Shape of advice
Professional Planner
The great transformation of Australia's financial advice industry from predominantly bank-owned to a more fragmented mix of independently licensed and like-minded collective tie-ups has occurred swiftly during the past year and a half, with the impact of these changes on business partnerships continuing to play out.
This new podcast series, created and produced by Professional Planner, is a conversational-style exploration of the advice landscape that draws on industry thought-leaders, experts and practitioners who are forging ahead with new partnerships, augmenting business models and adapting to new technologies.
This new podcast series, created and produced by Professional Planner, is a conversational-style exploration of the advice landscape that draws on industry thought-leaders, experts and practitioners who are forging ahead with new partnerships, augmenting business models and adapting to new technologies.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 8, 2025 • 31min
Leveraging the satellite component of a portfolio
In this episode of the Shape of Advice podcast, Professional Planner editor Chris Dastoor is joined by Vanguard Australia head of multi-asset Matt Cho, Evidentia Group chief investment strategist Nathan Lim, and Apt Wealth Partners CIO Sarah Gonzalez. The panel discusses the core purpose of the satellite sleeve, how to maintain strong governance, and how asset consultants determine when it’s time to replace a manager.
Nov 17, 2025 • 35min
How advice became a prime M&A target
In this episode of the Shape of Advice podcast, Professional Planner editor Chris Dastoor is joined by the AZ NGA co-founder and group CEO, Paul Barrett.The wide-ranging discussion covers how Barrett saw advice being at the front of the financial services value chain in an era when commissions were still common, how a blend of capital is essential to AZ NGA’s operations, and what happens when the private equity shot clock ends.
Oct 23, 2025 • 33min
When simplicity becomes the ultimate sophistication
In this episode of the Shape of Advice podcast, Professional Planner editor Chris Dastoor is joined by Vanguard Australia head of financial adviser services Rachel White, Family Wealth Advisory founder Michael Bova and Aequitas Investment Partners joint chief investment officer Rowan Stewart. The panel will discuss the merits of relying on low-cost, and often passive investments, and whether lower-cost active options deliver value for money – and how to avoid potential pitfalls like being overly concentrated in the same stocks.
Oct 8, 2025 • 33min
How to put the CSLR on a sustainable footing
In just its second full financial year of operation, the Compensation Scheme of Last Resort has already seen its legislated subsector cap of $20 million exceeded for financial advice claims, with the FY26 levy coming in at $67 million and the FY27 levy already close to double that. In this episode of the Professional Planner Shape of Advice podcast, CSLR chief executive David Berry and editor Chris Dastoor discuss the work going on to make the scheme sustainable.
Sep 24, 2025 • 38min
The three characteristics of a healthy retail investing environment
In the first episode of the new season of the Professional Planner Shape of Advice podcast, Vanguard Australia managing director Daniel Shrimski says Australia has many hallmarks of a quality investment destination, but could work on all three of these critical factors.
Jul 8, 2025 • 31min
Kieran Forde & Katherine Hayes
Nov 28, 2024 • 33min
Building a successful advice practice
Craig Emanuel, Managing Partner at EWL, shares his extensive financial industry insights. He discusses the evolution of investment philosophies, highlighting a shift from Australian equities to diversified global strategies. The importance of behavioral finance in navigating a volatile economy is emphasized, along with lessons from high-profile client experiences. Emanuel delves into building a resilient advisory practice, focusing on client relationships and education, and addresses the trend toward outsourcing investment management and maintaining client trust.
Nov 3, 2024 • 27min
Andrew Bragg
Andrew Bragg, a Liberal Senator from New South Wales and Shadow Assistant Minister for Home Ownership, shares his insights on housing affordability and the urgent need for financial reform in Australia. He discusses future housing policies focused on deregulation and innovative solutions for first-home buyers. The conversation dives into the interplay between superannuation and housing, advocating for reforms to ease the financial burden on citizens. Bragg also emphasizes the critical role of financial advisors in navigating complex landscapes and planning for the future.
Oct 4, 2024 • 32min
Francy Taylor & Toby Potter
Francy Taylor, Executive Director at Colonial First State, and Toby Potter, Chair of the Investment Management Association of Australia, dive into the booming world of managed accounts. They discuss the significant rise in advisor usage from 16% to 56%, fueled by tech advances and custom strategies. The duo tackles the complexities of benchmarking and the importance of tailored portfolios that align with clients’ goals. They also highlight the evolving fiduciary responsibilities, emphasizing the need for personalized interactions in today's dynamic financial landscape.
7 snips
Sep 20, 2024 • 50min
Matt Lawler and Darren Whereat
Matt Lawler, Group Executive Advice at AMP, oversees the transition of major financial planning entities, while Darren Whereat, CEO of Rhombus Advisory, champions the evolution of financial advice. They discuss the transformative impact of the Royal Commission and the strategic spin-offs of major firms. The conversation highlights the need for fiduciary independence and adapting business models to enhance client trust. They also emphasize improving advisor efficiency, the significance of capital investment, and the importance of navigating the evolving landscape of financial advice.
