
The quiet revolution in retirement fund costs
Despite two decades of growing regulation, administration costs have fallen sharply, leaving more retirement contributions invested for members.

Despite two decades of growing regulation, administration costs have fallen sharply, leaving more retirement contributions invested for members.

Strong retail flows, rising adviser numbers, and expanding support capabilities suggest the group’s push to win over IFAs is beginning to deliver measurable results.

While billions have been withdrawn through the two-pot system, Alexforbes says more members are remaining connected to retirement funds long after leaving their employers.

Despite a decline in headline earnings, Alexforbes delivered strong underlying growth, with record assets, rising retail inflows, and expanding umbrella fund assets.

COFI’s outcomes-based framework may push governance responsibility beyond trustees and require umbrella funds to prove that members are better off.

The two-pot system has changed how members check balances and withdraw funds, but evidence shows the reform alone won’t fix long-term retirement shortfalls.

Old Mutual’s Michelle Acton tells IRFA delegates that Australia’s superannuation system provides a roadmap for boosting coverage and retirement outcomes.

For smaller employers facing rising compliance and governance costs, umbrella funds usually deliver better cost-efficiency and reduced fiduciary risk.

Carina Wessels of Alexforbes discusses the urgent need for retirement funds to ‘learn forward as they lean forward’ to ensure long-term sustainability and relevance.

The ‘imminent’ COFI Bill will introduce the licensing of retirement funds (including public sector funds), stricter board member standards, and enhanced oversight of contributing employers.