Infocus to Launch Direct To Consumer Advice Offering

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Non-aligned financial services group, Infocus Wealth Management, will roll out a ‘direct-to-consumer advice offering’ later this year based on separately managed accounts (SMA) and a savings and assets simulator.Infocus said the offering would go live in May and make use of SMAs offered by Ibbotson Associates Australia and the Morningstar Wealth Forecasting Engine, which would allow consumers to look at projected future wealth based on their specific inputs and draw out savings rates, retirement ages, and asset allocation recommendations for different life stages.

Infocus Wealth Management, Managing Director, Rob Bristow said clients using the service can choose to manage their own investments or get advice from an Infocus adviser with clients having the option of engaging with advice as they require it.

“Our direct advice solution will reduce barriers to taking action, delivering the freedom of a better financial life with just a few clicks.”

“This initiative is a continuation of our innovative approach, delivering financial advice that helps improve the lives of Australians from all walks of life.  In addition to outcomes from consumer-driven inputs that can be provided anywhere, anytime, Infocus’ direct advice solution will be part of our overall offer supporting consumers seeking financial advice. Our direct advice solution will reduce barriers to taking action, delivering the freedom of a better financial life with just a few clicks,” Bristow said.

Infocus also announced the retirement of PATRON Financial Advice General Manager, Rob McCann from the end of April 2016, after nine years with the PATRON business.

Bristow said McCann, who would remain a director of Infocus Wealth Management, was a key part of the merger and integration of the two groups during 2014 and 2015, after McCann started Patron in 2007.

“During the merger negotiations it was clear Rob was a passionate advocate of advisers and the advice industry.  Our shared view of helping advisers operate better businesses in a changing world was a cornerstone for the success of the merger.  The merger has been a great success for all stakeholders, due in no small part to Rob’s dedication and commitment to delivering great outcomes”, he said.

He said McCann’s retirement from PATRON comes after 44 years in the financial advice sector with the Infocus group set to review its operational and adviser support teams.