■ Cultural bridges and economic synergies will be the legacy of 2018 World Chinese Economic Forum in KL
World Chinese Economic Forum
Friday October 5, 2018.
Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Michael Yeoh, Chairman, Organising Committee of the 2018 World Chinese Economic Forum (WCEF) and President of the International Strategy Institute (ISI) is confident the upcoming Forum to be held in Kula Lumpur will be a resounding success and its legacy of cultural bridges and economic synergies will benefit the region for many years to come.
Commenting further, Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Michael Yeoh said without doubt the WCEF is the premier international event of its kind. Delegates and VIPs will be travelling from across the globe to hear high profile, distinguished, expert speakers and presenters representing government, business and academia delivering thought provoking and informative main platform and plenary session presentations.
Malaysian Prime Minister The Hon. Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad will be delivering the opening keynote address for this year’s stellar two day event in Kuala Lumpur.
There will also be a Special Address by The Hon. CY Leung, Vice Chairman, National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
World Chinese Economic Forum
Friday October 5, 2018.
Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Michael Yeoh, Chairman, Organising Committee of the 2018 World Chinese Economic Forum (WCEF) and President of the International Strategy Institute (ISI) is confident the upcoming Forum to be held in Kula Lumpur will be a resounding success and its legacy of cultural bridges and economic synergies will benefit the region for many years to come.
Commenting further, Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Michael Yeoh said without doubt the WCEF is the premier international event of its kind. Delegates and VIPs will be travelling from across the globe to hear high profile, distinguished, expert speakers and presenters representing government, business and academia delivering thought provoking and informative main platform and plenary session presentations.
Malaysian Prime Minister The Hon. Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad will be delivering the opening keynote address for this year’s stellar two day event in Kuala Lumpur.
There will also be a Special Address by The Hon. CY Leung, Vice Chairman, National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
■ Diploma of Financial Planning is not dead – long live the much-needed Diploma says Dr Mark Sinclair
Mentor Education Group
Friday September 7, 2018.
While the Diploma of Financial Planning (DFP) will no-longer be the minimum educational requirement for financial planners in 2019, it will continue to be the qualification of choice for those looking to start their career as an associate adviser, paraplanner, client relationship manager and other non-advice roles said Mentor Education Group founder and principal Dr Mark Sinclair.
Commenting further Dr Sinclair said, “The DFP and Advanced Diploma of Financial Planning have both served the industry well (and will continue to do so) having evolved since inception to meet the needs of advisers, stakeholders and regulators”.
“Although the financial services sector is about to enter a new and very different era of compliance and professionalism, the Diploma and Advanced Diploma will still be needed and have very important roles to play”.
Mentor Education Group
Friday September 7, 2018.
While the Diploma of Financial Planning (DFP) will no-longer be the minimum educational requirement for financial planners in 2019, it will continue to be the qualification of choice for those looking to start their career as an associate adviser, paraplanner, client relationship manager and other non-advice roles said Mentor Education Group founder and principal Dr Mark Sinclair.
Commenting further Dr Sinclair said, “The DFP and Advanced Diploma of Financial Planning have both served the industry well (and will continue to do so) having evolved since inception to meet the needs of advisers, stakeholders and regulators”.
“Although the financial services sector is about to enter a new and very different era of compliance and professionalism, the Diploma and Advanced Diploma will still be needed and have very important roles to play”.
■ Living in overdeveloped Fawkner is an immense challenge for the elderly says Residents Assoc
Fawkner Residents Association
Monday August 13, 2018.
The developers are circling my home like vultures waiting for me die’ was the way an elderly long-term resident described living in Fawkner – an apt description many seniors throughout the Moreland municipality can relate to said Fawkner Residents Association’s Mr Joe Perri.
“It’s an unfortunate reality that the plight of the elderly is far too often overlooked in the growing list of town planning and infrastructure failures being voiced as the result of Melbourne’s population and development explosion”, continued Mr Perri.
“Many of Fawkner’s (and the municipality’s) seniors live lonely existences isolated from families as their children have had to leave the suburb of their youth to reside in distant suburbs that now surround the outskirts of Melbourne”.
Fawkner Residents Association
Monday August 13, 2018.
The developers are circling my home like vultures waiting for me die’ was the way an elderly long-term resident described living in Fawkner – an apt description many seniors throughout the Moreland municipality can relate to said Fawkner Residents Association’s Mr Joe Perri.
“It’s an unfortunate reality that the plight of the elderly is far too often overlooked in the growing list of town planning and infrastructure failures being voiced as the result of Melbourne’s population and development explosion”, continued Mr Perri.
“Many of Fawkner’s (and the municipality’s) seniors live lonely existences isolated from families as their children have had to leave the suburb of their youth to reside in distant suburbs that now surround the outskirts of Melbourne”.
■ Thai Australia Network celebrates first anniversary – Board will build on its successes
Thailand Australia Network
Friday July 13, 2018.
Thai Australia Network (TAN) started just over six years ago as a group of professionals, business owners and representatives of government brought together each month by Richard Lovell of Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF) for an evening of camaraderie and networking.
“Last year we decided it was time to take the next step as an association and the inaugural Board was announced at a function in mid-July”, said Honorary Consul General – Royal Thai Consulate General and TAN Chairperson, Dr Simon Wallace.
Thailand Australia Network
Friday July 13, 2018.
Thai Australia Network (TAN) started just over six years ago as a group of professionals, business owners and representatives of government brought together each month by Richard Lovell of Charoen Pokphand Foods (CPF) for an evening of camaraderie and networking.
“Last year we decided it was time to take the next step as an association and the inaugural Board was announced at a function in mid-July”, said Honorary Consul General – Royal Thai Consulate General and TAN Chairperson, Dr Simon Wallace.
■ Honan Insurance Group & MBS Insurance JV insurance facility goes from strength to strength
Honan Life Insurance Group
Tuesday June 12, 2018.
Honan Life Insurance Group, the JV between Australian owned insurance and financial services broker Honan Insurance Group (Honan) and MBS Insurance is going from strength to strength since it was established just over six months ago to service the life insurance needs of Honan clients said Honan CEO Damien Honan.
“Broadening our client life insurance offering was a very logical step that has created a very compelling proposition for our clients”, said Damien Honan.
“Most importantly, Honan Life Insurance Group has been appreciated by clients and provided a valuable point of difference for the organisation – as well as increasing the value we provide to clients”.
Honan Life Insurance Group
Tuesday June 12, 2018.
Honan Life Insurance Group, the JV between Australian owned insurance and financial services broker Honan Insurance Group (Honan) and MBS Insurance is going from strength to strength since it was established just over six months ago to service the life insurance needs of Honan clients said Honan CEO Damien Honan.
“Broadening our client life insurance offering was a very logical step that has created a very compelling proposition for our clients”, said Damien Honan.
“Most importantly, Honan Life Insurance Group has been appreciated by clients and provided a valuable point of difference for the organisation – as well as increasing the value we provide to clients”.
■ The grandfathered commission debate needs to be fair and balanced
Connect Financial Services
Tuesday May 15, 2018.
Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO Paul Tynan says that it is too simple to say that all old products are outdated and not in the best interest of the clients. There are many different issues regarding legacy products that need to be reviewed before transferring or recommending a client transfer to a new product.
Problems could include: Taxation and social security impacts; Underwriting and insurance issues; Withdrawal penalties; Legal concerns; and Estate planning issues.
Connect Financial Services
Tuesday May 15, 2018.
Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO Paul Tynan says that it is too simple to say that all old products are outdated and not in the best interest of the clients. There are many different issues regarding legacy products that need to be reviewed before transferring or recommending a client transfer to a new product.
Problems could include: Taxation and social security impacts; Underwriting and insurance issues; Withdrawal penalties; Legal concerns; and Estate planning issues.
■ TRUST continues to be the barrier to better business productivity says Stephen Chong
Stephen Chong
Monday April 9, 2018.
Despite countless books, presentations and articles being produced on the fundamentals needed for businesses to achieve higher productivity – the importance of trust continues to fall on deaf ears affirmed professional development coach Stephen Chong in a recent workshop.
‘I want my team to perform at higher levels of productivity…We need to get more from the team…They need to work together more effectively’, are further common laments from frustrated managers said Stephen in the opening comments to his workshop.
“In my thirty years’ experience working with teams in business, I have found that one of the principle areas in which teams fail to develop to their fullest potential - is TRUST”.
Stephen Chong
Monday April 9, 2018.
Despite countless books, presentations and articles being produced on the fundamentals needed for businesses to achieve higher productivity – the importance of trust continues to fall on deaf ears affirmed professional development coach Stephen Chong in a recent workshop.
‘I want my team to perform at higher levels of productivity…We need to get more from the team…They need to work together more effectively’, are further common laments from frustrated managers said Stephen in the opening comments to his workshop.
“In my thirty years’ experience working with teams in business, I have found that one of the principle areas in which teams fail to develop to their fullest potential - is TRUST”.
■ Cracking the cultural ceiling’ continues to challenge Australian businesses says Tom Verghes
Cultural Synergies
Thursday March 8, 2018.
Globalisation is creating a smaller and more connected global community, however, as we are pulled together, there is a strong opposing push that is driving many people and communities to become increasingly singular said Cultural Synergies founder Dr Tom Verghese at the recent launch of his latest book ‘25 Years On: A Collection of 25 Reflections as an Inter-Cultural Management Consultant’.
In his opening remarks Tom pointed to today’s smartphones that are commonplace and how we spend an inordinate amount of time on our phones using them for a whole myriad of personal and professional purposes. “Yet, although we are more interconnected than we have possibly ever been and have much greater social reach, the quality and depth of conversations appears to be overlooked.
“Depression and anxieties are increasing; and our sense of community seems to be declining irrespective of this interconnectedness”, he added.
Cultural Synergies
Thursday March 8, 2018.
Globalisation is creating a smaller and more connected global community, however, as we are pulled together, there is a strong opposing push that is driving many people and communities to become increasingly singular said Cultural Synergies founder Dr Tom Verghese at the recent launch of his latest book ‘25 Years On: A Collection of 25 Reflections as an Inter-Cultural Management Consultant’.
In his opening remarks Tom pointed to today’s smartphones that are commonplace and how we spend an inordinate amount of time on our phones using them for a whole myriad of personal and professional purposes. “Yet, although we are more interconnected than we have possibly ever been and have much greater social reach, the quality and depth of conversations appears to be overlooked.
“Depression and anxieties are increasing; and our sense of community seems to be declining irrespective of this interconnectedness”, he added.
■ Mentor records enrolment increase with planners focussing on new era relevance & productivity growth
Mentor Education
Monday February 5, 2018
Financial planners are responding positively to industry qualification requirements with Mentor Education recording a significant increase in enrolments across the leading RTO’s Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Master and Bachelor courses said the organisation’s founder and principal Dr Mark Sinclair.
Commenting further, Dr Sinclair said interestingly, the focus of enquiries and industry qualification courses undertaken by planners with Mentor are those with an emphasis on building productivity and operational efficiency needed by the next generation of advice practices.
“Contrary to many of the headlines proclaiming a mass exodus of planners, there is solid core of role model planners determined to capitalise on the opportunities in the advice era and are positioning themselves through academic endeavour and personal/professional development”, added Dr Sinclair.
Mentor Education
Monday February 5, 2018
Financial planners are responding positively to industry qualification requirements with Mentor Education recording a significant increase in enrolments across the leading RTO’s Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Master and Bachelor courses said the organisation’s founder and principal Dr Mark Sinclair.
Commenting further, Dr Sinclair said interestingly, the focus of enquiries and industry qualification courses undertaken by planners with Mentor are those with an emphasis on building productivity and operational efficiency needed by the next generation of advice practices.
“Contrary to many of the headlines proclaiming a mass exodus of planners, there is solid core of role model planners determined to capitalise on the opportunities in the advice era and are positioning themselves through academic endeavour and personal/professional development”, added Dr Sinclair.
■ Accountants & planners seeking to exit fail to appreciate time is the real scarcity says Paul Tynan
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Monday January 29, 2018.
Accountants and financial planners seeking to exit the industry continue fail to appreciate the importance of time and its impact on their retirement aspirations and lifetime of endeavour said Connect Financial Service Brokers CEO Paul Tynan.
Commenting further, Paul Tynan said time is not standing still for mature age accountants and planners waiting vainly for the return of pre GFC times and values – those days are well and truly gone.
“Baby Boomer planners are faced with regulatory and educational changes which are only going to increase as technology continues to disrupt traditional business models. Education standards, industry and professional accreditation exams / requirements are here to stay and if a course of action is not taken whilst time is on their side, these planners will find the exit strategy being made for them”, affirmed Paul Tynan.
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Monday January 29, 2018.
Accountants and financial planners seeking to exit the industry continue fail to appreciate the importance of time and its impact on their retirement aspirations and lifetime of endeavour said Connect Financial Service Brokers CEO Paul Tynan.
Commenting further, Paul Tynan said time is not standing still for mature age accountants and planners waiting vainly for the return of pre GFC times and values – those days are well and truly gone.
“Baby Boomer planners are faced with regulatory and educational changes which are only going to increase as technology continues to disrupt traditional business models. Education standards, industry and professional accreditation exams / requirements are here to stay and if a course of action is not taken whilst time is on their side, these planners will find the exit strategy being made for them”, affirmed Paul Tynan.
■ Honan Insurance Group & MBS Insurance partner in JV to improve life insurance solutions for clients
MBS Insurance & Honan Insurance Group
Tuesday December 5, 2017.
Australian owned insurance and financial services broker Honan Insurance Group CEO Damien Honan and leading risk specialist practice MBS Insurance partner Drew Burden have announced they have joined forces to create a new company Honan Life Insurance Group.
Launched yesterday, the new life insurance venture is an important step in Honan’s 53year history of leveraging a broad network of specialists to bring relevant expertise to its clients.
Commenting further, Damien Honan said since the inception of the company over five decades ago, the group has operated to ensure clients are provided the very best insurance and financial solutions to address their needs.
MBS Insurance & Honan Insurance Group
Tuesday December 5, 2017.
Australian owned insurance and financial services broker Honan Insurance Group CEO Damien Honan and leading risk specialist practice MBS Insurance partner Drew Burden have announced they have joined forces to create a new company Honan Life Insurance Group.
Launched yesterday, the new life insurance venture is an important step in Honan’s 53year history of leveraging a broad network of specialists to bring relevant expertise to its clients.
Commenting further, Damien Honan said since the inception of the company over five decades ago, the group has operated to ensure clients are provided the very best insurance and financial solutions to address their needs.
■ It’s inevitable planning & accounting practices will merge to benefit clients says AWS founder Sam Zervides
Australian Wealth Services
Wednesday November 29, 2017.
The convergence of financial planning and accounting practices that is well and truly underway is set to accelerate as the opportunities and commercial/client benefits will be too big to ignore said recently appointed Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) Victorian Vice President and Australian Wealth Solutions (AWS) founder and principal Sam Zervides.
Commenting further Sam Zervides said the revenues and profit margins of both the accounting and financial planning business models are being squeezed and none more so than the smaller practices.
Australian Wealth Services
Wednesday November 29, 2017.
The convergence of financial planning and accounting practices that is well and truly underway is set to accelerate as the opportunities and commercial/client benefits will be too big to ignore said recently appointed Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) Victorian Vice President and Australian Wealth Solutions (AWS) founder and principal Sam Zervides.
Commenting further Sam Zervides said the revenues and profit margins of both the accounting and financial planning business models are being squeezed and none more so than the smaller practices.
■ Economic benefits of MAFTA still strong but slowing – action needed to get back on track says Connect Malaysia’s Joe Perri
Connect Malaysia
Monday November 6, 2017
The post implementation economic benefits and fundamentals that underpinned the Malaysia Australia Free Trade Agreement (MAFTA) that became effective January 2013 are still very strong and will continue to be the basis for the long term bilateral trade relationship said Connect Malaysia’s principal consultant Mr. Joe Perri.
Commenting further, Mr. Perri said although the 5-year trend of Australian exports to Malaysia to 2016 is 3%, the -7.4% ‘softening’ between 2015 to 2016 should be a concern for the Australian government to address at next year’s Joint Trade Committee (JTC) ministerial meeting to be hosted by Malaysia.
Connect Malaysia
Monday November 6, 2017
The post implementation economic benefits and fundamentals that underpinned the Malaysia Australia Free Trade Agreement (MAFTA) that became effective January 2013 are still very strong and will continue to be the basis for the long term bilateral trade relationship said Connect Malaysia’s principal consultant Mr. Joe Perri.
Commenting further, Mr. Perri said although the 5-year trend of Australian exports to Malaysia to 2016 is 3%, the -7.4% ‘softening’ between 2015 to 2016 should be a concern for the Australian government to address at next year’s Joint Trade Committee (JTC) ministerial meeting to be hosted by Malaysia.
■ Tailored advice solutions are the only way to achieve best practice funding solutions for Retirement Village residents
Mentor Education & Aged Care Specialists
Monday October 9, 2017
With present market scrutiny over issues with current funding models, as well as the compelling demographics over the 7.8 million people in Australia who are either over 65 years of age, or suffer some form of disability, there is no one size fits all cookie cutter in advice for these people, where their residential scenarios range from owning their own homes, to renting, to granny flats, to caravan parks and demountable homes, to living with families, to supported living, independent living and residential care.
So, there is a huge gamut of scenarios for these people, all of whom need to consider their income needs, personal tax situation, the retention and growth of overall wealth, risk management, estate planning and consideration around individual Centrelink situations, and the charging of care fees for whatever situation they are in.
Mentor Education & Aged Care Specialists
Monday October 9, 2017
With present market scrutiny over issues with current funding models, as well as the compelling demographics over the 7.8 million people in Australia who are either over 65 years of age, or suffer some form of disability, there is no one size fits all cookie cutter in advice for these people, where their residential scenarios range from owning their own homes, to renting, to granny flats, to caravan parks and demountable homes, to living with families, to supported living, independent living and residential care.
So, there is a huge gamut of scenarios for these people, all of whom need to consider their income needs, personal tax situation, the retention and growth of overall wealth, risk management, estate planning and consideration around individual Centrelink situations, and the charging of care fees for whatever situation they are in.
■ There are solutions to ensure long term business success & profit – but accountants & planners must act now says Tynan
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Monday September 18, 2017
Accountants and financial planners are being advised constantly by their professional associations, dealer / accounting groups, consultants and through media commentary of the urgency to run their practices as businesses – yet far too many are steadfastly ignoring the imperative said Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO Paul Tynan.
Disregarding these calls to action, many accounting and financial planning practice owners are satisfied that the profit generated by their activities being their salary whilst ignoring the very real long-term advantages to be derived from operating a proper business model said Paul Tynan.
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Monday September 18, 2017
Accountants and financial planners are being advised constantly by their professional associations, dealer / accounting groups, consultants and through media commentary of the urgency to run their practices as businesses – yet far too many are steadfastly ignoring the imperative said Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO Paul Tynan.
Disregarding these calls to action, many accounting and financial planning practice owners are satisfied that the profit generated by their activities being their salary whilst ignoring the very real long-term advantages to be derived from operating a proper business model said Paul Tynan.
■ MBS Insurance realises business goal by promoting two new partners from within the practice
MBS Insurance
Tuesday August 22, 2017
MBS Insurance partners Kris Mason and Drew Burden have announced that financial advisers Chris MacKenzie and Brent McCullough have been promoted to partners of the Sydney headquartered specialist risk advice practice.
Commenting further on the announcement, Kris Mason and Drew Burden said the appointments reflect MBS’s commitment and focus on investing in, and bringing through, talent in key practice areas.
“Our new partners have worked extremely hard to forge a successful career at MBS and we are proud to offer them the opportunity to lead a firm with a compelling future”, affirmed Kris Mason and Drew Burden.
MBS Insurance
Tuesday August 22, 2017
MBS Insurance partners Kris Mason and Drew Burden have announced that financial advisers Chris MacKenzie and Brent McCullough have been promoted to partners of the Sydney headquartered specialist risk advice practice.
Commenting further on the announcement, Kris Mason and Drew Burden said the appointments reflect MBS’s commitment and focus on investing in, and bringing through, talent in key practice areas.
“Our new partners have worked extremely hard to forge a successful career at MBS and we are proud to offer them the opportunity to lead a firm with a compelling future”, affirmed Kris Mason and Drew Burden.
■ Overwhelming need affinity and expertise – key reasons for mature planners to defer exit says Mentor MD
Mentor Education
Monday July 31, 2017
At a time when there is an overwhelming and growing need by mature age and senior Australian consumers to address the complexity of financial issues and longevity risks in retirement, experienced financial planners are choosing to exit the industry instead said Mentor Education Group founder and Managing Director Dr Mark Sinclair.
Commenting further Dr Sinclair said there is a significant vacuum of expertise in the provision of quality financial advice to meet the pre, and post retirement needs of senior Australians.
Dr Sinclair continued pointing to the need for solutions to address sequencing risk and issues; how to stretch nest eggs, superannuation and investments in retirement; exit strategies for SMEs; maximising social security entitlements; assistance and guidance to avoid scams, frauds and financial abuse; strategies to bridge the financial longevity gap; and the list goes on.
Mentor Education
Monday July 31, 2017
At a time when there is an overwhelming and growing need by mature age and senior Australian consumers to address the complexity of financial issues and longevity risks in retirement, experienced financial planners are choosing to exit the industry instead said Mentor Education Group founder and Managing Director Dr Mark Sinclair.
Commenting further Dr Sinclair said there is a significant vacuum of expertise in the provision of quality financial advice to meet the pre, and post retirement needs of senior Australians.
Dr Sinclair continued pointing to the need for solutions to address sequencing risk and issues; how to stretch nest eggs, superannuation and investments in retirement; exit strategies for SMEs; maximising social security entitlements; assistance and guidance to avoid scams, frauds and financial abuse; strategies to bridge the financial longevity gap; and the list goes on.
■ Networking key to great Thai-Australia relations says Board of new Association
Thai Australia Network
Thursday July 27, 2017
Providing regular opportunities for business owners and professionals to come together in an informal setting to network and develop long term personal relationships is the underlying objective of the Thai Australia Network (TAN) that was launched as an association earlier this month.
The concept of TAN was started by Richard Lovell five years ago and as the popularity and support of the networking events grew it was felt that the time had come to take the next step as an association.
On Thursday evening July 13, over 50 guests and friends came together to celebrate the TAN milestone and meet the inaugural members of the TAN Board.
Thai Australia Network
Thursday July 27, 2017
Providing regular opportunities for business owners and professionals to come together in an informal setting to network and develop long term personal relationships is the underlying objective of the Thai Australia Network (TAN) that was launched as an association earlier this month.
The concept of TAN was started by Richard Lovell five years ago and as the popularity and support of the networking events grew it was felt that the time had come to take the next step as an association.
On Thursday evening July 13, over 50 guests and friends came together to celebrate the TAN milestone and meet the inaugural members of the TAN Board.
■ Professional client service & advice requires planning practices to grow…standing still not an option says Zervides
Australian Wealth Services
Tuesday July 11, 2017
Melbourne based financial planning practice Australian Wealth Solutions (AWS) founder and principal Sam Zervides has just completed the move to larger modern premises. It is the first step in an ambitious strategy that will position the advice business for growth needed to address the future needs of clients and alliance partners.
Commenting further, Sam Zervides said “Advice businesses that genuinely want to be relevant in providing financial solutions for their clients in the post FoFA LIF era simply can’t stand still and expect to thrive let alone survive – those days are gone!”
“The challenge of staying relevant to current and future needs of clients requires an entrepreneurial mindset and investment – however, although growth is our goal, it will be managed carefully to ensure new planners and staff are a cultural fit within the business and share the same values of providing exemplary service and advice”.
Australian Wealth Services
Tuesday July 11, 2017
Melbourne based financial planning practice Australian Wealth Solutions (AWS) founder and principal Sam Zervides has just completed the move to larger modern premises. It is the first step in an ambitious strategy that will position the advice business for growth needed to address the future needs of clients and alliance partners.
Commenting further, Sam Zervides said “Advice businesses that genuinely want to be relevant in providing financial solutions for their clients in the post FoFA LIF era simply can’t stand still and expect to thrive let alone survive – those days are gone!”
“The challenge of staying relevant to current and future needs of clients requires an entrepreneurial mindset and investment – however, although growth is our goal, it will be managed carefully to ensure new planners and staff are a cultural fit within the business and share the same values of providing exemplary service and advice”.
■ Kuala Lumpur readies to host 3rd Annual IWFCI Women’s Trade Summit in September – a celebration of success & potential
International Women’s Federation of Commerce and Industry
Thursday July 6, 2017
International Women’s Federation of Commerce and Industry (IWFCI) Founder and Chairman Ms Diana R Abruzzi has confirmed that there is a great deal of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming 3rd Annual IWFCI Women’s Trade Summit to be held in Kuala Lumpur on September 4 & 5.
Commenting further, Diana Abruzzi said the theme of the two-day Summit is Women: Changing the Global Economy and it will be a celebration and acknowledgement of women’s achievement in their entrepreneurial and professional endeavours – but more so the opportunities and potential for greater success in the future.
“It’s no secret that women owned businesses continue be a true force to be reckoned with globally and the program for our annual Summit highlights truly remarkable personal stories and journeys of incredible female entrepreneurs and inspiring catalysts for change”, continued Diana Abruzzi.
Headquartered and established in Melbourne, IWFCI is the first truly international chamber of commerce for women in the world and this year will celebrate its 25th anniversary.
International Women’s Federation of Commerce and Industry
Thursday July 6, 2017
International Women’s Federation of Commerce and Industry (IWFCI) Founder and Chairman Ms Diana R Abruzzi has confirmed that there is a great deal of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming 3rd Annual IWFCI Women’s Trade Summit to be held in Kuala Lumpur on September 4 & 5.
Commenting further, Diana Abruzzi said the theme of the two-day Summit is Women: Changing the Global Economy and it will be a celebration and acknowledgement of women’s achievement in their entrepreneurial and professional endeavours – but more so the opportunities and potential for greater success in the future.
“It’s no secret that women owned businesses continue be a true force to be reckoned with globally and the program for our annual Summit highlights truly remarkable personal stories and journeys of incredible female entrepreneurs and inspiring catalysts for change”, continued Diana Abruzzi.
Headquartered and established in Melbourne, IWFCI is the first truly international chamber of commerce for women in the world and this year will celebrate its 25th anniversary.
■ Australian Furniture Assoc. joins forces with Connect Malaysia & Cultural Synergies to assist members capitalise on MOU benefits
Connect Malaysia, Australian Furniture Assoc & Cultural Synergies
Monday April 24, 2017
Australian Furniture Association (AFA) CEO Ms Patrizia Torelli, Connect Malaysia Principal Mr Joe Perri and Cultural Synergies Founder Dr Tom Verghese have announced an alliance to assist AFA members to capitalise on the recent MOU signing with the Malaysian Furniture Council (MFC).
Commenting further, Ms Torelli said the signing of the MOU in Malaysia in March with the official representative body of Malaysian furniture industry represented a major milestone for the Australian Furniture Association. “We’re very proud of the partnership we have cemented with Malaysia on behalf of our members as we see this as an immense opportunity for the industries of both countries”.
“As the principal advocate of the Australian furniture and furnishings industry, we are constantly seeking opportunities to assist our members through strategic alliances, programs and services that will enhance their prospects for success in overseas marketplaces. Hence the alliance with Connect Malaysia and Cultural Synergies to capitalise on both the MOU and Malaysia Australia Free Trade Agreement (MAFTA) that came into effect in January 2013”.
Connect Malaysia, Australian Furniture Assoc & Cultural Synergies
Monday April 24, 2017
Australian Furniture Association (AFA) CEO Ms Patrizia Torelli, Connect Malaysia Principal Mr Joe Perri and Cultural Synergies Founder Dr Tom Verghese have announced an alliance to assist AFA members to capitalise on the recent MOU signing with the Malaysian Furniture Council (MFC).
Commenting further, Ms Torelli said the signing of the MOU in Malaysia in March with the official representative body of Malaysian furniture industry represented a major milestone for the Australian Furniture Association. “We’re very proud of the partnership we have cemented with Malaysia on behalf of our members as we see this as an immense opportunity for the industries of both countries”.
“As the principal advocate of the Australian furniture and furnishings industry, we are constantly seeking opportunities to assist our members through strategic alliances, programs and services that will enhance their prospects for success in overseas marketplaces. Hence the alliance with Connect Malaysia and Cultural Synergies to capitalise on both the MOU and Malaysia Australia Free Trade Agreement (MAFTA) that came into effect in January 2013”.
■ Budget 2017: Further options for Senior Homeowners yet to be considered
Homesafe Solutions Pty Ltd
Wednesday May 9, 2017
Homesafe Solutions Pty Ltd (Homesafe) has welcomed the first step taken by the Federal Government in recognising the need to address the concerns of Senior Homeowners and their desire to live a dignified retirement by using the equity in their homes. Homesafe strongly encourages the Government to now consider a more comprehensive approach to the broader issues facing this growing demographic, including those who do not wish to downsize.
Homesafe General Manager, Ms Dianne Shepherd said that “Whilst the Government has indicated their intention to enable seniors who downsize to contribute up to $300,000 into their superannuation, we hope the Government has left the door open to consider a more comprehensive approach in this area, in particular the interaction between superannuation and age pension policies.”
The family home is clearly a place to live but is also a store of wealth which is finally being recognised as the fourth pillar of the retirement income system.
Homesafe Solutions Pty Ltd
Wednesday May 9, 2017
Homesafe Solutions Pty Ltd (Homesafe) has welcomed the first step taken by the Federal Government in recognising the need to address the concerns of Senior Homeowners and their desire to live a dignified retirement by using the equity in their homes. Homesafe strongly encourages the Government to now consider a more comprehensive approach to the broader issues facing this growing demographic, including those who do not wish to downsize.
Homesafe General Manager, Ms Dianne Shepherd said that “Whilst the Government has indicated their intention to enable seniors who downsize to contribute up to $300,000 into their superannuation, we hope the Government has left the door open to consider a more comprehensive approach in this area, in particular the interaction between superannuation and age pension policies.”
The family home is clearly a place to live but is also a store of wealth which is finally being recognised as the fourth pillar of the retirement income system.
■ Connections Newsletter Edition 2 2017
Connect Malaysia
Thursday March 16, 2017
Welcome to the latest edition of Connect Malaysia’s ConnectionsNewsletter (copy attached) that promotes trade and engagement between Australian and Malaysian SMEs.
This newsletter was developed as a resource dedicated to providing information and insights into the Malaysian economy and the opportunities for commercial engagement and business growth.
In addition, I hope that it encourages Australian SMEs to learn more about the commercial prospects in Malaysia and consider the country as their destination of choice for expansion into international marketplaces.
Connect Malaysia
Thursday March 16, 2017
Welcome to the latest edition of Connect Malaysia’s ConnectionsNewsletter (copy attached) that promotes trade and engagement between Australian and Malaysian SMEs.
This newsletter was developed as a resource dedicated to providing information and insights into the Malaysian economy and the opportunities for commercial engagement and business growth.
In addition, I hope that it encourages Australian SMEs to learn more about the commercial prospects in Malaysia and consider the country as their destination of choice for expansion into international marketplaces.
■ Workshop for SMEs to address costly impact of cross cultural differences when doing business in Malaysia
Connect Malaysia & Cultural Synergies
Tuesday February 14, 2017
Connect Malaysia principal consultant Mr Joe Perri and Cultural Synergies founder Dr Tom Verghese have announced an extensive cross-cultural workshop for SMEs, with a focus on the importance of understanding Malaysian culture and its impact on the commercial success of Australian business owners. The workshop will be held on Saturday May 6 2017.
Mr Perri commented, “Malaysia is one of Australia’s top ten trading partners and the prospects for business has provided a beacon for SMEs to expand their operations into Malaysia. The country’s strategic geographical position and access to the markets of ASEAN is a further incentive for SMEs.”
Connect Malaysia & Cultural Synergies
Tuesday February 14, 2017
Connect Malaysia principal consultant Mr Joe Perri and Cultural Synergies founder Dr Tom Verghese have announced an extensive cross-cultural workshop for SMEs, with a focus on the importance of understanding Malaysian culture and its impact on the commercial success of Australian business owners. The workshop will be held on Saturday May 6 2017.
Mr Perri commented, “Malaysia is one of Australia’s top ten trading partners and the prospects for business has provided a beacon for SMEs to expand their operations into Malaysia. The country’s strategic geographical position and access to the markets of ASEAN is a further incentive for SMEs.”
■ Homesafe welcomes recent government support & focus on equity release as a solution for financial difficulty
Homesafe Solutions Pty Ltd
Wednesday March 8, 2017
Homesafe Solutions Pty Ltd (Homesafe) General Manager Ms Dianne Shepherd has welcomed the recent announcement by the Victorian Government and Federal Treasurer in support of ‘shared ownership’ models as a possible solution for new and existing homeowners.
Providing funding alternatives for senior homeowners to ‘age in place’ is an example of the need to develop versatile solutions to address a myriad and often complex array of financial difficulties and issues across many sectors of Australian society.
Homesafe Solutions Pty Ltd
Wednesday March 8, 2017
Homesafe Solutions Pty Ltd (Homesafe) General Manager Ms Dianne Shepherd has welcomed the recent announcement by the Victorian Government and Federal Treasurer in support of ‘shared ownership’ models as a possible solution for new and existing homeowners.
Providing funding alternatives for senior homeowners to ‘age in place’ is an example of the need to develop versatile solutions to address a myriad and often complex array of financial difficulties and issues across many sectors of Australian society.
■ The pyramid business and government models just don’t work says Paul Tynan
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Tuesday February 14, 2017
Although the New Year is now well underway, the debate that vertical integration leads to poor quality of advice and advice that is not in the best interest of clients has continued without a break said Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO and founder Paul Tynan. The prospects and future for the industry is truly positive, however progress and potential is being severely hampered as the vertical integration models are an extension of the pyramid business model that dominates the Australian corporate landscape.
Commenting further Paul Tynan said, “Across all industries, and especially in financial services, the pyramid structure has resulted in internal cultures of risk aversion with high compliance regimes and infrastructures devoted to protecting the ‘brand’ at all costs”.
“Since 2007, financial institutions have operated in an environment of over regulation that quite literally drowns individualism, turns employees into bureaucrats and has killed innovation”.
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Tuesday February 14, 2017
Although the New Year is now well underway, the debate that vertical integration leads to poor quality of advice and advice that is not in the best interest of clients has continued without a break said Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO and founder Paul Tynan. The prospects and future for the industry is truly positive, however progress and potential is being severely hampered as the vertical integration models are an extension of the pyramid business model that dominates the Australian corporate landscape.
Commenting further Paul Tynan said, “Across all industries, and especially in financial services, the pyramid structure has resulted in internal cultures of risk aversion with high compliance regimes and infrastructures devoted to protecting the ‘brand’ at all costs”.
“Since 2007, financial institutions have operated in an environment of over regulation that quite literally drowns individualism, turns employees into bureaucrats and has killed innovation”.
■ End of financial year issues to confront SMSFs & planners will miss out on business growth opportunities
JWW Consulting
Monday February 6, 2017
Although still months away to the end of the financial year on June 30, financial planner and head of JWW Consulting John Wiseman predicts there will be a surge before this date of self-managed superannuation funds opting out of current arrangements in favour of retail, corporate or industry funds.
In addition, John Wiseman is concerned that many SMSF Trustees will make hurried impulsive decisions that will adversely impact their retirement aspirations.
“For financial planners, especially those with SMSF expertise, 2017 and beyond will be an opportunity filled environment and many are already being inundated by Trustees seeking professional advice on whether they should close their SMSFs and consider other options”.
JWW Consulting
Monday February 6, 2017
Although still months away to the end of the financial year on June 30, financial planner and head of JWW Consulting John Wiseman predicts there will be a surge before this date of self-managed superannuation funds opting out of current arrangements in favour of retail, corporate or industry funds.
In addition, John Wiseman is concerned that many SMSF Trustees will make hurried impulsive decisions that will adversely impact their retirement aspirations.
“For financial planners, especially those with SMSF expertise, 2017 and beyond will be an opportunity filled environment and many are already being inundated by Trustees seeking professional advice on whether they should close their SMSFs and consider other options”.
■ Platinum to build on successful 2016 with plans for business growth & network expansion in 2017
Platinum Travel Corporation
Wednesday February 1, 2017
Platinum Travel Corporation (Platinum) Director Andy Buerckner has announced that following a very successful 2016 the leading provider of corporate travel management, leisure and event solutions was well advanced with plans to significantly increase business and its distribution network in Australia and overseas.
Commenting further about the organisation’s growth aspirations, Buerckner said they would be in line with Platinum’s business strategy of managed planned growth, utilisation of advances in technology solutions and a commitment to providing award winning personalised professional and cost effective services to clients.
Last year Platinum’s impressive list of achievements included increased revenue, new clients and profit over 2015.
Platinum Travel Corporation
Wednesday February 1, 2017
Platinum Travel Corporation (Platinum) Director Andy Buerckner has announced that following a very successful 2016 the leading provider of corporate travel management, leisure and event solutions was well advanced with plans to significantly increase business and its distribution network in Australia and overseas.
Commenting further about the organisation’s growth aspirations, Buerckner said they would be in line with Platinum’s business strategy of managed planned growth, utilisation of advances in technology solutions and a commitment to providing award winning personalised professional and cost effective services to clients.
Last year Platinum’s impressive list of achievements included increased revenue, new clients and profit over 2015.
■ SMSF sector loses out under new industry education & professional standards, says John Wiseman
JWW Consulting
Tuesday January 17, 2017
Although he welcomes the financial service sector’s education and professional standards introduced into Parliament last year, industry consultant and former planner John Wiseman says the new changes have overlooked a gaping need for similar compulsory academic and professional requirements for SMSF trustees.
Commenting further, John Wiseman said with nearly 30% of Australia’s $2.1trillion of superannuation funds in SMSFs it is incomprehensible that current and potential future trustees are not required to complete appropriate academic courses and maintain an ongoing regime of professional development.
JWW Consulting
Tuesday January 17, 2017
Although he welcomes the financial service sector’s education and professional standards introduced into Parliament last year, industry consultant and former planner John Wiseman says the new changes have overlooked a gaping need for similar compulsory academic and professional requirements for SMSF trustees.
Commenting further, John Wiseman said with nearly 30% of Australia’s $2.1trillion of superannuation funds in SMSFs it is incomprehensible that current and potential future trustees are not required to complete appropriate academic courses and maintain an ongoing regime of professional development.
■ Malaysia & SE Asia could provide workable life solutions for retirees impacted by new Assets Test says Paul Tynan
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Tuesday December 13, 2016
The rude shock many seniors will wake up to on January 1 2017 as the impact on pensions and benefits are realized as the result of changes to the Age Pension Assets Test will have financial planners inundated with calls said Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO Paul Tynan. Regrettably, if the solution doesn’t appear on an APL, model portfolio or planning software, PI restrictions will not allow planners to articulate other alternatives.
Commenting further Paul Tynan said the question of how Australia is going to fund retirement continues to be the ‘elephant in the room’ in Australian politics with successive governments only willing to provide band aid/quick fix solutions when comprehensive answers are desperately needed.
“Today, longer life expectancies and rising cost of living has many Australians wondering how their nest eggs and savings will provide them a comfortable dignified retirement”, continued Paul Tynan.
“The reality is the majority of Australian retirement aspirations are vastly underfunded and as a result future government budgets will come under immense stress from the strain of paying for age pensions, health services, age care and related housing costs.
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Tuesday December 13, 2016
The rude shock many seniors will wake up to on January 1 2017 as the impact on pensions and benefits are realized as the result of changes to the Age Pension Assets Test will have financial planners inundated with calls said Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO Paul Tynan. Regrettably, if the solution doesn’t appear on an APL, model portfolio or planning software, PI restrictions will not allow planners to articulate other alternatives.
Commenting further Paul Tynan said the question of how Australia is going to fund retirement continues to be the ‘elephant in the room’ in Australian politics with successive governments only willing to provide band aid/quick fix solutions when comprehensive answers are desperately needed.
“Today, longer life expectancies and rising cost of living has many Australians wondering how their nest eggs and savings will provide them a comfortable dignified retirement”, continued Paul Tynan.
“The reality is the majority of Australian retirement aspirations are vastly underfunded and as a result future government budgets will come under immense stress from the strain of paying for age pensions, health services, age care and related housing costs.
■ Connections Newsletter Edition 1 2016
Connect Malaysia
Wednesday November 16, 2016
Just over 12 months ago I announced the launch of a new venture, Connect Malaysia, a consultancy dedicated to connecting Australian SMEs to commercial opportunities in Malaysia.
I’m pleased to say that Connect Malaysia’s reputation has gone from strength to strength and is regarded as the ‘go to’ organisation for SMEs looking to do business in Malaysia.
Malaysia’s vibrant SME sector and the Malaysia Australia Free Trade Agreement effective January 1, 2013 have put the country firmly on the radar of Australian SMEs for export opportunities. As such, I felt that a regular communiqué was needed to provide Australian SMEs with information and insights into the various sectors of the Malaysian economy and as a result developed the Connections Newsletter.
It’s with pleasure that I attach the first edition of Connections Newsletter and my goal is that it will be regarded as an information resource that will inspire SMEs to consider Malaysia as their business destination of choice.
I hope you find the newsletter informative and interesting reading.
Connect Malaysia
Wednesday November 16, 2016
Just over 12 months ago I announced the launch of a new venture, Connect Malaysia, a consultancy dedicated to connecting Australian SMEs to commercial opportunities in Malaysia.
I’m pleased to say that Connect Malaysia’s reputation has gone from strength to strength and is regarded as the ‘go to’ organisation for SMEs looking to do business in Malaysia.
Malaysia’s vibrant SME sector and the Malaysia Australia Free Trade Agreement effective January 1, 2013 have put the country firmly on the radar of Australian SMEs for export opportunities. As such, I felt that a regular communiqué was needed to provide Australian SMEs with information and insights into the various sectors of the Malaysian economy and as a result developed the Connections Newsletter.
It’s with pleasure that I attach the first edition of Connections Newsletter and my goal is that it will be regarded as an information resource that will inspire SMEs to consider Malaysia as their business destination of choice.
I hope you find the newsletter informative and interesting reading.
■ InterPrac accolades and success underpinned by internal culture of service & staying relevant to advisers
InterPrac Financial Planning Pty Ltd
Wednesday November 9, 2016
Melbourne based MD Financial Planning P/L principal Mary De Angelis and Sydney headquartered Capitaleyes Financial Planning P/L principal Charbel Fahd are not surprised InterPrac Financial Planning (InterPrac) will end 2016 with accolades for the highest level of adviser satisfaction and achievement of business and adviser growth milestones.
Recently, InterPrac took first place for the second consecutive year in the Investor Daily annual dealer group satisfaction survey and jumped from 38th position to 28th in this year’s Money Management’s Top 100 Dealer Group Survey.
“Winning the dealer group satisfaction survey for 2015 and 2016 has been especially pleasing as it is a reflection of InterPrac’s non-aligned and accountant centric model that regards the relationship with both our adviser network and the National Tax and Accountants’ Association (NTAA) as a professional collaborative partnership”, said InterPrac Managing Director Garry Crole.
“Most importantly, we manage growth very carefully and all new entrants must be a cultural fit within InterPrac”.
InterPrac Financial Planning Pty Ltd
Wednesday November 9, 2016
Melbourne based MD Financial Planning P/L principal Mary De Angelis and Sydney headquartered Capitaleyes Financial Planning P/L principal Charbel Fahd are not surprised InterPrac Financial Planning (InterPrac) will end 2016 with accolades for the highest level of adviser satisfaction and achievement of business and adviser growth milestones.
Recently, InterPrac took first place for the second consecutive year in the Investor Daily annual dealer group satisfaction survey and jumped from 38th position to 28th in this year’s Money Management’s Top 100 Dealer Group Survey.
“Winning the dealer group satisfaction survey for 2015 and 2016 has been especially pleasing as it is a reflection of InterPrac’s non-aligned and accountant centric model that regards the relationship with both our adviser network and the National Tax and Accountants’ Association (NTAA) as a professional collaborative partnership”, said InterPrac Managing Director Garry Crole.
“Most importantly, we manage growth very carefully and all new entrants must be a cultural fit within InterPrac”.
■ Investment bonds and Scholarship funds on the rise, says Zenith
Zenith Investment Partners
Wednesday November 2, 2016
Investment bonds have seen a resurgence of interest in recent times after operating below the radar for many years, according to Zenith Investment Partners latest „Investment Bond Sector Review‟. Dugald Higgins, Zenith Senior Analyst said “As at 31 March 2016, investment bonds as an industry held Funds Under Management (FUM) of $7 billion. However, the industry continues to be split between active issuers of investment bonds (those being open to new investors) and those which are essentially in run-off mode, keeping the total invested figure relatively stable”.
It is difficult to determine what proportion of funds that flow into the investment bond sector is a result of people seeking an alternative to superannuation. However, the sector should be well placed as a beneficiary of continued political unrest around the issue.
Zenith Investment Partners
Wednesday November 2, 2016
Investment bonds have seen a resurgence of interest in recent times after operating below the radar for many years, according to Zenith Investment Partners latest „Investment Bond Sector Review‟. Dugald Higgins, Zenith Senior Analyst said “As at 31 March 2016, investment bonds as an industry held Funds Under Management (FUM) of $7 billion. However, the industry continues to be split between active issuers of investment bonds (those being open to new investors) and those which are essentially in run-off mode, keeping the total invested figure relatively stable”.
It is difficult to determine what proportion of funds that flow into the investment bond sector is a result of people seeking an alternative to superannuation. However, the sector should be well placed as a beneficiary of continued political unrest around the issue.
■ 2016 ICESAP conference in Singapore – It’s all about the risk
Incentive Conference & Event Society Asia Pacific (ICESAP)
Friday October 14, 2016
As the third annual Incentive, Conference and Event Society Asia Pacific (ICESAP) conference to be held in Singapore November 30 to December 2 rapidly approaches, one of the first topics on this year’s comprehensive program will be risk minimisation.
ICESAP President Nigel Gaunt said the incentives, conferences and events industry has been especially vulnerable and impacted over recent years to a seemingly non-stop array of unexpected adverse events and their commercial consequences. “These events have ranged from political unrest and upheaval to pandemics and natural disasters.
“Recently we have seen both the tragic human effects of the Zika Virus and its economic impact on the high profile 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil”.
Incentive Conference & Event Society Asia Pacific (ICESAP)
Friday October 14, 2016
As the third annual Incentive, Conference and Event Society Asia Pacific (ICESAP) conference to be held in Singapore November 30 to December 2 rapidly approaches, one of the first topics on this year’s comprehensive program will be risk minimisation.
ICESAP President Nigel Gaunt said the incentives, conferences and events industry has been especially vulnerable and impacted over recent years to a seemingly non-stop array of unexpected adverse events and their commercial consequences. “These events have ranged from political unrest and upheaval to pandemics and natural disasters.
“Recently we have seen both the tragic human effects of the Zika Virus and its economic impact on the high profile 2016 Summer Olympics in Brazil”.
■ Stellar keynote speakers, VIPs, guests & program confirmed for 8th World Chinese Economic Summit
World Chinese Economic Summit
Wednesday September 21, 2016
Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Michael Yeoh, Chairman of the World Chinese Economic Summit (WCES) and CEO, Asian Strategy & Leadership Institute (ASLI) has confirmed that this year’s program comprising a stellar array of speakers of former heads of state, current and past ministers, trade and business experts reflects the immense importance of China in the future of both the region and global economies.
The theme of the 2016 WCES is “China-ASEAN: Realising opportunities, strengthening partnerships”, and the opening address will be delivered by Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
World Chinese Economic Summit
Wednesday September 21, 2016
Tan Sri Dato’ Dr Michael Yeoh, Chairman of the World Chinese Economic Summit (WCES) and CEO, Asian Strategy & Leadership Institute (ASLI) has confirmed that this year’s program comprising a stellar array of speakers of former heads of state, current and past ministers, trade and business experts reflects the immense importance of China in the future of both the region and global economies.
The theme of the 2016 WCES is “China-ASEAN: Realising opportunities, strengthening partnerships”, and the opening address will be delivered by Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
■ Financial services tectonic plates have shifted irreversibly – now is the time to act says Connect CEO Paul Tynan
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Tuesday August 2, 2016
Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO Paul Tynan has observed that although many within the financial services industry proclaim the world is changing and they are embracing the new era by adapting their respective corporate, dealership and advice models they are doing so reluctantly with the hand brake fully engaged whilst slightly pressing the accelerator. This is not a phenomena unique to financial services but many of the sectors and economic drivers of the Australian and international economies.
Commenting further Paul Tynan said that within the next decade there will be countless major issues for Australia to confront and it will be in an environment of massive upheaval with the conventions and norms of the past no longer recognisable or applicable. “The tectonic plates have already shifted irreversibly as seen in the first indications of this in the results of the recent federal election, the UK vote to leave the EU and the rise of Donald Trump in the US”.
“The 21st century is being driven by even faster advances in technology and ‘real time’ communications which are changing our way of life, jobs and disrupting cultures. In these times we require politicians, business/captains of industry and academic leaders of substance and character who can lead and show the way because turning back is not an option”.
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Tuesday August 2, 2016
Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO Paul Tynan has observed that although many within the financial services industry proclaim the world is changing and they are embracing the new era by adapting their respective corporate, dealership and advice models they are doing so reluctantly with the hand brake fully engaged whilst slightly pressing the accelerator. This is not a phenomena unique to financial services but many of the sectors and economic drivers of the Australian and international economies.
Commenting further Paul Tynan said that within the next decade there will be countless major issues for Australia to confront and it will be in an environment of massive upheaval with the conventions and norms of the past no longer recognisable or applicable. “The tectonic plates have already shifted irreversibly as seen in the first indications of this in the results of the recent federal election, the UK vote to leave the EU and the rise of Donald Trump in the US”.
“The 21st century is being driven by even faster advances in technology and ‘real time’ communications which are changing our way of life, jobs and disrupting cultures. In these times we require politicians, business/captains of industry and academic leaders of substance and character who can lead and show the way because turning back is not an option”.
■ Election results confirm win for government but retirees still left high and dry says SEQUAL Chairman Peter Szabo
Senior Australians Equity Release (SEQUAL)
Wednesday July 13, 2016
The uncertainty following the recent federal election has fortunately been overcome on the weekend with announcements by the leaders of the coalition and opposition confirming the results. However, in contrast the future financial wellbeing of Australian retirees is very much in doubt and looking more and more precarious as a constant stream of data highlights the shortfall in savings and resources required to maintain a dignified retirement said SEQUAL Chairman Peter Szabo.
Commenting further, Peter Szabo said that although he welcomed the emphasis by all political parties on assisting Australians to inject more into superannuation to relieve pressure on age pensions, the broader implications of a rapidly ageing population fails to attract real attention and focus.
Senior Australians Equity Release (SEQUAL)
Wednesday July 13, 2016
The uncertainty following the recent federal election has fortunately been overcome on the weekend with announcements by the leaders of the coalition and opposition confirming the results. However, in contrast the future financial wellbeing of Australian retirees is very much in doubt and looking more and more precarious as a constant stream of data highlights the shortfall in savings and resources required to maintain a dignified retirement said SEQUAL Chairman Peter Szabo.
Commenting further, Peter Szabo said that although he welcomed the emphasis by all political parties on assisting Australians to inject more into superannuation to relieve pressure on age pensions, the broader implications of a rapidly ageing population fails to attract real attention and focus.
■ Past SMSF advice & practices by accountants will be a PI & legal dilemma post July 1 says Wiseman
John Wiseman Consulting
Monday July 11, 2016
Industry consultant John Wiseman predicts that the ‘head in the sand’ approach many accountants and SMSF trustee/members chose to adopt leading up the expiration of the July 2016 exemption is about to come back and bite a number of them very savagely.
For months as the July deadline approached, John Wiseman has been very vocal in his warnings to accountants and trustees that the era of low cost, DIY SMSFs will be unsustainable in the new compliant environment that will demand professionally administered and audited SMSFs.
As a result very much higher fees and charges are going to be inevitable.
John Wiseman Consulting
Monday July 11, 2016
Industry consultant John Wiseman predicts that the ‘head in the sand’ approach many accountants and SMSF trustee/members chose to adopt leading up the expiration of the July 2016 exemption is about to come back and bite a number of them very savagely.
For months as the July deadline approached, John Wiseman has been very vocal in his warnings to accountants and trustees that the era of low cost, DIY SMSFs will be unsustainable in the new compliant environment that will demand professionally administered and audited SMSFs.
As a result very much higher fees and charges are going to be inevitable.
■ Australian Long/Short funds shine despite market volatility: Zenith
Zenith Investment Partners
Monday June 27, 2016
Australian Shares - Long/Short funds have materially outperformed the Australian equity market for the 12 months ending 30 April 2016 according to Zenith Investment Partners’ 2016 Australian Shares – Long/Short Sector Review
Commenting on the review, Justin Tay, Zenith’s lead analyst on the Australian Shares – Long/Short sector said, “Over the period, Zenith’s rated Australian Shares - Long/Short managers produced an average return of 4.6% compared to the S&P/ASX 300 Accumulation which returned -4.7%.”
Tay also noted: “Zenith’s rated funds also impressed from a risk-adjusted basis, exhibiting lower volatility compared with the broader Australian equity market.”
Zenith Investment Partners
Monday June 27, 2016
Australian Shares - Long/Short funds have materially outperformed the Australian equity market for the 12 months ending 30 April 2016 according to Zenith Investment Partners’ 2016 Australian Shares – Long/Short Sector Review
Commenting on the review, Justin Tay, Zenith’s lead analyst on the Australian Shares – Long/Short sector said, “Over the period, Zenith’s rated Australian Shares - Long/Short managers produced an average return of 4.6% compared to the S&P/ASX 300 Accumulation which returned -4.7%.”
Tay also noted: “Zenith’s rated funds also impressed from a risk-adjusted basis, exhibiting lower volatility compared with the broader Australian equity market.”
■ Platinum Travel MD announces extensive range of benefits for clients in alliance with Signature Travel
Platinum Travel Corporation
Wednesday June 22, 2016
Platinum Travel Corporation (Platinum) Managing Director Greg McCarthy has announced that the leading provider of travel management and event solutions has partnered with highly regarded global Signature Travel Network (Signature).
The alliance is the first for Signature in Australia and will provide an extensive range of privileges for Platinum clients at more than 900 hotels, resorts, lodges and spas around the globe.
Platinum Travel Corporation
Wednesday June 22, 2016
Platinum Travel Corporation (Platinum) Managing Director Greg McCarthy has announced that the leading provider of travel management and event solutions has partnered with highly regarded global Signature Travel Network (Signature).
The alliance is the first for Signature in Australia and will provide an extensive range of privileges for Platinum clients at more than 900 hotels, resorts, lodges and spas around the globe.
■ The era of cheap SMSFs is about to end & planners P2P skills will open doors to new opportunities
John Wiseman Consulting
Tuesday May 24, 2016
The final countdown to the expiration of the SMSF accountant exemption has well and truly started and as the momentum builds, industry consultant John Wiseman is amazed at the relatively small number of financial planners that are reaching out to offer them their services.
July 1 will mark a significant watershed moment in Australia’s professional advice services sector and yet far too many accountants and planners are failing to connect with each other to establish commercial alliances that will benefit both their respective businesses.
John Wiseman Consulting
Tuesday May 24, 2016
The final countdown to the expiration of the SMSF accountant exemption has well and truly started and as the momentum builds, industry consultant John Wiseman is amazed at the relatively small number of financial planners that are reaching out to offer them their services.
July 1 will mark a significant watershed moment in Australia’s professional advice services sector and yet far too many accountants and planners are failing to connect with each other to establish commercial alliances that will benefit both their respective businesses.
■ New financial advice qualifications should be limited for limited personal advisers, says Mentor MD.
Mentor Education Group
Tuesday April 26, 2016
With community debate raging in the finance industry on how to enhance its professional standards, one expert educationalist believes the government needs to legislate around a clear distinction between comprehensive versus limited financial advisers.
Dr. Mark Sinclair, Managing Director of Mentor Education, said today that, “Any legislation on qualifications should be focussed on advisers who provide comprehensive personal advice and not overreach to the majority of advisers who provide only limited personal advice.”
Mentor Education Group
Tuesday April 26, 2016
With community debate raging in the finance industry on how to enhance its professional standards, one expert educationalist believes the government needs to legislate around a clear distinction between comprehensive versus limited financial advisers.
Dr. Mark Sinclair, Managing Director of Mentor Education, said today that, “Any legislation on qualifications should be focussed on advisers who provide comprehensive personal advice and not overreach to the majority of advisers who provide only limited personal advice.”
■ Paul Tynan cautions accountants to be ware & consider options carefully as not all licensee offers are the same
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Monday April 4, 2016
Much has been written about the accountants’ exemption, which allows accountants to give advice on SMSF’s coming to an end on the 1st July 2016 and the new requirements they will need to adhere to if they wish to continue servicing clients within a compliant AFSL framework. Like many industry observers, Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO Paul Tynan notes that accountants are not exactly rushing to be licensed with the deadline just on the horizon, however; there is an aggressive marketing campaign by licensees to license accountants under their respective dealer groups.
In this highly charged environment, accountants need to be very careful when selecting a licensee as they might find that their future business opportunities and retirement / exit / succession objectives could be put at risk if the wrong licensee is selected notes Paul Tynan. “Some licensee agreements have very strict client ownership stipulations, especially those by licensees that operate within the big four major banks, AMP and IOOF”.
Connect Financial Service Brokers
Monday April 4, 2016
Much has been written about the accountants’ exemption, which allows accountants to give advice on SMSF’s coming to an end on the 1st July 2016 and the new requirements they will need to adhere to if they wish to continue servicing clients within a compliant AFSL framework. Like many industry observers, Connect Financial Service Brokers (Connect) CEO Paul Tynan notes that accountants are not exactly rushing to be licensed with the deadline just on the horizon, however; there is an aggressive marketing campaign by licensees to license accountants under their respective dealer groups.
In this highly charged environment, accountants need to be very careful when selecting a licensee as they might find that their future business opportunities and retirement / exit / succession objectives could be put at risk if the wrong licensee is selected notes Paul Tynan. “Some licensee agreements have very strict client ownership stipulations, especially those by licensees that operate within the big four major banks, AMP and IOOF”.
■ Homesafe welcomes ‘Unlocking Housing Wealth’ green paper & focus on funding ageing population
Homesafe Solutions Pty Ltd
Wednesday March 16, 2016
Homesafe Solutions MD and founder Mr Peter Szabo welcomes the Actuaries Institute recently released green paper ‘Unlocking Housing Wealth’ and the attention it has generated on the issue of funding Australia’s ageing population and their retirement living concerns.
In 2005 Peter Szabo in partnership with Bendigo Bank sought to provide an alternative for senior homeowners to either selling / downsizing or taking out a reverse mortgage in order to have sufficient funds to sustain a dignified and comfortable life in retirement. “Homesafe was established as a viable and safe alternative for senior Australians to access the wealth tied up in their homes with both security and certainty – principles we have stringently adhered to since the first day of opening our doors over ten years ago”.
Homesafe Solutions Pty Ltd
Wednesday March 16, 2016
Homesafe Solutions MD and founder Mr Peter Szabo welcomes the Actuaries Institute recently released green paper ‘Unlocking Housing Wealth’ and the attention it has generated on the issue of funding Australia’s ageing population and their retirement living concerns.
In 2005 Peter Szabo in partnership with Bendigo Bank sought to provide an alternative for senior homeowners to either selling / downsizing or taking out a reverse mortgage in order to have sufficient funds to sustain a dignified and comfortable life in retirement. “Homesafe was established as a viable and safe alternative for senior Australians to access the wealth tied up in their homes with both security and certainty – principles we have stringently adhered to since the first day of opening our doors over ten years ago”.
■ Joe Perri & Associates and i-Impact Group announce international strategic PR alliance
Joe Perri & Associates & i-Impact Group Inc
Wednesday January 20, 2016
Principal and Founder of Joe Perri & Associates Mr Joe Perri and President and Founder of US Based i-Impact Group Mr Claudio O. Pannunzio have announced a strategic alliance between the two PR consultancies that will assist clients to better communicate their business values, brands and offerings into overseas marketplaces.
Joe Perri and Claudio Pannunzio first met each other in the USA over a decade ago at a Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) Annual Meeting and became instant good friends. At the time Claudio was providing branding and strategic communication for MDRT and his team involved in the event organization.
Over the years the two firms have partnered on several projects and when VIP clients visited the USA or Australia, Claudio Pannunzio and Joe Perri would personally welcome and attend to their media and marketing needs.
Joe Perri & Associates & i-Impact Group Inc
Wednesday January 20, 2016
Principal and Founder of Joe Perri & Associates Mr Joe Perri and President and Founder of US Based i-Impact Group Mr Claudio O. Pannunzio have announced a strategic alliance between the two PR consultancies that will assist clients to better communicate their business values, brands and offerings into overseas marketplaces.
Joe Perri and Claudio Pannunzio first met each other in the USA over a decade ago at a Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) Annual Meeting and became instant good friends. At the time Claudio was providing branding and strategic communication for MDRT and his team involved in the event organization.
Over the years the two firms have partnered on several projects and when VIP clients visited the USA or Australia, Claudio Pannunzio and Joe Perri would personally welcome and attend to their media and marketing needs.
■ Australia Malaysia cultural awareness becoming more complex in the ‘instant gratification’ era
Connect Malaysia and Cultural Synergies
Monday January 18, 2016
Although overwhelmed by the positive response the new venture Connect Malaysia has received since commencing business in late 2015, it has highlighted to principal consultant Joe Perri the ongoing lack of intercultural awareness, appreciation and understanding that exists amongst Australian business owners.
The pace of economic globalisation means that business owners cannot function in isolation and must engage and interact with the rest of the world for their long term commercial viability and success. As a result, intercultural communication is not an option, but a very important necessity said Joe Perri.
From an Australia Malaysia perspective, much has been said and promoted about the export opportunities for Australian SMEs in Malaysia since the Malaysia Australia Free Trade Agreement (MAFTA) came into effect in January 2013. Today, six out of the ten top export countries for Australian goods are to Asia* with Malaysia moving into 8th position in 2014. *1.China, 2.Japan, 4. Republic of Korea, 5. Singapore, 8. Malaysia and 9. Thailand – source DFAT website.
Connect Malaysia and Cultural Synergies
Monday January 18, 2016
Although overwhelmed by the positive response the new venture Connect Malaysia has received since commencing business in late 2015, it has highlighted to principal consultant Joe Perri the ongoing lack of intercultural awareness, appreciation and understanding that exists amongst Australian business owners.
The pace of economic globalisation means that business owners cannot function in isolation and must engage and interact with the rest of the world for their long term commercial viability and success. As a result, intercultural communication is not an option, but a very important necessity said Joe Perri.
From an Australia Malaysia perspective, much has been said and promoted about the export opportunities for Australian SMEs in Malaysia since the Malaysia Australia Free Trade Agreement (MAFTA) came into effect in January 2013. Today, six out of the ten top export countries for Australian goods are to Asia* with Malaysia moving into 8th position in 2014. *1.China, 2.Japan, 4. Republic of Korea, 5. Singapore, 8. Malaysia and 9. Thailand – source DFAT website.
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