Oil, hybrids, Australian stocks and more

In this week's Facebook Livestream, Catherine Robson, host of Success Stories and Founder & Adviser at Affinity Private, discussed oil, hybrids, Australian stocks and more.

• I have recently closed down my SMSF as I feel I’ve got to a stage in life when I no longer feel the need to “be in charge”. It seems I have good timing given the most recent grab by a politician of what seems to be an easy target. I wonder if many others will now feel that they might be far safer having their funds looked after at a reasonable cost by others? What really gets up my nose is that nobody gave us what we now have. We worked bloody hard for it and have paid taxes all through our working life. In fact, our “wealth” is all accumulated from post tax money. Surely governments should be encouraging people like us?

• I am currently competing in a uni competition where we must produce a report on an equity with a recommendation to buy sell or hold. Just wondering if you guys had any tips What makes for good analysis?

• With the Aus market hitting lower highs since January, would you be more inclined to take some profits or be entering stocks on your watchlist that have come off recent highs?

• The oil price has increased in the past few days. Do you think it will increase considerably in short term or will it be around the current price point?

• What are your thoughts on the latest hybrids from the bank - WBC and CBA - Westpac are trading at under $97 and CBA look to list at $99 - opportunity or looking to go lower?

• Are then any suggestions for low or mid caps that do not have a high P/E ratio?

• Love your weekly female leaders catch-up. Can you also please interview more female CEO/Directors/Chairmen of listed entities as a 2nd catch-up each week or alternate week? Research shows female leaders in the US produce better results than male dominated entities.

• The key factors for the US stock market in 2018 are well publicised, but what do you think are the top 3 macro factors that will provide tailwinds or headwinds for the ASX in 2018?