APRA told to increase efforts to identify superannuation risks

The Financial Regulator Assessment Authority has handed down a report into the effectiveness and capability of the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority. It found the prudential regulator plays a key role in ensuring Australia has a safe and stable financial system. But it also made five recommendations for APRA to improve its resolution function. The recommendations … Read more

Future Fund repositions portfolio for ‘stickier inflation’

Australia’s sovereign wealth fund is bullish on private equity and renewable energy, but its CIO office is getting nervous that inflation and volatile markets will make it “extremely difficult” for the fund to meet its stated investment objective. Here’s how it is preparing for the next five to 10 years.

Don’t over-estimate trustee demand for financial advice: IFS

While some industry super funds are interested in expanding their advice offering post-QAR, many others are wary about meeting any potential further expectations to give advice and would rather steer clear of it.

Mason Stevens appoints Toussaint as CFO

Specialist wealth platform provider Mason Stevens has appointed Laurent Toussaint as chief financial officer. He will commence in the role after he departs Count, which was announced yesterday. Toussaint will replace Wayne Twomey, who will work to ensure a smooth transition before his retirement. Toussaint has 25 years of experience in finance, mergers and acquisitions, … Read more

Managed funds experience $2.8b outflows

Managed equity funds have seen the worst quarter in five years, with outflows across all fund types totalling a net $2.80 billion in Q2, according to the latest Fund Flow Index from global funds network Calastone. Australian investors have fled the funds for the perceived safety of fixed income and cash, Calastone concluded Q2 marked … Read more

‘Net-zero absolutely achievable’: Qantas CEO Alan Joyce

In one of his first interviews since announcing his retirement after 15 years in the role, Qantas CEO Alan Joyce credited superannuation investors with helping the airline make progress towards its ESG commitments. He also urged listed companies and their investors not to shy away from supporting social causes such as marriage equality and the Indigenous Voice to Parliament.

State Street appoints global sustainability head

State Street Corporation has appointed executive vice president Jessica Donohue as head of global investment insights, sustainability, and impact; replacing Rick Lacaille, who announced his retirement earlier this year. In this role, Donohue will oversee State Street’s sustainability efforts and bring together investment insights and solutions to deepen the consultancy’s relationships. Donohue has held a … Read more

Rest appoints WTW as asset consultant

Profit-to-member super fund Rest has appointed Willis Towers Watson as an asset consultant to its board and the board’s investment committee. The appointment follows a competitive tender process that began in October 2022, and will improve independent advice within Rest’s investment governance framework. JANA Investment Advisers will continue as the asset consultant to Rest’s investments … Read more