A panel of industry experts has rejected the idea the ATO’s responsibilities as the sector regulator could be compromised as the new compliance penalty regime builds momentum and is potentially regarded as a solid fiscal revenue stream for the government.

SMSF investors have accepted micro-caps as a viable asset class now more than ever, with the trend anticipated to continue into global investments.

The new preservation age for superannuation, which started last Wednesday, was bound to result in slip-ups by advisers and trustees, an industry practitioner has warned.

The team behind independent SMSF audit firm Engage Super last week joined Deloitte in a move that will enhance the professional services firm’s capability in the SMSF space.

Ben Anderson provides a snapshot of the current status of the domestic residential property market.

The decision on whether to include SMSF services in accounting and advice practices is now front and centre as many businesses are looking at how to bring in specialisation.

The federal government’s proposed requirement for Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA)-regulated superannuation funds to have an independent chair and one-third of their boards made up of independent directors has been welcomed by two SMSF industry bodies.

Rapid technological change means accounting and advice firms must go back and assess every process and method to ensure they are effective for the future.

An Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) investigation has resulted in the principal of Sherwin Financial Planners being charged with a number of fraud offences.