Wealth Management Podcast Network

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Olivia Grace-Curran sits down with AMP Chief Economist Shane Oliver to unpack the Reserve Bank's latest rate hike, the inflation outlook, geopolitical risks and what it all means for investors navigating an increasingly volatile environment. Oliver says the RBA's third consecutive rate hike reflects growing concern that inflation could become entrenched, particularly amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the continued closure risks surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. While he believes rates are either at or near their peak, he expects at least one more hike could arrive later this year before cuts begin in 2027. Oliver warns a prolonged blockage of the Strait could trigger a more severe stagflationary shock for Australia and the global economy. Australia's heavy reliance on imported fuel exposes broader vulnerabilities in national energy security and supply chains. The Australian dollar has strengthened as the RBA continues tightening while other central banks remain on hold.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford speaks with AMP chief economist Shane Oliver about the March quarter CPI figuresand what it means for interest rates, households and markets. Shane breaks down how the impact of headline inflation jumping to 4.6 per cent over the year to March, largely driven by a surge in fuel prices linked to the US–Iran conflict, and the likelihood that the RBA moves to hike rates at its May meeting. Tune in to hear: Whether the RBA is better off acting now, or if the prior hikes could cause a pause. How the ongoing US-Iran war and its shifting ceasefire deadlines is feeding into further inflation. The impact of the AI boom and US tech giants powering US profit growth on markets.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver unpack the approaching federal budget against a backdrop of weak productivity and mounting geopolitical risk. Shane outlines the Treasurer's three-pronged agenda – savings, productivity reforms, and tax changes – while warning that genuine reform could be derailed by populist, short‑term cost‑of‑living measures. Tune in to hear: Why the tax mix needs to be reset to have a greater focus on GST and less on income. The importance of a long-term view versus short-term fixes to address cost of living pressures. Where the US–Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz disruption stands.

Australia's commercial property market continues to adjust to changing lending conditions, creating a renewed focus on the role commercial real estate debt plays in diversified portfolios. In this episode of Relative Return, the discussion explores how commercial real estate debt is being actively used by advisers and wholesale investors seeking capital stability, income resilience and diversification within portfolios.  

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver break down the economic fallout from the ongoing US–Iran conflict and the second layer of blockade stopping oil from flowing through the Strait of Hormuz. Oliver explains the downstream impacts of an extended conflict, how long Australia can continue before stringent restrictions on petrol would need to be implemented, and whether a fire at one of Australia's two remaining oil refineries will further compound the issue. Tune in to hear: What the government may be targeting for next month's budget. Whether the strong unemployment result will drive a rate hike at the May RBA meeting. Why markets seem unconcerned about Trump applying pressure to the Fed's independence.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver unpack the messy US–Iran–Israel conflict, Trump's latest TACO backdown, and what the fragile ceasefire and Strait of Hormuz disruptions mean for oil prices and investors. They also explore how billionaire windfalls, housing-driven wealth inequality and gas-export profits are feeding political backlash against liberal democracy, and why Australia needs holistic tax reform – covering gas taxes, GST, bracket creep and spending – rather than more policy tinkering. Tune in to hear: How markets are reacting to the fragile ceasefire. The worsening state of wealth inequality. Why holistic tax reform is needed rather than a piecemeal approach.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford is joined by AMP deputy chief economist Diana Mousina to take a look at the latest inflation figures and whether there is anything useful to learn from the pre-Iran war figures. She explains that while February data suggested inflation had been peaking before the conflict, the coming months are likely to tell a very different story as energy prices ripple through the economy. Tune in to hear: Whether the potential of stagflation needs to be a bigger concern. What to expect from future inflation figures with higher oil prices baked in. How the government may respond to growing pressure for broader tax reform.

In this episode of the Relative Return Insider podcast, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver unpack why the Strait of Hormuz chokepoint for global oil supply is the critical variable for markets. Shane warns that the longer the strait remains blocked, the higher the risk of further oil price spikes and extended economic pain, while Treasury modelling is forecasting inflation heading towards 5 per cent this year. Tune in to hear: How the multi‑million barrel per day oil shortfall continuing will affect global economies. With inflation heading higher, whether the RBA will make another move following this week's rate hike. Why short-term solutions need to be avoided in favour of real budget reform.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver discuss the market turmoil triggered by the escalating US–Iran conflict and closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which is disrupting the flow of oil and gas. Shane forecasts the impact of the increasing cost of oil on Australia's fuel prices and similarities to the 1970s oil crises, and how this could flow through to a mix of higher inflation, weaker growth, and renewed focus on energy security and de‑globalisation. Tune in to hear: How the US–Iran conflict is affecting global markets beyond fuel prices. Why the RBA will likely move to hike rates next week – and if it would be the right call. Whether the shock is likely to accelerate structural shifts.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver unpack the rapidly evolving US–Israel–Iran conflict and its implications for oil markets, inflation and investors. Shane explains why Middle East conflicts matter mainly through their impact on oil supply, highlighting Iran's role as a significant producer and the critical importance of the Strait of Hormuz, and how disruptions there could translate into higher global oil prices. Tune in to hear: Whether higher fuel costs as the war continues will push up inflation. How the base case for the RBA has changed for its March meeting and beyond. If there is any rhyme or reason for the bitcoin rebound over the last week.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford is joined by AMP chief economist Shane Oliver to unpack a tumultuous week for global markets, led by the US Supreme Court's decision to strike down Trump's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act for imposing tariffs. Oliver explains how the administration has pivoted to Section 122 of the Trade Act to apply a temporary flat tariff of 15 per cent on all countries, what the implications are for Australia as it faces a higher rate, and the messy question of tariff refunds for businesses and whether any benefit ever flows back to US consumers. Tune in to hear: Why January's CPI numbers have increased the chances of an RBA hike in May. Whether the government is likely to use the upcoming budget to announce major reform. The likelihood that volatility in markets will continue.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford is joined by AMP chief economist Shane Oliver to break down the latest Australian jobs and wages data, what a still‑tight labour market means for inflation and RBA rate hikes, and how households are really faring in the cost‑of‑living squeeze. They also look at why the ASX is hitting new highs despite valuation risks, and scan key geopolitical flashpoints – from Iran and oil prices to possible US tariff changes – that could rattle markets in the months ahead. Tune in to hear: Why steady unemployment, strong full‑time job growth, and a slightly lower participation rate are keeping conditions a little tight. How real wages in the negative but broader earnings measures and strong employment suggest households overall are OK, not fantastic. What is driving the ASX to record highs, and where potential geopolitical flashpoints could impact markets.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford speaks with AMP chief economist Shane Oliver about the ASX brushing record highs amid a robust profit reporting season and whether a bullish view on AI is actually a case to exit US tech stocks. Oliver broke down how strong results from miners and banks has driven the Australian market to a new high despite cost‑of‑living pressures, inflation worries and global geopolitical risks. Tune in to hear: Why AI's long‑term winners may be outside big US tech. Whether AI will be truly transformative or if it will fall below expectations. How public spending is adding to demand and inflation pressures, but the inflation spike should be partly temporary.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver discuss the RBA's decision to increase rates and what it signals for inflation, growth, and housing. Oliver delves into how elevated aggregate demandis colliding with capacity constraints and weak productivity, leaving Australia more inflation‑prone even at modest growth rates, as well as the impact that the RBA's decision will have on the housing market. Tune in to hear: Why the time is ripe for a tax reform to go further than the mooted changes to the CGT discount. Whether tech shares are overvalued as even strong results are met with price dips. How a new Federal Reserve chair could impact US monetary policy.

In this episode of the Relative Return Insider podcast, AMP chief economist Shane Oliver joins host Keith Ford to unpack the latest Australian CPI print, with inflation higher than expected and above the RBA's prior forecasts. Despite a strong consensus among economists and money markets for a near-term rate hike, Oliver argues this meeting is a close call and there are certainly arguments that the RBA would be better off holding rates to gather more data. Tune in to hear: Why the RBA is constrained to using the blunt instrument of rates decisions. The ongoing relationship between geopolitical risk and the surging price of both precious and industrial metals. How US political volatility is impacting the Aussie dollar.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver unpack Donald Trump's latest Greenland saga, the TACO pattern of bold threats and inevitable backdowns, and what it all means for markets. Oliver explains recurring tariff scares, attacks on institutions like the Fed, and broader geopolitical tensions are feeding a persistent "sell America" trade, supporting record gold prices, a weaker US dollar, and heightened demand for defensive assets. Tune in to hear: How to avoid getting caught up in the cycle of trying to decipher Trump's announcements and stick to investing fundamentals. Why local political machinations are unlikely to impact markets in the short term. What you should know about Japan's bond yields.  

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver unpack what 2026 might hold for investors amid escalating geopolitical risks and ongoing market volatility. Despite the noise, Shane argues that Australian growth should pick up, inflation will continue to gradually ease, and the monetary environment will remain broadly supportive of equities – with the RBA likely to stand pat on rates for the short term. Listen as they explore: Why 2026 will likely see reasonable growth but elevated geopolitical risk, driving ongoing market volatility rather than a clear boom or bust. The importance of central bank independence and the impact of these concerns on gold and silver. Why investors should continue to focus on diversification, long-term returns and managing downside risk.

In this final episode of Relative Return Insider for 2025, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver wrap-up the year, look ahead to 2026, and break down the most interesting numbers from the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook. The last 12 months was full of challenges and volatility, but for Oliver the most important takeaway has been the resilience of markets as they were buffeted with geopolitical tensions, inequality concerns, and speculation about an AI bubble. Listen as they explore: Why the government should use its strong political position to pursue meaningful fiscal restraint. What the US Fed is likely to do in the face of patchy data due to the shutdown and a slowing but still-resilient labour market. Oliver's expectations for the coming year, including moderate growth, higher volatility and still-positive returns.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver unpack the RBA's decision to keep the cash rate on hold in the face of rising inflation and whether the governor's hawkish tone is a sign of things to come. Oliver also explains the Fed's move to cut rates for the third time, which he characterises as "insurance" against a softening labour market rather than a sign that it is abandoning its inflation target. Listen as they explore: Why the base case for rates should still be a hold, provided inflation behaves. How hyper‑frequent data, constant market checking, and doom‑laden headlines can undermine long‑term investing discipline. The outlook for the seasonal Santa rally.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver discuss the September quarter GDP figures, which show Australia's economy regaining momentum, with annual growth lifting to 2.1 per cent, the fastest pace in two years, despite a softer-than-expected 0.4 per cent quarterly print. Oliver explains that headline GDP was dragged down by inventory run-downs and weaker net exports, but underlying domestic demand was supported by robust business investment – particularly in data centres and AI-related infrastructure. Listen as they explore: The implications of the GDP figures on the RBA's future interest rate decisions. Why Australian home prices continue to climb. How to address the supply side issues constraining housing affordability.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver discuss the latest shock consumer price index numbers, which rose to 3.8 per cent in October, as well as the shifting US market and calls for super funds to invest in infrastructure projects. As US equities swinging sharply before rebounding and AI-driven tech stocks continuing to propel sentiment, Oliver explains why investors may simply be witnessing another temporary correction within a still-intact long-term uptrend. Listen as they explore: Why hotter-than-expected CPI figures have all but ruled out a near-term RBA rate cut. What APRA's cap on high debt-to-income lending signals for investor activity. The growing interest in tapping super funds for infrastructure investment.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver discuss the Reserve Bank of Australia's cautious stance in response to persistent inflation, subdued growth prospects, and political shifts affecting the nation's journey towards net zero emissions.    The discussion also looks at the growing role of cryptocurrencies, considering whether they could hinder productivity by diverting capital away from productive assets, and if there are any potential risks if investment in the digital asset surges.   Listen as they explore: •    RBA as Australia faces inflation and sluggish productivity growth. •    What a resolution to the US government shutdown means going forward. •    Political uncertainty around net zero targets continuing to cloud the business investment climate.

In this episode of Relative Return, host Laura Dew speaks with Rachel White, head of financial adviser services at Vanguard about how advisers can help Australians to feel confident in retirement. Listen as they discuss: - The role of advisers in helping Australians feel confident in retirement.- How advice can bring benefits for wellbeing and emotions- The impact of the advice gap and how advisers can support both clients with complex needs and those who need simple guidance- Vanguard's efforts to help advisers deliver advice more efficiently- Closing the advice gap via the use of technology

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP deputy chief economist Diana Mousina take a look at the Reserve Bank's unanimous decision to leave rates on hold on Melbourne Cup Day and whether future cuts are still on the cards.   Following higher-than-expected inflation numbers last week, the RBA surprised no one as it left rates unchanged, however Mousina suggested the central bank might be overemphasising recent inflation data and not fully accounting for potential weakening in the labour market and consumer spending.   They also explore: •    The impact that Q3 reporting for AI and tech stocks has had on the US market. •    Continued volatility in cryptocurrency markets reflecting the speculative nature of digital assets. •    Whether the government shutdown in the US will start to impact the broader economy.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP deputy chief economist Diana Mousina break down the spike in inflation numbers and what it means for the possibility of a rate cut as we move into the new year. With September quarter inflation data showing trimmed mean rising by 1 per cent, considerably higher than the Reserve Bank of Australia's forecast, a near-term rate cut is unlikely, but that doesn't mean the book should be closed on cuts. They also explore: The US Federal Reserve making the decision to cut rates despite having limited data due to the government shutdown. Why the AI boom is based on solid foundations even as it shows signs of frothiness. The argument for a rate cut to back the labour market.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, MLC Expand CEO Liz McCarthy and Shadforth Financial Group CEO Terry Dillon join host Keith Ford to discuss the transformative role of AI in financial advice and how AI tools are being implemented to drive efficiency. With advice firms looking for greater automation of routine administrative tasks, AI is set to reshape the advice profession's approach to client service and business growth. Tune in to hear: How MLC Expand and Shadforth are responding to the need for greater efficiency through AI tools. Why rigorous governance and privacy protocols to ensure data security and accuracy are so vital. The crucial role of AI in expanding client service capacity, improving financial literacy, and addressing the broader advice gap in the market.

After nearly two decades, the SMSF lending market has matured into a stable and well-regulated segment – yet complexity and misconceptions persist. Bluestone Home Loans head of specialised distribution, Richard Chesworth, joins host Keith Ford to break down the nuances of limited recourse borrowing arrangements (LRBAs). From redrawing for property repairs to understanding offset structures and pre-2018 grandfathering rules, Chesworth highlights that success in SMSF lending depends as much on precision and teamwork as it does on opportunity. Listen as they discuss: How advisers can work through the complexity that still exists in SMSF borrowing. What technical traps remain and how redraws, offsets, and refinancing can trigger compliance risks. The importance of collaborating closely with lenders and prioritising expertise and structure over rate alone.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP economist My Bui explore Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's trip to the US and the critical minerals deal stemming from his meeting with President Donald Trump. The meeting also saw a grand announcement that Australian super fund investment in the US would reach $1.5 trillion over the next decade, and Bui unpacks whether that amounts to a major change or simply the result of funds continuing their current investment approach. They also explore: The importance of Australia maintaining trade relationships with both the US and China. How much weight can be put in announcements about US investments. What caused the largest single-day drop in the price of gold since 2013.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver unpack the latest unemployment numbers and what they mean for a rate cut, as well as how the latest flare-up in the ongoing US–China trade dispute has highlighted the remaining disparity between gold and bitcoin. The last week has seen significant movements in the prices of both bitcoin and gold, and Oliver breaks down what is influencing investor sentiment and market performance, including geopolitical uncertainty, central bank actions and public debt concerns. They also explore: The increasing pressure on the RBA to cut rates due to rising unemployment, despite previous strong economic data. The notable dichotomy between the simultaneous record highs for both the ASX and gold prices. Why a prolonged US government shutdown and trade tensions with China could be significant global economic concerns.

The announcement this week from the government outlining the changes to the $3 million super tax was met with relief, but there are still many unknowns. On this episode of The SMSF Adviser podcast, hosts Keith Ford and Aaron Dunn unpack the changes from the initial proposal to the current version released this week. The discussion emphasises that while the major concerns of taxing unrealised gains and lack of indexation have been addressed, many technical details still need to be clarified through the legislative process and further consultation. Listen as they discuss: Taxable earnings: Originally, the tax applied to all earnings, whether realised or not. The revised measure will only tax realised gains. Indexation: The $3 million threshold will be indexed against the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in $150,000 increments, pegged to transfer balance cap movement. The $10 million threshold will be indexed in $500,000 increments, also aligned with CPI. Tax rates: For balances above $3 million, an additional 15 per cent tax applies to earnings. For balances above $10 million, an additional 10 per cent tax applies to earnings. Start date: The effective start date has been moved to 1 July 2026, with the first assessments issued in the 2027–2028 financial year. Liability: The tax liability remains with the individual, who can pay it directly or seek a release from their super fund. The ATO will calculate the tax. Consultation: There is optimism for constructive consultation on the implementation details, particularly regarding how realised earnings will be calculated for APRA funds and SMSFs, and the treatment of CGT discounts and pre-2026 asset gains.

In this crossover episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by The SMSF Adviser Show co-host Aaron Dunn to unpack the changes from the initial proposal to the current version released this week. The discussion emphasises that while the major concerns of taxing unrealised gains and lack of indexation have been addressed, many technical details still need to be clarified through the legislative process and further consultation. Listen as they discuss: Taxable earnings: Originally, the tax applied to all earnings, whether realised or not. The revised measure will only tax realised gains. Indexation: The $3 million threshold will be indexed against the consumer price index (CPI) in $150,000 increments, pegged to the transfer balance cap movement. The $10 million threshold will be indexed in $500,000 increments, also aligned with CPI. Tax rates: For balances above $3 million, an additional 15 per cent tax applies to earnings. For balances above $10 million, an additional 10 per cent tax applies to earnings. Start date: The effective start date has been moved to 1 July 2026, with the first assessments issued in FY2027–28. Liability: The tax liability remains with the individual, who can pay it directly or seek a release from their super fund. The ATO will calculate the tax. Consultation: There is optimism for constructive consultation on the implementation details, particularly regarding how realised earnings will be calculated for APRA funds and self-managed super funds, and the treatment of CGT discounts and pre-2026 asset gains.

In this episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver take a look at the unfolding impacts and potential economic ramifications of the US government shutdown and the surge in gold and bitcoin prices. Alongside the growing concerns with the stability of the US, the massive valuations for the Magnificent Seven tech stocks is fuelling speculation that it's becoming a bubble, though Oliver cautions that there are a range of factors that differentiate the current state of play from previous bubbles, such as the dotcom boom. They also explore: The fallout of threats to withhold back pay for workers caught up in the US shutdown. Why there have been record-breaking prices for bitcoin and gold, considering both fundamental drivers and speculative elements. US support for Argentina, European geopolitical tensions, and concerns about long-term US economic policies under the Trump administration.

Updated legislative and regulatory instruments were added to the ever-expanding cache in the SMSF sector last month. In this episode of the SMSF Adviser podcast, hosts Keith Ford and Aaron Dunn unpack what it all means with Bryce Figot, special legal counsel for DBA Lawyers. Figot delves into the changes made in LCR 2021/2 and TR 2010/1, focusing on non-arm's length income provisions and contributions and specifically how they may affect professionals working in the sector. Listen as they discuss: The new "safe harbour" example (7A) in LCR 2021/2. Paragraph 51, outlining discounted prices for SMSF services. Contribution updates in TR 2010/1 that clarify how acquiring an asset for below-market value is not a contribution if it's a purchase under a sale contract. The importance of proper documentation and arm's length valuations that are crucial for mixed part-purchase and part-contribution scenarios. The disproportionate outcomes that still exist where small non-arm's length capital gains can taint entire net capital gains or distributions from unit trusts.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Falcon Financial Advisers partner and financial adviser Tom Moloney joins host Keith Ford to break down why he decided to establish his own firm around 18 months ago, and the importance of developing new talent in financial advice. Moloney explains how he took an intentional approach to his career in financial advice, some of the pros and cons of setting up a new advice firm, and the different options that a prospective practice principal can explore when going out on their own. Tune in to hear: The value of having the support of an established business, including leveraging shared resources, economies of scale, and established referral networks. How transitioning from an adviser to a business owner requires a significant mindset shift. Why nurturing "soft skills" like communication and client understanding in new advisers, alongside technical expertise, is vital.

In the latest episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist, Dr Shane Oliver, discuss this week's RBA interest rate decision, a potential government shutdown in the US, and a new property scheme aimed at first home buyers. Key discussion points: Whether the RBA will cut rates by the end of the year. Increased risk of a US government shutdown. A shutdown's effect on the job market. The "desperation" in Australia's property market. Economic impact of a 5 per cent home deposit scheme.

The SMSF sector is in a holding pattern as key regulatory and legislative changes remain unresolved. In this episode of the SMSF Adviser podcast, hosts Aaron Dunn and Keith Ford discuss some of the key changes that are still to be clarified, such as the Div 296 tax and the much-anticipated NALI/E amendments. The podcast touches on recent updates from the ATO, specifically regarding Law Companion Ruling (LCR) 2021/2 relating to super contributions and the recently released annual Class Benchmark report. Listen as they discuss: Revelations that more SMSFs will be impacted by the proposed Div 296 than originally estimated. The changing face of the SMSF sector demographics. The ongoing advice gap in the SMSF sector. Implications of commuting market-linked pensions.

In the latest episode of Relative Return Insider, host Keith Ford and AMP chief economist Shane Oliver discuss the latest Australian CPI data and their impact on future interest rate decisions. If the RBA opts to cut rates again, how will this affect investor and consumer behaviour? Key discussion points: Factors driving the decrease in inflation. Potential implications for interest rates. The role of the public sector in jobs growth. How rate cuts have affected house prices.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Ben Walsh, principal research consultant at WealthVantage Partners, joins host Keith Ford to break down the corporate regulator's new report on the private credit market and highlight the main areas that financial advisers need to understand. Walsh delves into the report's detailed examination of the industry, emphasising the need for greater transparency and scrutiny, particularly regarding special purpose vehicles, fee disclosures, and product labelling. Tune in to hear: Why advisers need to conduct thorough due diligence and not rely on any third party when recommending private credit to clients. The danger of private credit funds often being mislabelled as "defensive exposure" despite the illiquid nature of their underlying assets. Why advisers shouldn't be considered gatekeepers, and more onus needs to be on the fund managers themselves.

In our new "Ahead of the Curve" series, in partnership with fund manager MFS Investment Management, Money Management will explore all things fixed income. The dedicated educational series of expert insights and compelling discussion will help advisers understand how they can best utilise fixed income within their clients' portfolios to meet their needs and help them achieve their financial goals. In this podcast, join MFS' managing director and head of wholesale distribution for Australia and New Zealand, James Langlands, as he interviews Evidentia senior asset consultant Ron Mehmet to discuss fixed income fund selection for advisers. The pair also discuss: Where to start when researching fixed income. What advisers should look for in a public fixed income fund. Differentiating between different types of bond offerings. Common misconceptions made during fund selection. The diversification benefits from fixed income for client portfolios.

In the latest episode of Relative Return Insider, hosts Maja Garaca Djurdjevic, Shane Oliver, and Keith Ford unpack the twists and turns of today's markets – from credit rating agencies navigating global uncertainty to simultaneous dual IPOs. They examine whether tariffs, trade tensions, and protectionist policies are genuinely straining rating agencies or just adding to the usual market noise, and dissect why research houses sometimes reach conflicting conclusions. Key discussion points: How global uncertainty and trade tensions impact credit rating agencies' assessments. Diverging research house views, including Lonsec downgrades versus Zenith's praise of Metrics funds. The potential effects of regulatory moves, including US President Donald Trump's push for biannual reporting. Simultaneous IPOs, are they possible and warranted?

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Mazi Wealth financial adviser Deline Jacovides joins host Keith Ford to delve into the complexities of making financial advice more accessible and why accessibility extends beyond simply trying to deliver advice at the lowest cost possible. Jacovides explains that she believes making advice more accessible includes utilising diverse delivery methods like ad hoc services that may appeal to clients who may not require continuous engagement, while also requiring government action to reduce the cost burden on financial advisers. Tune in to hear: Why transparency and education are crucial to bridge the gap between client expectations and the true cost of financial advice. How clients who have engaged with online "finfluencer" content often have some level of foundational financial literacy. The role of technology in streamlining operations and enhancing the efficiency of advice delivery. Why fixing the onerous statement of advice process should be the top priority in advice reform.

Market valuations have emerged as a crucial area in the SMSF sector, particularly in light of regulatory changes and heightened ATO scrutiny. The looming spectre of Division 296 further complicates the landscape, particularly regarding the methodology used for valuations. In this episode of the SMSF Adviser Podcast, host Aaron Dunn, chief executive of Smarter SMSF, is joined by industry stalwart Shelley Banton, head of technical for ASF Audits, to delve into the changing expectations for valuations and meeting the challenging compliance requirements. Listen as they discuss: The complexity of market valuations, especially for assets that lack readily available market data. Concerns around private credit. Practical solutions that may support auditors. The shift in expectations for the auditing profession.

In the latest episode of Relative Return Insider, host Maja Garac Djurdjevic and AMP's Shane Oliver break down US and Australian rate cuts, soaring gold, and bitcoin's volatility. The pair also discuss how perception drives value in finance, drawing a parallel to Money Heist, where the illusion of gold shapes outcomes just as confidence in central banks sustains financial systems. They also explore: Reserve Bank of Australia and US Federal Reserve rate cut outlooks. Gold and bitcoin as investment hedges. Finding true portfolio diversification. Impacts of Aussie bank cost-cutting

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Shail Singh, lead ombudsman for investments and advice at AFCA, for a deep dive into two of the most complex – and crucial – pillars of financial consumer protection: the Australian Financial Complaints Authority and the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort. From resolving disputes early and rebuilding client relationships to tackling large-scale cases like Dixon Advisory, Singh sheds light on how AFCA operates and the challenges posed by mounting case volumes. The discussion also unpacks the role of the CSLR in firm failures, deadline-driven complaint surges, and the often-confusing treatment of self-managed super funds under retail versus wholesale classifications. Hear about: AFCA's approach to resolving disputes and why early resolution is encouraged. The challenges of the CSLR in handling firm failures and complaint deadlines. What advisers need to know about SMSF classifications, multi-party disputes, and managing risk.

In the latest episode of the Relative Return Insider, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and AMP's chief economist Shane Oliver unpack the surprising twists in the Australian economy, diving into the latest GDP numbers, what's really driving consumer spending, and what it all means for the Reserve Bank's next moves. Australia's economy showed unexpected resilience in the June quarter, growing 0.6 per cent, above expectations and nudging the annual growth rate to 1.8 per cent. But is this growth sustainable, or just a temporary spike driven by cyclone recovery, end-of-year sales, and even the launch of a new Nintendo console? Oliver weighs in on the short-term boosters versus long-term trends. They also explore: How government spending and defence exercises shaped the GDP numbers. The likely trajectory for consumer spending as temporary factors fade. The Reserve Bank of Australia's potential interest rate moves amid stronger-than-expected CPI numbers. The broader impact of global shocks and economic uncertainty. What Australian super funds are doing and why independent investment decisions matter. The latest ASX earnings season and what it signals for investors.

In this episode of Relative Return, host Laura Dew chats with Roy Keenan, co-head of fixed income at Yarra Capital Management, to discuss the evolving fixed income asset class, his sector preferences, and the RBA's rate-cutting policy. Listen as they discuss: The defensive characteristics of fixed income. Market volatility triggered by US President Donald Trump. The "chase for yield" mentality prompted by interest rate cuts. Impact of the transition from AT1 securities. Credit spread tightening from the expansion of private credit funds.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford sits down with David Berry, inaugural CEO of the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort, to unpack the challenges of protecting investors when financial advice goes wrong. They discuss high-profile failures like Dixon Advisory, Shield, and First Guardian, and the legislative and regulatory changes needed to ensure the CSLR's long-term sustainability. Tune in to hear: The complexities of addressing financial firm failures, including Dixon Advisory and United Global Capital. Legislative and regulatory improvements that could strengthen the CSLR for the future. How transparency and ethical advice are crucial to maintaining trust in the financial advice profession.

The updated rules on when a pension commences and ceases have created confusion in the SMSF sector. On this week's episode of the SMSF Adviser podcast, hosts Aaron Dunn and Keith Ford delve into the intricacies of TR2013/5 with Tim Miller, head of education and technical for Smarter SMSF. Miller explains how the revised ruling, which was updated in June 2024, primarily reflects changes from the super reforms introduced on 1 July 2017. He provides a fresh perspective on what needs to happen when a super income stream fails to meet the pension standards for a financial year, particularly with minimum pension requirements. Listen as they discuss: How the consequences of failing to meet pension standards have become more stringent. The trust law aspect of pensions. The importance of understanding the minimum pension obligation and the consequences of failing to meet it. The retrospective application of these rules. The complexities surrounding TRIS. The time frame for losing ECPI beyond the traditional 12 months.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Hayes & Co Insurance Services financial adviser Trish Gregory joins host Keith Ford to explain the importance of childhood trauma policies, how they can help parents through a child's significant health issues and why more advisers should be keeping them top of mind for their clients. Gregory details the benefits of the somewhat niche policy and what advisers need to know about the relatively straightforward process to set the coverage up, as well as the value of having an expert on hand at claim time. Tune in to hear: Why the ability to transfer a childhood trauma policy to an adult policy with no underwriting can be so valuable. The broader issues with fewer financial advisers working in risk advice. How advisers who don't write a lot of risk should lean on insurer's business development managers. Why there needs to be a more transparent system for professional year candidates.

In this week's episode of Relative Return Insider, AMP chief economist Shane Oliver joins the show to dissect the ongoing government economic reform roundtable and reflect on the wish lists of industry stakeholders – and whether there is hope for meaningful reform. Oliver believes the process is more of a good start than a definitive solution, however he breaks down some of the more prominent proposals for tax reform, including increasing the level of GST to lower the burden on personal income tax as a source of government revenue. Tune in to hear: Whether changes to negative gearing or CGT discounts would help housing affordability. Why superannuation funds view regulatory hurdles and policy uncertainty as obstacles to local investment. If it's likely the roundtable will lead to bold change from the Labor government.