Question 1: Does the spiraling debt of the US cause you to be hesitant to invest in the share market whether it be in the year 2024, 2025 or 2026?
Answer: No. The market shows no interest in this subject and while the US dollar is the world’s reserve currency, no one (particularly in the USA) cares. That’s not to say they shouldn’t, but the reality is they don’t. Only a few rusted-on commentators/journalists focus on the debt issue.
Question 2: Will the super contribution caps increase next year?
Answer: The super contribution caps are indexed to AWOTE (average weekly ordinary times earnings). Because wages have been rising, the super contribution caps should increase next financial year (i.e. for 24/25). The cap on concessional contributions (compulsory super, salary sacrifice, and contributions claimed as a tax deduction) should increase from $27,500 to $30,000 pa, while the cap on non-concessional contributions (personal after-tax contributions) should increase from $110,000 pa to $120,000 pa. The Treasurer hasn’t confirmed the increases yet.
Question 3: Are the short sellers still active in lithium stocks?
Answer: Yes, the short sellers are still active in lithium stocks. However, they have closed some positions, and, in many stocks, the short positions have eased. Here are the latest positions (according to the ASIC data):

Question 4: Brambles (BXB) has had a nice run over the last 12 months or so. What do the broker analysts now say?
Answer: Brambles first half profit result was a “beat” due to stronger customer pricing, productivity improvements and cost deflation for lumber, energy, and transport. Looking ahead, the brokers feel that volumes might be an issue.
So, in a macro sense, they are cautious on Brambles. According to FN Arena, there are 2 “buy” recommendations, 3 “neutral” recommendations and 1 “sell” recommendation. The consensus target price is $15.44, about 2.2% higher than the last ASX price of $15.11. The range of targets is a low of $14.25 through to a high of $17.10.