Any changes to Australia’s superannuation system flowing from the Productivity Commission’s latest draft report need to acknowledge the world-leading nature of the existing regime and the diverse needs of members, according to the Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA).
While welcoming some elements of the PC report, ASFA has warned that the recommendations, if implemented, have the potential to materially transform the industry.
“The proposal to allocate default superannuation to ten so called ‘best-in-show’ funds would dramatically change the retirement funding landscape, and raises questions with respect to innovation, competitive intensity and diversity,” ASFA chief executive, Dr Martin Fahy said.
He pointed out that Australia has a world-class superannuation system and that the PC’s draft report had acknowledged that the majority of members and assets in the system were in products that had performed reasonably well.
“What’s more, only a small share of members are dissatisfied with their fund’s performance,” Fahy said.
“Any changes to the system need to recognise the diverse needs of fund members,” he said. “Members’ needs differ widely, including with respect to their occupation and their location.”
“In particular, many smaller funds are able to provide niche offerings to their members, including tailored insurance and investment options, and the importance of this to members should not be underestimated.”
Super funds have built on early financial year momentum, as growth funds deliver strong results driven by equities and resilient bonds.
The super fund has announced that Mark Rider will step down from his position of chief investment officer (CIO) after deciding to “semi-retire” from full-time work.
Rest has joined forces with alternative asset manager Blue Owl Capital, co-investing in a real estate trust, with the aim of capitalising on systemic changes in debt financing.
The Future Fund’s CIO Ben Samild has announced his resignation, with his deputy to assume the role of interim CIO.