Platinum has launched the Platinum Global Transition fund, aiming to invest in global ESG-focused companies.
Allianz Retire+ has launched a retirement income product offering guaranteed income for life with 10 million people expected to retire over the next 20 years.
The property investment and funds management firm has reported weaker earnings and a 56% plunge in statutory profit in its latest financial results update.
Iress has reinvested in its core Australian trading and advice activities, including a digital advice capability, as it believes Australian clients have been “underserved” by the firm’s focus on offshore activities.
On 1 January, 2015, the income test assessment of account-based pensions changed for income support payments and also for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC).
Account-based pensions commenced on or after 1 January, 2015 are deemed for income test purposes for both, income support payments and CSHC assessment. Account-based pensions established prior to 1 January, 2015 may be grandfathered if certain requirements are met.
For income support payments, account-based pensions are classed as grandfathered if all of the following requirements are met:
Self-managed super fund (SMSF) trustees are ultimately required to take on many responsibilities. From being the decision point for all fund actions, to managing the fund prudently for the benefit of all fund members – all while being aware that they, as members, will not have access to any special compensation schemes or access to the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) if something goes wrong. It’s a lot to take on, and a financial adviser can help trustees understand how both superannuation and tax law may apply in their circumstances.
Investment bonds are often considered an old fashioned investment option, and as a savings vehicle they can be overlooked by financial advisers and their clients. But the reality is that investment bonds have a number of advantages that make them well worth a closer look.
The Government’s Quality of Advice Review is one of the most important financial services policy reviews to be held in recent years. It will consider improvements to the regulatory framework to reduce complexity and better enable accessible and affordable advice for consumers, so they can access quality advice when they need it and in a form they want.
Included in the Review’s terms of reference is consideration of the opportunities for digital advice to address some of the industry’s impediments to delivering scaled and affordable advice.
