SMSF trustees have high growth expectations for the next 12 months, yet as many as 55 per cent have moved to a more defensive asset allocation amid continued market volatility, according to a recent industry paper.

Advisers need to discuss three crucial strategies that are required for every SMSF client as the current number of funds with all three in place is low, an SMSF strategist has said.

A recurring misunderstanding in the industry is that only one investment strategy is required for a husband-and-wife SMSF, according to a technical expert.

The provision of quality advice on a retiree’s drawdown is vital to address the challenges posed by growing life expectancies, according to Vanguard Investments.

SMSF trustees are looking to make the most of the current superannuation rules by significantly increasing their non-concessional contributions (NCC), the latest SuperConcepts “SMSF Investment Patterns Survey” has found.

Advisers and accountants should be raising the possibility of implementing superannuation contribution splitting strategies immediately in light of the proposed changes to the retirement savings system incorporating member balance thresholds, a technical expert has said.

Amendments to the proposed non-concessional contributions (NCC) cap change and how it will be implemented have provided a new opportunity for advisers to use opportunistic strategies for their clients, an SMSF technical expert has said.

SMSF trustees and advisers need to have planned some tax minimisation strategies well in advance of the commencement of a pension, and also should allow any future change in member circumstances, a superannuation technical specialist has warned.

In recent times the focus on using an intergenerational SMSF as part of an overall estate planning strategy has increased, particularly where the succession of a family business is concerned. But what exactly is an intergenerational SMSF?