Compliance breakfast

Update from SIAA CEO and heads of firms’ discussion about industry matters. 

Welcome  

From AI workflows streamlining processes for paraplanners to advisers being able to model the potential impact of macroeconomic events and market scenarios like pandemics on client portfolios, technology is reshaping wealth management. How can advanced portfolio construction capabilities and AI enable more personalised and timely advice? 

A vibrant public market that represents the broader economy allows Australians to generate wealth outside of their superannuation or house. Ideas have been put forward to reinvigorate public markets. Will they make a difference? Meanwhile, the move to 24/7 trading hours help exchanges compete with continuously operating digital venues and create opportunities for new products, such as overnight futures, and improvements in clearing, settlement, and risk management. A competitive dynamic accelerates industry innovation and strengthens the market ecosystem. Is Australia keeping up with the dynamic? 

A key strategic focus in 2026 for ASIC is strengthening operational digital and data resilience and safety. This covers stress events, geopolitical risks, and crisis preparedness; ASX critical infrastructure; cyber resilience; and use of artificial intelligence. The future of financial markets is also a key issue. Hear from an ASIC Commissioner about what ASIC is seeing in these areas and how Australian capital markets are faring.  

Capital markets are rapidly evolving, with firms today navigating increasing trading volumes and market volatility, faster settlement times, and growing interest in 24-hour trading. A game-changer in the trading and wealth industry has been the rise of many low-cost / ultra-low brokerage digital trading services. To successfully navigate these market dynamics, capital markets firms must aim for innovation, agility, and resilience—and be prepared to leverage increasing amounts of multi-modal data—across the entire trade lifecycle. What is the future of equities trading in this changing environment?  

The failure of Shield and First Guardian revealed problems across the ecosystem from the lead generators through to the platforms. How have these failures impacted our industry and the relevant players.  Does this change the way advice businesses think about their APL? Will products and platforms take on accountability to identify investment and advice quality issues before they become systemic problems? Will licensees be able to sustain the impact of increased cost of the industry levy due to these failures? 

With large caps trading at near record valuation both in Australia and Globally, investors are looking to small companies where you can find growth at a reasonable valuation. Hear the discussion on where to find the best opportunities in small caps – either locally in Australia or overseas. 

The great intergenerational wealth transfer that Australia faces involves more than just money; it's about values, purpose, governance, and engaging the next generation, with younger heirs wanting digital experiences but also deep, trustworthy human advice for legacy building. Hear from the experts that support these family offices about structured family discussions, educating heirs to understand their roles and responsibilities, and moving to inclusive decision-making for smoother, values-driven transitions.  This will include what the Princely Family of Liechtenstein’s 900-year experience can tell us from LGT Wealth Management. 

SIAA’s Michelle Huckel will interview the Shadow Minister with discussion addressing reform of advice regulation; the education standard for financial advisers; and the impact of the CSLR on the industry.

The Australian stockbroking sector is evolving as firms respond to changing client expectations, shifting service models and increasing operational complexity. Praemium will present insights from a national study of Australian stockbrokers and investment advisers, exploring how the industry is operating today and where it is heading in the future.  

Running an advice business faces major hurdles in regulatory compliance, talent acquisition/retention, client trust/acquisition, tech adaptation, and profitability due to rising costs and market perception issues. Key challenges include complex compliance, attracting skilled advisers, demonstrating value beyond fees, managing growth efficiently, and overcoming public scepticism fuelled by the failures of Shield and First Guardian. How can the leaders of firms navigate this complex maze? 

The amount of wealth controlled by women is increasing rapidly and is projected to grow significantly by 2030. The number of women entering the market is also rising, indicating a positive shift in engagement with investing. The financial services industry must recognise and address the unique needs and perspectives of women investors, moving beyond historical stereotypes of risk aversion and lack of sophistication. What practical strategies for building investment confidence and what educational resources are required to build confidence among women to encourage investing? 

Closing Address