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The ifa Show

The ifa Show

325 episodes — Page 3 of 7

FIFO to finance: A unique journey to advice

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Angus Taylor, a financial adviser at Sheffield Financial, to discuss his unconventional path from working in a mine in central Queensland to financial advice. Mr Taylor explains why he made the move to financial services and breaks down the difficulty he had breaking into the sector before being able to start his own financial advice practice. Listen as they discuss: The ongoing impact of the royal commission five years on and the importance of adapting to changing regulations. The confusion that has been created with the proposed addition of "qualified advisers". How advisers can deal with the growing demand for financial advice.

Feb 14, 202421 min

Tax cuts, advice reforms, and ASIC oversight

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Blake Briggs, the chief executive officer of the Financial Services Council (FSC), to discuss the issues impacting the financial advice profession and Australians at large. Mr Briggs examines the government's bold approach to tax reform – both in relation to the stage three tax cuts and within the superannuation system – and highlights the importance of certainty and stability in tax settings to maintain consumer confidence. Listen as they discuss: Why he is optimistic about the outcomes of the Quality of Advice Review. The importance of advisers registering with ASIC and the need for transparency in the ASIC levy. The busy year ahead with retirement income reforms, changes to the managed investment scheme review, and the implementation of the CSLR.

Feb 7, 202427 min

'Kingmakers': Advisers' role in ETF growth trajectory

In this special episode of the ifa Show, we bring you a chat editor Maja Garaca Djurdjevic had with David Tuckwell, senior product and investment strategist at Global X ETFs, about the future trajectory of the exchange-traded fund (ETF) market and flows into bitcoin ETFs. Listen as they discuss: How financial advisers are helping to boost ETF growth. The popularity of fixed income ETFs during 2023. Allaying advisers' concerns about bitcoin ETFs. Competition and future launches in the cryptocurrency space. ETFs positioned to benefit from a monetary easing environment.

Jan 31, 202423 min

Navigating financial goals and myths of younger Aussies

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Glen Hare, co-founder and financial adviser at Fox & Hare, to discuss young Australians seeking financial empowerment amid changing markets. Focused on a younger demographic, Mr Hare emphasises a holistic approach to address diverse financial goals, from property ownership to stock market investments, and highlights the importance of education and goal flexibility. Listen as they discuss: The best way to address the concerns of younger clients. The varied reasons young Australians seek financial advice and the importance of dispelling misconceptions about age and wealth. The significance of educating clients, breaking down misconceptions, and supporting young Australians in cultivating financial empowerment for a secure and prosperous future.

Jan 24, 202430 min

'The most important thing we do': Embracing the client experience

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by the CEO of Verse Wealth, Corey Wastle, to discuss the important role that client experience plays in an advice business. Mr Wastle explains what exactly falls within the realm of the client experience and why it is so important, as well as how Verse frames everything around values, intentions, and financial wellbeing. Listen as they discuss: The best ways to approach the client experience and how digitising the process helps. How Verse has implemented video SOAs and why it is better for clients. The importance of culture within an advice firm.

Jan 17, 202435 min

The AIOFP's new partnerships and programs

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Peter Johnston, executive director of the Association of Independently Owned Financial Professionals (AIOFP), to discuss a range of new programs for its members. Mr Johnston details the referral relationship between the AIOFP and UK-based private bank and wealth manager Coutts, as well as a joint venture with Next Rural, an Australian-based group part-owned by accounting firm PKF. Listen as they discuss: The AIOFP's focus on elevating its Certified Financial Strategist (CFS) designation. Its continuing education program, Aspire, which offers discounts to members Why it is important to take a bipartisan approach to political lobbying.

Dec 20, 202318 min

'Qualified advisers' and the fallout of the QAR reforms

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by journalist Keith Ford to take a look at the government's newly announced policy stance on the second and third tranches of the QAR. The pair discuss everything that has come out of Financial Services Minister Stephen Jones' Canberra announcement, which was met with disbelief from the advice community. Listen as they discuss: The new class of "qualified advisers" that institutions will be able to employ – and why that term should change. How the profession has reacted to the announcement. Whether the negative attention on the controversial elements overshadowed the positive.

Dec 13, 202328 min

The rise of the self-licensed adviser

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Eugene Ardino, chief executive officer at Lifespan Financial Planning, and Tony Mantineo, head of Lifespan Partnership, to discuss the rise of self-licensed advisers. Mr Ardino and Mr Mantineo explain some of the factors behind the increase in the number of advisers that are opting for self-licensing and the scale of the change, as well as how Lifespan works with advisers wanting to strike out on their own. Listen as they discuss: The responsibilities and workload associated with running your own AFSL. How the trend of mergers and acquisitions within the advice industry is impacting the move to self-licensing. The importance of community and networking for advisers.

Dec 6, 202323 min

Responding to challenges in advice

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Kerry Ong, the general manager of customer wealth at Iress, to discuss improving the efficiency and accessibility of financial advice in Australia. Mr Ong touches on the significant challenges facing the industry, including regulatory changes and cost pressures, which have necessitated doing more with less, as well as how Iress is responding by enhancing its software and services to better align with evolving business models. Listen as they discuss: How the quality of advice review and subsequent legislative changes have underscored the need for more accessible advice. The findings of the Iress 2023 Financial Advice Efficiency Report. Iress' new community platform, Advisely, which aims to foster peer-to-peer discussion and connect advisers with industry experts.

Nov 29, 202319 min

Women in Finance: How diversity provides a competitive advantage

Following the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we're catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. In this episode, we chat to Rebecca Warren, executive general manager of small-business banking at CommBank, about how she navigated a historically male-dominated industry over her 20-year career and why she believes inclusion and diversity are not just morally imperative, but key to achieving superior business results. Tune in to find out: Why she loves commercial finance. The secret power of 'quiet achievers'. How CommBank is creating a more inclusive and supportive work culture. And much more!

Nov 23, 202320 min

Scale and service: What's behind a merger?

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by the general manager of consulting at Elixir, Sue Viskovic, to discuss her recent business merger, the evolving landscape of financial advice, and the role of technology in shaping the industry's future. Ms Viskovic explains the strategic decision to merge with Vital Business Partners (VBP), which brings greater access to capital, the ability to scale more rapidly, and ultimately, provide better and more efficient services to advice firms. Listen as they discuss: What changes with a move into a new role, and what doesn't. The potential of AI in the financial advice sector, particularly around automating business processes and improving efficiency. The government's first Quality of Advice Review draft legislation.

Nov 22, 202329 min

Women in Finance: The power of having strong female role models

Following the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we're catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. In this episode, we chat to Suzanne Wood, state general manager residential broker Victoria/Tasmania at Westpac Group (and state chair of the Women of Westpac employee advocacy group), about how she climbed the career ladder in banking and the power of having strong female role models. Tune in to find out: How she learnt the art of having difficult conversations. The perils of unconscious bias and how to tackle them. How Westpac is supporting women through the Women of Westpac employee advocacy group. And much more!

Nov 17, 202328 min

Breaking down the first QAR draft legislation

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by journalist Keith Ford to take a look at the first tranche of legislation for the government's Delivering Better Financial Outcomes package of reforms. The pair discuss what is included in the draft legislation announced by Financial Services Minister Stephen Jones – and what isn't. They also break down the minister's comments and how advisers have reacted to the news. Listen as they discuss: The notable omission of measures relating to statements of advice and the removal of safe harbour provisions. The response from industry bodies and advice associations. What's next for the Quality of Advice Review reforms.

Nov 15, 202323 min

Super boutiques and the golden age of advice

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Steve Prendeville, founder and director of Forte Asset Solutions, to examine what the future landscape of the advice profession will look like. Mr Prendeville explains why we are on the verge of a golden age of advice, spurred on by what he sees as an imminent period of legislative stability when the Quality of Advice Review changes are eventually implemented. Listen as they discuss: How mergers and acquisitions within the advice space will lead to "super boutiques". The rise of multidisciplinary firms working under a single umbrella. What the financial advice environment will look like over the next decade.

Nov 8, 202331 min

Women in Finance: The importance of showcasing diversity at all levels

Ahead of the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we're catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. In this episode, we chat to Anjali Crossette, manager of motor operations at non-bank lender Liberty, about breaking barriers and misconceptions about car finance and why she believes the industry needs to showcase gender diversity across every rung of the career ladder. Tune in to find out: Why the finance industry is an attractive industry to work in for women. The progress being made in gender diversity in car finance. How Liberty is leading the way by example. And much more!

Nov 2, 202333 min

Why advice is a people profession

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Adam Holster, professional services banking executive at NAB, to discuss the optimistic outlook for growth among advice practices. Mr Holster explains the findings of recent NAB research that the majority of advice firms expect strong growth over the next 12 months, how this is enabling them to attract their ideal clients, and why advice is all about people. Listen as they discuss: The impact of regulation on advisers and how the Quality of Advice Review will play out. How younger advisers can enter the industry with banks no longer a pipeline. How an increase in mergers and acquisitions will impact the industry.

Nov 1, 202323 min

The Adviser Games – A unique take on PD days

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Conaill Keniry, the founder of The Adviser Games, to discuss what exactly the games entail. Mr Keniry explains what prompted the idea to reshape and energise the professional development day format into a series of games that are more fun and interesting than the standard fair advisers are used to. Listen as they discuss: • How the first Amazing Race-style event was received by attendees and partners. • The plans for future The Adviser Games events in different cities. • A sense of optimism around the profession heading into 2024 as legislative changes begin to clear up.

Oct 25, 202315 min

Women in Finance: How Mortgage Choice is working to create inclusive workplaces

Ahead of the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we're catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. Deslie Taylor, principal at Mortgage Choice Ormeau in Queensland, is one of the top brokers in the country, having settled over $1 billion in loans in her 16-year career and taken home numerous awards including Mortgage Broker of the Year at the Women in Finance Awards multiple years in a row. In this episode, we chat to Ms Taylor about how she runs her award-winning brokerage and find out from Aaron Slater, general manager of distribution at Mortgage Choice (principal partner of the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023), how we can help support and create more inclusive workplaces. Tune in to find out: The power of being an empathetic leader. The art of practising continuous improvement. How Mortgage Choice's Aspire program is supporting women in finance. And much more!

Oct 20, 202326 min

The Olympian financial planner – Balancing passion and profession

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 how she made her way from the track to financial advice. Ms Carli, who competed in the 400-metre hurdles at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, explains how she found her way to financial advice and the valuable skills she has learnt as an adviser that have positively impacted her athletic career, as well as how she balances being a professional athlete with working full time. Listen as they discuss: The importance of a supportive work environment. How she balances her professional and athletic commitments. How there are more transferable skills between athletics and advice than many might expect. Her goals beyond the Paris Olympics for both her career as an athlete and an adviser.

Oct 18, 202318 min

Women in Finance: Why Joanna James believes in visualising and emotionalising success

Ahead of the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we're catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. Joanna James is an advocate for constant reinvention and resilience, having adapted to change over her career in the finance space herself. Having worked in the lending space for more than 20 years – including as the general manager of non-bank lender Mortgage Ezy – she now helps support women in building successful businesses through Artemis Space, a women's community group delivered by the Finance Brokers Association of Australia. In this episode, Annie Kane sits down with Joanna James to find out: Why success is subjective. The power of visualisation, emotionalisation and manifestation. Why she believes the finance industry is a great industry for women. And much more!

Oct 13, 202341 min

Dive deep into the future of financial advice with Minister Stephen Jones

Join us for an exclusive interview as ifa editor Maja Garaca Djurdjevic sits down with Financial Services Minister Stephen Jones. In this conversation, Minister Jones shares his candid assessment of the progress in financial advice, discusses his goals for the industry, addresses criticism surrounding his approach to the Quality of Advice Review, and delves into the role of superannuation funds, banks, and insurers in shaping the future of advice. Discover the minister's vision for the advice industry and his plans to inspire young Australians to pursue careers in this field. You'll hear: Minister Jones' reflections on his commitment to addressing industry issues and the progress made during his first year and a half in government. Insights into the legislative timeline for streams one and two of the Quality of Advice Review response. The minister's views on consumer protection, Michelle Levy's good advice model, and strategies to encourage funds to offer advice. The enactment of the experience pathway, its reception, and Minister Jones' message to those who find it contentious.

Oct 11, 202328 min

Women in Finance: Why Tanya Sale believes support is key to being a female leader

Ahead of the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we're catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. Tanya Sale co-founded mortgage aggregation group outsource Financial with Andrea Tassis 13 years ago, with Ms Sale now one of the very few female chief executives in the mortgage industry. In this episode, Annie Kane sits down with Ms Sale to find out: How a piggy bank triggered her love of finance Why she started her own aggregation business Why she believes support is critical to succeed as a female business leader And much more!

Oct 6, 202341 min

The barriers to young Australians seeking advice

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Kelly Power, chief executive officer of superannuation at Colonial First State, to discuss the recent CFS research on the value of financial advice. The research, conducted by CFS, shows that 53 per cent of Australians aged 16 to 39 are open to financial advice. Ms Power examines what this means for the way we understand young people's relationship with advice, and covers a range of related topics. Listen as they discuss: • The role of super funds and banks in advice following the Quality of Advice Review. • How digital solutions can aid advisers and the necessity of human interaction. • The challenges faced by retirees in managing their finances.

Oct 4, 202321 min

Digital advice and its role in the future of the industry

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by George Haramis, the CEO of moneyGPS and accountantsGPS, to discuss the rise of digital advice in the financial services industry. With over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, Mr Haramis provides valuable insights into the development and growth of digital advice, and why incorporating digital advice into advisory firms' business models will be essential moving forward. Listen as they discuss: The key benefits of using digital advice platforms for advisory firms. The importance of digital advice in addressing intergenerational wealth transfer. How digital advice underpins many of the recommendations in the Quality of Advice Review, and more.

Sep 27, 202329 min

How digital advice will enhance the client-adviser relationship

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Hans Egger, founder and managing director of Astute Wheel, to discuss how digital advice can enhance the client-adviser relationship. Mr Egger explains how digital advice is a much broader term than robo-advice, and how implementing tech-driven solutions can provide efficiencies and ease the challenges financial advisers face. He also touches on the key benefits of using technology in financial advice, including its ability to bring financial plans to life, and the crucial role of technology in improving the adviser-client relationship. Finally, Mr Egger talks about Astute Wheel's approach to digital advice and the value of client portals, before predicting where digital advice is heading over the next few years.

Sep 20, 202322 min

The profit first model: Nurturing a culture of giving

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Adele Martin, founder of My Money Buddy and the Savings Squad podcast, to discuss how she is giving back through her business. Ms Martin touches on how and why she implemented a profit first model in her business and speaks about why setting aside funds for charitable donations and random acts of kindness is important to her. Ms Martin also introduces her new initiative which, in addition to charitable benefits, strives to foster a sense of community within the financial advice industry by offering support and mentorship to financial advisers. Lastly, Ms Djurdjevic and Ms Martin touch on the latest news in financial advice, including her views on the experience pathway.

Sep 13, 202319 min

Digital advice and the impact of the QAR

In this episode of the ifa Show, Keith Ford is joined by the CEO of moneyGPS and accountantsGPS, George Haramis, to discuss the impact of the government's response to the Quality of Advice Review (QAR) and the future of digital advice in Australia. Mr Haramis touches on the progress of the proposed digital advice association and whether the government's slow progress on the QAR has had an impact. He also covers the role of super funds in advice and whether they can plug the advice gap, as well as exploring some of the broader impacts of the QAR, such as the yet-to-be accepted good advice standard. Mr Haramis then touches on Treasury roundtables and the outcomes from government consultations before explaining moneyGPS's white label digital advice product for super funds, boutique AFSLs, larger AFSLs, and accounting firms.

Sep 6, 202321 min

Decoding ASIC levies and retirement security

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by co-host Keith Ford to discuss the recent concerns raised by Sarah Abood, CEO of the Financial Advice Association Australia (FAAA), about ASIC levies and the role advisers play in ensuring Aussies retire comfortably. Maja and Keith take a closer look at ASIC's cost recovery implementation statement and share why the FAAA's CEO believes the numbers just don't line up. They discuss the steps the group has taken and whether it holds the power to influence the corporate regulator to take another look at its projections. The conversation shifts to the intergenerational report and its findings on retirement savings. While the report predicts a significant increase in total assets in the super system over the next four decades, the government is concerned about Australians' reluctance to spend their retirement savings. As such, Treasury is now expected to release a consultation paper to address this issue and strengthen the accessibility of retirement products by taking a closer look at advice, among other things. The discussion also covers the roundtables being hosted by Treasury, where various stakeholders have been called upon to provide their opinions on the Quality of Advice Review.

Aug 30, 202324 min

Exploring good advice and advocacy in financial advice

In this episode of the ifa Show, stand-in host Keith Ford chats to Peter Johnston, executive director of the Association of Independently Owned Financial Professionals (AIOFP), to discuss the proposed good advice legislation and the power advisers have to lobby the government. Mr Johnston explains why he believes the good advice standard would be detrimental to consumers and gives his thoughts on whether the government is likely to adopt it. He also discusses the AIOFP's lobbying efforts, including why the advice profession is in a unique position to influence the government with the backing of their clients, and how the various industry associations can work together to look for positive outcomes. Additionally, Mr Johnston discusses the AIOFP's involvement in roundtable discussions with Treasury regarding the Quality of Advice Review (QAR), as well as some highlights from the association's recent conferences in Bangkok and London.

Aug 23, 202332 min

Unpacking the government's QAR response: Expert insights from Michelle Levy and Sarah Abood

In this special episode of the ifa podcast, our host is joined by QAR review lead Michelle Levy and FAAA CEO Sarah Abood to discuss the government's QAR response. This podcast brings you an audio version of our recent webcast hosted by ifa editor Maja Garaca Djurdjevic who was joined by QAR lead Michelle Levy and the CEO of the Financial Advice Association Australia, Sarah Abood. Ms Levy and Ms Abood share their thoughts on the government's QAR response and dissect certain recommendations, including the expansion of the super funds' advisory powers. At times, Ms Levy and Ms Abood disagree on areas of the review, including the name that should be given to superannuation employees providing information/advice to their members. Ms Levy discusses why she believes the absence of good advice exposes funds to conflicts of interest, while Ms Abood shares why defining the good advice duty is crucial. Moreover, the pair discuss the future of statements of advice, and Ms Abood provides an update on the progress of the consultation with government.

Aug 16, 202358 min

Embracing change and innovating advice with Nigel Baker

In this episode of the ifa show, stand-in host Keith Ford chats to Nigel Baker, CEO and founder of Scientiam, a pioneering company in the financial advice industry. Mr Baker shares his journey, from working in renowned accounting firms to establishing his own independent practice, Arch Capital. The pair delve into the challenges and opportunities faced by the advice industry, particularly in providing accessible and efficient advice to a broader market. Mr Baker unveils Scientiam's innovative approach to addressing these challenges by leveraging technology to create a seamless client experience, while also touching on the future of financial advice and exploring how the industry can adapt to changing client needs and expectations. Moreover, Mr Baker emphasises the importance of separating advice from product recommendations and enabling clients to make informed decisions based on their unique circumstances.

Aug 9, 202329 min

Why this professional remains optimistic about advice despite 'disappointing' levy increase

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by the chief executive of Lifespan Financial Planning, Eugene Ardino, to delve into the latest developments in the financial advice industry. Mr Ardino discusses the government's response to the Quality of Advice Review (QAR), the experience pathway, and the increasing ASIC levy. He shares why, despite the disappointment with the ASIC levy increase, he remains optimistic about the industry. Mr Ardino also touches on the potential impact of the QAR and the government's support for certain recommendations and acknowledges there are certain challenges in defining and implementing a good advice duty. He also shares his thoughts on the simplification of statements of advice (SOAs) and why he anticipates that the government and regulators will work together to define what a good record of advice should look like. Moreover, Mr Ardino dismisses concerns that licensees would still enforce lengthy documents and emphasises the importance of industry consensus and consumer-centred approach.

Aug 2, 202336 min

Exploring opportunities and challenges in the advice market

In this episode of the ifa show, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic sits down with Marc Hraiki, the executive director of sales and services at Lonsec. Together, they delve into the ever-changing landscape of financial advice and discuss why Mr Hraiki believes there has never been a better time to be an adviser. Amid market volatility, decreasing adviser numbers, and growing complexity in Australians' financial needs, Mr Hraiki highlights the tremendous opportunities for strong advice businesses. The pair also discuss the top three concerns keeping advisers awake at night and the ongoing challenge of making advice more accessible and affordable for all Australians. Mr Hraiki shares his insights on the impact of technology and innovation and offers valuable advice for young professionals considering a career in the advice industry.

Jul 26, 202316 min

From AFA to a new era: Phil Anderson discusses the evolving advice landscape

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by the head of policy at the Financial Advice Association Australia, Phil Anderson, to discuss the official end of the AFA and the broader advice landscape. With the Association of Financial Advisers officially winding up, Phil Anderson reflects on the importance of professional associations and shares why he is more optimistic about the future than he has been for a long time. Mr Anderson also speaks about the Quality of Advice Review, the consultation process that is currently underway, and explains why he doesn't expect draft legislation for the review's recommendations this year. Moreover, he touches on the outcome of the class action brought by advisers against AMP over BOLR changes and shares why he believes there is "real momentum" towards changing the regulatory regime that will make advice less costly to provide and access.

Jul 19, 202333 min

Unlocking efficiency and engagement: The power of client portals in financial advice

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by AstuteWheel's managing director, Hans Egger, to discuss the most compelling reasons for advisers to consider client portals. With over 25 years of experience in the financial planning industry, Mr Egger shares his journey of developing tools and modelling calculators to enhance client advice and comprehension of complex strategies. He discusses the growing adoption of technology by financial advisers, particularly in client engagement and streamlined processes, as well as emphasising the importance of secure client portals which not only protect sensitive data but also provide a comprehensive platform for clients to access their financial information, track goals, and communicate with their advisers. Mr Egger also touches on the time-saving benefits of using tech tools such as questionnaires and modelling calculators, enabling advisers to focus on meaningful client interactions.

Jul 12, 202320 min

QAR and the 'golden age of advice'

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Matthew Esler, the co-founder and co-CEO of Padua Solutions. Mr Esler discusses the government's response to the Quality of Advice Review, including why the entry of super funds back into advice should not be cause for concern among advisers. He adds that advisers should instead be looking to set up referral arrangements with super funds to bridge the gap between their different service offerings. Mr Esler also touches on why the QAR represents a huge opportunity for fintechs, particularly the government's plans to streamline advice documents. Labelling the upcoming period the "golden age of advice", he explains why advisers should be optimistic going forward as technology enables them to scale their business and reach more clients than ever.

Jul 5, 202324 min

Addressing access to advice: Will QAR make a material difference?

In this special episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by My Money Buddy and The Savings Squad podcast founder Adele Martin to discuss the government's QAR response and what it means for advisers. This podcast brings you a one-on-one chat that took place at the ifa's Adviser Innovation Summit in Melbourne where our host and Ms Martin dissected the government's response to the Quality of Advice Review (QAR). Ms Martin talks about the response from an adviser's point of view, and why she would like to see less consultation and more action from the government. She articulates her perspective on future-fit statements of advice and delves into the proposal that suggests superannuation funds will have a significant role in providing advice, highlighting why this approach may not effectively address the issue of limited access to advice.

Jun 28, 202328 min

How platforms can streamline quality of advice amid ongoing changes

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Denis Orrock, chief strategy officer of wealth management platform Praemium. Mr Orrock joins our host to discuss the evolving landscape of wealth management and administration platforms. He also touches on the government's response to the Quality of Advice Review (QAR) and how this might play out for the super funds. "I think the super funds moving to advice-style models will be interesting and how they scale their businesses for that. Are they fit-for-purpose for that today? Will they be reliant on digital or AI-generated advice versus personal advice?" And discusses a key issue for the industry around data integration. "The bigger impact for platforms is the data that sits within the platforms ... and how do we aggregate and standardise that data to provide advisers with a consolidated view of their customer." Moreover, Mr Orrock discusses how wealth management platforms like Praemium can evolve to support the changes to the advice landscape on the back of the QAR, as well as how technology can help streamline and enhance the delivery of advice.

Jun 21, 202317 min

What's in the government's QAR response?

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by ifa journalist Keith Ford to break down the government's QAR response. On Tuesday morning, Financial Service Minister Stephen Jones unveiled the government's response to the Quality of Advice Review (QAR) final report, accepting in principle 14 of the 22 recommendations. The pair give an overview of what the government has announced, including the "quick wins" in its first stream and how the industry has responded to what is largely a streamlining of regulatory red tape. They also cover the more controversial aspects of the QAR, such as opening the door for superannuation funds to provide personal advice to members, before taking a look at the eight recommendations that the government has not yet accepted.

Jun 14, 202324 min

How to tackle the unmet advice needs of high-net-worth investors

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Matt van Dijk, general manager distribution Queensland/Northern Territory at Praemium. Mr van Dijk joins the show to discuss the unmet advice needs of high-net-worth investors, with recent Praemium research showing that as many as 53 per cent of these investors are in need of quality advice tailored to their unique advice needs. As the volume of HNW investors continues to grow beyond the $2.8 trillion of investable assets they currently hold, Mr van Dijk details these advice requirements and how advisers can respond. He also touches on the intergenerational wealth transfer and how advisers can support it. Namely, with HNW investors anticipating to transfer as much as $1.9 trillion to their children, the challenge for advisers is that over half are managing the inheritance themselves. As such, Mr van Dijk elaborates on what advisers should consider when looking to embed themselves in this transfer.

Jun 7, 202327 min

How you can attract Millennial clients

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by My Money Buddy and The Savings Squad podcast founder Adele Martin to chat about why the intergenerational wealth transfer is a "now" problem. Ms Martin will MC ifa's upcoming Adviser Innovation Summit, where she will also host a session on how advisers can attract the next generation of clients with engagement and advice service models that are tailored to changing customer needs. In this podcast, Ms Martin dives into the importance of advisers taking swift action in relation to the intergenerational wealth transfer and outlines effective strategies to do so. "We're seeing it impact advisers," she says. "I spoke to an adviser recently who had seven clients pass away last year, which is really sad. He didn't retain any of that business, so there's $40,000-plus revenue that went out of the door. "This is a problem for those more mature practices." Moreover, Ms Martin provides tangible tips on how advisers should approach Millennial clients and ensure they "do it right". To find out more about the Adviser Innovation Summit click here.

May 31, 202322 min

How advisers and digital tools can work together

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Jacqui Henderson, founder and chief executive of Advice Intelligence. Ms Henderson discusses the evolution of technology in the advice space over her time in the industry, and how advisers could benefit from embracing digital innovations. She explains the goals of the Australian Digital Advice Association (ADAA), which includes Advice Intelligence, moneyGPS, abrdn, and Ignition Advice, as well as the process behind forming the association. The pair also cover why Ms Henderson believes that digital advice can coexist with the best interest duty, and how it can help provide advice at scale to a broader audience. Ms Henderson will join a panel with ADAA's other founders at this year's Adviser Innovation Summit to discuss their goals, and how a unified and coordinated voice for digital providers can revolutionise the industry. To secure your ticket to the Adviser Innovation Summit 2023, click here.

May 24, 202320 min

Why a digital advice association will benefit advisers

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by George Haramis, co-founder and chief executive of moneyGPS. Mr Haramis discusses what led to the formation of the Australian Digital Advice Association (ADAA), which includes moneyGPS, abrdn, Ignition Advice and Advice Intelligence, as well as how the process is progressing and the goals of the association. He addresses concerns that the advice profession has about digital advice, pointing out that with the dwindling adviser numbers, technology can help streamline the process of advice and allow advisers to service more clients. The pair also cover some of the Quality of Advice Review recommendations, including around superannuation funds offering personal advice and the ability to offer compliant advice through technology. Mr Haramis will join a panel with the ADAA's other founders at this year's Adviser Innovation Summit to discuss their goals, and how a unified and coordinated voice for digital providers can revolutionise the industry. To secure your ticket to the Adviser Innovation Summit 2023, click here.

May 17, 202327 min

Budget: A missed opportunity for advice when it's needed most?

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by senior journalist James Mitchell to chat about Labor's latest budget and missed opportunities. Maja and James reflect on some of the biggest budget announcements, including superannuation tinkering, cost-of-living measures, and an unpleasant ASIC levy announcement, while reviewing Labor's relationship with the advice industry, to date. The duo touch on the Quality of Advice Review (QAR), the government's delayed response, and more, including how this budget ignored advice at a time when it's arguably needed the most. Maja and James then ask the question, "Does Labor need to show more respect to advisers?"

May 10, 202323 min

The shadow minister's unfiltered take on financial advice: QAR, FASEA, and Labor party's approach

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Stuart Robert, shadow financial services minister and shadow assistant treasurer. Mr Robert shares his and the Liberal party's views on the final report of the Quality of Advice Review and why they support its adoption in full, explaining why Minister Stephen Jones' proposed review of the review is an insufficient response. "It's like an episode of Monty Python. You've got a Minister presiding now over the Ministry of Silly Walks. This Michelle Levy review is an outstanding piece of work. The Coalition believes it should be implemented in full and implemented now," the shadow minister says. Mr Robert also reflects on how the adviser industry fared under the Coalition and explains why FASEA was an act of "desperation". The shadow minister doesn't hold back and accuses the Labor party of holding advisers at an arm's length.

May 3, 202321 min

How to become B Corp certified

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Glen Hare talk about the role of the advice community in promoting ESG. Glen Hare, co-founder and financial adviser at Fox & Hare, joins the ifa podcast to discuss the power that advisers have to educate more than 2 million Australians about investing ethically. The pair cover B Corp certification, looking at what it means, why advisers should look into it, and how the certification process works. He also explains how important ESG is for Fox & Hare's younger client base and how that can differ from an advice firm that works with retirees and pre-retirees, before touching on how AI could impact the industry as tools like ChatGPT become more widespread.

Apr 26, 202319 min

What the experience pathway means for the industry

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Peter Johnston talk about the experience pathway in light of the government's recent announcement. Peter Johnston, executive director of the Association of Independently Owned Financial Professionals and a longtime advocate of the experience pathway, returns to the ifa podcast to explain its potential as a game-changer for the industry. The pair run through how the experience pathway would work in practice and whether Mr Johnston believes certain limitations need to be imposed. He also reveals how receptive the government is to the Quality of Advice Review following his recent meeting in Canberra with the Treasury department tasked with overseeing the government's response. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety or suicidal thoughts, or you're worried about someone else and feel that urgent professional support is needed, contact your local doctor or one of the 24/7 crisis agencies below: Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Lifeline: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/ Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au

Apr 19, 202318 min

Why we must consider the human and social cost of legislation

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Philippa Hunt, director at AFSL Artemis Investments, to chat through her thoughts on QAR and the need for added focus on the wellbeing of advisers. Ms Hunt speaks about her support for Minister Stephen Jones taking his time to get things right, given the "catastrophic" outcomes for the industry resulting from the rushed implementation of the royal commission's outcomes. She emphasises the importance of considering the human and social cost of legislation and the mental health of advisers, which, she says, were severely impacted by compliance requirements. The conversation concludes with Ms Hunt's views on the future of the financial advice industry and the need for a more holistic approach to advice. If you are suffering from depression, anxiety or suicidal thoughts, or you're worried about someone else and feel that urgent professional support is needed, contact your local doctor or one of the 24/7 crisis agencies below: Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Lifeline: 13 11 14 https://www.lifeline.org.au/ Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 www.suicidecallbackservice.org.au

Apr 12, 202332 min

Advisers are 'change fatigued'

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Tanya Carlson from Amplify Wealth to share her thoughts on Minister Jones' delayed QAR response. Ms Carlson shares why she believes advisers are change fatigued and why many are demanding answers from Financial Services Minister Stephen Jones regarding several unresolved issues. "It's frustrating because when there's no information, there's misinformation or miscommunications or misinterpretations, and that can lead to pendulum swinging in various different ways in terms of how people are viewing that. And I think we're just exhausted," Ms Carlson says. "We're change fatigued and we've had so much going on as a collective in the world with pandemics and so on, and a lot of regulation change and reform, that it just feels like, please tell us what we need to do and how we're supposed to do it and let's just get on with it." She also touches on the government's superannuation changes and shares her definition of an equitable system.

Apr 4, 202319 min

Why it is worth waiting for the government's QAR response

In this episode of the ifa podcast, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Peter Johnston dive deep on the Quality of Advice Review, the need for patience on the government response, and why advisers are the good guys. Peter Johnston, executive director of the Association of Independently Owned Financial Professionals, discusses which QAR recommendations he believes are positive and the many he doesn't. Mr Johnston explains that the political motivations behind the review are going to hamstring its effectiveness and value, while adding that the new government must be given the same patience to present its findings that was afforded Michelle Levy. He also discusses how a shrinking pool of advisers could be a boon for those that remain.

Mar 29, 202318 min