In this episode of The ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Bryce Quirk, Group Executive of Distribution at CFS, and Recep Peker, Managing Director of Empower Business Advisory, to explore the findings of the firms’ recent Advice Practice Profitability Report. Quirk and Peker break down the report’s most important insights for advisers, from the way practice inefficiencies are hindering their ability to serve a greater number of clients to the importance of investing in the foundation of their businesses to accommodate future growth. Listen as they discuss: How to address the ongoing issue of advice accessibility. The importance of advocating for the value of financial advice and reducing servicing costs. The role of managed accounts in simplifying processes and improving client outcomes. Why advisers should seek technology partners that facilitate consistency and simplicity and how this can boost profitability.

In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, cryptocurrency continues to carve out its niche, particularly within the realm of SMSFs. In this SMSF Adviser podcast, host Keith Ford speaks with Simon Ho, the COO and head of SMSF at CoinStash, about how SMSFs can safely utilise cryptocurrencies as part of their investment portfolio. In this episode, they discuss: The difference between an investor and a trader and differing tax treatments. The importance of clear reporting and compliance. Methods for gaining exposure to crypto assets. Strategies to contend with market volatility.  

In this episode of Relative Return Unplugged, hosts Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Keith Ford are joined by special guest Shane Oliver, chief economist at AMP, to break down what’s happening with the Trump trade and the broader global economy, and what it means for Australia. Markets reacted quickly when it became clear that Donald Trump was set to win the US presidential election, with many seeking to capitalise on the expected corporate tax cuts and tariff hikes. However, messier economic conditions than in 2016 have dampened the party in some areas. We take a look at the potential for volatility on the back of ongoing trade tensions between the US and China, whether the global economy will fare as poorly as some forecasts indicate, and how the Australian market is reacting to events both globally and locally. Tune in to hear: Why tampering with the Future Fund’s mandate could be a slippery slope that ultimately compromises returns. Whether the government’s big-spending budgets have hindered efforts to curb inflation. What to expect from the Reserve Bank of Australia ahead of the upcoming federal election.

In this episode of The ifa Show, co-hosts Keith Ford and Maja Garaca Djurdjevic sit down to discuss tranche two of the Delivering Better Financial Outcomes legislation and Liberal senator Andrew Bragg’s admonishment of the government for the ever-extending timeline to deliver a draft of the legislation. Together, the pair delve into the potential impact of Australia’s 2025 federal election and how politics are playing a role in the legislative process, suggesting financial services could become a key battleground as the election nears. Listen as they discuss: The private member’s bill hoping to provide advisers a reprieve from onerous statements of advice. Advisers who are left in a state of limbo as they await legislative change. The Compensation Scheme of Last Resort and the ongoing battle against Dixon Advisory.

In this episode, hosts Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Keith Ford take a look at what’s making news in the investment world, from President-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet nominations to Cbus fronting up to a Senate inquiry. Trump has remained in the news in the week since he cruised to victory in the US presidential election as more major figures in the world of finance weigh in on what his inflationary policies could mean for global economies. We’ll discuss what Trump’s picks for secretary appointments could signal going forward and likely policy impacts, breaking down Future Fund CEO Raphael Arndt’s take on a Trump presidency, and the surging price of crypto in the wake of a Republican sweep. Tune in as we also unpack embattled super fund Cbus’ appearance before a Senate committee and the Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s newly launched lawsuit against the trustee.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Conrad Travers, director and principal consultant at Tangelo Advice Consulting, to discuss the ATO’s final determination on tax deductibility of advice fees and how advice firms can put the changes into practice to benefit their clients. Travers explains how the new guidance works, what has changed from the draft determination that was released last year, and why it is important to work alongside accounting professionals to ensure the best outcomes for clients. Listen as they discuss: Why advice firms need to identify areas of friction in their processes to enhance their operational efficiency. How to get your practice ready for the changes coming out of the first Delivering Better Financial Outcomes (DBFO) legislation. What to expect from the second tranche of DBFO and why you shouldn’t rely on regulatory change to improve your practice.

In this episode of Relative Return, host Laura Dew speaks with Eric Braz, MFS portfolio manager on the global small and mid-cap fund, the MFS Global New Discovery Strategy, to discuss the power of small and mid-cap investing in today’s global markets. Listen as they discuss: The importance of a broad, diversified portfolio. MFS’ key sources of investment ideas. Why an active, global approach matters in this asset class. The benefits of having a dedicated exposure to small and mid-caps. Where the exciting trends and opportunities are.  

In this episode of the SMSF Adviser Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Andrew McVeigh, managing partner at Remara, to discuss the changes within investment markets that SMSF professionals and investors should keep an eye on. McVeigh explains that Remara has seen the appetite for credit starting to slow, which he said the RBA would consider as it starts to look at potentially cutting rates, while equity markets have been volatile, leading to some good opportunities, some bad opportunities, and a lot of sideways movement. Listen as they discuss: The launch of the Remara Opportunistic Development Fund. Limitations on how SMSFs can invest in different asset classes. Navigating the complexities of the current market and utilising funds to reduce risk.

In this episode, hosts Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Keith Ford are joined by special guest Steve Kuper to dive deep into the recent US election results and what they mean for the world.  With Donald Trump reclaiming the presidency in a sweeping victory, we examine the global implications from both a geopolitical and economic perspective. We’ll discuss how Trump’s campaign strategies resonated so strongly with voters, the missteps that left the Democrats struggling to connect, and Kamala Harris’ challenge in defining her own path apart from President Joe Biden.  Tune in as we unpack what went right – and wrong – on both sides of the aisle, and what it could mean for allies, adversaries, and markets worldwide.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Dr Ben Neilson, a financial adviser from Complete Wealth, to discuss a new framework for advice – developed through his recently completed PhD – focusing on six critical barriers: professionalism, trust, engagement, comprehension, costs, and serviceability. Neilson discusses the role of technology in improving efficiency in the advice process and the need to outsource administrative tasks to increase client capacity and reduce the cost to serve. Listen as they discuss: The key barriers impacting financial advisers. How firms can act to reduce the cost of advice. The perception of financial advice as a profession.

In this episode of Relative Return Unplugged, hosts Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Keith Ford are joined by special guest Stephen Miller, market strategist at GSFM, to unpack the latest inflation figures and what they could mean for the RBA’s coming rate decisions. Australia’s latest consumer price index print has seen inflation drop to 2.8 per cent over the past 12 months to September, bolstered by temporary government subsidies, while annual trimmed mean inflation remained at 3.5 per cent, which places the Reserve Bank in a cautious stance on rate cuts. We take a look at what the latest numbers say about the broader Australian economy and how the RBA is likely to respond, as well as comparing the Aussie central bank’s rate decisions with global counterparts and whether it made the right call when it was raising rates. Tune in to hear: How the competing duties of governments and central banks can result in tension. Why the headline inflation number tells a misleading story. What the future holds for rates as inflation remains sticky.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by specialist financial adviser Nathan Fradley to discuss the growing importance of aged care advice in Australia as the population gets older, and the need for specialised knowledge to successfully handle complexities of Australia's aged care system. Fradley discusses his journey to aged care advice, the challenges of navigating complicated relationship dynamics, and what can happen when people receive incorrect advice. Listen as they discuss: The emotional side of aged care advice. Unique challenges of advising clients on aged care and retirement. The evolving landscape of aged care legislation.

In this special episode of the SMSF Adviser Show, hosts Keith Ford and Aaron Dunn are joined by a pair of experts on the floor of the SMSF Adviser Technical Strategy Day to provide insight into some of the complex topics facing SMSF professionals. Daniel Butler, director at DBA Lawyers, joins to discuss the changes to non-arm's length income and expense (NALI/E) rules, why there is still so much confusion, and the need to understand the grey area. Tim Miller, SMSF technical and education manager at Smarter SMSF, also joins the show to break down the importance of understanding the nuances of different contribution strategies and explain how his contributions matrix can help make things easier.

In this episode of Relative Return Unplugged, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic, along with Momentum Media political commentator Liam Garman and special guest Shane Oliver, chief economist at AMP, dive into the looming US election and what it means for Australia’s economy. With less than two weeks until Americans head to the polls, the race between the candidates is tightening, particularly in crucial swing states. The stakes are high, not just for the US, but for global allies like Australia, which is keenly aware of how different policies might impact international economic relations. We take a look at the economic policies of the candidates, including Trump’s focus on lower corporate taxes and higher tariffs, compared with Harris’ emphasis on taxing the wealthy to fund social programs. Tune in to hear: Whether the election’s outcome will have as significant implications for markets and economic policy as many believe. Why there are concerns about the US’ growing budget deficit. How Australia’s alignment with US policies could complicate its relationship with China.

In this episode of Relative Return, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic speaks with Grant Hackett, CEO of Generation Life, and Rebecca Pritchard, senior financial planner at Rising Tide Financial Services, to discuss the challenges posed by evolving superannuation and tax policies and how advisers can support clients in this shifting landscape. Together, they explore the key challenges these changes present for advisers and clients, and how financial professionals can navigate this new terrain to better serve their clients’ long-term financial goals. Tune in for expert insights into critical issues, including: The effects of recent regulatory changes on financial planning strategies. How superannuation reforms are transforming retirement planning. New research from Generation Life revealing that 75 per cent of Australians are concerned about their retirement savings. The evolving role of financial planners in helping clients navigate uncertainty. Effective strategies for sustaining client confidence during economic and policy shifts, and more.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Grant Hackett, CEO of Generation Life, and Rebecca Pritchard, senior financial planner at Rising Tide Financial Services, to discuss the increasingly complex financial landscape shaped by evolving superannuation and tax policies. Together, they explore the key challenges these changes present for advisers and clients, and how financial professionals can navigate this new terrain to better serve their clients’ long-term financial goals. Tune in for expert insights into critical issues, including: The effects of recent regulatory changes on financial planning strategies. How superannuation reforms are transforming retirement planning. New research from Generation Life revealing that 75 per cent of Australians are concerned about their retirement savings. ·         The evolving role of financial planners in helping clients navigate uncertainty. Effective strategies for sustaining client confidence during economic and policy shifts, and more.

In this episode of Relative Return Unplugged, hosts Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Keith Ford, along with special guest Steve Kuper, dive into the burgeoning world of defence ETFs in Australia and take a look at what is driving this sudden emergence. We explore the current state of global military power structures and how a range of factors are influencing defence spending among both the large powers and their smaller counterparts. Viewing this from an investment market perspective, we break down the almost inevitable move from investment managers to launch defence-related ETFs. Comparing the new defence ETFs launched by VanEck (DFND), Betashares (ARMR), and Global X (DTEC), we look at the key differentiators across the market and which technologies and regions they are focused on. Tune in to hear: How a new era of conflict and defence spending is affecting global markets and investor behaviour. The ethical considerations of investing in defence and military companies. Whether defence investment is sustainable in the long term. The potential risks of volatility in defence stocks over time.

In this episode of Relative Return, host Laura Dew speaks with Anne Fuchs, executive general manager of advice, guidance and education at Australian Retirement Trust, to discuss how the fund is helping its 2.4 million members. Listen as they discuss: The progress of the QSuper and Sunsuper merger. Helping its 2.4 million members access financial advice. Keeping members engaged with their superannuation. Legislative priorities in the super space. The next developments for ART.  

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Relative Return Unplugged, where we dive into one of the most pressing issues in Australia's financial landscape - the future of the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). In this episode, hosts Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Keith Ford, along with special guest Liam Garman, tackle the rising scrutiny surrounding the RBA and whether its independence is at risk. We explore the RBA review findings and the controversial proposal to restructure the bank into a two-board system. With recent attacks from political parties and opposing views from key economists like Shane Oliver and Stephen Miller, we break down what’s really at stake. From internal challenges to political pressure and the push for a change in board governance, this episode delivers insights and analysis on whether the RBA’s authority is being eroded—and what the future might hold for Australia’s central bank. Tune in to hear: The proposed reforms to the RBA’s governance structure. Why political parties are divided on these changes. The impact of these proposals on the RBA’s decision-making process. The bigger picture: Is the RBA’s independence truly being tested?

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by ifa deputy editor Keith Ford to discuss a range of issues within the financial advice space, including the opposition’s strong statement on delays to implementing the Quality of Advice Review’s (QAR) recommendations. The pair delve into shadow financial services minister Luke Howarth’s criticism of the government due to the lack of movement on the second tranche of the Delivering Better Financial Outcomes (DBFO) bill, despite the final QAR report being handed down more than 650 days ago. Listen as they discuss: Whether there is still time for DBFO tranche two legislation to be delivered. The public inquiry into the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort, Dixon Advisory and wealth management companies. Super funds embracing digital advice and the response from the advice community.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Dawn Thomas, a senior wealth adviser with The Wealth Designers, to explore the challenges of completing a PhD while continuing to work as a financial adviser, as well as the ongoing challenges that the profession faces.  Thomas discusses her PhD on Generation Z’s initial experience with superannuation, and the heavy workload of pursuing her research while balancing work and family obligations.   She also shares why she believes that combining her academic background with her practical experience will enhance her expertise and help improve financial literacy among younger individuals, ultimately fostering greater engagement with the superannuation system.   Listen as they discuss: The sacrifices she’s making to complete her PhD. Advisers’ struggle to be viewed as a profession. Improving people’s engagement with their super, and more. 

In this episode of the SMSF Adviser Show, hosts Keith Ford and Aaron Dunn are joined by Tim Steele, general manager at Class, to dig down on the information that came out of the annual Class Annual Benchmark Report. The report is an annual snapshot from a macro standpoint of how the SMSF sector is developing, using data from the Class Super platform, which is representative of the broader Australian SMSF market. This year’s report highlights several trends that are likely to influence the future of the sector. Listen as they discuss: • The continued growth of the sector and its projections • The unmet advice needs of SMSF members • How the proposed Div 296 may impact funds • Transition to retirement strategies and their impacts 

In this episode of Relative Return, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic chats with Chris McGibbon, global head of real estate at Nuveen, about the long-term outlook and why the “knife has stopped falling” in property. Listen as they discuss: Real estate’s role in investor portfolios. Should investors take a diversified approach or focus on specific sectors? The benefits that property allocation brings to investors. The real estate market in Australian cities. Mitigating geopolitical risk in real estate.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by author and financial adviser Helen Baker to unpack the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and how financial advisers can highlight prime investment opportunities in the market. Baker identifies the industries set to benefit from AI for advisers looking to integrate these into client portfolios and the ethical concerns surrounding these new technologies. Listen as they discuss: The revolutionary benefits and potential dangers of AI. How clients can benefit from AI investments. The ESG considerations that advisers should keep in mind.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Olympian and financial adviser at HLB Mann Judd Sarah Carli to discuss her experience at the 2024 Paris Olympics and the importance of being well prepared both on and off the track. Having competed in the 400-metre hurdles at the recently completed Paris Games, Carli explains the thought process of transitioning to retirement from athletics and dedicating more time to her financial advice career. Listen as they discuss: Readjusting to an office environment after competing in the Olympics. How a career as a track athlete has helped her become a better adviser and vice versa. Why financial advice is an appealing career for young people who may not know what it entails.

In this episode of the SMSF Adviser Show, hosts Keith Ford and Aaron Dunn are joined by Peter Johnson, director of Advisers Digest, to give a sneak peek at his upcoming session at the SMSF Adviser Technical Strategy Day and why it’s vital to understand the evolving needs of older clients.   Johnson explains some of the opportunities that are available for older clients as the intersection between contributions and pensions grows and how to deal with uncertainty through careful forward planning. Listen as they discuss: How clients are trying to preserve as much of their SMSF assets to pass on to their children. The impact that the $3 million super tax will play in designing strategies. Why CGT should be top of mind for small-business owners well before they enter retirement.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Eugene Ardino, CEO of Lifespan Financial Planning, explore the challenges that single adviser firms face and why they have an important place in the market. Ardino explains what the future holds for these firms and how reductions in red tape will make life easier, as well as how outsourcing arrangements can free the adviser to spend more time providing advice rather than in the back office dealing with admin tasks. Listen as they discuss: Why advisers need to decide early if they want to remain a single practitioner firm. The difference between working as an adviser and running an advice firm. How single practitioners can ensure they remain sustainable in the long run.

In this episode of the SMSF Adviser Show, hosts Keith Ford and Aaron Dunn are joined by Matthew Burgess, director of View Legal, to take a look at some of the estate planning considerations that SMSF professionals need to keep top of mind.   Burgess explains why the outcomes of a number of recent court cases hold valuable information for everyone in the SMSF sector, as well as highlighting the importance of professionals ensuring they work together to reach the best outcome for their clients. Listen as they discuss: Why a project manager role is vital when professionals collaborate on a client’s estate planning. What SMSF advisers can learn from the mistakes of others. How taking a holistic approach can help avoid pitfalls in the estate planning process.

In this episode of The ifa show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Matt Esler, co-founder and co-CEO of Padua, explore how financial advisers can maximise the potential of their CRM systems. He emphasises that while CRMs are powerful tools, their effectiveness hinges on the quality of data input. Esler also discusses the importance of personalisation in client relationships, leveraging tools like Padua’s Discover and Research Manager to enhance the accuracy and relevance of financial advice. He concludes by reaffirming the evolving role of paraplanners, who will become more strategic in delivering better, faster advice. Don’t miss Esler’s expert tips on refining your CRM for greater success. CRM data gaps: CRM data often has gaps, limiting its effectiveness. Personalisation: Tools like Discover help personalise advice and updates. Client relationships: Better data leads to stronger client engagement and outcomes. Future trends: Embracing new tech and ISO-certified tools for enhanced financial insights.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Lana Clark, founder of GSD Lab and senior consultant at Elixir Consulting, powered by VBP, to take an in-depth look at some of the key findings from the firm’s recently released Advice Operations Research Report. Clark breaks down the ingredients that make up the secret sauce of great advice firm operations, explaining the areas that the research found make the largest contribution to successful firms and how practice principals can ensure the business is ready for the future. Listen as they discuss: The importance of separating the role of practice manager as quickly as possible. How building a good culture is harder than it seems but is vital to business success. Why nailing down bulletproof processes within an advice firm is a fundamental step.

In this special episode of the SMSF Adviser Show, hosts Keith Ford and Aaron Dunn celebrate the 100th episode of the podcast with a discussion of how the sector has changed over the last four years. SMSF Association CEO Peter Burgess also joins the show to break down the current state of the $3 million super tax bill and why the growing support for amendments to the legislation is a positive sign that the controversial elements, such as taxation of unrealised gains and the lack of indexation, might be fixed. Listen as they discuss: What the SMSF Association wants to see happen with Div 296 and why the current delays could be a good thing. How SMSF professionals can deal with the uncertainty that currently pervades the regulatory landscape. Whether there could be changes to the recent code of conduct for tax practitioners determination.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Neil Younger, CEO of Entireti, to discuss the firm’s recently announced strategic partnership that will see Entireti take a majority stake in AMP’s three licensees and the Jigsaw offering. Younger explains how the move will impact the advisers moving across as well as what the deal means for the broader advice landscape. He also covers what the future looks like for licensees, and whether this period of consolidation among the larger licensees is set to continue. Listen as they discuss: Why the growing trend of firms self-licensing is a positive when done for the right reasons. What the upcoming second tranche of advice legislation needs to include. How the CSLR is affecting the advice community and whether it can be fixed.

In this episode of Relative Return, host Laura Dew chats with Kellie Wood, head of fixed income and deputy head of fixed income and multi-asset at Schroders Australia, to discuss why fixed income is returning to favour after a 12-year wait. Listen as they discuss: Why fixed income is in a good position now. The unique challenge in Australia’s economic environment versus other markets. Its favoured fixed income asset classes. The merger of Schroders’ multi-asset and fixed income teams. Her 25 years in fund management and challenges she faced.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Ryan Watson, chief executive of Tribeca Financial, to discuss the importance of bringing more advisers into the profession and why he believes there is currently an incredible opportunity to help people through financial advice.   Watson covers the advice firm’s recent expansion with a new Sydney office, how Tribeca goes about attracting talent, and why growth and removing friction from the advice process is an opportunity to help more Australians access a financial adviser.   Listen as they discuss: Why there has never been a better time to be in financial advice. The freedom, flexibility, and responsibilities that come with holding an AFSL. Why value-based pricing and truly client-centric advice is the best way forward.

In this episode of the SMSF Adviser Show, hosts Keith Ford and Aaron Dunn are joined by Chris Hill, co-founder – legal at Inherit Australia, to dive into all of the issues and challenges that can arise when an enduring power of attorney and an SMSF collide. Hill explains why SMSF professionals need to have discussions with their clients around incapacity and estate planning so they aren’t caught out when the time comes, particularly when they may not be aware that power of attorney can also come with SMSF trustee responsibilities. Listen as they discuss: The role of an enduring power of attorney in the context of the definition of a SMSF. Why setting up a trusted professional as a “fund guardian” is an important consideration. How the two roles can work together in the member’s best interests.

In this episode of Relative Return, host Laura Dew speaks with Michael Hunstad, deputy chief investment officer and chief investment officer of global equities at Northern Trust Asset Management, to debunk myths around index investing. Listen as they discuss: Misconceptions around index investing. Impacts of market volatility on index funds. Why “passive” investing requires active choices. Risks presented by the options. Factors to consider when selecting a fund.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Ben Marshan, director of Ben Marshan Consulting, to break down how the Delivering Better Financial Outcomes reforms will impact advisers and how they can look beyond the shifting regulatory landscape to improve their businesses. Marshan explains how the ongoing financial services reforms have stacked on top of each other to create the unwieldy situation the sector finds itself in, and why streamlining labyrinthine regulation could be an impossible task. Listen as they discuss: How advisers can help their clients find purpose as they enter retirement. Why a new class of advisers shouldn’t be viewed as an attack on professional advisers. The importance of cutting down on unnecessary compliance steps that are no longer needed.

In this episode of Relative Return, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic chats with Robin Tsui, APAC gold strategist at State Street Global Advisors, to discuss gold’s role as a diversifier in portfolios. Listen as they discuss: The recent performance of gold. Factors driving increased gold demand The effect of geopolitical risk. Why market risk makes diversification important? How gold can be accessed in portfolios. [Disclosure] Timestamp references 1:55 - Source: State Street Global Advisors, Bloomberg Finance L.P. 11:10-12:00 – Source: State Street Global Advisors, World Gold Council State Street Global Advisors, Australia, Limited (AFSL Number 238276, ABN 42 003 914 225) (“SSGA Australia”). Registered office: Level 14, 420 George Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia · Telephone: +612 9240-7600 · Web: ssga.com. Investing involves risk including the risk of loss of principal. Diversification does not ensure a profit or guarantee against loss. Commodities investing entail significant risk as commodity prices can be extremely volatile due to wide range of factors. A few such factors include overall market movements, real or perceived inflationary trends, commodity index volatility, international, economic and political changes, change in interest and currency exchange rates. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Assets may be considered “safe havens” based on investor perception that an asset’s value will hold steady or climb even as the value of other investments drops during times of economic stress. Perceived safe-haven assets are not guaranteed to maintain value at any time. This material is general information only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs and you should consider whether it is appropriate for you. There is no representation or warranty as to the current accuracy of, nor liability for, decisions based on such information. The views expressed in this material are the views of Robin Tsui through the period ended 17 July 2024 and are subject to change based on market and other conditions. This document contains certain statements that may be deemed forward-looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. The whole or any part of this work may not be reproduced, copied or transmitted or any of its contents disclosed to third parties without SSGA Australia’s express written consent.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Matt Hale, senior financial planner and director at Rising Tide Financial Services, to discuss where the advice profession is heading and the pressures that are impacting the provision of advice.   Hale explains how Rising Tide found its core client base and moulded its offering around their needs as well as the importance of attracting a younger cohort of advisers and the difficulties that can arise in doing so. Listen as they discuss: • Why it is important to not get too wrapped up in regulatory changes until they actually happen. • How advice firms can look to improve business processes for greater efficiency. • The key role compliance plays when running an advice firm.

In this episode of the SMSF Adviser Show, hosts Keith Ford and Aaron Dunn are joined by Craig Day, head of technical services at Colonial First State, to discuss the nuances surrounding invalidity for SMSF trustees and members.   Day breaks down some of the positives and negatives of holding TPD insurance within an SMSF and explains what advisers who may be recommending their clients go down this path need to understand.   Listen as they discuss: • The most pressing considerations around invalidity and SMSFs. • Why it is important to understand the compliance rules related to SMSFs and insurance. • The role of beneficiaries in the context of recent legal challenges relating to spouses and de facto relationships.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by experienced financial services executive Tony Beaven to take a look at the similarities and differences between the UK and Australian financial advice sectors – and what each can learn from one another. Beaven, who has worked in advice businesses across both countries, explains how the regulators across these jurisdictions work together to improve their processes and how the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK works could inform the future of Australian advice regulation. Listen as they discuss: The place of robo-advice in reducing the advice gap. Why self-licensed advice firms need to fully understand the responsibilities that come along with it. How lowering the education benchmark for a new class of advisers could undermine professionalism.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by managing director of WT Financial Group Keith Cullen to discuss the recent passage of the first Delivering Better Financial Outcomes bill and the need to expand the advice profession. Cullen explains how advisers engaging with the political process delivered a tangible outcome in the amendments that were made to section 99FA, and why he believes the next tranche of legislation needs to include practical ways for advice firms to incorporate the proposed new class of advisers into their businesses. Listen as they discuss: The Senate’s recent report on ASIC and its recommendation to overhaul the way the industry funding model operates. Why it is vital that the profession finds new ways to bring talent into advice. The case for licensees taking on a greater share of the ASIC levy.

In this special budget episode, hosts Keith Ford and Aaron Dunn discuss the flurry of activity happening on the regulatory front – and the noticeable absence of the $3 million super tax from the final two sitting weeks of Parliament. They discuss what has led to the debate over Division 296 being delayed, including the government’s increasingly precarious position in the Senate, as well as some of the recent changes that will have a more tangible impact in the short term, such as the ATO’s update to its tax ruling on pensions commencing and ceasing. Listen as they discuss: The Senate’s recent report on ASIC and its recommendation to overhaul the way the industry funding model operates. How TR 2013/5 will operate and what SMSFs need to know. The changes to NALI and the impact it will have on SMSF members.

In this episode of Relative Return, host Laura Dew speaks with Owen Murfin, investment officer and institutional fixed income portfolio manager at MFS Investment Management, to discuss opportunities in bonds amid potential rate cuts. Listen as they discuss: The impact of upcoming rate cuts. How the market environment compares to the global financial crisis. Where he is seeing bond opportunities. The merits of active management in fixed income. Public v private debt.

On this week’s episode of The ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Matthew Rady, the chief executive officer at BT Financial Group, to discuss the evolution of BT and how its BT Panorama platform stands out in a competitive space. Tune in to hear insights on the importance of embracing digital as well as having a great culture, and how BT is utilising both aspects to enable a “people-oriented business”. Listen as they discuss: How advisers can improve efficiency to service a greater number of clients. The changes within financial advice over the 10 years of BT Panorama. What to expect from the next decade as advisers contend with a changing landscape.

In this latest episode of Relative Return, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic speaks with Justine Marquet, head of technical services at Allianz Retire+, to discuss the financial and emotional challenges that consumers face as they approach retirement. Listen as they discuss: Flexibility in retirement products. How advisers can support pre-retirees. The security of a lifetime income. What advisers should consider when selecting an option. The evolving landscape of retirement products over time.

In this episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Phil Anderson to discuss a range of pressing issues for the advice profession that are adding a cost burden to the provision of advice. Anderson, who is the general manager of policy, advocacy and standards at the Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA), explains the different mechanisms in how the CSLR and ASIC funding levies are calculated and paid, and why the upcoming RITC changes will impact advice clients. Listen as they discuss: The push for greater consideration of tax deductibility for advice fees. Why the FAAA still wants the first DBFO bill to be passed quickly. The crunch of financial services legislation currently under consideration.

In this episode of the SMSF Adviser Show, Adrian Fisher, head of distribution and product at RedZed, joins host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic to discuss why the self-employed lender has launched a new offering for SMSFs. Fisher explains that SMSFs are a natural fit for small business owners, but they often run into hurdles, with infrequent super contributions scaring off traditional lenders and making it difficult to secure a loan at all, particularly when it comes to property investments. Listen as they discuss: Why investing in property through an SMSF can be difficult for the self-employed. The importance of assessing each borrower on their unique circumstances. Filling the gap left by traditional lenders exiting the space.