IOOF remains acquisitive


IOOF has signalled it remains in the market for strategic acquisitions after downplaying its failure to acquire AXA Asia Pacific’s North platform.
IOOF chief executive Chris Kelaher (pictured) told the company’s annual general meeting that IOOF’s interest in acquiring the North platform as part of National Australia Bank’s (NAB’s) bid for AXA AP was “opportunistic rather than strategically important”.
“While it is disappointing that it did not proceed, IOOF remains firmly focused on its existing strategy of integration, business simplification, and future adviser-driven growth into IOOF’s flagship platforms,” he said.
Kelaher said that what could not be ignored from the experience was the important role the investment platform played in the wealth management industry for advisers and their clients.
“A strong administration system, combined with superior service standards is vital for success,” he said.
He said that IOOF’s growth strategy would be adviser driven “both organically and through considered acquisitions”.
Recommended for you
Licensee Centrepoint Alliance has completed the acquisition of Brighter Super’s annual review service advice book, via Financial Advice Matters.
ASIC has launched court proceedings against the responsible entity of three managed investment schemes with around 600 retail investors.
There is a gap in the market for Australian advisers to help individuals with succession planning as the country has been noted by Capital Group for being overly “hands off” around inheritances.
ASIC has cancelled the AFSL of an advice firm associated with Shield and First Guardian collapses, and permanently banned its responsible manager.