Intermediaries would appreciate more analysis on market trends and content support that will help them serve their clients better, research by Fundamental Media found
Key findings:
The majority of Australian financial intermediaries (69%) are satisfied with the overall support received from asset managers in the region, according to research by Fundamental Media. This satisfaction is driven by asset managers’ online events, regular communication and good quality CPD training.
While respondents are happy with asset managers’ communications, they would welcome more analysis on market trends and content support that will help them serve their clients better. Similar trends are observed when looking at initiatives from asset managers that were most valued during the pandemic with webinars and market updates rated as highly useful.
When it comes to events, respondents had no clear preference for either online or offline events, as Australian intermediaries see benefits in both. Online events are liked for their convenience and efficiency, while in-person events are preferred for their value derived from face-to-face networking and interaction.
Investment preferences
At the time of the research, more than 40% of Australian intermediaries expect to increase their clients’ exposure to fixed income and Australian equities. More than a third of respondents also expect to increase exposure to absolute return and active management strategies.
Research on new funds is most often driven by client requests and recommendations from peers and colleagues, highlighting the importance of networking within the Australian financial intermediary community.
When selecting a new product, cost and investment philosophy are the two most important factors they take into consideration. Quantitative fund ratings have seen a significant increase in their ranking since 2018 and ranks as the third most important selection factor in 2022.
Other findings from the Australian financial intermediary research include: