AustralianSuper and Club Plus Super are in talks to merge after a ‘rigorous process’ of due diligence, creating a $207 billion fund.
According to Club Plus Super, the two firms had signed a memorandum of understanding after identifying AustralianSuper as having “strategic, cultural and operational alignment” to provide the best outcomes for members.
This was echoed by AustralianSuper who said the two firms had an “alignment of values” and were focused on achieving long-term performance.
Club Plus Super chief executive, Stefan Strano, said: “Our declared purpose is to ‘support and enhance the journey of our members to retire on their own terms.’ While most of our members join us at the start of their working lives, we recognise they need support across all stages of life, through careers that may span multiple industries.
“We have been very impressed through this process with the steadfast member-first culture of AustralianSuper.”
The two funds have announced the signing of a non-binding MOU to explore a potential merger.
The board must shift its focus from managing inflation to stimulating the economy with the trimmed mean inflation figure edging closer to the 2.5 per cent target, economists have said.
ASIC chair Joe Longo says superannuation trustees must do more to protect members from misconduct and high-risk schemes.
Super fund mergers are rising, but poor planning during successor fund transfers has left members and employers exposed to serious risks.