Australian Fund Managers Brace for Impacts of US Tariff Policy

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The imposition of US tariffs under former President Donald Trump's administration is predicted to challenge Australia's publicly listed fund managers, according to analysis by research and ratings firm Morningstar.

Shaun Ler, an equity analyst with Morningstar, suggests that these financial entities might experience a gradual decline in earnings over the medium term due to reduced cyclical benefits from interest rate cuts and increased market volatility.

Despite the anticipated challenges, the full ramifications of tariff uncertainties may not be completely realized until the fiscal year 2026. Ler notes that while these pressures will affect fund managers, the immediate fiscal year should see manageable impacts. The growing volatility and priced-in rate cuts are expected to dampen business momentum, with fee compression and investment in growth impeding earnings advancement.

A trend of market share loss is visible among the covered fund managers, with companies such as GQG, Perpetual, Magellan, and Platinum expected to see net outflows persisting over the coming five years. Yet, despite potential near-term earnings challenges from tariffs, Morningstar's fair value estimates for firms like Challenger, GQG, Insignia, Magellan, Perpetual, Pinnacle, and Platinum remain unchanged.

The analysis reflects that these forecasts account for weaker market returns and fund flows in the short term. Historical patterns from fiscal years 2020 to 2024 demonstrate a trend of investor pessimism giving way to increased risk appetite once uncertainties and volatility diminish.

Even within this challenging landscape, Morningstar identifies Perpetual and Insignia as good value at present prices. Perpetual is expected to gain from cost reductions, fund compounding, and stable corporate trust earnings, whereas Insignia might benefit from moderated fee compression, consistent fund flows, and eco-scalable cost adjustments.

Published:Tuesday, 22nd Apr 2025
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: We do not endorse any specific products or companies. Some content is sourced from third parties, including press releases, and may not be independently verified for accuracy or completeness.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Isuzu Australia Enhances Customer Support with New Financial Services

06 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

In a strategic move to bolster its customer support offerings, Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has announced the establishment of Isuzu Financial Services Australia (IFSA). This initiative marks the first time the Isuzu Group has founded a leasing company outside Japan, reflecting a significant commitment to the Australian market. - read more

Zenobē's $100 Million Investment to Accelerate Electric Truck Adoption in Australia

05 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

Zenobē, a global leader in fleet electrification and battery storage, has announced a substantial investment of AUD $100 million to support the adoption of electric trucks in Australia. This initiative is poised to significantly impact the nation's transport sector by potentially doubling the number of heavy electric trucks on Australian roads by the end of 2026. - read more

Rising Fuel Prices Spark Increased Interest in Electric Vehicles Across Australia

05 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

As fuel prices continue to soar across Australia, a significant shift is occurring in the automotive market. Consumers are increasingly turning their attention to electric vehicles (EVs) as a cost-effective and sustainable alternative to traditional petrol and diesel cars. - read more

GWM's 1.99% Finance Offer Aims to Accelerate Electric Vehicle Adoption in Australia

05 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

Great Wall Motors (GWM) has launched a compelling finance campaign to encourage the adoption of new energy vehicles in Australia. The initiative offers a 1.99% comparison rate on its Ora electric vehicle (EV) range and Haval H6 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) models, running from 1 September to 31 December 2025. - read more

Applied Electric Vehicles Secures $58 Million to Scale Autonomous EV Production

05 Apr 2026: Paige Estritori

Melbourne-based Applied Electric Vehicles (Applied EV) has successfully secured a significant funding boost to advance the production and deployment of its autonomous electric vehicles. The company closed a Series B funding round, raising approximately A$58 million, with a substantial contribution of $30.7 million from the Australian Government's National Reconstruction Fund Corporation (NRFC). This marks the NRFC's inaugural investment in the transport sector, underscoring a commitment to fostering local manufacturing and technological innovation. - read more

Click for more Finance News

Truck Loans Articles

The Ins and Outs of Commercial Truck Loans: A Buyer's Guide in Australia

Commercial trucks serve as the lifeblood of the Australian economy, providing vital links between industries and markets across the vast landscapes. The importance of these heavy-duty vehicles cannot be overstated, as they are pivotal in ensuring the smooth operation of both urban and rural businesses alike. Engaging in the commercial truck market is a significant investment, and understanding the ins and outs of financing such a purchase is crucial for business success. - read more

The Top Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Truck Loan in Australia

Commercial vehicle loans in Australia are a vital component in the Continuum of the transportation and logistics industry. They provide businesses and individuals with the necessary funds to acquire trucks and other heavy vehicles critical for their operations. Understanding the nuances of these loans is imperative for anyone in the market for a commercial vehicle. - read more

5 Tips on Securing Low-Interest Rates for Your Vehicle Purchase

Embarking on the journey of acquiring a commercial vehicle is a significant decision for any business. Securing a loan with a low-interest rate is not just a matter of luck; it involves meticulous planning and a thorough understanding of the lending landscape. This opening section sets the scene for our deep dive into navigating the commercial vehicle loan process with an eye toward minimizing costs and maximizing value. - read more

Understanding Your Options: A Guide to Commercial Vehicle Loans in Australia

If you're running a business in Australia, choosing the right commercial vehicle loan can be pivotal to your success. Whether you're a small business owner needing a delivery van or a large company expanding your fleet, understanding your financing options is crucial. - read more

Interest Rates, Terms, and Fees: What to Look for in Commercial Vehicle Loans

Choosing the right commercial vehicle loan is a pivotal decision for any business aspiring to expand its transportation capabilities. For many, commercial vehicles are integral to daily operations, and securing the best financial arrangement to acquire these assets can significantly impact the bottom line. - read more

Start Here

Get a free truck loan eligibility assessment and compare truck finance and leasing options without accessing your credit file!!

Knowledgebase

Collateral:
An asset that a borrower offers as a way for a lender to secure the loan.