*Editor’s note: This podcast was recorded prior to a report that the changes are now on pause until the federal election expected to be held in May next year. The 22-year-old wholesale investor tests are up for review, and this can have several implications for investors and product providers. Jesse Hamilton, the chief financial officer of Wilson Asset Management, explains why the tests are 'crude tool' and suggests how they can be fairer for both retail and wholesale investors.

Australia is one of the most liveable places in the world. Not only is it a great place to live, but it is also a great country to invest in. Adam Dixon, the head of Kearney Australia and New Zealand, tells why Australia is an investment destination for foreigners.

The Senate Economics Committee recently made a recommendation to lift the cap on how much first home buyers can remove from their super to buy a home. Senator Andrew Bragg joins the Financial Standard podcast to discuss why he believes owning a home is essential for retirement.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers unveiled the Federal Budget this week making big promises to ease the cost-of-living burden while not adding to inflationary pressures. Senior financial market analyst at Capital.com Kyle Rodda explains why the Treasurer may be massaging the numbers.

There will be 25% less super funds in Australia in five years’ time, overseeing $5 trillion in assets. In 25 years, the number of funds will have halved again, and they’ll be the stewards of some $14 trillion. They’re the top-line predictions of Mercer’s inaugural Shaping Super report which looks at the state of our super system, how it’s evolving, and what super funds need to do to survive. Financial Standard managing editor Jamie Williamson is joined by the report’s lead author, Mercer...

Emerging markets' second growth phase could be in the not-so-distant future, according to a new report from Robeco. To discuss the three main drivers of growth in the sector, Robeco's head of emerging markets Wim-Hein Pals joins the Financial Standard podcast.

Aged Care Steps director Louise Biti is pushing for tougher regulations and consumer protections around aged care advice so that older Australians are not put at substantial risk.

This episode explores a blunt assertion that the idea of cryptocurrency replacing gold is nothing more than straightforward propaganda from the crypto industry. While gold continues to be regarded as a safe haven asset, an insurance policy for rough times, predominantly attracting institutional investors, Bitcoin is portfolio ‘hot sauce’, Global X's David Tuckwell tells Andrew McKean.

Once the domain of sophisticated investors, Spire Capital director and head of investments Stuart Haigh discusses why private markets are increasingly turning heads among financial advisers and retail clients. 

Financial Standard journalist Andrew McKean is joined by Deloitte partner Andrew Boal to explore the intense pressure smaller superannuation funds face as larger funds continue to reduce fees through scale, predicting a future dominated by a few giants managing over $100 billion each. 

Despite easing inflation, the RBA has been holding interest rates steady and many economists are now anticipating a rate cut won't come until 2025. HSBC chief economist Paul Bloxham gives his predictions.

n the second instalment of our chat with Robert Walters’ Andrew Hanson, we discuss all the factors expected to influence salary discussions in the year ahead, the kinds of benefits that are on offer, and how they compare to what candidates actually want. Hanson also shares some top tips for negotiating with existing and prospective employers.

Journalist Chloe Walker sat down with RSM Australia director, SMSF services Katie Timms at the recent SMSF Association National Conference to discuss the intricacies of incorporating farming assets into an SMSF’s investment strategy.

Class general manager, growth Jo Hurley was inspired to start her own SMSF after attending the very first SMSF Association National Conference. Twenty years later, Hurley discusses the advantages of involving and supporting younger clients with SMSFs, in an interview with journalist Chloe Walker from the sidelines of the 2024 conference. 

Following on from “one of the strangest years” seen in his 20 years in recruitment, Robert Walters’ NSW managing director Andrew Hanson provides his forecast for the financial services job market. While it’s probably still too early to even be cautiously optimistic about the year ahead, Hanson says there is intent to hire and more positive conversations to be had. This episode looks at the skills that are most in demand, including how important designations are to prospective employers in 2024.

NMG Consulting principal consultant Louise Elliott discusses trends in retail fund flows between 2018 and 2023. Which strategies and asset classes outshone the others and what will the next five years hold?

This is a new highly complex and dynamic world whereby investors will be challenged to demonstrate clarity and agility. To make sense of this testing environment, Mercer global strategic research director Nick White investigates themes of Regime Change, Supercycles, and Megatrends.

Diving into the world of diamonds, journalist Chloe Walker chats with fine jewellery expert Adrian Dickens. From the allure of coloured diamonds to navigating the risks inherent in any investment venture, this interview explores the intricacies of investing in the precious stone.

This year, over 50 nations are heading to the polls. As Australia remains intricately connected to global events, this episode of the Financial Standard podcast, hosted by journalist Chloe Walker and joined by GSFM investment strategy advisor Stephen Miller, delves into the potential impact of these elections' outcomes on financial markets both at home and abroad.

The Financial Advice Association Australia’s Phil Anderson breaks down the most important pieces of regulation advisers should be mindful of in 2024.

Australia's wealth management sector is experiencing a thrilling paradox of unparalleled growth and profound disruption. Last year, a record $180 billion flowed into superannuation - predominantly into not-for-profit funds, amidst a landscape of declining fees, and a shift towards becoming a full-fledged retirement system. 

Knight Frank head of residential research Michelle Ciesielski delves into the surprisingly minimal impact of the government’s decision to triple fees for foreign property buyers. She also explores the resilience of Sydney’s luxury real estate market and uncovers the reasons behind its anticipated robust price growth.

Employers often struggle with understanding the impact of work on mental health and tend to rely on generic support systems. The focus needs to shift towards designing work that positively influences mental health and providing appropriate support. 

Incremental increases in the Superannuation Guarantee will have far-reaching impacts on the macroeconomic fabric of Australia – but these consequences are often underexplored – Yarra Capital head of macroeconomics and strategy Tim Toohey says. 

Treasury recently launched a consultation on the use of genetic testing results in life insurance underwriting with the aim of addressing concerns with the partial, industry-led moratorium introduced in 2019. A recent review found the moratorium is discouraging consumers from participating in genetic testing, which could identify an underlying health issue, and from taking part in potentially life-changing medical research. At the same time, there's the potential for unhealthy people to be...