NZ company exits UK pensions arrangements
A New Zealand company dealing with pension arrangements under the UK’s Qualifying Recognised Overseas Pension Scheme (QROPS) has written a letter to clients and distributors announcing its intention to “withdraw from the international QROPS” marketplace, citing uncertainty about the future of the system.
The company, Southern Star Administration Limited, which had been promoting the Southern Star Retirement Fund, said the decision had been taken after a review of the scheme’s recent member expectations and the value proposition the company offered.
“The directors also believe there is considerable uncertainty regarding the future of the present QROPS transfer system, and have an expectation of changes being put in place by regulators which are likely to strengthen the retention requirements for members of New Zealand retirement schemes,” the letter said.
The decision by the New Zealand company follows on from reports that the UK Government is contemplating tightening the rules regarding QROPS arrangements – something that could affect the operations of financial advisers in both New Zealand and Australia.
AUTHOR
Mike Taylor
Recommended for you
AZ NGA has entered into a strategic partnership with national advice firm MiQ Private Wealth, as a way to provide a succession solution, as well as career development opportunities for staff.
While the advice profession struggles under growing operating costs, Adviser Ratings has found more than half of practices – some 58 per cent – that generate less than $250,000 in revenue report no profit at all.
The Federal Court has ordered the freezing of assets and the appointment of receivers to two entities linked to Australian Fiduciaries, ASIC’s latest move in an ongoing investigation into the company’s managed investment schemes.
Off the back of the August adviser exam results, the profession has seen 17 new entrants hit the Financial Adviser Register (FAR) this week, helping numbers return to positive territory.
