VicSuper is reaffirming its commitment to a tobacco-free investment portfolio for World No Tobacco Day, honouring its policy decision from 2013.
VicSuper joined forces with other global investors to sign a statement on tobacco which congratulated the World Health Organisation (WHO) for its control of the plant and the measures taken globally to lower tobacco consumption.
“VicSuper’s investment portfolio has been tobacco free since April 2013 when the VicSuper Board resolved to divest the fund of tobacco manufacturing stocks,” chief executive, Michael Dundon said.
“The board made this decision by weighing up the potential gains and risks for members, their superannuation holdings and the broader community, both now and in the long-term.”
VicSuper has also signalled its support of the Tobacco Free Portfolio initiative which aimed to inform, prioritise and advance tobacco-free investment portfolios across the globe.
A member body representing some prominent wealth managers is concerned super funds’ dominance is sidelining small companies in capital markets.
Earlier this month, several Australian superannuation funds fell victim to credential stuffing attacks, which saw a small number of members lose more than $500,000.
Small- to medium-sized funds have become collateral damage in an "imperfect" model for super industry levies, a financial institution has said.
Big business has joined the chorus of opposition against the proposed Division 296 tax.