2017 continued to be the year of regulatory surveillance and financial industry change. Accountants are still dealing with strict licensing regulations and the requirement to move their Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) clients to a cloud service by July 1, 2018. Financial advisers are getting ready to face the looming LIF changes coming into force on January 1, 2018 and trying to evolve their existing processes to cope with new commission structures. Industry Superfunds on the other hand have had an increased focus on member engagement, providing more tools and facilities to educate and encourage members to engage with their superannuation.

From a digital perspective, we have been working hard to provide solutions that align with these industry trends, evolving and creating new tools that enhance the client experience. This year we successfully launched our SMSF Appropriateness journey, helping accountants bridge the advice gap with their clients by providing them an online SMSF advice tool. We also launched our Ignition Next Xplan consulting service, assisting advisers so that they can improve their advice and client management processes with efficient and intuitive software.

Looking forward into 2018, there are many exciting things to come in the world of digital advice. As technology evolves we will see more intuitive client centric platforms. Younger generations are looking towards more affordable and convenient technology options to provide ‘self-serve’ advice. Chatbots and messaging technology is becoming increasingly popular as people look to connect with companies via simple and easy solutions.

From Ignition Wealth’s point of view, we are continuing to develop and improve our digital advice solutions. In 2018, we will be beginning our series of educational webinars for both accountants and financial advisers. We are also gathering feedback from industry professionals to ensure we are adapting and providing the right solutions for our clients and their customers.

To find out more about what’s to come in the new year as well as an exploration of the common themes from past 12 months, register now for our webinar on December 12, 2017 ‘Reflecting on the year that’s past and a sneak peak of what’s to come in 2018’. This webinar will be presented by Ignition Wealth’s Head of Sales and Marketing, Richard Liverpool and Implementation Lead, Donna Nicklin.

Register for the event: Webinar – Reflecting on 2017 and a sneak peak at 2018