Financial advisers need to use suitable benchmarks to assess the performance of their clients’ SMSFs in order to give trustees the best possible opportunity to make informed investment decisions, an investment analyst has said.

Mathematical financial modelling specialist Optimo Financial is in the process of developing its online personal finance modelling system to make it applicable for an SMSF audience.

The Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) today revealed a new logo for its operations in Australia and overseas, the first of a number of new initiatives for its members.

BT Financial Group (BTFG) has revealed its general manager of superannuation, Melinda Howes, has absorbed responsibility for the firm’s SMSF business, following the announcement of Craig Lawrenson’s departure last month.

SMSFs involving many people can be complex and time-consuming to deconstruct, therefore when establishing an intergenerational SMSF, it is vital to discuss what will happen when it is eventually wound up, according to SMSF Association head of technical Peter Hogan.

The Alternative Investment Management Association (AIMA) has revealed SMSF trustees’ awareness and education level in relation to alternative investments have improved over the years, however, misconceptions about the asset class are still the sector’s biggest challenge.

Specialist SMSF service provider SuperConcepts has announced it will be increasing the size of its South Australian-based operation, with an additional 55 jobs created in its Adelaide office.

SMSF administration provider Xpress Super and RateSetter have forged an integration partnership increasing the type of investments available on the administration platform to include peer-to-peer lending.

A lack of diversification and limited exposure to debt-based products was constraining the portfolios of Australian SMSF trustees and a new approach to income investments was needed, according to marketplace lender Zagga.