| Call for Uniform Assessment Methods in Managed Accounts Fri, 06 Dec: The managed account industry is currently facing a challenge in the absence of streamlined performance assessment standards, potentially impacting its growth and reputation. This concern was a focal point of the discussion at the recent Professional Planner Researcher Forum. - read more
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| Australia's Long-Term Mortgage Strategy: A Double-Edged Sword Fri, 06 Dec: Housing affordability in Australia is hitting unprecedented lows as both buying and renting costs continue to surge. In response to this crisis, financial institutions are rolling out new strategies designed to make mortgages more accessible, albeit with long-range financial implications for consumers. - read more
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| Pension Dilemma: Wealth Versus Welfare Fri, 06 Dec: Amid heightened financial scrutiny, an elderly couple's retirement predicament has questioned the balance between possessing wealth and maintaining government welfare in Australia. This ongoing discussion has resonated across the nation, leading to significant public debate. - read more
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| Mental Health Claims: A Growing Concern for Young Adults Fri, 06 Dec: Recent findings highlight a significant trend: an increase in Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) claims among 30- to 40-year-olds, with mental health as a key factor. Over the past decade, these claims have soared, the Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reports. - read more
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| Digital Estate Planning: MiQ's New Frontline Strategy Thu, 05 Dec: The dynamic transformation of the financial advisory landscape continues as MiQ Private Wealth introduces a pioneering digital estate planning platform. In collaboration with Australian fintech company Yodal, this innovation emerged from a successful six-month trial, promising to redefine client engagement. - read more
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| Enhanced Oversight Seeks Greater Accountability in Underperformance Thu, 05 Dec: The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is calling for heightened scrutiny of superannuation choice products that consistently underperform. However, the watchdog clarifies it does not necessitate compulsory action on such findings. - read more
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| Australian Dollar Tumbles Amid Global Economic Shifts Thu, 05 Dec: As global market dynamics continue to shift, the Australian dollar has recently plummeted, reaching a six-month low. Investors are closely monitoring these developments, considering the various forces at play and their potential impacts. - read more
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| Bakery Blaze Sparks Allegations of Insurance Fraud Thu, 05 Dec: A bakery owner in Western Australia has been engulfed in controversy following accusations of deliberately setting her business premises on fire. Officials allege this was an attempt to secure a hefty insurance payout. - read more
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| Heat Claims Denied: Insurer Cites 'Oven Effect' in Container Dispute Thu, 05 Dec: A local business operator suffering significant heat damage to pool covers stored within shipping containers has experienced a setback, as a recent ruling favored the insurer's interpretation of their policy terms. The implications of this decision represent a crucial discussion point for businesses storing items prone to temperature sensitivity. - read more
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| AMP's Transition Showcases Adviser-Centric Rebranding Strategy Tue, 03 Dec: AMP is undergoing a significant transformation, with a forthcoming rebrand of AMP Advice and AMP Financial Planning. Spearheaded by Matt Lawler, now CEO of what is tentatively called NewCo, this transition includes working closely with advisers to ensure their voices are essential in shaping the future of the brand. 'This process is set to be particularly democratic,' said Lawler, highlighting the collaborative approach. - read more
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| Superannuation Boom: Assets Break New Grounds Tue, 03 Dec: The Australian superannuation landscape has reached an unprecedented milestone, with total assets reaching beyond $4 trillion by the close of September, according to recent figures published by APRA. - read more
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| Reserve Bank Anticipates Significant Rate Reduction Tue, 03 Dec: The Reserve Bank of New Zealand is poised to decrease the official cash rate by a notable 50 basis points this week. This action comes on the heels of a cumulative 75 basis points reduction across the last two monetary policy discussions. - read more
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| Life Insurance Takes Backseat in Cost-Cutting Measures Tue, 03 Dec: As Australians tighten their belts in the face of rising living costs, life insurance is rapidly being placed on the chopping block. The Council of Australian Life Insurers (CALI) reports that individuals are more likely to reduce life cover rather than home or car insurance. - read more
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| A Hidden Economic Struggle: Australia’s Mirage of Growth Mon, 02 Dec: Amid Australia's apparent economic growth, a deeper analysis reveals a concerning decline in living standards - read more
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| Superannuation Reform: Housing Legislation Faces New Challenges Mon, 02 Dec: As the year's legislative calendar winds down, the Australian government finds itself tackling a contentious issue: how best to align superannuation policies with housing needs. A recent decision by Parliament might make integrating these two sectors more challenging, sparking conversations across lobby groups and superannuation funds. - read more
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| RBA Board Overhaul Raises Questions Mon, 02 Dec: The recent decision to reconfigure the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) leadership structure presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly in the ongoing battle against inflation. Dr. Shane Oliver, Chief Economist at AMP, has voiced concerns that easing inflation control measures could tarnish the bank's credibility. - read more
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| Call for Greater Transparency in Professional Indemnity Insurance Mon, 02 Dec: The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) is advocating for enhanced transparency concerning the Professional Indemnity (PI) insurance maintained by member companies, highlighting its current lack of oversight regarding PI insurers. - read more
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