The Association of Superannuation Funds of Australia (ASFA) has welcomed the government's announcement that it would be strengthening the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).
ASFA was also particularly pleased with the Government's decision for greater funding for the Superannuation Complaints Tribunal (SCT) to clear the case backlog.
The association chief executive, Pauline Vamos, said "where members need to take the next step and seek a resolution through the SCT, it is important that these issues are resolved quickly as some complainants are in a difficult financial position".
"The SCT is a service of critical importance to APRA [Australian Prudential Regulation Authority]-regulated superannuation funds and their members. Future funding needs to reflect the rise in time taken to resolve complaints due to the complexity of issues and increasing numbers of those registering a beneficial interest," said Ms Vamos.
ASFA also noted the announcement of the implementation of the Financial System Inquiry recommendation for a full user pays model for ASIC funding.
"ASFA supports adequate and appropriate funding for ASIC, and considers that all regulated industries should contribute to that funding via levies," Vamos said.
ASFA also welcomed the deferral of the industry funding model until 2017 as it has concern about the lack of transparency and accountability inherent in the current process by which levies are applied and utilised.
The super fund announced that Gregory has been appointed to its executive leadership team, taking on the fresh role of chief advice officer.
The deputy governor has warned that, as super funds’ overseas assets grow and liquidity risks rise, they will need to expand their FX hedge books to manage currency exposure effectively.
Super funds have built on early financial year momentum, as growth funds deliver strong results driven by equities and resilient bonds.
The super fund has announced that Mark Rider will step down from his position of chief investment officer (CIO) after deciding to “semi-retire” from full-time work.