The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) will crack down on SMSFs that fail to lodge annual returns in a timely manner by preventing them from receiving employer contributions and rollover benefits from large superannuation funds.

AMP Capital has appointed Tim Keegan to the newly created role of head of SMSF, as it prepares to develop specific solutions for the segment for release in 2014.

A high number of accountants who are not accredited to provide investment advice have been referring their SMSF clients to one rather than several financial planners, according to the latest Investment Trends research.

Recent research performed on the superannuation industry indicates client retention will be the most important factor for advisers operating in the SMSF sector, according to a sector expert.

Advisers must harness strategies to properly manage and maximise contributions in SMSFs to enable their clients to get the best possible outcomes for retirement.

The Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (AUASB) has updated its guidance statement regarding the audit of SMSFs.

SMSF investors are beginning to understand the importance of emerging market exposure, with economic growth in the sector expected to be faster than in developed markets in the future.

Recent concerns about the effect of SMSF investing on Australian residential property prices can potentially be alleviated through fractional investment methods to access the popular assets class, according to a financial services property manager.

Independent product provider Wealthtrac has developed a mobile app to enhance its SMSF platform, enabling users to set up an SMSF and gain access to information and education.