The current system of default funds under modern awards works well and should not be opened up to unfettered competition, according to Australia Institute of Superannuation Trustees (AIST) chief executive, Tom Garcia.
Opening the Conference of Major Superannuation Funds (CMSF) on the Gold Coast, Garcia said the not for profit funds would be reinforcing the value of the existing default super arrangements and the dangers inherent in any change.
His comments have come at the same time as the Financial Services Council has increased its calls for the Government to change the default fund arrangements to allow all eligible MySuper funds to be available for selection as default funds and for the removal of the Fair Work Commission from the process.
Garcia said that despite what the critics might say employers were afforded choice under the existing default funds regime and those funds which are available have been identified as best suited to meeting the best interests of members.
The deputy governor has warned that, as super funds’ overseas assets grow and liquidity risks rise, they will need to expand their FX hedge books to manage currency exposure effectively.
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.