Defensive asset classes have been marked as the segment to watch, with more flows and demand expected from SMSF trustees in the next 12 months following continued market volatility.

The wide-ranging changes to the nation’s superannuation system delivered in the federal budget will drive greater planning around saving and retirement, which could lead to more Australians seeking control and, in turn, looking to SMSFs.

The latest sector research has shown trustees are gradually moving away from the S&P top 10 shares in search of capital growth and greater yield.

The scrapping of the 10 per cent rule was one positive change in regard to superannuation that was contained in last week’s federal budget, according to a retirement savings expert.

The changes to the superannuation rules contained in last week’s federal budget had implications for financial planning software providers as some inbuilt strategies had now been compromised, according to NowInfinity principal Grant Abbott.

Peer-to-peer (P2P) lending is proving its resilience as an asset class, which in turn is drawing more interest and flows from SMSFs.

SMSF trustees were turning to low-volatility stocks to complement the large caps in their portfolios, particularly as continued volatility was expected in the next year, according to investment manager AllianceBernstein (AB).

The Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) is adopting advice as a key area of focus for its members in terms of educational pathways, as it looks to broaden the traditional suite of services accountants offer.