Financial Standard

Local advice sector an attractive opportunity for global PE firms

MATTHEW WAI   Local experts are observing a growing investment opportunity in Australian advice platforms that may not be as apparent for global investors, but since the sector is currently at its "infancy", many can capitalise on buying low and selling high.

InvestStream, MUFG partner to enhance digital advice in super

MATTHEW WAI   InvestStream is aiming to lead the delivery and expansion of personalised digital advice across super funds in a new partnership with MUFG Retirement Solutions.

Colchester launches first two ETFs in Australia

ELIZA BAVIN   Colchester Global Investors has handed a mandate to Equity Trustees for two new ETFs, making it's first offerings in Australia.

Dexus adds $700m Brisbane tower sale to divestment drive

VINNY VUCAGO   Dexus has continued its asset sell-down program agreeing to divest Brisbane office tower 480 Queen Street for a gross sale price of $700 million just after surpassing its $2 billion divestment target ahead of schedule.

Corporate hybrid issuance surges: Report

VINNY VUCAGO   Corporate hybrids are re-emerging as a significant segment of the Australian dollar credit market, with QIC saying the asset class is benefiting from regulatory reforms, growing investor demand and changing rating treatment.

Final report into Life Code makes 85 recommendations

MATTHEW WAI   The final report of an independent review of the Life Insurance Code of Practice has been finalised, proposing some 85 recommendations across aspects of mental health, customer vulnerability, claims handling, and sales practices.

Aussies ditch 'Great Australian Dream,' pursue 'Great Australian Lifestyle'

KARREN VERGARA   The "Great Australian Dream" has been superseded by the pursuit of the "Great Australian Lifestyle" as a new measure of success underscored by financial security, a new survey finds.

FEATURE | Retirement | A layer of confidence

MATTHEW WAI   Retirement is often the most vulnerable and least exciting phase for Australians, yet it can also become a fulfilling period for those who plan in advance and seek reliable sources of income. Matthew Wai writes.

PC calls on government to 'redouble' efforts to close the gap

ELIZA BAVIN   The Productivity Commission has released its 2026 annual Data Compilation Report, tracking Australia's performance towards the National Agreement on Closing the Gap.

Mixed inflation data keeps August RBA meeting a 'live' one

RIDDHIMA TALWANI   Australia's Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 3.8% in the 12 months to June, down from 4% in the 12 months to May 2026, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

ASIC simplifies compliance with beneficial ownership reforms

RIDDHIMA TALWANI   ASIC has simplified compliance with its beneficial ownership reforms that will improve transparency about who ultimately owns, controls or has significant economic exposure to listed entities in Australia.

FSC calls for tougher oversight of advice licensees

VINNY VUCAGO   The Financial Services Council (FSC) has called for a significant overhaul of ASIC's supervisions of financial advice licensees, arguing stronger regulatory oversight is needed to better protect consumers following recent industry failures.

State Super names former super chief as chair

VINNY VUCAGO   State Super has appointed a former superannuation chief executive as chair of its board, effective September 1.

Warakirri names head of wholesale

MATTHEW WAI   Warakirri Asset Management has appointed a head of wholesale to lead the expansion of its market presence and relationships with consultants, key dealer groups and platforms.

Emerging markets, private assets lift NGS Super FY26 performance

KARREN VERGARA   Emerging markets, commodities and maturing private assets took the shine away from equities, helping deliver nearly 12% p.a. for NGS Super members over the last financial year.

Labor commits to compulsory super for under-18 workers

RIDDHIMA TALWANI   Labor has unanimously supported extending superannuation to under-18 Australian workers.

Block Earner launches crypto-backed loan platform

MATTHEW WAI   Block Earner has launched Australia's first crypto-backed lending platform, which utilises Fireblocks' institutional-grade custody technology to safeguard clients' assets.

Padua expands advice portal with AUSIEX partnership

VINNY VUCAGO   Padua Solutions has expanded its Padua Advice Portal, naming AUSIEX as its exclusive broking partner as the advice technology provider looks to streamline advice generation, implementation and compliance for financial advisers.

Family businesses turn to external chief executives: Deloitte

RIDDHIMA TALWANI   While family members will largely remain at the helm of family businesses post-succession, a Deloitte Private report anticipates a meaningful shift globally, with more businesses preferring outside professionals to step into the chief executive roles.

MST Financial broadens services to Alder & Partners

KARREN VERGARA   MST Financial has broadened its services for Alder & Partners Private Wealth Management, providing "institutional-grade investments" across managed accounts, asset allocation and research.