2022 media releases archive

Half a million dollars was once considered the minimum balance threshold that applied when deciding whether an SMSF is suitable for a client. According to ASIC’s previous guidance, an SMSF would only be suitable if the client’s super balance was $500,000 or above.

In a year characterised by market volatility, and global economic challenges, one constant in wealth management has been the growth of managed accounts. The Institute of Managed Accounts Professionals notes in its latest report that, in June 2022, funds under management (FUM) in managed accounts reached a new high of $135.8bn, increasing by 22% compared to the FUM amount in June 2021.

As chief information officer an unplanned technology outage is what keeps you awake at night. In August 2021, while customer data and the back end of the platform were never compromised, BT Panorama’s adviser and customer online systems experienced an outage, preventing digital access.

More Australians are expected to be eligible for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card soon, due to an imminent regulatory change aimed at easing cost of living pressures for seniors. We also look at the most popular queries raised by advisers in the July to September 2022 quarter.

BT has launched the Robotic Integrated Technology Administration (RITA) feature on BT Panorama, which enables advisers and their support staff to track the status of transactions via the platform’s user interface.

Today BT announced the appointment of Rachael Dickinson as its new of Head of Marketing, to lead the businesses digital and customer experience marketing strategy as BT fortifies its agenda to become the undisputed partner of choice as it looks to separate from the Westpac Group.

The June quarter saw usage of BT Panorama peak in tandem with market volatility, with over 1.6 million total logins by advisers and clients, up 23% compared to the prior corresponding period (PCP).

In addition to the usual year-end to-do list for financial advisers, in the mix this year are changes regarding downsizer contributions, the superannuation guarantee and the Covid-related measure on minimum pension drawdowns.

Looking for ways to support your client engagement and referral pathways using social media? We surveyed financial advisers as part of our recent interactive social media webinars and here are some of the key findings.

The Federal Budget’s focus was on addressing cost of living pressures and, although it was extremely quiet on superannuation, there was nonetheless healthy adviser interest in some of the proposed measures, including: the tax offset for low to middle income taxpayers, social security measures such as the $250 one-off cost of living payment, and extension of minimum pension drawdowns.

Boosting digital capability and simplifying processes to better support advisers

Today BT announced the appointment of Kathryn Cosentino to the newly created role of Head of Product Management in its platforms business.

BT, one of Australia’s leading wealth management businesses, has launched its first brand campaign in over two years. The refresh showcases its technical and investing knowhow to boost brand consideration among its target audience segments.

For the fourth year running, BT Panorama has been awarded best mobile platform and best client portal by industry research house Investment Trends.

Advisers’ take up of managed accounts solutions on contemporary platforms with full digital features remains strong and comprised 66% of net flows to BT Panorama for the December quarter.

Advisers are preparing for a busy 2022, with an action list related to regulations that impact their business and professional development, as well as future opportunities for their clients.