Former federal treasurer Peter Costello has argued against banning the use of direct borrowing within superannuation, saying the reasons for the proposal are not factually based and not enough credit has been given to SMSF trustee competency.

The latest Zenith Investment Partners fixed income sector review has shown managers are adopting innovative strategies to maximise return, with some solid results. The research house’s assessment showed the global fixed income market, as represented by the Barclays Global Aggregate Index ($A hedged), generated a return of 10.37 per cent for the year ended 31 […]

The ATO is urging SMSF trustees who have not taken the necessary steps to make their funds SuperStream ready to receive contributions from medium to large employers to do so before this year’s 30 June deadline.

Conversations about the trustee structure of an SMSF are complex and need to happen while all the existing members are alive and of sound mind, a sector specialist has said.

ATO scrutiny over a loophole that has surfaced within the legislation allowing excess non-concessional contributions to be refunded should not worry SMSF members as they would not be breaking any current laws, according to an SMSF commentator.

A service aimed at assisting accountants with their licensing decision around the provision of financial advice has been launched.

AMP Capital is looking to provided more managed funds specifically developed for SMSF investors in the future as a result of the success enjoyed by the organisation since the inception of its dedicated business unit to service the sector.

The number of accountants taking positive action to comply with the new licensing regime that will replace the existing exemption under which they can operate remains low, according to an existing Australian financial services licence (AFSL) holder.

SMSF online service provider SuperCentral has launched an estate planning support facility for financial advisers and accountants.