MLC completes platform revamp
MLC will present its new look MasterKey platform to the market next week when it goes live with a raft of changes announced late last year aimed at enabling advisers to more efficiently service a broader range of clients.
The enhancements include the new MLC MasterKey Investment Service, new insurance product MLC MasterKey Protection Essentials and an enhanced margin lending offer, National Margin Lending.
One of the key aims of the new offerings is to allow advisers to provide retirement advice to people in their thirties and forties, according to MLC head of investment solutions, Anthony Waldron.
“It is now common knowledge that Australia is facing a significant challenge called the retirement savings gap. One of the ways to close this gap is for people to take control of their finances much earlier in life,” Waldron said.
“People in their 30s and 40s have different needs to retirees. They are in a wealth accumulation phase and need advice on wealth protection and debt management as well as superannuation and investments,” he added.
The new insurance offer has been designed to provide an uncomplicated solution without the bells and whistles most clients won’t ever use.
“Wealth protection is critical for the thirty-something market as this is the segment that has the highest levels of debt and therefore has an equally high amount of risk if an unfortunate event occurs which prevents the primary bread winner from going out to work,” Waldron said.
Recommended for you
Financial advisers are reminded to ensure their CPD is up to date with the Financial Services and Credit Panel making its second determination in a week after an adviser failed to meet the requirements.
An adviser has received a written reprimand from the Financial Services and Credit Panel after failing to meet his CPD requirements, the panel’s first action since June.
While efficiency remains a top priority for Australian advisers, State Street has revealed the profession is now juggling this desire with the need to maintain personalisation of its service offering.
A possible acquisition of data provider Iress is becoming a greater likelihood after the firm announced it is engaging with multiple interested parties.
