ASIC freezes assets of adviser
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has sought court orders to freeze the assets of a financial adviser who it alleges failed to assist the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) to resolve client complaints.
ASIC announced today that it had obtained consent orders and undertakings in the NSW Supreme Court against Ross Andrew Hopkins, QWL Pty Ltd and QWL Asset Management Pty Ltd restraining Hopkins and QWL from dissipating or diminishing the value of their assets and providing financial services to clients without seeking prior approval from ASIC.
The regulator said it had started an investigation into allegation that Hopkins and QWL failed to resolve client complaints and that it was continuing that investigation.
It said that the matter would return to court on 18 November.
ASIC said that clients of QWL who were concerned about misconduct could lodge reports with ASIC or complaints with AFCA.
Recommended for you
David Sipina has been sentenced to three years under an intensive correction order for his role in the unlicensed Courtenay House financial services.
As AFSLs endeavour to meet their breach reporting obligations, a legal expert has emphasised why robust documentation will prove fruitful, particularly in the face of potential regulatory investigations.
Betashares has named the top Australian suburbs with the highest spare cash flow, shining a light on where financial advisers could eye out potential clients.
A relevant provider has received a written direction from the Financial Services and Credit Panel after a superannuation rollover resulted in tax bill of over $200,000 for a client.