The changes to the superannuation system could be increasing the risk levels involved for financial advisers due to their restrictive nature and the increasing need to put strategies in place as early as possible to facilitate the best possible client outcome, according to a technical expert.

SMSF advisers are feeling bogged down by all the new super changes and are likely to be working through them beyond Christmas, a specialist sector lawyer has said.

SMSF accounts in accumulation phase are projected to hold $236 billion in funds under management (FUM) and comprise 9 per cent of total assets by 2026, down from 14 per cent in 2016, according to the latest figures from DEXX&R.

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.