Financial Standard Podcast

In this episode brought to you by MFS Investment Management we discuss what integration of environmental, social and governance-related means for fixed income portfolios. 

We will also explore the strengths and challenges of finding transparent, comparable and meaningful ESG data relevant to fixed income securities and the role of sustainable bonds.

We speak with MFS fixed income research Analyst Mahesh Jayakumar and ISS head of ESG ...

In this episode brought to you by MFS Investment Management, we discuss what integration of environmental, social and governance-related means for stock selection in investment portfolios, how fund managers can demonstrate that they’re authentically using ESG information to manage risk and enhance return.

We speak with MFS head of global ESG strategy Vishal Hindocha and Zenith Investment Partners head of responsible investment and r...

'Net zero' might be the phrase of the year for the ESG sector, but what does a net zero target actually mean and how can we be sure that a company has clear plans to decarbonise its operations?

In this episode of Financial Standard, Rachel Alembakis, managing editor of FS Sustainability, is joined by Andrew Maple-Brown, co-founder and managing director of Maple-Brown Abbott Global Listed Infrastructure, and Georgia Hall, glo...

While the developed world comes off the back of a record, stimulus fuelled investment year, the effects of stubborn COVID-19 friction, supply chain disruption, and inflationary pressures have taken their toll on developing economies. So is now the time for long term money to find growth and risk-adjusted returns from emerging markets?

In this episode of Financial Standard, senior journalist Karen Vergara talks to Arif T. Joshi, mana...

Supply chain disruptions are making daily headlines, particularly leading into a highly anticipated Christmas period. The challenges and financial risks for most businesses have been significant and well documented, but supply chains can also increase exposure to often hidden ESG risks with negative implications for a company's overall goals. 

In this special FS Sustainability episode of Financial Standard, managing editor Rach...

The purpose and scope of ethical investment has appropriately gained the momentum it deserves, and continues to capture the attention of investors and advisors around the globe. A majority of Australians now expect ESG considerations to be the standard when it comes to investing their money, reducing risk and increasing overall returns.

But the evolution of greenwashing has also proven that talk is cheap and deeper engagement is ne...

Interest in crypto currency has undeniably increased over the last few years, and its potential as a legitimate investment option also continues to grow. Institutional investors around the world are starting to take notice. However, despite member demand, Australia's superannuation funds are not among them. So what's stopping them, and what will it take for the sector to realistically get onboard?

In this episode of Financi...

The United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) is set to take place in Glasgow from October 31st to November 12th, and is anticipated to set in motion accelerated commitments by governments, businesses and investors with the goals of securing global net zero targets and keeping global warming to less than 1.5 degrees.

In this special episode of Financial Standard, managing editor of FS Sustainability Rachel Alambakis is joine...

Over the last few years the superannuation industry has seen significant consolidation of funds as larger players open their doors to merger activity with the promise of lower costs, increased efficiency, and ultimately better member outcomes.

Economies of scale are certainly one way to achieve these features, but recently Spirit Super chief executive Ross Barry spoke of some of the myths associated with super fund mergers, arguing...

October has brought with it a raft of regulatory reforms, and none more important than the design and distribution obligations legislation (DDO) to ensure that financial products meet the needs of consumers and are distributed in a more targeted fashion. So what exactly are these changes and what are some of the implications for an adviser's business?

In this episode of Financial Standard, editor Jamie Williamson is joined by M...

Results of the first APRA Your Future, Your Super performance test have come and gone putting a spotlight on thirteen My Super products that have underperformed by those standards. Members of those funds will by now have been informed of the results in writing, also telling them that they should consider moving their savings to other superannuation products.

With broader discussion around the transparency of results and what impact...

It's no secret that financial advisers have suffered in recent years with costly compliance and education requirements taking their toll. Now, the ASIC levy paid by advisers has finally been frozen and reverted back to 2018/2019 levels, but recent statistics from FASEA show that more than 2000 that took the exam and passed have left the industry anyway.

So is it too little too late?

In this episode of Financial Standard, editor...