The ifa Show

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Keith Ford speaks with Shannon Freney of Direct Wealth about practical ways financial advice firms can improve efficiency without compromising client outcomes. Freney explains why firms should treat efficiency as part of an ongoing process, while maintaining a measured and deliberate approach rather than change for its own sake, and how understanding where the bottlenecks exist can help advisers streamline their operations. Tune in to hear: Why it's vital to map out the advice process to find bottlenecks, unnecessary complexity, and hidden workarounds. How being clear on your value proposition and target client profile can reduce inefficiencies. The importance of shifting from product to strategy-focused advice.

In this episode of the ifa Show, host Keith Ford speaks with Dwayne Fernandes, senior financial adviser and partner at Principal Edge, about the complex realities of intergenerational wealth transfer for high‑net‑worth families and why a multi-disciplinary team is so important for client success. Fernandes breaks down the blind spots that can undermine long-term outcomes when professionals take a siloed approach rather than working collaboratively, and why financial advisers are well placed to take the project lead role. Tune in to hear: How the $3 million super tax – and the new $10 million threshold – could change client thinking. Why early, proactive estate and succession planning is essential. The shifting role of the financial adviser.

In this episode of the ifa Show, general manager of Viridian Advisory Brett Arnol joins host Keith Ford to speak about how the firm approaches the Professional Year as a strategic talent pipeline rather than a compliance hurdle. Arnol explains that simply following the regulatory framework is not enough to turn a new adviser into a capable "advice‑ready" professional, and breaks down how Viridian maps each adviser's path over one, three and five years, using the PY as a foundation for long‑term career development, clarity of expectations, and strong retention. Tune in to hear: How listening, confidence, and the willingness to have difficult client conversations can be just as important as technical knowledge. Why clarity within the PY process is vital to setting advisers up for long-term success. How a well‑run PY program creates loyal, "homegrown" advisers, but firms must accept a three- to five-year horizon before candidates are fully productive.

On this episode of the ifa Show, Forte Asset Solutions principal Steve Prendeville joins host Keith Ford to break down the advice sector M&A outlook and why the feared wave of exits never aligned with what he was seeing on the ground, particularly among advice business owners. While consolidation is accelerating, Prendeville stressed that successful deals are less about headline price and more about cultural alignment, client continuity and protecting staff outcomes, with many advisers choosing to sell without exiting and remain in advice roles post-transaction. Tune in to hear: Why adviser exits linked to the education deadline have been far lower than forecast. How rising fees and profitability are underpinning strong M&A activity, with demand from both private equity-backed groups and traditional buyer-to-buyer transactions. Why the bottom line price isn't always the biggest factor.

On this episode of the ifa Show, Omura Wealth Advisers director Terry Vogiatzis joins host Keith Ford to dive into why aggressive, growth-focused investing, smart tax structures and customised portfolios can dramatically change long-term outcomes. Vogiatzis argues that for many younger investors, the real risk is being too conservative for too long, rather than riding out volatility in pursuit of higher compounding returns, and why it is vital to adapt an investment strategy that recognises that these clients are providing consistent inflows. Tune in to hear: Why the real risk is for younger clients is being too conservative for too long. How compliance and fee pressures are reshaping advice. Why customisation and tax efficiency are critical for higher‑earning younger clients.

In this episode of the ifa Show, Vanguard Australia head of multi-asset solutions Matthew Cho joins host Keith Ford to unpack how advisers are rethinking portfolio construction amid rising regulatory demands, administrative complexity and broader market uncertainty. With advisers under pressure to deliver tailored portfolios while preserving efficiency, Cho explains why scalable, rules-based investment solutions – particularly managed accounts and model portfolios – are becoming essential tools for modern practices. Tune in to hear: How utilising a core–satellite approach can balance the goals of diversification, cost efficiency, and alpha generation. Why rising compliance load and limited time is driving advisers to scalable model portfolio solutions. The practical benefits that model portfolios can provide for both advisers and their clients. Vanguard Investments Australia Ltd (ABN 72 072 881 086 / AFS Licence 227263) (Vanguard) is the Portfolio Manager of the Vanguard Core-Satellite Model Portfolios (Portfolios). Lonsec Investment Solutions Pty Ltd (LIS) (ABN 95 608 837 583) is engaged to provide investment advisory services in relation to the Portfolios. LIS is a Corporate Authorised Representative (CAR) of Evidentia Financial Services Pty Ltd (ABN 97 664 546 525 / AFS Licence 546217).  

In this episode of the ifa Show, Direct Wealth technology manager and Halosoft co-founder Nick Downey joins host Keith Ford to explore the real reasons many Australian financial advisers remain hesitant about AI, despite 74 per cent of practices are either using or planning to use AI.  Downey explains why this hesitation exists, why it's rational – particularly when it comes to security concerns – and how tools purpose-built for advice practices are starting to shift adviser comfort and confidence. Tune in to hear: What the real barriers to AI adoption are and why it isn't about resistance to technology. How adviser confidence shifts quickly once they experience a high-quality, adviser-aligned AI tool firsthand. Why the future of advice technology is workflow-driven, client-centric, and focused on freeing advisers to do more of the human work that matters.  

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Dr Ben Neilson, adjunct professor at Central Queensland University and adviser at Complete Wealth, and Shelley Labartolo, client service officer at Complete Wealth, join host Keith Ford to break down their research on the stages of client emotions during the advice process.   Their research centred on how understanding and mapping client emotions at each stage – from discovery and strategy development to implementation and review – not only improves decision quality and trust but also enhances the client experience and reduces the need for follow-up.   Tune in to hear: How advisers can practically implement the findings to foster greater levels of trust with clients. Why it's important to address emotions proactively with feedback, empathetic questioning, and clear communication. The value for advisers with high emotional intelligence and how they can build greater trust and achieve stronger, more durable client relationships.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Andrew Gale and Stephen Huppert from the Actuaries Institute's Help, Guidance and Advice Working Group joins host Keith Ford to take a deep dive into the recently released framework to address the complexities of financial advice in Australia, focusing on creating clearer pathways for consumers to access financial support. Andrew and Stephen explain that the current system leaves approximately 60 per cent of Australians without adequate financial support, while the HGA framework aims to bridge this gap by providing a more flexible approach that allows for different levels of support, from basic information to comprehensive personalised advice, while maintaining clear regulatory boundaries. Tune in to hear: •    The challenges facing the provision of financial advice and how the framework aims to solve them. •    Why clearer boundaries between different levels of financial support are vital to improve client outcomes. •    How the still unfinished Delivering Better Financial Outcomes reforms can provide some positive results.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, MLC Expand CEO Liz McCarthy and Shadforth Financial Group CEO Terry Dillon join host Keith Ford to discuss the transformative role of AI in financial advice and how AI tools are being implemented to drive efficiency. With advice firms looking for greater automation of routine administrative tasks, AI is set to reshape the advice profession's approach to client service and business growth. Tune in to hear: How MLC Expand and Shadforth are responding to the need for greater efficiency through AI tools. Why rigorous governance and privacy protocols to ensure data security and accuracy are so vital. The crucial role of AI in expanding client service capacity, improving financial literacy, and addressing the broader advice gap in the market.

In this crossover episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by The SMSF Adviser Show co-host Aaron Dunn to unpack the changes from the initial proposal to the current version released this week. The discussion emphasises that while the major concerns of taxing unrealised gains and lack of indexation have been addressed, many technical details still need to be clarified through the legislative process and further consultation. Listen as they discuss: Taxable earnings: Originally, the tax applied to all earnings, whether realised or not. The revised measure will only tax realised gains. Indexation: The $3 million threshold will be indexed against the consumer price index (CPI) in $150,000 increments, pegged to the transfer balance cap movement. The $10 million threshold will be indexed in $500,000 increments, also aligned with CPI. Tax rates: For balances above $3 million, an additional 15 per cent tax applies to earnings. For balances above $10 million, an additional 10 per cent tax applies to earnings. Start date: The effective start date has been moved to 1 July 2026, with the first assessments issued in FY2027–28. Liability: The tax liability remains with the individual, who can pay it directly or seek a release from their super fund. The ATO will calculate the tax. Consultation: There is optimism for constructive consultation on the implementation details, particularly regarding how realised earnings will be calculated for APRA funds and self-managed super funds, and the treatment of CGT discounts and pre-2026 asset gains.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Falcon Financial Advisers partner and financial adviser Tom Moloney joins host Keith Ford to break down why he decided to establish his own firm around 18 months ago, and the importance of developing new talent in financial advice. Moloney explains how he took an intentional approach to his career in financial advice, some of the pros and cons of setting up a new advice firm, and the different options that a prospective practice principal can explore when going out on their own. Tune in to hear: The value of having the support of an established business, including leveraging shared resources, economies of scale, and established referral networks. How transitioning from an adviser to a business owner requires a significant mindset shift. Why nurturing "soft skills" like communication and client understanding in new advisers, alongside technical expertise, is vital.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Ben Walsh, principal research consultant at WealthVantage Partners, joins host Keith Ford to break down the corporate regulator's new report on the private credit market and highlight the main areas that financial advisers need to understand. Walsh delves into the report's detailed examination of the industry, emphasising the need for greater transparency and scrutiny, particularly regarding special purpose vehicles, fee disclosures, and product labelling. Tune in to hear: Why advisers need to conduct thorough due diligence and not rely on any third party when recommending private credit to clients. The danger of private credit funds often being mislabelled as "defensive exposure" despite the illiquid nature of their underlying assets. Why advisers shouldn't be considered gatekeepers, and more onus needs to be on the fund managers themselves.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Mazi Wealth financial adviser Deline Jacovides joins host Keith Ford to delve into the complexities of making financial advice more accessible and why accessibility extends beyond simply trying to deliver advice at the lowest cost possible. Jacovides explains that she believes making advice more accessible includes utilising diverse delivery methods like ad hoc services that may appeal to clients who may not require continuous engagement, while also requiring government action to reduce the cost burden on financial advisers. Tune in to hear: Why transparency and education are crucial to bridge the gap between client expectations and the true cost of financial advice. How clients who have engaged with online "finfluencer" content often have some level of foundational financial literacy. The role of technology in streamlining operations and enhancing the efficiency of advice delivery. Why fixing the onerous statement of advice process should be the top priority in advice reform.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford is joined by Shail Singh, lead ombudsman for investments and advice at AFCA, for a deep dive into two of the most complex – and crucial – pillars of financial consumer protection: the Australian Financial Complaints Authority and the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort. From resolving disputes early and rebuilding client relationships to tackling large-scale cases like Dixon Advisory, Singh sheds light on how AFCA operates and the challenges posed by mounting case volumes. The discussion also unpacks the role of the CSLR in firm failures, deadline-driven complaint surges, and the often-confusing treatment of self-managed super funds under retail versus wholesale classifications. Hear about: AFCA's approach to resolving disputes and why early resolution is encouraged. The challenges of the CSLR in handling firm failures and complaint deadlines. What advisers need to know about SMSF classifications, multi-party disputes, and managing risk.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, host Keith Ford sits down with David Berry, inaugural CEO of the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort, to unpack the challenges of protecting investors when financial advice goes wrong. They discuss high-profile failures like Dixon Advisory, Shield, and First Guardian, and the legislative and regulatory changes needed to ensure the CSLR's long-term sustainability. Tune in to hear: The complexities of addressing financial firm failures, including Dixon Advisory and United Global Capital. Legislative and regulatory improvements that could strengthen the CSLR for the future. How transparency and ethical advice are crucial to maintaining trust in the financial advice profession.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Hayes & Co Insurance Services financial adviser Trish Gregory joins host Keith Ford to explain the importance of childhood trauma policies, how they can help parents through a child's significant health issues and why more advisers should be keeping them top of mind for their clients. Gregory details the benefits of the somewhat niche policy and what advisers need to know about the relatively straightforward process to set the coverage up, as well as the value of having an expert on hand at claim time. Tune in to hear: Why the ability to transfer a childhood trauma policy to an adult policy with no underwriting can be so valuable. The broader issues with fewer financial advisers working in risk advice. How advisers who don't write a lot of risk should lean on insurer's business development managers. Why there needs to be a more transparent system for professional year candidates.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Rasiah Private Wealth founder and principal adviser Thabojan Rasiah joins host Keith Ford to discuss why the self-confessed "investment geek" believes maximising returns shouldn't be the sole objective of financial advice. Rasiah explains that while investing wisely is crucial, an overly narrow focus on investments can lead to neglecting other crucial aspects of financial advice and potentially overshadow a client's broader life goals. Tune in to hear: Why looking beyond just returns can ensure that other outcomes important to your clients are sufficiently addressed. How to benchmark and measure the success of goals that aren't focused on percentage-based performance. The role of thoughtful questioning in helping clients articulate their true goals. Why making advice accessible to a wider audience is a pressing issue for the profession.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Pivot Wealth founder Ben Nash joins host Keith Ford to break down the secrets to leveraging digital platforms for business growth and client engagement while dealing with the compliance challenges that come with professionals communicating in the digital realm. Nash highlights that his journey into content marketing began as a deliberate strategy to generate leads independently of traditional referral networks and offers practical advice for others venturing into the social media space, suggesting they start by mastering one content format before expanding. Tune in to hear: Why focus and consistency are key to building traction in online content. How prioritising authenticity is a better method than trying to game the algorithm when building an audience. Whether getting labelled a "finfluencer" is a drawback for a professional adviser. How you can help prospective clients engaging with your content prepare for the advice process.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Financial Advice Association Australia general manager of policy, advocacy and standards Phil Anderson joins host Keith Ford to take a deep dive into the latest Compensation Scheme of Last Resort consultation, this time focusing on how the special levy should be decided. With $47.3 million left to be covered for FY2025–26, Minister for Financial Services Daniel Mulino has a decision on his hands: either do nothing, delay payments, put it all on advisers, or spread the cost. Anderson explains why the FAAA believes widening the sectors that will cover the excess cost is the most equitable and sustainable way forward. Tune in to hear: How spreading the cost across a broader range of sectors can work in practice. The impact of recent large-scale fund failures on the CSLR and how the government might respond. Whether the Treasury review will result in substantive legislative change or just temporary solutions.