The proportion of candidates passing the advice exam in 2024 has risen by more than a third but a notable gap exists between those who have qualified and those who are actively practicing, according to Wealth Data.

Financial advisers who optimise client referrals to achieve organic growth will be best placed for success in 2025, according to Dimensional, and could attract attention from overseas acquirers.

AMP MyNorth has announced a number of enhancements to its sustainable managed portfolios amid strong adviser demand for value-aligned investment options.

Antipodes has successfully completed the acquisition of Maple-Brown Abbott first announced in July, with the group now managing over $20 billion in AUM.

GQG Partners has closed fundraising on its initial private markets fund, having raised $145 million.

Experienced quantitative researcher Warwick Schneller has taken up a new role, joining Scientific Beta as head of investment solutions, Australia and New Zealand.

MLC Life Insurance and Resolution Life Australasia are to merge, creating a combined firm with the new name of Acenda, while NAB has divested its remaining 20 per cent stake.

Next year there are more reasons than most to start with a fresh perspective when it comes to reshaping investment strategies, writes Dan Farmer.