Overheads on Enhanced Vetting Could Ratchet Up Wholesale Fund Costs

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

The FSC, a notable entity representing fund managers, superannuation funds, and financial advisory services, conveyed these concerns before a Parliamentary Committee. They specifically referred to the current reliance on wholesale accountant certificates as a verification tool, which members consider vital.

When approached by the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services, the FSC chose not to delve into the perceptions of primary accounting groups regarding the persistence of the accountant certificate system. As for their take on the daily operations tied to generating qualified accountant certificates, the council admitted they weren't in the best position to comment.

"By necessity, many fund managers rely on qualified accountant certificates to verify that prospective clients meet the wholesale client/investor test,” affirmed the FSC. It emphasized its approval for the system, reasoning that individual accountants have superior insights into their clients’ eligibility compared to fund managers.

Highlighting the competitive pressures, the FSC said, “Australian wholesale fund managers already need to compete with:

• domestic retail funds; and
• offshore asset managers,

neither of which are burdened by the compliance expectations linked to the wholesale client/investor test requirements." The undercurrent is that increased due diligence demands would only add cost layers that could impact customers.

The necessity for rigorous due diligence, typically managed by accountants, if shifted to fund managers, would transform into an administrative hitch, subsequently impacting consumers. "This would make these wholesale products less attractive," the council explained. Addressing investment shortages within sectors like domestic venture capital, which rely heavily on such funds, was another key point highlighted in the discussion.

Sourced originally from a detailed account by Mike Taylor (Financial Services Council), these insights illuminate the delicate balance within fund management competition and regulatory responsibilities.

Published:Thursday, 7th Nov 2024
Author: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

Clear

Volvo Trucks Australia Enhances FM Series with New 13-Litre Engine Options

21 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Volvo Trucks Australia has announced the addition of new low-horsepower 13-litre engines to its FM series, aiming to provide more efficient and versatile options for various transport applications. The new engine range includes variants with 380hp and 1850Nm, 420hp and 2100Nm, and 460hp with 2300Nm of torque. These engines comply with Euro 6 emissions standards, reflecting Volvo's commitment to environmental sustainability. - read more

Hino Australia Broadens 700 Series with Eleven New Euro 6-Compliant Models

21 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Hino Australia has unveiled an expansion of its 700 Series heavy-duty truck range, introducing eleven new models that comply with Euro 6 emissions standards. This development aims to provide solutions for a wide array of heavy-duty applications, catering to the evolving needs of the transport industry. - read more

Kia Enters Australian Ute Market with the Launch of the Tasman

21 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Kia has officially launched the Tasman, its first-ever ute, in the Australian market. Designed with significant input from Kia Australia, the Tasman aims to capture approximately 10% of the country's pickup truck market share. The vehicle is built on an all-new platform and is set to compete with established models like the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux. - read more

Australian Truck Market Records Third-Highest Sales in 2025

13 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

In 2025, Australia's truck market demonstrated remarkable resilience, achieving its third-highest annual sales despite facing significant economic pressures. According to the Truck Industry Council (TIC), a total of 45,191 new trucks and heavy vans were sold throughout the year. This figure, while representing an 11.9% decrease from the record 51,277 units sold in 2024, underscores the industry's robustness in the face of adversity. - read more

Looming Truck Driver Shortage Threatens Australia's Supply Chain

13 Mar 2026: Paige Estritori

Australia's trucking industry is on the brink of a significant driver shortage, with projections indicating a shortfall of 78,000 drivers by 2029. This looming crisis is attributed to an aging workforce and challenges in attracting younger individuals to the profession. - read more

Click for more Finance News