Regulatory Pressure on Investment Governance Following Fund Collapses
Regulatory Pressure on Investment Governance Following Fund Collapses
0
The Australian government has directed the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to reassess current financial resource stipulations for managed investment scheme (MIS) operators.
Concurrently, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has advised platform trustees to enhance governance standards.
These actions stem from the collapse of the Shield and First Guardian master funds, which led to significant investor losses.
Minister for Financial Services Daniel Mulino emphasized the need for a robust investment and superannuation system to ensure Australians can retire with dignity. He highlighted the severe impact on investors and expressed concern over millions in lost superannuation savings. ASIC chair Joe Longo noted that the rules governing MISs require a fresh examination to prevent future incidents.
APRA's review discovered that some trustees are excessively reliant on external ratings agencies, lacking in systems to identify investment product risks. The regulator urged trustees to bolster due diligence processes, reduce dependency on external ratings, and conduct both internal and external evaluations of investment products concerning performance and liquidity.
This scrutiny arose after a Professional Planner investigation revealed that FE fundinfo did not adjust its ratings for the First Guardian Master Fund even after court action froze its assets. As regulatory expectations tighten, legal obligations concerning product due diligence might face challenges. ASIC has forewarned that legal reforms could be required, pending the outcome of ongoing legal cases.
Although several platforms refrained from hosting the affected funds due to diligence concerns, issues regarding conflict of interest in onboarding processes have been noted. APRA advises platforms to implement thorough policies to manage conflicts, especially in cases where investment products within the same corporate group are involved.
The Financial Services Council (FSC) has committed to developing guidance for platforms, advocating for heightened operational standards to protect investors and enhance trust in the superannuation system. The FSC stressed the necessity for the government to address gaps highlighted by the recent fund collapses.
Approximately $1.2 billion of retirement savings for 11,000 investors are endangered due to the Shield and First Guardian issues. Last week, Macquarie agreed to compensate affected members of its Superannuation Plan, illustrating the ongoing impact of these failures. APRA will continue to engage with platform trustees to assess compliance with prudential standards and address any breaches effectively.
Published:Wednesday, 8th Oct 2025 Source: Paige Estritori
In an unprecedented turn of events, gold prices have surged to nearly $US4000 per ounce, positioning the precious metal as Australia’s second most valuable export. This dramatic price escalation is driven by a complex interplay of factors including cuts in US interest rates and global geopolitical tensions, leading investors to seek the security of stable, tangibly-valued assets like gold. - read more
The Full Court of the Federal Court of Australia has upheld a prior decision against Latitude Financial and Harvey Norman, maintaining that certain advertisements were misleading. These ads, which ran from January 2020 to August 2021, promoted ‘no deposit’ and ‘interest-free’ payment options but failed to disclose the necessity of acquiring a Latitude GO Mastercard to avail the offer. - read more
The Australian government has directed the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to reassess current financial resource stipulations for managed investment scheme (MIS) operators. Concurrently, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has advised platform trustees to enhance governance standards. These actions stem from the collapse of the Shield and First Guardian master funds, which led to significant investor losses. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has commenced a thorough review of the motor vehicle finance sector, aiming to bolster consumer protections and ensure industry-wide compliance. This initiative is particularly focused on the experiences of borrowers in regional and remote areas, including First Nations communities. - read more
In a significant development within the Australian financial sector, Macquarie Group's Banking and Financial Services division has agreed to sell a substantial portion of its car loan portfolio, valued at $1.5 billion, to Allied Credit. This transaction involves over 50,000 car loans and is expected to be finalised by the fourth quarter of 2025. - read more
In the journey to secure a commercial vehicle loan, preparation is key. Just as a vehicle needs to be in perfect condition to hit the road, your loan application requires meticulous attention to detail to ensure a green light from lenders. This article embarks on the essential journey of understanding the critical checkpoints before applying for a commercial vehicle loan. We navigate through the path of prerequisites that pave the way for a seamless approval process. - read more
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 commercial vehicle market in Australia is a cornerstone of the transportation and logistics industries, with trucks playing an indispensable role. Whether for long-haul deliveries across the vast distances of the continent or for urban distribution, trucks are critical assets for businesses and entrepreneurs alike. This significance makes it essential for commercial vehicle buyers to understand the dynamics of truck resale values in Australia. - 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
Buying a truck is a major investment, whether it's for personal use or business purposes. With the plethora of options available in the Australian market, it's important to consider various factors before making a purchase. Your specific needs, budget, lifestyle, and work requirements should be taken into account before making a decision to ensure the truck you buy fits your needs. - read more
Start Here
Get a free truck loan eligibility assessment and compare truck finance and leasing options
without accessing your credit file!!
Knowledgebase
Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): A type of insurance that a borrower might be required to purchase as a condition of a conventional mortgage loan, if the down payment is less than 20% of the property value.