Australian Fund Managers Brace for Impacts of US Tariff Policy
Australian Fund Managers Brace for Impacts of US Tariff Policy
2
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.
Australia's leading banks-Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), Westpac, National Australia Bank (NAB), and ANZ-are adjusting their mortgage strategies to reduce dependence on mortgage brokers. This move comes as profit margins are squeezed by lower interest rates, rising operational costs, and intensified market competition. - read more
On November 3, 2025, Westpac Banking Corporation announced an agreement to sell its RAMS mortgage portfolio, valued at A$21.4 billion, to a consortium comprising Pepper Money, investment firm KKR, and asset manager PIMCO. The sale is at a slight premium to the gross loan value of the portfolio to be transferred at completion. However, Westpac anticipates incurring a loss on the sale after accounting for transaction costs and other financial adjustments. - read more
Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), the nation's largest bank by market value, reported a slight increase in first-quarter cash profit, driven by strong growth in home loans and household deposits. The bank achieved an unaudited cash profit of approximately A$2.6 billion, a 1% rise from the previous two-quarter average and 2% higher than the same period last year. - read more
The Boating Industry Association Ltd (BIA) has recently called upon all levels of Australian government to provide strategic support to the nation's marine manufacturing and recreational boating sector. This appeal comes in response to a significant skills shortage that poses a threat to the industry's economic potential. - read more
The Sydney International On-Water Boat Show is set to make a grand return from 13 to 16 November 2025 at Darling Harbour. This four-day event promises to be a highlight for boating enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, showcasing Australia's vibrant marine lifestyle. - read more
For many Australian businesses, purchasing a commercial vehicle is a significant investment that often requires financial assistance. Understanding the intricacies of truck financing is crucial, as the right loan can affect your company's bottom line and operational efficiency. With a plethora of lenders offering myriad loan products, choosing the most advantageous deal can be daunting. - read more
When purchasing a truck, whether for personal use or business, navigating the financial landscape can be daunting. This is where pre-approval comes into play. But what exactly does pre-approval mean in the context of buying a truck? - read more
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
Small businesses that require regular transportation of goods may find it essential to purchase a truck. However, this acquisition can become a significant investment that requires careful consideration before making a decision. The two options available are buying or leasing a truck. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed choice. - read more
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
Start Here
Get a free truck loan eligibility assessment and compare truck finance and leasing options
without accessing your credit file!!
Knowledgebase
Tax Deferral: A situation where a taxpayer is allowed to delay paying taxes on income until a future date, commonly seen in retirement accounts.