Adviser platform Hub24 has launched new functionality allowing direct access to individual international stocks, building on its suite of international managed portfolios that directly target SMSFs and the asset imbalance in their portfolios.

The familiarity that individuals have of a particular company may help address the situation many SMSF investors are often accused of facing, that is, having disproportionately large portfolio allocations to Australian equities, a behavioural finance executive has said.

The industry must prepare for unintended consequences that will emerge from the complexity of the new superannuation legislation, particularly as the definition of super has not yet been enshrined.

Dare I say it: advisers and clients face an unprecedented time of certainty. There you go, I am saying it. We face a period with certainty about how the superannuation rules are going to work, and we have seven months to prepare ourselves and our clients for that future.

The launch of the comprehensive Australian Equities Database (AED), spanning 1926 to the 1970s, has provided new lessons for SMSF trustees and members on return expectations, investment decisions and time horizons.

SMSFs may be a great structure to help facilitate the growth of clients’ superannuation balances, however, deciding whether they are a viable option should be determined by checking off several important factors and not focusing just on costs.

The SMSF Association has revealed the new, wide-ranging superannuation changes will be the central focus of its 2017 National Conference in Melbourne.

All limited recourse borrowing arrangements (LRBA) involving related-party loans should be reviewed prior to Christmas to ensure they do not generate non-arm’s-length income.

Accountants have been encouraged to voice their bold ideas to influence and drive legislative change in the industry, as well as ensuring the profession’s prosperity.