Research reveals regulatory cracks



|
Despite Australia weathering the storm better than most, new research commissioned by the Financial Services Institute of Australia (FINSIA) claims the global financial crisis (GFC) exposed real cracks and weaknesses in the nation’s regulatory framework.
The FINSIA research, to be launched today by the Minister for Financial Services, Superannuation and Corporate Law, Chris Bowen, was conducted by FINSIA, senior industry figures and Access Economics.
Commenting on the research, FINSIA chief executive Martin Fahy said while Australia’s robust regulatory framework has served it well during the GFC, it could not afford to be complacent.
He said the weaknesses that had been identified needed to be openly discussed and appropriately addressed but in the context of maintaining a healthy balance between regulation, efficiency and innovation.
The man who coordinated the inquiry and a former member of the Wallis Inquiry, Professor Ian Harper, said the report was based on the view that any proposed changes to Australia’s regulatory framework should be developed according to a consistent conceptual framework, built upon the findings of previous reviews of the sector.
He said this approach would reaffirm the existing strengths of Australia’s regulatory system while identifying areas of possible weakness that might need attention.
Recommended for you
ASIC’s enforcement action is having an active start to the new financial year, banning a former Queensland financial adviser for 10 years in relation to fees for no service conduct.
ASIC has confirmed the industry funding levy for the 2024–25 financial year, and how much licensees can expect to pay.
Australian licensees are expected to make greater use of custom model portfolios for their clients, according to State Street Investment Management, following in the footsteps of US peers.
Adviser Ratings has argued that it’s time for more advisers to utilise digital engagement tools available to them as a disconnect grows between consumers seeking advice from finfluencers and from professionals.