In this Friday episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Owen Rask and Gemma Mitchell unpack your questions on mortgages, investing, relationships and ETF risk. This week we dive into how to think about fixed versus variable interest rates, why couples so often clash over money, and what really happens if a fund manager, ETF provider or broker were to fail. We also take a closer look at geared ETFs and why some products are designed for super funds rather than personal portfolios, plus a practical explainer on how ETF ownership actually works behind the scenes. Owen and Gemma cover - How to think about fixing your mortgage rate versus staying variable, why people choose different options, and the real trade-offs involved rather than trying to “pick the perfect time” - Why money conversations with your partner so often turn into arguments, and practical ways to get on the same page without it becoming a values or control battle - What geared ETFs like GHHF are, why they’re often suggested for SMSFs, and the risks and tax reasons they’re usually not recommended for individuals outside super - What would happen if Vanguard were to go broke, how ETF structures protect investors, and whether spreading money across multiple ETF providers actually reduces risk - How brokerage platforms like Pearler hold your investments, what happens if a broker fails, and why your ETFs don’t simply disappear if a platform shuts down If you like this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, make sure you hit follow on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. And don’t forget to send in your questions for future Q&As using the link in the show notes.

Resources for this episode - Sign up for the newsletter - Sign up for Rask Core - Buy Gemma’s book The Money Reset - Ask a question (select the Finance podcast)

Show partner resources - Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit - Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith - View Betashares range of funds

Rask resources - All services - Financial Planning - Invest with us - Access Show Notes - Ask a question DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg #finance #asx

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In this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Owen Rask sits down with finance journalist and author Chris Kohler to discuss the systems designed to separate Australians from their money – and what you can do to protect yourself. They cover – The psychological tricks behind modern consumerism – Chris’s viral interest rate videos and their surprising impact – How businesses subtly extract more from your wallet – The hidden cost of convenience – Why loyalty isn’t always rewarding This conversation is full of insights for anyone looking to take back control of their spending and think critically about modern money systems. If you like this Australian Finance Podcast episode, don’t forget to subscribe for weekly shows on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Topics Covered – Chris Kohler’s media and finance journey – Going viral: How humour made economics click – Behind the scenes of his creative process – What inspired his new book: “They Get You” – Psychological levers used by marketers – Loyalty programs: Who benefits most? – The dangerous normalisation of gambling – How data is used to drive spending – Subscription creep & the illusion of value – What you can do to fight back – Why it’s never too late to become financially aware – Chris’s advice to his younger self – How the “little guy” can regain control Resources for this episode: - Find Chris on Instagram - Find Chris on TikTok - Buy How They Get You - Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset” - Ask a question (select the Finance podcast)

Show partner resources: - Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit - Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith - View Betashares range of funds

Rask resources: - All services - Financial Planning - Invest with us - Access Show Notes - Ask a question - We love feedback! Follow us on social media: Instagram: @rask.invest TikTok: @rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG)

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Today, your host Gemma is joined by Roxanne Calder — recruitment expert and author of the new book Earning Power. With 25 years of experience across Australia, the UK, Singapore, and Hong Kong, Roxanne brings a wealth of insight into building careers and boosting income. Her latest book is packed with inspiring stories and practical strategies to help close the gender pay gap — but the lessons go well beyond that. No matter your gender, Roxanne’s “million-dollar formula” and career advice will give you tools to level up your earning power and take control of your financial future. In this episode we cover: – Why the gender pay gap could cost women over $1 million in a lifetime – Roxanne’s “million-dollar formula” for boosting earning power – Practical ways to advocate for yourself — from pay rises to career moves – Small financial and career decisions that create long-term impact – The role recruitment agencies can play in your career journey – Roxanne’s personal money lessons and one simple step you can take today to start building your earning power Resources for this episode

Connect with Roxanne

Buy Earning Power

Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset”

Ask a question (select the Finance podcast)

Show partner resources

Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit

Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith

View Betashares range of funds

Rask resources

All services

Financial Planning

Invest with us

Access Show Notes

Ask a question

We love feedback!

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @rask.invest

TikTok: @rask.invest

DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg

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Ready to level up your financial life?

Kate Campbell & Mitchell Sneddon share 10 different money hacks to help you maximise your finances in 2024. Remember - the small changes you make add up over time, so don’t discount those small actions you take.

Resources for this episode

Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset”

Ask a question (select the Finance podcast)

Show partner resources

Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit

Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith

View Betashares range of funds

Rask resources

All services

Financial Planning

Invest with us

Access Show Notes

Ask a question

We love feedback!

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @rask.invest

TikTok: @rask.invest

DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg

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In this episode of the Australian Finance Podcast, you'll learn how and why insurance works. Life insurance, income protection, TPD & more.

Owen Rask is joined by Phil Thompson, founder of Skye Wealth, to unpack what really happens when you make an insurance claim.

They go behind the scenes on:

– How insurance claims actually work

– What mistakes people make when trying to claim

– The vital difference between "own" vs "any" occupation cover

– Why you should never go straight to a lawyer when claiming

– The most common issues that stop people getting paid

– Real client case studies and what went right (or wrong!)

If you're curious about income protection, trauma cover, life insurance, or TPD claims, this episode shows how good insurance advice can make a huge difference.

Enjoying the show? Subscribe for weekly episodes on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or your favourite app.

Topics Covered

– What really happens when you make an insurance claim

– Why people often don’t realise they’re eligible for a claim

– The difference between retail vs group/super insurance

– Why having an adviser at claim time can save you money

– The role of the waiting period and how it affects payment

– Real claim case study: Chloe’s chronic fatigue income protection win

– Real claim case study: Chandler’s RSI and $1.3 million TPD cover

– Real claim case study: Rebecca’s mental health claim from a workplace accident

– The danger of going straight to lawyers before talking to your adviser

– Own occupation vs any occupation: what’s the difference?

– Why good documentation and honesty make a successful claim

– What to do if you’ve had time off work or a medical condition

– The risk of underinsurance and how to get help

Resources for this episode

Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset”

Ask a question (select the Finance podcast)

Show partner resources

Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit

Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith

View Betashares range of funds

Rask resources

All services

Financial Planning

Invest with us

Access Show Notes

Ask a question

We love feedback!

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @rask.invest

TikTok: @rask.invest

DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg

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In this Australian Finance Podcast episode, Owen Rask is joined by Alex Luck, founder of Everest Wealth Group, to answer your money questions. Owen’s questions: – Where are you personally invested? – What’s the most recent thing you’ve done with your money? Listener questions: – Our 19-year-old is saving for a home — should he buy an investment property while living at home and miss the First Home Buyer Grant? – Is salary sacrificing for company shares worth the tax benefit, given the concentration risk? – I’ll need to sell $150k of my $200k portfolio in 12 months to fund a house build — should I sell now or later? (CGT not an issue.) – I’m single and plan to leave my super to my parents and sibling — any issues? – I’m a uni student investing $100 a month — where should I start for long- and short-term investing (thinking gold or S&P 500 ETFs)? – I’m 20, finishing uni soon with $40k in ETFs and $10k cash — should I sell some investments to enter the property market sooner, or let them compound? Resources for this episode

Get financial advice

Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset”

Ask a question (select the Finance podcast)

Show partner resources

Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit

Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith

View Betashares range of funds

Rask resources

All services

Financial Planning

Invest with us

Access Show Notes

Ask a question

We love feedback!

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @rask.invest

TikTok: @rask.invest

DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg

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In this Friday episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Owen Rask and Gemma Mitchell dive into your questions on saving, investing, brokers, kids’ money and planning your next big property move. This week we unpack whether a high-yield savings account still stacks up against investing, how to think about using multiple brokers, and what to consider when choosing a provider to invest for your kids.

We also tackle a classic rentvesting question from someone with five investment properties who now wants to buy their own home, plus a quick explainer on what really happens to your HECS-HELP debt when you pass away.

Topics covered
– Whether you should follow your parents’ advice to save in a high-yield account or invest once you’ve built a three-month emergency buffer
– How compounding, inflation and time horizons shape the save or invest decision
– The pros and cons of having core and satellite portfolios across two brokers, and when it makes sense to merge
– What to think about when investing for children, including fees, tax rules and whether Australian Unity or investment bonds suit your goals
– A simple framework for exiting rentvesting and transitioning into your own home, even when you’re juggling multiple properties
– What actually happens to your HECS-HELP balance when you die, and how the ATO handles unpaid student debt

If you like this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, make sure you hit follow on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. And don’t forget to send in your questions for future Q&As using the link in the show notes.

Resources for this episode

Grant Hackett Episode on Bonds

Tax Structure Rask Guide

Sign up for the newsletter

Sign up for Rask Core

Buy Gemma’s book The Money Reset

Ask a question (select the Finance podcast)

Show partner resources

Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit

Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith

View Betashares range of funds

Rask resources

All services

Financial Planning

Invest with us

Access Show Notes

Ask a question

We love feedback!

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @rask.invest

TikTok: @rask.invest

DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg

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In this short Wednesday bonus episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Gemma Mitchell walks you through a simple, practical roadmap for investing your first $1,000. No jargon, no complicated charts, just clear steps you can actually follow.

Getting started is often the hardest part. Many people put it off because they think they need more money, more knowledge, or the “perfect moment”. The truth is you only need a small amount, a repeatable plan, and the confidence to take the first step. This episode gives you exactly that.

Gemma breaks down the five steps that build a strong foundation, along with the rookie mistakes that trip up new investors every year. If you’ve ever wondered where to begin, or you’re ready to finally put your money to work, this is the perfect place to start.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

- Why your first $1,000 matters more than you think

- How to choose an investment platform and avoid overcomplicating it

- The basics of picking a diversified investment without needing expert skills

- How automation removes the emotional pressure and keeps you consistent

- The difference between long-term investing and short-term noise

- Rookie mistakes to steer clear of, including chasing hot tips and timing the market

- How to build the habit so your first $1,000 becomes so much more

If you’re ready to make a start, feel more confident, and avoid the traps that hold so many people back, tune in to this quick, practical guide.

Resources for this episode

Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset”

Ask a question (select the Finance podcast)

Show partner resources

Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit

Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith

View Betashares range of funds

Rask resources

All services

Financial Planning

Invest with us

Access Show Notes

Ask a question

We love feedback!

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @rask.invest

TikTok: @rask.invest

DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg

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In this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Gemma Mitchell is joined by Emma Edwards — financial behaviour expert, founder of The Broke Generation, and now two-time author.

Emma’s new book, The Wardrobe Project: A Year of Buying Less and Liking Yourself More, published by Wiley, explores the powerful connection between spending habits, confidence, and self-worth. It’s the perfect read for anyone wanting to reset their relationship with money and shopping before 2026.

Together, Gemma and Emma unpack how a year-long no-buy challenge changed her approach to money, mindset, and fashion, and how you can start your own “wardrobe reset” to spend smarter and feel better.

Topics Covered:

- What inspired The Wardrobe Project and the surprising lessons from a year of not shopping

- How body image and confidence influence the way we spend
- What Emma discovered about self-worth and financial behaviour during her no-buy year
- Practical tips to reduce impulse spending and start buying with purpose
- How to balance self-expression and sustainability with fashion
- Which money and mindset habits stuck after the challenge ended
If you’re ready to build a healthier money mindset and rethink how you spend in 2026, this episode is for you.

Resources for this episode

- Buy Emma’s book “The Wardrobe Project” https://www.amazon.com.au/Wardrobe-Project-Buying-Liking-Yourself/dp/1394376812

- Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset”- https://amzn.to/42Uz0aK

- Ask a question (select the Finance podcast): https://bit.ly/R-quest 

~~ Show partner resources ~~

Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit: https://bit.ly/Pearler

Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith: https://bit.ly/R-PocketSmith

View Betashares range of funds:  https://bit.ly/beta-25

~~ Rask resources ~~

All services: https://bit.ly/R-services

Financial Planning: https://bit.ly/R-plan 

Invest with us: https://bit.ly/R-invest 

Access Show Notes: https://bit.ly/R-notes 

Ask a question or give us feedback: https://bit.ly/R-quest 

DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg

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In this Friday episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Gemma Mitchell and Owen Rask unpack your questions on investing, super, HECS and even a Christmas dilemma. This week we look at how to build a simple investment profile when you’re 58 and deciding between ETFs in super or outside of it, how paid parental leave really works in 2026, and what to do when your HECS balance never seems to budge.

We also cover how to help a level headed 16 year old get started with investing, plus a common holiday question many families face. Do you stick to the Secret Santa limit, or match everyone else who’s blowing the budget?

This episode also includes quick updates on HECS indexation changes, the Bureau of Meteorology blowout, and what it means for your hip pocket.

Owen and Gemma cover:

- How to compare investing inside super versus a direct ETF portfolio when you’re 58, earning well and contributing regularly

- Why non concessional contributions can be powerful in your late 50s, and the key rules to understand

- How employer paid parental leave works alongside the government scheme, how long each runs for, and how to apply

- When HECS repayments start, why your balance might not be falling, and whether paying extra makes sense

- How to teach teens the basics of investing, the best beginner podcasts, and easy ways to start with $15k

- Whether you should stick to the Secret Santa limit or spend more, and how to set boundaries without killing the vibe

- Updates on HECS balances, indexation, the BOM budget blowout and what it means for everyday Australians

If you like this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, make sure you hit follow on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. And don’t forget to send in your questions for future Q&As using the link in the show notes.

Resources for this episode

Sign up for the newsletter

Sign up for Rask Core

Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset”

Ask a question (select the Finance podcast)

Show partner resources

Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit

Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith

View Betashares range of funds

Rask resources

All services

Financial Planning

Invest with us

Access Show Notes

Ask a question

We love feedback!

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @rask.invest

TikTok: @rask.invest

DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Australian Finance Podcast, Gemma Mitchell is joined by Tahli — educator, retirement specialist and one of Rask's Senior Financial Advisers.

After working with hundreds of Australians approaching retirement, Tahli has seen the same patterns over and over again. Most people feel unprepared. Many feel intimidated by the jargon. And almost everyone worries they’ve “left it too late”. This conversation cuts through the noise and gives listeners a clear, calm starting point for planning the next stage of life.

Together, Gemma and Tahli unpack what retirement really looks like in Australia, the biggest misconceptions, and the practical steps that matter most in your 50s and 60s.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

- Why so many people walk away from retirement chats feeling more confused than when they started

- How to map out your own personal balance sheet to work out where you stand

- Why lifestyle planning is just as important as the numbers

- What “asset rich, cash poor” means and why it catches so many retirees by surprise

- How Centrelink treats things like granny flat arrangements and family support

- The biggest myth about retirement planning and why relying on “it’ll sort itself out” can derail your goals

- What to focus on if you're five to ten years away from finishing full-time work

- How to engage with your super fund and what questions to ask right now

- Why diversification is about more than investment choices — and how different structures can create flexibility later in life

- Simple tools and exercises that help people get clarity, including the spreadsheet Tahli uses with her own clients

If you’re ready to understand how retirement works, feel more confident, and make the next decade easier to navigate, this episode is for you.

Resources for this episode

Retirement Mastery Course

Buy Gemma’s book “The Money Reset”

Ask a question (select the Finance podcast)

Show partner resources

Join Pearler using code “RASK” for $15 of Pearler Credit

Get 50% off your first two months using PocketSmith

View Betashares range of funds

Rask resources

All services

Financial Planning

Invest with us

Access Show Notes

Ask a question

We love feedback!

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @rask.invest

TikTok: @rask.invest

DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices