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Conflicts of Interest in 2026: The Standard Has Shifted
Conflicts of interest are no longer a side conversation in financial advice. They have become central to how professionalism, governance, and advice quality are being assessed. This change hasn’t come from a decline in ethics — professional standards have improved. But recent failures, ASIC surveillance, and the updated Regulatory Guide 181: Managing Conflicts of Interest…
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Managing SMSF Advice As A Boutique AFSL
ASIC’s recent review of self-managed super fund (SMSF) advice has raised important considerations for the advice industry — particularly for boutique Australian Financial Services Licensees (AFSLs). The regulator’s Report 824: Review of SMSF Advice highlighted ongoing issues with advice quality, documentation, and compliance with the best interests duty. It’s important to note that the report reviewed a targeted…
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Thriving vs. Surviving: Lessons From Small AFSLs
Running your own AFSL is a milestone that brings independence, flexibility, and the chance to shape your business on your own terms. At the same time, small licensees face unique challenges: balancing compliance obligations, managing business operations, and maintaining focus on clients can be demanding. Across the industry, clear trends are emerging. Some small AFSLs…
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The Life of a Responsible Manager: Lead, Delegate, Document
When ASIC reviews your licence, will your RM file reflect real leadership or just surface-level compliance? Holding the title of Responsible Manager (RM) under an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) isn’t just a formality. It’s a role under increasing scrutiny, especially in small licensees where governance lines blur and resources are stretched. What exactly should…
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Regtech for Small Licensees: Finding the Right Fit
Regulatory technology has surged in recent years. From automated registers to real-time breach alerts, it promises speed, accuracy, and oversight — all the things a licensee needs to stay compliant in a fast-moving landscape. But for small licensees, the regtech boom has brought a hidden downside: the very tools designed to make compliance easier can…
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Top 5 Resources That Help Small AFSL Holders With Compliance
If you’re running a small financial services business or considering obtaining your own Australian Financial Services License (AFSL), you’re likely aware of the substantial regulatory landscape overseen by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Managing compliance can feel like navigating a labyrinth. The regulatory landscape is vast and complex, and with so much information…
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AFSL Applications Made Simple: Your Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for your own Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) can feel like navigating a complex maze of regulations, paperwork, and requirements. However, by breaking down the process into manageable steps, you can demystify the journey and make it easier to understand. This high-level guide simplifies the AFSL application process, helping financial professionals take control of…
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Successful Strategies for Transitioning to Your Own AFSL
Securing an Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL) marks an exciting milestone. However, the real journey begins with transforming that licence into a successful business operation. This guide helps bridge the gap between obtaining your AFSL and running a sustainable, compliant practice. 1. The Transition Phase Moving from the licence application stage to active operations requires…
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Top 5 Myths About Getting Your Own AFSL Busted
Are you a financial adviser considering moving away from your group licensee to obtain your own Australian Financial Services Licence (AFSL)? You’re not alone. Many advisers think about self-licensing but hesitate due to common misconceptions. Let’s examine and debunk the top five myths about obtaining your own AFSL. 1. “It’s Too Expensive to Get Your…
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Rise of self-licensing for small business and micro-AFSLs
Small businesses looking to take charge are increasingly turning to self-licensing for their future plans. The sentiment appears to be growing in the industry based on the attention it’s garnered in press during 2023 and 2024. Journalist Rhea Nath (Money Management) spoke to Wealth Data who found some 27.1 per cent of the advice industry…
