Westpac appoints board financial crime committee
Westpac has newly appointed its board financial crime committee and has appointed Promontory Financial Group to undertake the external accountability and financial crime program review which has been outlined in its response plan.
Westpac’s group chair, Lindsay Maxsted, said the committee would be chaired by non-executive director, Peter Nash, and included other non-executive directors, Nerida Caesar, Steven Harker and Margaret Seale.
“Westpac is determined to urgently address the issues that have given rise to the Austrac statement of claim,” Maxsted said.
“We are genuinely remorseful for any hurt caused by the shortcomings in our systems and processes and understand we need to find the root causes and ensure accountability.”
The bank said that, in addition to Promontory’s appointment, it would also establish an accountability review advisory panel of three independent experts to consider Promontory’s report and provide recommendations on governance as well as board accountability.
Recommended for you
BT’s Bryan Ashenden has encouraged advisers to remain aware of the Financial Services and Credit Panel’s four latest determinations against relevant providers to avoid running into the same issues.
While Australia continues to rank strongly in Natixis IM’s global retirement index, financial advisers are still vital to mitigating the financial strain being felt by retirees.
According to the Financial Advice Association Australia, upgrades to its Find a Planner platform will make it easier for potential clients to connect with a financial adviser that matches their needs.
The Institute of Financial Professionals Australia has partnered with advice fintech moneyGPS, giving its members and their clients access to the platform.