FirstChoice automates application process with XPLAN



Colonial First State’s FirstChoice platform has embarked on a joint development with IRESS’ XPLAN software, which the two companies said would reduce application turnaround time for advisers.
With the new deal between IRESS and CFS, financial planners can automate the production of FirstChoice applications which, when submitted to CFS, will generate real-time account numbers linked immediately to clients in XPLAN.
Following adviser demands in recent years, major financial planning software developers have been focusing on speeding up application processes and reducing paperwork for financial advisers when it comes to servicing clients.
“This solution provides advisers with a more efficient process that removes duplication of data entry and can significantly reduce the risks associated with manual handling of paperwork,” CFS general manager product and investment services, Alan Kenny (pictured) said.
According to IRESS managing director, Andrew Walsh, the main benefit of this integration was the ability to open investment and superannuation accounts much faster.
“This integration with Colonial First State allows advisers to speed up the investment application process by supporting real-time submission of pre-validated application data,” Walsh said.
“The loop is closed in the advice platform by automatically linking the account number to the client record,” he added.
Recommended for you
A quarter of advisers who commenced on the FAR within the last two years have already switched licensees or practices, adding validity to practice owners’ professional year (PY) concerns.
Integrated wealth and financial services group Rethink has launched a financial planning arm called Rethink Wealth to expand beyond property investing and into holistic wealth management.
While adviser numbers continue to slowly creep back up, the latest Wealth Data analysis reveals they would actually be in the green for the calendar year if it weren’t for so many losses in the limited advice space.
Iress has appointed a chief AI officer to spearhead the fintech’s strategic focus on AI, with chief executive Marcus Price describing how the technology opens the doors to a “new frontier for wealth advice”.