Advice will be key to navigating Budget



Both the Financial Planning Association (FPA) and financial planning and retirement firm, StatePlus have urged that financial advice become part of the equation around the Government’s Budget changes, particularly those around insurance inside superannuation.
FPA chief executive, Dante De Gori pointed to the range of Budget initiatives around tax cuts and superannuation, particularly those relating to those under 25 needing to “opt in” to insurance inside superannuation rather than be subject to automatic cover.
“However, this decision must be an informed one,” De Gori said. “Young Australians should be aware of the consequences of deciding to not opt in.”
“For example, insurance is easier to get when you are younger and it is more affordable. So, before you decide to opt out of insurance, do your research and seek advice,” he said.
The FPA chief executive said capping passive fees at three per cent, banning exit fees and reuniting small and inactive superannuation accounts, were further measures welcomed by the FPA.
StatePlus spokesman, David Coyne welcomed many of the elements contained in the Budget claiming it had left Australians with more money in their pockets and improved flexibility for those entering retirement.
However, he suggested the changes made seeking professional advice as key to people determining which would be the best strategy to pursue coming out of the Budget.
Recommended for you
An FAAA recommendation to make PY advisers subject to non-compete clauses would place candidates in a “hostage situation” with their employer and potentially deter new entrants, say commentators.
While the profession struggles to keep up with strong consumer demand, a third of people who have passed the ASIC adviser exam aren’t actively practising, so where is this missing third?
Half a year after Count Financial told its advisers to exit several Metrics Credit Partners funds, research house Lonsec has now downgraded two of these products over governance concerns.
As the advice industry evolves with technology, two business consultants have said successful advice firms will be those which focus on delivering an “experience” for their clients, beyond just a transactional service.