Local Government Super (LGS) has hit $12 billion in funds under management (FUM), after doubling its total FUM in just over seven years to reach $10 billion in April 2017.
According to both LGS acting chief executive, Donna Heffernan, and chair, Bruce Miller, the milestone was a testament to the fund’s commitment to responsible investments both domestically and internationally.
“LGS’ consistent and positive financial performance demonstrates why our responsible investment philosophy makes real commercial sense,” Miller said. “We actively engage and educate our members about our approach and we strongly believe all super funds have a responsibility to invest and operate in a responsible and sustainable manner.”
The fund recently achieved Australia’s first carbon neutral property portfolio certification by the Federal Government for all National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS)-rated buildings in its property portfolio, as well has receiving a five-star GRESB rating for its direct property portfolio.
Jim Chalmers has defended changes to the Future Fund’s mandate, referring to himself as a “big supporter” of the sovereign wealth fund, amid fierce opposition from the Coalition, which has pledged to reverse any changes if it wins next year’s election.
In a new review of the country’s largest fund, a research house says it’s well placed to deliver attractive returns despite challenges.
Chant West analysis suggests super could be well placed to deliver a double-digit result by the end of the calendar year.
Specific valuation decisions made by the $88 billion fund at the beginning of the pandemic were “not adequate for the deteriorating market conditions”, according to the prudential regulator.