Overheads on Enhanced Vetting Could Ratchet Up Wholesale Fund Costs
Overheads on Enhanced Vetting Could Ratchet Up Wholesale Fund Costs
0
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
The prospect of intensified scrutiny in confirming wholesale investor status could potentially tip the balance of competitiveness away from wholesale funds.
According to recent commentary from the Financial Services Council (FSC), implementing added verification processes might impact these funds' ability to compete effectively.
The FSC, a notable entity representing fund managers, superannuation funds, and financial advisory services, conveyed these concerns before a Parliamentary Committee. They specifically referred to the current reliance on wholesale accountant certificates as a verification tool, which members consider vital.
When approached by the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services, the FSC chose not to delve into the perceptions of primary accounting groups regarding the persistence of the accountant certificate system. As for their take on the daily operations tied to generating qualified accountant certificates, the council admitted they weren't in the best position to comment.
"By necessity, many fund managers rely on qualified accountant certificates to verify that prospective clients meet the wholesale client/investor test,” affirmed the FSC. It emphasized its approval for the system, reasoning that individual accountants have superior insights into their clients’ eligibility compared to fund managers.
Highlighting the competitive pressures, the FSC said, “Australian wholesale fund managers already need to compete with:
domestic retail funds; and
offshore asset managers,
neither of which are burdened by the compliance expectations linked to the wholesale client/investor test requirements." The undercurrent is that increased due diligence demands would only add cost layers that could impact customers.
The necessity for rigorous due diligence, typically managed by accountants, if shifted to fund managers, would transform into an administrative hitch, subsequently impacting consumers. "This would make these wholesale products less attractive," the council explained. Addressing investment shortages within sectors like domestic venture capital, which rely heavily on such funds, was another key point highlighted in the discussion.
Sourced originally from a detailed account by Mike Taylor (Financial Services Council), these insights illuminate the delicate balance within fund management competition and regulatory responsibilities.
Published:Thursday, 7th Nov 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
The Australian has unveiled 'Wealth', a dedicated digital-first section designed to assist Australians in making informed financial decisions. This initiative reflects the publication's commitment to providing comprehensive coverage on personal finance topics, including investment strategies, superannuation, retirement planning, and property investment. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has issued a warning to the public regarding a surge in scams where fraudsters impersonate the commission. These scammers are contacting individuals via emails and text messages, falsely claiming that a payment is required to release funds or assets. Find out now if you qualify and compare rates, offers and options from multiple lenders - without a credit check! - read more
Australia's exchange-traded fund (ETF) industry has experienced significant growth, increasing by $63 billion since the start of the year to reach a total valuation of $309.3 billion by the end of September 2025. This milestone reflects the growing popularity of ETFs among Australian investors seeking diversified and cost-effective investment options. - read more
Debt consolidation is a strategy often utilized by individuals seeking to take control of their financial health. At its core, debt consolidation involves combining multiple debts into a single, more manageable loan, typically with more favorable terms such as a lower interest rate or a longer repayment period. - read more
Embarking on the journey to homeownership is both exciting and daunting. It's a significant milestone that requires careful planning and disciplined saving. For many Australians, buying a first home represents a dream come true, and it's essential to approach it strategically. - read more
In the dynamic world of Australian finance, securing a loan can be a pivotal move for individuals seeking to achieve their financial goals. Whether it's for purchasing a dream home, expanding a business, or simply consolidating debt, the importance of smart loan comparison cannot be overstated. With an array of lending products available, borrowers are often faced with a bewildering choice. That's why equipping yourself with powerful loan comparison strategies is not just important, it's essential. - read more
Knowledgebase
Refinancing: The process of obtaining a new mortgage to replace an existing one, often to secure a lower interest rate.
