Articles discussing proposed changes to the dividend franking regime, and the effect of falling property prices in Australia's biggest cities were among the most read on Morningstar.com.au last week.

Aussie companies urged to return cash as franking debate intensifies

Australian companies are being urged to return cash to shareholders as investors face the prospect of Labor returning to office and axing cash refunds for excess franking credits.

Investors rethink property amid east coast price dive

Tumbling house prices may be forcing investors to question the merits of property investment versus other asset classes such as shares and bonds. 

3 top ESG stock picks

Successful asset managers, and not just those with specific ESG charters, have become increasingly vocal on the topic of sustainable investing.

3 up-and-coming investment funds to watch

A knack for identifying companies capable of doubling sales over five years, forensic fundamental analysis, and a trailblazing approach to bonds have put this trio of funds on Morningstar's radar.

Superannuation returns scrape into the black

Super funds in calendar 2018 delivered their worst performance in seven years, returning an average of just 0.8 per cent across growth funds, research shows.

SMSFs seek exotic investments amid asset class decline

Frozen horse semen, taxi plates, water vending machines and commercial hair removal lasers are among the most exotic assets popping up inside self-managed super portfolios, even as such assets decline in popularity. 

Listed real estate set for another good year

Listed property is tipped to outperform the overall share market this year as investors adopt more defensive positions to combat share market volatility.

Investing basics: How to start investing with just $500

Exchange-traded funds, listed investment companies and blue chip stocks are some of the best places to start when constructing a first-time investment portfolio, says Emma Rapaport.

Challenger knocked by PC concerns, margin pressures

Morningstar has tempered its outlook for Challenger Financial, on the back of management's slashed earnings guidance for the first-half of fiscal 2019 and regulatory uncertainty.

One of the most undervalued stocks you've never heard of

Automotive seat maker Adient may be trading at a discount of more than 70 per cent but investors looking for a quick kill will have to be patient, because the turnaround risks being long, says Morningstar.