Shaping the future of advice: How NZFSG is empowering advisers in a changing regulatory world

As New Zealand’s largest network of financial advisers, NZFSG isn’t just keeping up with change — they’re leading it. With ongoing investment in cutting-edge technology and top-tier support, the network is helping advisers stay ahead of compliance requirements and build thriving, future-proof businesses.

Thursday, April 17th 2025, 10:31AM

by NZFSG

As New Zealand’s largest network of financial advisers, NZFSG isn’t just keeping up with change — they’re leading it. With ongoing investment in cutting-edge technology and top-tier support, the network is helping advisers stay ahead of compliance requirements and build thriving, future-proof businesses.

In March, the Financial Markets Authority (FMA) released an update to its Outcomes-Focused Regulation approach. This update followed extensive consultation with key industry stakeholders, including NZFSG, legal experts, and consumer advocacy groups.

The FMA’s evolving framework shifts regulatory focus toward long-term results — better consumer outcomes and a healthier financial system. While the foundations of the approach are familiar, new elements are being introduced and will continue to develop in alignment with the FMA’s 2024–2028 Statement of Intent.

Keeping Advisers Ahead of the Curve

NZFSG are committed to helping advisers stay ahead of regulatory change. That’s why their Advice Assurance Framework (AAF) is evolving too—ensuring it continues to align with the FMA’s direction while supporting a culture of continuous improvement and sustainable business success - with customers at its core.

“We often get asked, ‘Why do we keep moving the goalpost?’” says Trecia Brown, NZFSG’s Head of Customer Outcomes. “The reality is, the environment is shifting. Whether it’s new guidance from the FMA, regulatory updates, shifting client expectations or industry changes — we’re here to help our advisers navigate it, not pile on extra pressure.”

A Year of Progress and Partnership

Over the past 12 months, NZFSG has completed more than 8,500 reviews across advice files, CPD plans, BCPs, and adviser websites. The results? According to Brown, a noticeable uplift in quality, deeper understanding of obligations, and stronger business practices driving better client outcomes.

Key to this success has been their commitment to adviser education and support, delivering over 550 business coaching sessions and many professional development webinars, covering all aspects of the advice process and best business practices.

NZFSG’s MyInduction Programme has seen over 165 advisers come through the course since launching last year. The programme helps advisers new to the network thrive, equipping them with the skills to navigate their duties and obligations as an adviser and make full use of the group’s industry-leading tools, technology, and support services.

The Customer Outcomes and Distribution teams have also been strengthened to ensure advisers receive expert guidance tailored to today’s evolving challenges. Relationship Managers conduct regular reviews with all Authorised Bodies under the NZFSG licence to gain a full picture of their businesses, helping them stay on track from a regulatory, operations and growth perspective.

In recognition of advisers going the extra mile for their clients, NZFSG launched the Go for Green initiative — celebrating those who are continuously improving their business practices. Passionate advisers across the country have shared their success stories and tips to help others raise the bar.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the AAF

During NZFSG’s recent Accelerate Roadshows, the group announced enhancements to its AAF for the coming year. Brown took a moment to thank the adviser community and acknowledged their commitment in meeting their obligations and maintaining high standards.

“It hasn’t always been easy, but we’re all in this together, and advisers have shown incredible dedication,” said Brown. “Their trust in NZFSG to guide them through regulatory requirements and support their business goals means a great deal to us.”

A key focus area is helping advisers better capture client goals and future plans. While short-term objectives are often well documented, there is a growing emphasis on building a fuller picture — for instance, what it looks like for a client to pay off their mortgage faster, with clear timeframes and measurable targets. These goals aren’t set in stone but are meant to be refined through ongoing reviews.

There is also an ongoing focus on ensuring the suitability of advice and taking reasonable steps to confirm client understanding — especially for vulnerable clients. Advisers are being supported to go deeper into their advice processes, enhance note-taking, and maintain robust records through MyCRM, NZFSG’s proprietary platform.

“MyCRM has recently been enhanced specifically to support these focus areas,” added Brown. “Our systems, technology, and team are constantly evolving to meet the needs of our network. We believe there’s no better place for advisers to operate safely, grow their business, and deliver exceptional outcomes for their clients.”