Alphabet (GOOGL): The least affected, down about 8%, bolstered by its digital advertising dominance but still impacted by the sector-wide retreat.

Collectively, these seven companies have lost over $1 trillion in market capitalisation during this correction period.

Why the Broad Market Declined

Several macroeconomic factors have contributed to the overall market pullback:

Interest Rate Concerns: Despite the Federal Reserve's pivot toward rate cuts earlier this year, concerns about persistent inflation have led investors to recalibrate their expectations about the pace and extent of monetary easing.
Valuation Pressures: After extended market gains through much of 2023 and into 2024, many analysts had warned that equity valuations were becoming stretched relative to historical norms.
Economic Growth Worries: Recent economic indicators have suggested a potential slowdown in economic growth, raising questions about future corporate earnings.

Policy Uncertainty Under the Trump Administration

President Trump's second administration, which began in January 2025, has introduced several policy considerations that are influencing market sentiment:

Tech Regulation: The administration has signaled a potential shift in the regulatory approach to large technology companies, creating uncertainty for the Magnificent 7 firms that dominate the sector.
Trade Policy: Renewed discussions about tariffs and trade restrictions, particularly regarding China, have raised concerns about global supply chains and overseas revenue for multinational tech companies.
Corporate Tax Policies: Ongoing debates about potential changes to corporate tax structures have investors reassessing future earnings projections for major corporations.
Infrastructure and Fiscal Policy: Anticipated infrastructure spending and fiscal policies may benefit certain sectors while potentially raising concerns about inflation and government debt levels.

The "Magnificent 7" Correction: A Perfect Storm

The tech-focused "Magnificent 7" stocks have faced additional specific pressures:

1. Valuation Reset

These seven companies had become increasingly dominant in market indices, accounting for an outsized portion of the S&P 500's total market capitalisation. Their collective price-to-earnings ratios had expanded significantly, making them vulnerable to any shift in investor sentiment.

2. AI Investment Cycle Concerns

Much of the recent rally in tech stocks was fueled by enthusiasm around artificial intelligence. However, questions about the timeline for AI monetisation and the substantial capital expenditures required have prompted investors to reassess the near-term profit impact.

3. Regulatory Headwinds

Major tech companies continue to face regulatory scrutiny globally, with potential antitrust actions and new regulatory frameworks creating uncertainty. The current administration's approach to tech regulation adds another layer of complexity.

4. Rotation to Value and Defensive Sectors

As market sentiment shifted, investors began rotating capital from high-growth tech names to more value-oriented and defensive sectors that typically perform better during periods of economic uncertainty.

Looking Ahead

While short-term market movements are impossible to predict with certainty, several factors may influence market direction in the coming months:

Federal Reserve policy decisions and inflation data
Corporate earnings reports and forward guidance
Resolution (or escalation) of global geopolitical tensions
Consumer spending trends and broader economic indicators
Further clarity on the administration's policy priorities and implementation

Conclusion

Market volatility, while uncomfortable, creates opportunities for disciplined investors. Now may be an appropriate time to review your investment goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance to ensure your portfolio remains properly aligned with your long-term financial objectives.

Here are the performance numbers for March:

Important Information Regarding Tax Lodgments Due Soon

We understand that many of you in New South Wales and Queensland have been affected by the recent Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Our thoughts are with you during this challenging time and recovery process.

If you're able to lodge your tax obligations as usual, please continue to do so. However, if you've been directly impacted by the cyclone in areas that the Australian Government has declared eligible for disaster recovery payments, you may have extra time to lodge certain tax documents.

Here's what this means for upcoming deadlines:

Monthly Business Activity Statements (BAS) that were originally due on 21 March, 2025: You now have until 11 April, 2025 to lodge.
Individual, Trust, and Small Business income tax returns that were originally due on 31 March, 2025: You now have until 11 April, 2025 to lodge.

How do you know if this applies to you?

The ATO will have a special note on your tax account if you're eligible for this extra time without penalty. Your accountant can check this for you.

Please remember the ATO has other ways to help if you need further assistance. Don't hesitate to reach out to the ATO or us if you, your business, or your family has been affected and you're concerned about meeting your tax obligations. We're here to support you.

Source and credit: ATO.gov.au

With the 2025 FBT year wrapping up on 31 March, it’s important you're on track to meet your obligations and are prepared for any changes.

Follow these steps to help you get it right:

Work out if you have an FBT liability for fringe benefits you’ve provided to your staff or their associates between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025.
If you have an FBT liability you need to lodge an FBT return and pay the amount due by 21 May 2025.
Let the ATO know if you don’t need to lodge an FBT return and you’re currently registered for FBT.
Report each employee's reportable fringe benefits amount in their end of year payment information.

What’s changed in FBT?

From this FBT year and onwards, there are a few changes you should know about:

You can use existing records instead of travel diaries and declarations for some fringe benefits. If using existing corporate records, they need to meet the minimum required information at the time of lodging your FBT return. Keeping the right records ensures you can correctly calculate the taxable value of the benefit and support your FBT position.
The FBT exemption for plug-in hybrid electric vehicles ends on 31 March. An employer can continue to apply the exemption if:
- that PHEV was used, or available for use, before 1 April 2025 (and that use was exempt), and
- they have a financially binding commitment to continue providing private use of the vehicle on and after 1 April 2025.

For more information on FBT in general visit ato.gov.au/fbt.

Source and credit: ATO.gov.au

FREE WEBINAR Friday 11 April 2025, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Where

Online.

When

Friday 11 April 2025, 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm.

The Presenter

Russell Meadley - Over the past decade, Russell has supported hundreds of businesses on their start up journey. Russell leverages fundamental disciplines, such as business planning and budgeting, and focuses on viable, sustainable growth. Russell's career spans a diverse set of industries, such as agriculture, healthcare, social assistance, mining. accommodation, and professional services (to name but a few). This unique background enables Russell to relate to business owners from all backgrounds.

About

Do you have a plan? Join this webinar where you will dive deep into the art of effective business planning. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event is packed with actionable insights and practical strategies.

Every business needs a business plan. Your business plan acts as a blueprint, guiding you on your business journey. A simple business plan doesn’t need a lot of information and can be easily tailored to your business. In this webinar you will learn how to create and implement a simple and effective business plan.

What you will learn:

What is a business plan?
What should I include in my business plan?
Are there templates that suit my business?

This online event has a capacity of 50 attendees. Register now so you are guaranteed a place! No preparation is required, and attendees will be sent a copy of the presentation and recording afterwards.

To register your interest click the link below.

Source and credit: Mybusiness.service.nsw.gov.au/

We always like to support our locals! Here are some community events happening this month (in date order).

Roots so Deep, Film, Feed and Future Farming date on Thursday, 3 April | 4:30 PM to 8:00 PM

Join local farmers and landholders for an evening of education, inspiration, and conversation. They will be screening two episodes of "Roots So Deep," a groundbreaking documentary about innovative cattle farmers and scientists exploring how mimicking bison grazing can restore environmental health and combat climate change. This series bridges traditional and regenerative agriculture, promoting sustainable farming. Your ticket includes a locally grown, grass-fed beef burger and a beer. This event is proudly supported by Byron Council, Soil Care, and The Farm Byron Bay.

Location: The Farm Byron Bay, 11 Ewingsdale Road Ewingsdale, Byron Bay

Bangalow Farmers Market dates on Saturday's, 5, 12, 19, and 26 April | 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM

Discover the Heart of Local Food at Bangalow Farmers Market Every Saturday morning from 7:00 am - 11:00 am, the Bangalow Hotel carpark transforms into a vibrant hub of local food. Our farmers offer a bountiful harvest of fresh produce, artisan goods, and more. Meet the farmers, learn about sustainable practices, and support your local community. Visit Bangalow Farmers Market and experience the true essence of local food.

Location: Behind Bangalow Hotel, 1 Byron Street, Bangalow

Brunswick Heads Market next date on Saturday, 5 April | 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

The Brunswick Heads Monthly Market is held in the Memorial Park on the first Saturday of each month 8:00 am - 2:00 pm. The market is located on the riverbank, and is within easy walking distance of the cafes and shops.

The Brunswick Heads Markets offer a mix of locally made and imported goods, delicious hot food, and you can also pick up a few fresh groceries. The Bruns markets are a perfect excuse to spend the day exploring the town and the picturesque river and beaches.

Location: Memorial Park, 11 Fawcett Street, Brunswick Heads

Workshop: Making Biologically Complete Compost & Compost Extracts date on Saturday, 5 April | 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM

This workshop will examine practical ways to improve your soil and plant health.

During the workshop, you’ll:

Explore soil microbiology
Learn compost making
Learn how to make and apply compost extracts
Learn how to prepare your seeds before sowing for more success
Walk away with a list of useful, practical ideas you can implement today!

You’ll also hear how these practices are being implemented at The Paddock Project to rebuild soil health and improve productivity, supported by funding received through the 2024 Byron Shire Regenerative Agriculture Small Grants Program.

Location: The Paddock Project, 64 Argyle St, Mullumbimby

Byron Bay Community Market next date is Sunday, 6 April | 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM

The Byron Bay Community market is held from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm on the 1st Sunday of every month.

The market hosts an eclectic collection of stalls that showcase what Byron has to offer.

Road closures and traffic changes on market day

Jonson Street is closed to traffic at the corner of Byron and Marvel Streets from 5am to 5pm.
Traffic is diverted via Fletcher Street.
The Lawson Street South carpark is closed from 5am to 5pm.
There may be traffic delays are on Lawson Street between the Shirley Street and Jonson Street roundabouts between 6am to 8am and 3pm to 5.30pm.
The railway carpark is open under traffic control via the laneway on Jonson Street.
Traffic controllers will be in place on market day.

Location: Byron Bay CBD, Railway Park, Jonson Street, Byron Bay

Council Planning Meeting next date is Thursday, 10 April | 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Council Planning meetings are held in the Chambers. Click here view Council Meetings and Agendas.

If you'd like to speak at a Council Meeting, register for Public Access by visiting Address a Council meeting.

A livestream is available to watch online.

Questions about the meeting?

Phone: 02 6626 70 00
Email: council@byron.nsw.gov.au

Location: Council Chambers, 70 Station Street, Mullumbimby

Mullumbimby Community Market next date is Saturday, 19 April 2025 | 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM

The Mullumbimby Community Market is held on the third Saturday of each month from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.

The market is a vibrant family-friendly festival held in Summers Park. Discover unique treasures among the diverse stalls offering artisan clothing, jewellery, homewares, plants, and more, all while enjoying live music and delicious food. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and support for the local historical society museum, the Mullumbimby Community Market is a must-visit destination for both locals and visitors.

Location: Corner of Stuarts and Myocum Streets, Mullumbimby

Council Ordinary Meeting next date is Thursday, 24 April | 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Council Ordinary meetings are held in the Chambers. Click here view Council Meetings and Agendas.

If you'd like to speak at a Council Meeting, register for Public Access by visiting Address a Council meeting.

A livestream is available to watch online.

Questions about the meeting?

Phone: 02 6626 7051
Email: councillorsupport@byron.nsw.gov.au

Location: Council Chambers, 70 Station Street, Mullumbimby

Anzac Day Services date on Friday, 25 April | 4:30 AM to 12:00 PM

Details about Anzac Day services and marches happening in the Byron Shire on 25 April 2025.

Bangalow

March starts at 10.40 am from Bangalow Hotel, Byron Street to Station Street, for a short outdoor service at the RSL memorial.

Bangalow Road Closures

From 10:40 am - 11:45 pm.

Station Street north of Byron Street
Byron Street west of Station Street
Byron Street at the east bound leg of the Granuaille Road and Lismore Road roundabout.

Brunswick Heads

There will be an Anzac Day Dawn Service at the Cenotaph in Memorial Park, Fawcett Street, Brunswick Heads starting at 5.00 am. Participants should gather at 4.45 am.

Brunswick Heads Road Closures

Fawcett Street between 4.30 am and 6.30 am.

Byron Bay

Byron Bay RSL Sub-Branch will be holding their ANZAC Day Service this year starting with the Dawn Service at the Memorial Gates at 5.30 am - 6.00 am. After the Dawn Service there will be breakfast at the Byron Bay Services Club at a nominal cost. The March will start at 10.30 am at Apex Park and March to the Memorial Gates where the service will commence at 10.50 am to 11.40 am.

Byron Bay Road Closures

Tennyson Street and Marvell Street intersection between 4.30 am and 5.30 am and then again (approximately at 11.00 am) when the parade reaches the gates to conduct the main service.

Mullumbimby

The Dawn Service is held at 4.30 am at the Cenotaph opposite the Ex-Services Club. This will be followed by breakfast at the Club. Free to veterans and $10 for non veterans. The mid-morning march will leave at 10.50 am from Apex Park. A civic service follows directly after the march.

Mullumbimby Road Closures

Dalley Street to traffic between Burringbar Street and Tincogan Street between 8.00 am and 12.00 pm.

Byron Bay Triathalon date on Sunday, 27 April | 4:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Information about road closures for the Byron Bay Triathlon event.

To deliver a safe and secure event for participants and spectators, there will be impacts to roads and changed traffic conditions.

Events such as the Byron Bay Triathlon can alter the regular flow of traffic and every effort is being made to consider individual circumstances and minimise inconvenience.

Detailed road information and timing, including a map, is available at the Byron Bay Triathlon website.

Byron Bay Triathlon road impacts

Full Road Closure Roads are closed in both directions.

Business Open This business is open as per their normal trading hours.

Local Resident Access Only Local access is permitted and through traffic movement is restricted.

Changed Conditions A traffic control treatment (such as signage) is applied but there will be no changes to the normal movement of traffic.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns, contact

02 8507 0796
Email byronbaytri@nxsports.org

Source and credit: Byron.nsw.gov.au/Recreation-Culture/Events-Venues/Whats-On

Our office will be closed from;

5.00 pm Thursday, 17 April and will be reopening 8.30 am Tuesday, 22 April 2025

Key lodgment and payment dates for business

21 April

Activity statements

March monthly activity statements – final date for lodgment and payment.
Quarter 3 (January–March) PAYG instalment activity statement for head companies of consolidated groups – final date for lodgment and payment.

28 April

Activity statements

Quarter 3 (January–March) activity statements – final date for lodgment and payment.

PAYG instalments

Quarter 3 (January–March) instalment notices (forms R and T) – final date for payment and, if varying the instalment amount, lodgment.

GST instalments

Quarter 3 (January–March) instalment notices (forms S and T) – final date for payment and, if varying the instalment amount, lodgment.

Superannuation

Due date for super guarantee (SG) contributions, for quarter 3, (January–March).Quarter 3 (January–March) SG contributions are to be received by the superfund by this date – you need to allow sufficient time for SG payments to reach and be processed by your superfund, especially if using a SG clearing house.If you do not pay minimum SG contributions for quarter 3 in full and by this date, you must pay the super guarantee charge (SGC) and lodge a SGC statement with us by 28 May.It's important to note, SGC is more than the SG you would have normally paid and is not tax deductible.

30 April

TFN report