Key insights came from Alex Donald of Ironbark Investment Solutions, Kieran Canavan of Centric Wealth, and Evidentia's Michael Wright. They pointed to the Generation Development Group's (GDG) recent acquisition of Evidentia as a pivotal development, signalling both strategic value and financial justification. This acquisition merges Evidentia Group with Lonsec Investment Solutions under the Evidentia brand, expanding offerings to include customised SMAs as well as more conventional SMAs and Managed Discretionary Accounts (MDAs).
Wright elaborated on these strategic moves, asserting that Evidentia’s tailored capabilities empower advice firms by granting them greater control, especially in creating bespoke solutions for high-net-worth individuals. The individualisation of managed accounts is seen as a critical factor, particularly concerning tax-efficient solutions and access to private markets.
While Canavan acknowledged the current challenges advisers face in competing with industry funds—mostly due to limited access to private markets—he noted that leveraging MDAs to provide such access could level the playing field dramatically.
During the conference, IMAP Chair Toby Potter referenced a crucial IMAP/Milliman census, which recorded managed accounts' current funds under management at $232.7 billion. This figure, Potter highlighted, is projected to nearly double by 2030, driven largely by the rapid growth and demand for tailored SMA solutions.
