Russell Investments has targeted industry and government funds with the launch of a new consulting service.
Russell Future Proofing Consulting (RFPC) will offer advice and solutions to assist industry and government funds retain members during this period of regulatory change.
To lead the new service and a team of 15, Russell has appointed former AMP Capital Investors executive Michael Clarke as managing director, industry and government funds.
Chief executive for Australasia, Chris Corneil, said the new appointment and service will help funds with governance issues, developing retirement solutions for members and MySuper requirements.
He said one of the major issues for funds leading up to legislative change has been the prospect of scale requirements for MySuper products, which has left some funds feeling that mergers are the only option.
Corneil said one alternative could be keeping the existing fund but outsourcing fixed costs, while areas like product development and member services can be made more cost-effective.
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.