News & Insights Archives

Money Management 35th Annual Fund Manager of the Year Awards 2023 – Winners Announced

Congratulations to all the winners and nominees for this year’s Fund Manager of the Year Awards. For Lonsec and Money Management, these awards are a celebration of the very best of the funds management industry and we will recognise the very best innovations and products and services that improve the investment outcomes of Australians.

As research partner for the awards, we applied the same rigorous approach we take to researching and rating funds to evaluating the nominees and choosing winners in each of the 18 group award categories. It has been an honour to partner with Money Management for these awards and congratulations again to Franklin Templeton for being named Fund Manager of the Year.

Australian Property Securities Fund of the Year

The nominees for the Australian Property Securities Fund of the Year highlight the variety in the sector by showcasing both A-REIT and ‘real asset’ mandates and differing investment styles. Nominated funds have all been well-rated by Lonsec over an extended period and have been able to deliver consistent risk-adjusted performance over the medium-term. The nominees are:

Cromwell Phoenix Property Securities Fund
Martin Currie Real Income Fund – Class A
SGH Property Income Fund

Global Property Securities Fund of the Year

The nominees for the Global Property Securities Fund of the Year represent both Australian and off-shore investment firms. These funds, which have been well rated by Lonsec, have navigated a turbulent period for REIT markets well, allowing them to deliver a consistent level of risk-adjusted performance over the medium-term.

Ironbark Global Property Securities Fund
Quay Global Real Estate Fund – Unhedged
UBS CBRE Global Property Securities Fund

Infrastructure Fund of the Year

The nominees for the Infrastructure Fund of the Year are representative of the dynamism in the listed infrastructure space, both by investment style but also the underlying investment structures. The funds have all been well rated by Lonsec over time, with the managers delivering to investors the listed infrastructure premia during a volatile period in markets and meeting their investment objectives.

ClearBridge RARE Infrastructure Value Fund — Unhedged
CFS FC Global Infrastructure Securities Fund
Lazard Global Listed Infrastructure Fund

Unlisted Real Estate Fund of the Year

The nominees for the Unlisted Real Estate Fund of the Year are part of Lonsec’s universe of direct property funds that provide investors with access to a range of commercial and social property sectors. All nominated managers have built strong property capabilities and have demonstrated a commitment to sound capital management over time.

Australian Unity Healthcare Property Trust – Wholesale Units
Centuria Diversified Property Fund
Charter Hall Direct Industrial Fund No.4

Australian Large Cap Equity Fund of the Year

The nominees for the Australian Large Cap Equity Fund of the Year recognise those funds that have been well-rated by Lonsec over an extended period, and those managers that have been able to deliver consistent risk-adjusted performance in line with performance objectives over the medium-term.

Allan Gray Australia Equity Fund
Dimensional Australian Value Trust
DNR Capital Australian Equities High Conviction Portfolio
Lazard Select Australian Equity Fund (W Class)
Quest Australian Equities Concentrated Portfolio SMA

Australian Small Cap Equity Fund of the Year

The nominees for the Australian Small Cap Equity Fund of the Year recognise those funds that have successfully delivered on investment objectives, demonstrated superior stock selection and have been well-rated by Lonsec over an extended period.

First Sentier Wholesale Australian Small Companies Fund
OC Dynamic Equity Fund
Spheria Australian Smaller Companies Fund

Global Equity Fund of the Year

The nominees for Global Equity Fund of the Year have demonstrated ability to consistently meet their investment objectives, have a track record in applying their investment research and portfolio construction processes, as well as being rated ‘Recommended’ or higher by Lonsec.

Arrowstreet Global Equity Fund
Barrow Hanley Global Share Fund
Lazard Global Equity Franchise Fund
PM Capital Global Companies Fund
Realindex Global Share Value – Class A

Global Emerging Market Equity Fund of the Year

The nominees for Global Emerging Market Equity Fund of the Year have been sourced from Lonsec’s universe of Global Emerging Markets sector, including funds within the Regional Asia and India sub-sector. The award recognises funds that have been highly rated by Lonsec over the past three years, demonstrated asset allocation and security selection skills, and consistently delivered on its investment objectives.

Fidelity Asia Fund
FSSA Asian Growth Fund
Lazard Emerging Markets Equity Fund

Multi-Asset Fund of the Year

The nominees for the Multi-Asset Fund of the year recognise those products that have been well rated by Lonsec over an extended period of time, and those Managers that have been able to consistently apply their investment process, meet investment objectives through the cycle, and demonstrate portfolio management skill in asset allocation and security selection

Australian Retirement Trust – Super Savings – Growth
BlackRock Tactical Growth Fund – Class D
CareSuper – Sustainable Balanced
ipac Income Generator (Class K)
Perpetual Balanced Growth Fund

Passive – Equity Fund of the Year

The Passive Equity Fund of Year award recognises an equity based strategy that has demonstrated a strong track record of success with respect to its underlying index, a superior liquidity profile plus costs that are at least in-line with peers.

Betashares Australia 200 ETF
iShares Core S&P/ASX 200 ETF
SPDR S&P World ex Australia Carbon Control Fund
VanEck Australian Equal Weight ETF
Vanguard US Total Market Shares Index ETF

Passive – Other Asset Class Fund of the Year

The Passive Other-Asset class Fund of Year award considers all the passive fixed income, commodities, or alternative strategies within the Lonsec universe. It recognises the Fund with a strong track record of success with respect to its underlying index, a superior liquidity profile plus costs that are at least in-line with peers.

Betashares Australian Bank Senior Floating Rate Bond ETF
Global X Physical Gold ETF
iShares Core Composite Bond ETF
iShares Global Bond Index Fund
VanEck Australian Floating Rate ETF

Australian Fixed Income

The nominees for the Australian fixed income category are well rated by Lonsec over an extended period of time. The award recognises managers who have the ability to deliver consistent returns while providing downside protection during challenging markets which are a testament to their robust research and risk management processes, skills and expertise.

Janus Henderson Australian Fixed Interest Fund
Macquarie Australian Fixed Interest Fund
Pendal Sustainable Australian Fixed Interest Fund
Perpetual Active Fixed Interest Fund (Class A Units)
Western Asset Australian Bond Fund – Class A
Yarra Enhanced Income Fund

Global Fixed Income of the Year

As with the previous Australian Fixed Income award, the nominees for the Global fixed income category are well-rated by Lonsec over an extended period of time. The award recognises managers who have the ability to deliver consistent returns while providing downside protection during challenging markets which is a testament to their robust research and risk management processes, skills, and expertise.

Bentham Global Income Fund
Brandywine Global Opportunistic Fixed Income Fund – Class A
Perpetual Dynamic Fixed Income Fund
PIMCO Income Fund – Wholesale Class
T. Rowe Price Dynamic Global Bond Fund – I Class

Alternatives Fund of the Year

The nominees for the Alternatives fund of the year recognise those products that have demonstrated a track record of success, offer several competitive advantages against their closest peers and have been rated highly by Lonsec for at least three review cycles. Further, over the long term, each of these Funds has met or exceeded their respective investment objectives, achieved favourable absolute returns in a risk-adjusted manner while providing diversification to investors’ broader portfolios

Australian Retirement Trust – Super Savings – Diversified Alternatives
CC Sage Capital Absolute Return Fund
Hamilton Lane Global Private Assets Fund (AUD)

Responsible Investment Fund of the Year

The nominees for the Responsible Investment Fund of the year recognise those products that have demonstrated a clear integration of ESG into their investment process and deliver a portfolio with a high alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals as well as having at least a recommended rating from Lonsec.

Ausbil Active Sustainable Equity Fund
Australian Ethical Emerging Companies Fund (Wholesale)
Candriam Sustainable Global Equity Fund
Impax Sustainable Leaders Fund

Innovation Award of the Year

The Innovation Award recognises a manager that has brought a differentiated product to the Australian market. Differentiation can take the form of fee leadership, product structural evolution or additive capabilites to standard asset class products.

Betashares Capital
Generation Life
L1 Capital

Emerging Manager of the Year

The nominees for Emerging Manager of the Year have been selected by Lonsec’s team of Sector Managers. To be eligible for this award, nominees must have a track record of five years or less within the Australian intermediated market, and have at least one product that Lonsec has assigned a ‘Recommended’ or higher rating.

Aikya Investment Management
Fortlake Asset Management
Pzena Investment Management
Ruffer LLP
Skerryvore Asset Management

Fund Manager of the Year

To be eligible for the Fund Manager of the Year Award, Managers must have demonstrated a sound investment culture and good governance over an investment cycle and across a number of asset classes.

BlackRock Investment Management (Australia)
Franklin Templeton Australia
Lazard Asset Management
Macquarie Asset Management
VanEck

Disclaimer: Lonsec Research Pty Ltd (ABN 11 151 658 561 AFSL 421445) (Lonsec) are acting as a research partner for the Fund Manager of the Year Awards (Awards) issued by Momentum Media Group Pty Ltd on 22 June 2023 The Awards are determined using Lonsec proprietary methodologies, are solely statements of opinion, subjective in nature and must not be used as the sole basis for investment decisions. The Awards do not represent recommendations to purchase, hold or sell any products or make any other investment decisions. Investors must seek independent financial advice before making any investment decision and must consider the appropriateness of the information, having regard to their objectives, financial situation, and needs. Past performance is not an indication of future performance. Awards are current for 12 months from the date awarded and are subject to change at any time. Lonsec does not represent these Awards to be guarantees nor should they be viewed as an assessment of a fund or the funds’ underlying securities’ creditworthiness. Lonsec receives a fee from the financial product issuer(s) for researching the financial product(s), using objective criteria. Lonsec rating(s) outcome is not linked to the fee or the Award. Lonsec and its associates do not receive any other compensation or material benefits from product issuers or third parties in connection with the Award. Lonsec makes no representation, warranty or undertaking in relation to the accuracy or completeness of the Awards. Lonsec assumes no obligation to update the Awards after publication. The Award is for the exclusive use of the client for whom it is presented and should not be used or relied upon by any other person unless with express permission from Lonsec. Except for any liability which cannot be excluded, Lonsec, its directors, officers, employees and agents disclaim all liability for any error or inaccuracy in, misstatement or omission from, this document and any Award or any loss or damage suffered by the reader or any other person as a consequence of relying upon it. ©Lonsec 2023. All rights reserved.

June 26, 2023/by Lonsec

News & Insights, Video

Helping you make better decisions for your practice and clients

At our recent Lonsec Symposium our Head of Sales, John Burton, spoke about how Lonsec’s full suite of solutions can help scale your advice business and improve your efficiency. In case you missed it, you can watch this short replay of his session.

Important information: Any express or implied rating or advice is limited to general advice, it doesn’t consider any personal needs, goals or objectives. Before making any decision about financial products, consider whether it is personally appropriate for you in light of your personal circumstances. Obtain and consider the Product Disclosure Statement for each financial product and seek professional personal advice before making any decisions regarding a financial product.

June 1, 2023/by John Burton

Managed Accounts, News & Insights

Insights from our CIO: Cloudy skies and left tails

Inflation is likely to ease substantially in the coming months as base effects roll off and tighter credit conditions hit consumption and aggregate demand. Services inflation, rent rises and wage pressures however persist, meaning inflation could remain sticky and above central bank target ranges for some time. Financial conditions are therefore likely to remain tight as central banks keep a foot on the brake while managing pockets of stress via targeted liquidity support. Domestically, a large number of home borrowers will roll off ultra-low fixed rate home loans onto significantly higher mortgage rates in the coming months. This means there is more tightening to come for the Australian household sector irrespective of how much higher the RBA takes the cash rate.

Consumer confidence remains weak both here and in the US, and with the cash buffers built up during the pandemic largely eroded, signs that economic growth has begun to slow have emerged. US GDP came in well below expectations at +1.1% (annualised) for the first quarter.

The ongoing debate on raising the US debt ceiling, while closer to resolution at the time of writing, is not yet a done deal and represents additional left-tail risk to an already clouded outlook. Our base case is that this issue will be resolved, allowing the US government to meet its financial obligations. However, the combative nature of the current US political arena means a stalemate cannot be ruled out entirely. Failure to reach agreement would have severe ramifications across equity, bond and currency markets.

On a positive note, valuations are looking more appealing across a range of asset classes. Australian equity valuations are almost looking as attractive as they were during the peak stresses of the pandemic on a P/E basis. Tight financial conditions coupled with a weakening cyclical environment lead us to believe that the second half of 2023 continues to present some headwinds for risk assets notwithstanding the more attractive valuations we are seeing.

We remain cautious, and close to benchmark with a slight underweight in global equities. In the current environment, a focus on quality investments, liquidity, active portfolio management, diversification and risk control become even more critical for portfolio constructors. We continue to monitor developments regarding inflation, monetary policy and the global economy, and will adjust our portfolios, as necessary, to navigate through the challenges and opportunities ahead.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: This document is published by Lonsec Investment Solutions Pty Ltd ACN 608 837 583, a Corporate Authorised Representative (CAR 1236821) (LIS) of Lonsec Research Pty Ltd ABN 11 151 658 561 AFSL 421 445 (Lonsec Research). LIS creates the model portfolios it distributes using the investment research provided by Lonsec Research but LIS has not had any involvement in the investment research process for Lonsec Research. LIS and Lonsec Research are owned by Lonsec Holdings Pty Ltd ACN 151 235 406. Please read the following before making any investment decision about any financial product mentioned in this document.

DISCLOSURE AT THE DATE OF PUBLICATION: Lonsec Research receives a fee from the relevant fund manager or product issuer(s) for researching financial products (using objective criteria) which may be referred to in this document. Lonsec Research may also receive a fee from the fund manager or product issuer(s) for subscribing to research content and other Lonsec Research services. LIS receives a fee for providing the model portfolios to financial services organisations and professionals. LIS’ and Lonsec Research’s fees are not linked to the financial product rating(s) outcome or the inclusion of the financial product(s) in model portfolios. LIS and Lonsec Research and their representatives and/or their associates may hold any financial product(s) referred to in this document, but details of these holdings are not known to the Lonsec Research analyst(s).

WARNINGS: Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Any express or implied rating or advice presented in this document is limited to general advice and based solely on consideration of the investment merits of the financial product(s) alone, without taking into account the investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs (“financial circumstances”) of any particular person. Before making an investment decision based on the rating or advice, the reader must consider whether it is personally appropriate in light of his or her financial circumstances or should seek independent financial advice on its appropriateness. If the financial advice relates to the acquisition or possible acquisition of a particular financial product, the reader should obtain and consider the Investment Statement or the Product Disclosure Statement for each financial product before making any decision about whether to acquire the financial product.

DISCLAIMER: No representation, warranty or undertaking is given or made in relation to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented in this document, which is drawn from public information not verified by LIS. The information contained in this document is current as at the date of publication. Financial conclusions, ratings and advice are reasonably held at the time of publication but subject to change without notice. LIS assumes no obligation to update this document following publication. Except for any liability which cannot be excluded, LIS and Lonsec Research, their directors, officers, employees and agents disclaim all liability for any error or inaccuracy in, misstatement or omission from, this document or any loss or damage suffered by the reader or any other person as a consequence of relying upon it.

Copyright © 2023 Lonsec Investment Solutions Pty Ltd ACN 608 837 583 (LIS). This document may also contain third party supplied material that is subject to copyright. The same restrictions that apply to LIS copyrighted material, apply to such third-party content.

May 30, 2023/by Deanne Baker

Managed Accounts - Retirement, News & Insights, Video

Lonsec Retirement Managed Portfolios – Q1, 2023

Markets are in a period of transition and with transition comes uncertainty and volatility. We have seen a rapid shift from record-low interest rates and abundant liquidity to an environment of higher interest rates, central banks shrinking their bloated balance sheets and banks in general tightening their lending practises. These tighter liquidity conditions will continue to impact the economy and markets over the course of the year.

The Retirement portfolios have continued to weather the choppy market conditions well. While the peer benchmark has delivered negative returns over the last 12 months, the Retirement portfolios have delivered positive absolute returns, protecting around 250 to 280 basis points depending on the risk profile. It was pleasing to see the embedded risk control within the portfolio protecting retirees from the worst of the year’s volatility.

Watch the three part video series below, where we discuss a Market Update, Performance Update, and Outlook and Positioning.

1. Market Update

2. Performance Update

3. Outlook and Positioning

The information in this video is prepared by Lonsec Investment Solutions Pty Ltd ABN 95 608 837 583 (LIS, we, us, our), a Corporate Authorised Representative (CAR) No. 1236821 of Lonsec Research Pty Ltd ABN 11 151 658 561, AFSL No. 421445 (Lonsec Research). Any express or implied rating or advice presented in this video is limited to general advice and based solely on consideration of the investment merits of the financial product(s) alone, without taking into account the investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs (“financial circumstances”) of any particular person. Before making an investment decision you must consider your financial circumstances or seek personal financial advice on its appropriateness. Read the Product Disclosure Statement for each financial product before making any decision about whether to acquire a financial product.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. No representation, warranty or undertaking is given or made in relation to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented in this video, which is drawn from information not verified by LIS. This video may also contain third party material that is subject to copyright. To the extent that copyright subsists in a third party it remains with the original owner and permission may be required to reuse the material.

The information contained in this video is current as at the date of publication. Financial conclusions, ratings and advice are reasonably held at the time of publication but subject to change without notice. LIS assumes no obligation to update this document following publication. This video is not intended for use by a retail client or a member of the public and should not be used or relied upon by any other person. This video is not to be distributed without the consent of LIS. Except for any liability which cannot be excluded, LIS and Lonsec Research, their directors, officers, employees and agents disclaim all liability for any error or inaccuracy in, misstatement or omission from, this video or any loss or damage suffered by the reader or any other person as a consequence of relying upon it. Copyright © 2023 Lonsec Investment Solutions Pty Ltd.

You may not reproduce, transmit, disseminate, sell or publish this video without our written consent.

May 12, 2023/by Deanne Baker

Lonsec Retirement Perspectives, News & Insights, Video

SuperRatings Quarterly Insights – April 2023

It has been a busy start to 2023 for the industry, with regulatory change ongoing and the need to have the right frameworks to assess member outcomes over time more important than ever.

In this edition, we provide an update on SuperRatings’ annual review and research themes for the industry.

What are the pressures facing funds and who is harnessing their scale?

In meeting with funds across the industry, we saw a number of key themes emanating from our reviews. This video outlines some key findings including:

Despite significant investment, funds are still struggling to define their value proposition.
The correlation between net asset growth and operating expense growth is broken.
Competition is heating up between funds, with a strong focus needed on how well funds are harnessing their scale.

Funds of all shapes and sizes face challenges and opportunities. In the current landscape, tracking and managing them is more crucial than ever.

Kirby Rappell, Executive Director, SuperRatings

April 11, 2023/by Kirby Rappell

Managed Accounts - Listed, News & Insights, Video

Lonsec Listed Managed Portfolios Update – Q4 2022

Overall, 2022 was a year to forget for both equity and bond investors, with both asset classes generating negative returns over the calendar year. In fact, aside from commodities and the USD, almost all other major asset classes generated negative returns over the year. In line with the broader market, Lonsec’s Listed Managed Portfolios generated negative returns over the calendar year for the first time since 2011. The declines were broad-based, led by global property and domestic property, while both domestic and global bonds also recorded double-digit falls.

Despite the negative returns over the calendar year of 2022, Australian Equities outperformed Global Equities by a wide margin with the latter being a negative contributor over the year, but the portfolio impact from Global Equities was curbed by reducing allocation to the sector to “Slightly Underweight” in October, as well as the March introduction of the VVLU ETF, which outperformed significantly for the rest of the year.

Portfolio Manager for the Listed portfolios Dan Moradi provides an update covering performance, positioning and outlook.

The information in this video is prepared by Lonsec Investment Solutions Pty Ltd ABN 95 608 837 583 (LIS, we, us, our), a Corporate Authorised Representative (CAR) No. 1236821 of Lonsec Research Pty Ltd ABN 11 151 658 561, AFSL No. 421445 (Lonsec Research). Any express or implied rating or advice presented in this video is limited to general advice and based solely on consideration of the investment merits of the financial product(s) alone, without taking into account the investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs (“financial circumstances”) of any particular person. Before making an investment decision you must consider your financial circumstances or seek personal financial advice on its appropriateness. Read the Product Disclosure Statement for each financial product before making any decision about whether to acquire a financial product.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. No representation, warranty or undertaking is given or made in relation to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented in this video, which is drawn from information not verified by LIS. This video may also contain third party material that is subject to copyright. To the extent that copyright subsists in a third party it remains with the original owner and permission may be required to reuse the material.

The information contained in this video is current as at the date of publication. Financial conclusions, ratings and advice are reasonably held at the time of publication but subject to change without notice. LIS assumes no obligation to update this document following publication. This video is not intended for use by a retail client or a member of the public and should not be used or relied upon by any other person. This video is not to be distributed without the consent of LIS. Except for any liability which cannot be excluded, LIS and Lonsec Research, their directors, officers, employees and agents disclaim all liability for any error or inaccuracy in, misstatement or omission from, this video or any loss or damage suffered by the reader or any other person as a consequence of relying upon it. Copyright © 2023 Lonsec Investment Solutions Pty Ltd.

You may not reproduce, transmit, disseminate, sell or publish this video without our written consent.

February 2, 2023/by Danial Moradi

Managed Accounts - Retirement, News & Insights, Video

Lonsec Retirement Managed Portfolios – Q3 2022

It has been another challenging quarter for multi-asset investors with both equity and bond markets for the most part continuing their declines. High inflation prints, aggressive central bank policy tightening, and fears of recession are driving extreme market volatility. However, the Retirement portfolios have weathered the storm relatively well. Whilst we haven’t been able to protect investors from all the losses, the portfolios managed to outperform the peer group benchmark and internal benchmark and remain well ahead on a relative basis over the 12 months to 30 September 2022.

While the portfolios’ capital component of returns has been volatile, the yield component has continued to deliver a level of stability for retirees. From an income perspective, the portfolio has delivered in excess of the 4% income target through the cycle (3-5 years). Pleasingly, income was sourced from a wide range of strategies and asset classes, from equities to infrastructure, emerging market debt, and option premia.

The information in this video is prepared by Lonsec Investment Solutions Pty Ltd ABN 95 608 837 583 (LIS, we, us, our), a Corporate Authorised Representative (CAR) No. 1236821 of Lonsec Research Pty Ltd ABN 11 151 658 561, AFSL No. 421445 (Lonsec Research). Any express or implied rating or advice presented in this video is limited to general advice and based solely on consideration of the investment merits of the financial product(s) alone, without taking into account the investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs (“financial circumstances”) of any particular person. Before making an investment decision you must consider your financial circumstances or seek personal financial advice on its appropriateness. Read the Product Disclosure Statement for each financial product before making any decision about whether to acquire a financial product.

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. No representation, warranty or undertaking is given or made in relation to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented in this video, which is drawn from information not verified by LIS. This video may also contain third party material that is subject to copyright. To the extent that copyright subsists in a third party it remains with the original owner and permission may be required to reuse the material.

The information contained in this video is current as at the date of publication. Financial conclusions, ratings and advice are reasonably held at the time of publication but subject to change without notice. LIS assumes no obligation to update this document following publication. This video is not intended for use by a retail client or a member of the public and should not be used or relied upon by any other person. This video is not to be distributed without the consent of LIS. Except for any liability which cannot be excluded, LIS and Lonsec Research, their directors, officers, employees and agents disclaim all liability for any error or inaccuracy in, misstatement or omission from, this video or any loss or damage suffered by the reader or any other person as a consequence of relying upon it. Copyright © 2022 Lonsec Investment Solutions Pty Ltd.

You may not reproduce, transmit, disseminate, sell or publish this video without our written consent.

November 10, 2022/by Lonsec

Managed Accounts, News & Insights

A time to reset back to ‘normal’

For the past 10 years investors have become accustomed to double digit returns from equities and low market volatility. As interest rates normalise we are heading into a different market environment characterised by higher volatility and greater dispersion in returns between stocks. For some investors the last 10 years’ market environment is all they have known, while for others what markets were like prior the global financial crisis of 2008 is a distant memory.

We would argue that the past 10 years which was characterised by record low interest rates and ample liquidity, was not a normal market environment. In fact, it was an anomaly resulting from extreme unconventional monetary policy settings aimed at avoiding a deep recession or a global depression following the breakdown in financial systems in 2008. As central banks sailed down the path of quantitative easing (QE), at the back of their minds they were scratching their heads as to what will be their exit strategy from QE. Roll forward to today and inflation has given central banks their exit strategy, with key central banks raising interest rates and tapering their respective QE programs in order to stem demand and dampen inflation.

The move towards higher interest rates is a rest for the global economy and markets. Debt has become more expensive and companies which existed due to readily available cheap debt are disappearing or at a minimum being repriced aggressively. In this environment we are likely to see the strong get stronger and an increase in merger and acquisition activity as cashed up companies look for opportunities to grow their market share by acquiring companies with weaker balance sheets.

From a portfolio perspective, in this period of transition the traditional 60/40 portfolio has suffered as both equities and bonds have repriced as interest rates and bond yields have risen. So, does this mean that the traditional ‘balanced’ portfolio is dead? Our view is that the transition to higher interest rates will be painful however that as we reset to a more ‘normal’ market environment a ‘balanced’ style portfolio made up of equities, bonds and other assets such as alternatives will come back into vogue. In recent years a strategy of simply having an overweight to equities has been a winning strategy. However, we expect greater market volatility will make investing in equities less clear-cut and investors will need to be more discerning as to the companies they hold. Furthermore, the ‘unsexy’ world of bonds will become more interesting as bond yields rise and the relative attractiveness of bonds to equities increases.

We believe that we are heading back to markets of old where investors should expect single digit equity returns over the long term and higher levels of market volatility. In terms of total portfolio returns, we expect that diversification will become more critical and bonds will play a greater role in contributing to portfolio returns in the future.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: This document is published by Lonsec Investment Solutions Pty Ltd ACN 608 837 583, a Corporate Authorised Representative (CAR 1236821) (LIS) of Lonsec Research Pty Ltd ABN 11 151 658 561 AFSL 421 445 (Lonsec Research). LIS creates the model portfolios it distributes using the investment research provided by Lonsec Research but LIS has not had any involvement in the investment research process for Lonsec Research. LIS and Lonsec Research are owned by Lonsec Holdings Pty Ltd ACN 151 235 406. Please read the following before making any investment decision about any financial product mentioned in this document.

DISCLOSURE AT THE DATE OF PUBLICATION: Lonsec Research receives a fee from the relevant fund manager or product issuer(s) for researching financial products (using objective criteria) which may be referred to in this document. Lonsec Research may also receive a fee from the fund manager or product issuer(s) for subscribing to research content and other Lonsec Research services. LIS receives a fee for providing the model portfolios to financial services organisations and professionals. LIS’ and Lonsec Research’s fees are not linked to the financial product rating(s) outcome or the inclusion of the financial product(s) in model portfolios. LIS and Lonsec Research and their representatives and/or their associates may hold any financial product(s) referred to in this document, but details of these holdings are not known to the Lonsec Research analyst(s).

WARNINGS: Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Any express or implied rating or advice presented in this document is limited to general advice and based solely on consideration of the investment merits of the financial product(s) alone, without taking into account the investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs (“financial circumstances”) of any particular person. Before making an investment decision based on the rating or advice, the reader must consider whether it is personally appropriate in light of his or her financial circumstances or should seek independent financial advice on its appropriateness. If the financial advice relates to the acquisition or possible acquisition of a particular financial product, the reader should obtain and consider the Investment Statement or the Product Disclosure Statement for each financial product before making any decision about whether to acquire the financial product.

DISCLAIMER: No representation, warranty or undertaking is given or made in relation to the accuracy or completeness of the information presented in this document, which is drawn from public information not verified by LIS. The information contained in this document is current as at the date of publication. Financial conclusions, ratings and advice are reasonably held at the time of publication but subject to change without notice. LIS assumes no obligation to update this document following publication. Except for any liability which cannot be excluded, LIS and Lonsec Research, their directors, officers, employees and agents disclaim all liability for any error or inaccuracy in, misstatement or omission from, this document or any loss or damage suffered by the reader or any other person as a consequence of relying upon it.

Copyright © 2022 Lonsec Investment Solutions Pty Ltd ACN 608 837 583 (LIS). This document may also contain third party supplied material that is subject to copyright. The same restrictions that apply to LIS copyrighted material, apply to such third-party content.

November 2, 2022/by Lukasz de Pourbaix

News & Insights

Media release: Perpetual Asset Management and Hostplus named major award winners

Lonsec and SuperRatings announced the winners of this year’s Fund of the Year Awards at an awards ceremony in Melbourne on Wednesday night.

The Lonsec Manager of the Year was awarded to Perpetual Asset Management in recognition of its well-established investment philosophy and process, as well as a long standing and strong investment culture.

“Perpetual Asset Management has been committed to its investment style and maintained its approach through multiple investment cycles. It has also broadened its exposure across asset classes and built out its focus on ESG,” said Lonsec Research Executive Director, Lorraine Robinson.

Amanda Gillespie, Perpetual Asset Management Australia Group Executive, said “It’s a tremendous honour to be awarded both the Lonsec Fund Manager of the Year and the Lonsec Multi Asset Fund of the Year, being recognised for our true-to-label approach, broadened investment management capabilities and ESG credentials.”

In a new category introduced this year, the Lonsec Sustainable Fund of the Year was awarded to the Martin Currie Ethical Income Fund. ‘The Martin Currie fund excels at both ESG and Sustainability and has delivered consistent excess returns over the last few years so is a worthy winner of this award,’ continues Lorraine Robinson.

To celebrate the great innovation and development taking place within the industry, Lonsec also recognised the T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund with the Innovation Award. ‘T. Rowe Price is leading the way in mainstreaming ESG investment strategies and offers a glimpse into the next leg of evolution to dark green products.”

“It was wonderful to be able to celebrate in person this year. Congratulations to Perpetual Asset Management and all the other winners and nominees in this year’s awards.”

The SuperRatings Fund of the Year went to Hostplus, recognising the fund’s strong results across our key assessment areas.

“Each year we examine funds’ end to end offerings across MySuper, Member Choice and Pension offerings to choose the Fund of the Year. Hostplus was competitive across the key metrics of net benefit, member servicing and engagement, as well as providing a broad offering from low cost investing right through to a tailored retirement proposition,” said SuperRatings Executive Director, Kirby Rappell.

Hostplus also received the MyChoice Super of the Year Award for its continued uplift across digital services, whilst executing strategic initiatives to make it easier for advisers to engage with the fund.

David Elia, Hostplus Chief Executive Officer, said “We are honoured to be recognised and awarded SuperRatings’ 2023 Fund of the Year. At Hostplus our members’ best financial interests are at the core of our decision making and the net benefit we provide to them at retirement.”

SuperRatings also announced its MySuper of the Year Award, with CareSuper winning this category. CareSuper also received the Smooth Ride Award, reflecting its focus on risk management and strong outcomes on a risk-adjusted basis. “CareSuper continues to generate strong net benefit outcomes, while also providing a competitive default insurance offering and is a worthy recipient of the MySuper of the Year Award.” said Kirby Rappell

TelstraSuper was awarded Pension of the Year. “TelstraSuper was selected based on the strength of the tailoring within its retirement solution, focus on innovation and digital capabilities, coupled with its strong advice and support services,” said Kirby Rappell.

“It is an honour to continue to recognise the best in the superannuation sector and award those funds which, in the last year, have helped their members to navigate an increasingly volatile landscape.”

Full List of Winners

Lonsec Manager of the Year

Perpetual Asset Management

Lonsec Multi-Asset Fund of the Year

Perpetual Diversified Real Return Fund – Class Z units

Lonsec Active Global Equity Fund of the Year

Ironbark Royal London Concentrated Global Share Fund

Lonsec Active Australian Equity Fund of the Year

DNR Capital Australian Equities High Conviction Fund

Lonsec Passive Fund of the Year

Vanguard Australian Shares High Yield ETF (Ticker: VHY)

Lonsec Active Global Fixed Income Fund of the Year

Ardea Real Outcome Fund

Lonsec Active Australian Fixed Income Fund of the Year

Janus Henderson Tactical Income Fund

Lonsec Property and Infrastructure Fund of the Year

ClearBridge RARE Infrastructure Income Fund – Hedged

Lonsec Alternatives Fund of the Year

PIMCO TRENDS Managed Futures Strategy Fund – Wholesale Class

Lonsec Sustainable Fund of the Year

Martin Currie Ethical Income Fund

Lonsec Emerging Manager of the Year

Longwave Australian Small Companies Fund – Class A

Lonsec Innovation Award

T. Rowe Price Global Impact Equity Fund – I Class

SuperRatings Fund of the Year Award

Hostplus

SuperRatings MySuper of the Year

CareSuper

SuperRatings MyChoice Super of the Year

Hostplus

SuperRatings Pension of the Year

TelstraSuper

SuperRatings Career Fund of the Year

Cbus

SuperRatings Momentum Award

HESTA

SuperRatings Net Benefit Award

Hostplus

SuperRatings Smooth Ride Award

CareSuper

SuperRatings Generations Award

Aware Super

Release ends
For more information, contact:
Rob Hardy
Robert.Hardy@lonsec.com.au
1300 826 395

October 28, 2022/by Rob Hardy

Lonsec Retirement Perspectives, News & Insights

Your Future, Your Super Review

SuperRatings supports benchmarking of the industry, although understanding its nuances remains a significant exercise. We believe there are key areas of the Your Future, Your Super legislation which could be improved and are supportive of Treasury’s review and have made a submission reflecting this.

The performance test is increasing the awareness of tracking error relative to the test’s benchmark indices, and the need to track and minimise this. There is a reduction in the willingness and ability to engage in Tactical Asset Allocation and Dynamic Asset Allocation. Furthermore, the current set of indices has the potential to distort investment decisions as well as reduce choice for members. We have seen a material slimming of funds’ investment menus to date.

While the test could be expanded to a broader range of Trustee Directed Products (TDPs), we believe that there is not a clear and consistent definition of a TDP that is understood by, and applied across, the industry. If a common understanding doesn’t exist within the industry, it has the potential to amplify confusion amongst members.

October 18, 2022/by Kirby Rappell