ASIC discontinues Westpoint action
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has discontinued legal action against a Queensland man in relation to the failed investment group Westpoint.
The regulator said it had discontinued the charges against Mark Pirimona Shepherd, of Benowa Waters, Queensland, relating to the provision of a financial service on behalf of Lancer group Pty Ltd and recommendations to invest in promissory notes issued by various Westpoint Mezzanine companies.
ASIC said it had decided to discontinue the action following a review undertaken by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions.
The regulator said that action was continuing against a director of the Lancer group, Barry William Silver, who has been charged with aiding, abetting, counselling and procuring his company, Lancer Group, to provide a financial service.
Recommended for you
Despite the financial adviser exam being rooted in ethics, two professional year advisers believe the lack of support and transparency from the regulator around the exam is unethical.
Despite having less growth potential than other assets, financial advisers have said cash allocations are providing a sense of comfort for clients, allowing them to ride out volatility without sacrificing their lifestyle.
AMP’s advice platform has announced three additions to its managed account menu with the new funds aimed to help advisers with clients’ income protection and fixed income needs.
Wealth technology platform HeirWealth has announced a partnership with Hatch Accountants to support the intergenerational wealth transfer.