[Weekly Wrap] The price of advice

This week we learnt a bit more about what the price of advice will be under a regulatory regime.

Friday, October 23rd 2009, 4:08PM

We have had a discussion paper from the Ministry of Commerce giving its views on what it will cost to be a registered adviser. What we need now is to hear from advisers on what they think is an appropriate price.

Also last week we were given an indication of what it would cost to join a disputes resolution service.

The other big news is that this morning the Code Committee has, finally, put out a discussion paper on competency standards and education. We have the story here and the full report here.

I guess if you have nothing to do over the long weekend you could read discussion documents!

The most commented on story this week has been one about whether mortgage brokers should or can sell life insurance. There is a great debate going on over here. The story, which came from ASSET Magazine’s Insurance Roundtable, has really got things going. If you haven’t seen the issue of ASSET which features industry leaders discussing insurance issues, send an email to editor@assetmagazine.co.nz.

*** Did you know you can now follow Good Returns on Twitter?

AMP Capital has provided its regular quarterly update on the markets this week. While there has been much discussion on what shape the recovery will take, it says the majority of leading indicators were pointing to a V-shaped recovery amid a remarkable easing in financial market conditions where short-term funding had fallen below the average cost.

Mercer also talked investment issues this week, highlighting its move towards dynamic asset allocation. It says this has provided additional return for clients. Whether this strategy gathers steam or not is something to watch.

Talking of returns, you can compare KiwiSaver fund performance on the site here. The numbers are up to September 30 and include an increasing number of funds.

A trend, which you would expect, is that the more growth-orientated strategies are starting to kick in as equity markets pick up.

Meanwhile, the programme for this year’s FundSource Conference has been finalised. You can see the full programme here.

If you have any enquiries, want to book, or find out more information email fundsource@fundsource.co.nz. The theme of the conference is: Investment Strategies for a Brave New World. There is a great range of speakers, so put it in your diary now. (November 6, Langham Hotel, Auckland)

During the week South Canterbury Finance registered a new prospectus and opened its doors to investors. We report on the company’s plans here.

While SCF plans to go for the extended government guarantee scheme, Whakatane-based non-deposit taker Asset Finance is pulling out of it. Find out why here.

Also in Depositrates.co.nz S&P has rated another company, Oxford Finance. While many people will be unaware of the company, it has scored an investment grade rating.

TOWER dominates our People section this week with a new role for Michael Coote and the appointment of a roaming underwriter.

Also we have added more events to the Good Returns diary. The big date coming up is the long weekend. Enjoy it!

Philip