In this episode of the Risk Reward Podcast, we discuss the recent impacts on cryptocurrency prices, the risks surrounding meme coins, and the factors influencing digital asset sentiment. 

Diving deeper, we also look at the role of regulation and economic factors in the recent price decline and subsequent drop in confidence in cryptocurrency as a whole. 

In a change of pace, we pivot to cover integrated risk management within financial services firms and the importance of aligning risk management with business processes, with emphasis on building a risk-conscious culture and continuously improving risk practices to optimise operations and ensure compliance.

Thank you to our sponsors Beyond Billables https://www.beyondbillables.com/ and Rayne Legal https://www.rayne.com.au/.

While we love sharing our thoughts with you, this podcast is for information only and does not create a client relationship or contain any legal or financial advice. Any financial matters discussed are our personal opinions and don’t constitute recommendations.

In this episode, we are joined by Tim Baker, Managing Director of Boutique Capital, a wholesale fund incubation business based in Sydney. 

Tim discusses various aspects of the financial services industry in Australia, including market conditions, asset classes, and the rotation of risk appetites. 

He delves into the journey and operations of Boutique Capital, emphasising its role in assisting early-stage fund managers with comprehensive services like licensing, compliance, administration, and more. Tim also sheds light on the importance of trust, coaching, and mentoring in building successful fund management businesses. 

The conversation extends to industry challenges, regulatory environment, and how new fund managers can navigate the complexities of setting up and growing their funds.

Thank you to our sponsors Beyond Billables https://www.beyondbillables.com/ and Rayne Legal https://www.rayne.com.au/.

While we love sharing our thoughts with you, this podcast is for information only and does not create a client relationship or contain any legal or financial advice. Any financial matters discussed are our personal opinions and don’t constitute recommendations.

In this episode of the Risk Reward Podcast, we chat with Lochie Wilson, a cybersecurity and data management expert, who shares his insights into the evolving landscape of cybersecurity in the financial services sector. 

Lochie talks about his journey from a tech-savvy teenager to working in various roles, including government and private sectors, offering a wealth of knowledge. 

Our conversation covers the importance of having an incident response plan, the pragmatic use of frameworks like Essential Eight, and the impact of AI and sophisticated phishing attacks. Lochie emphasises the need for tailored cybersecurity strategies, the benefits of external assurance, and the dynamic nature of cybersecurity threats and solutions. 

We conclude our conversation by discussing trends in regulatory frameworks, the role of MSPs, and practical advice for financial services firms looking to strengthen their cybersecurity posture. 

Thank you to our sponsors Beyond Billables https://www.beyondbillables.com/ and Rayne Legal https://www.rayne.com.au/.

While we love sharing our thoughts with you, this podcast is for information only and does not create a client relationship or contain any legal or financial advice. Any financial matters discussed are our personal opinions and don’t constitute recommendations.

In this episode, Blake Briggs, CEO of the Financial Services Council (FSC), sheds light on the significant changes and challenges the FSC and the financial industry as a whole have faced, especially post-Royal Commission. 

Blake elaborates on the evolving role of the FSC, including its expanded membership and its shift towards a more diverse representation. As well as emphasising the importance of considered deregulation, economic growth, and tax reform as key priorities for the FSC. 

Our conversation also touches on the industry's interaction with political entities, the impact of elections on financial policy, and the vital need for good, accessible financial advice for consumers. 

The discussion concludes with insights on current regulatory scrutiny of private markets and the necessity for simplifying financial regulations to foster innovation and efficiency in the sector. 

Thank you to our sponsors Beyond Billables https://www.beyondbillables.com/ and Rayne Legal https://www.rayne.com.au/.

While we love sharing our thoughts with you, this podcast is for information only and does not create a client relationship or contain any legal or financial advice. Any financial matters discussed are our personal opinions and don’t constitute recommendations.

In this episode of the Risk Reward Podcast, we’re tackling the hot topics shaking up the financial services world in Australia!

First up, we chat about the RBA's recent move to cut interest rates and what that means for inflation and the broader market. Then we dive into complaints handling for AFSL holders, sharing tips on how to stay ahead of the game with proactive management and top-notch communication.

And let’s not forget the importance of employer branding – we break down how it’s shaping hiring and retention in financial services firms.

With plenty of practical tips on legal compliance, regulatory insights, and communication strategies, this episode is packed with must-know advice for businesses ready to thrive in today’s competitive landscape!

Thank you to our sponsors Beyond Billables https://www.beyondbillables.com/ and Rayne Legal https://www.rayne.com.au/.

While we love sharing our thoughts with you, this podcast is for information only and does not create a client relationship or contain any legal or financial advice. Any financial matters discussed are our personal opinions and don’t constitute recommendations.

In this episode of The Risk Reward Podcast, we chat about the merits of government efficiency and the surprisingly intricate issue of marketing compliance, for financial services businesses.

First up, we dive into government spending and the recent political obsession with super-charging government efficiency as a campaign tool - does it have some basis in Australia or is it a slippery slope to DOGE? 

We then switch gears to financial services marketing because let’s be real, compliance isn’t just a box to tick, it's a critical tool for brand message optimisation and sustainable growth. 

We break down:
- How to market effectively without tripping into misleading and deceptive conduct
- What you actually need to know about disclaimers and the Spam Act
- Keeping your brand voice authentic while playing by the rules

Plus, we chat about why long-term strategy and solid client relationships always beat short-term gimmicks.

Thank you to our sponsors Beyond Billables https://www.beyondbillables.com/ and Rayne Legal https://www.rayne.com.au/.

While we love sharing our thoughts with you, this podcast is for information only and does not create a client relationship or contain any legal or financial advice. Any financial matters discussed are our personal opinions and don’t constitute recommendations.

In episode 5, we delve into current affairs impacting the financial services industry like AI advancements, ChatGPT vs DeepSeek, as well as the rise of AI sovereignty and its regulatory challenges. How can businesses find value in AI?

This episode also explores AFSL licensing in Australia. It's a complex area with many nuanced exceptions, too many for one episode, so we have shared more general insights to the ins and outs of AFSLs including:

• Who needs an AFSL
• The pros and cons of "renting" an AFSL
• Crucial strategic planning for AFSL businesses
• The information that goes into an AFSL application
• The limits on marketing and market engagement before ASIC approval 
• Innovation in the market with fund incubation models

Thank you to our sponsors Beyond Billables https://www.beyondbillables.com/ and Rayne Legal https://www.rayne.com.au/.

While we love sharing our thoughts with you, this podcast is for information only and does not create a client relationship or contain any legal or financial advice. Any financial matters discussed are our personal opinions and don’t constitute recommendations.

Welcoming our first guest to The Risk Reward Podcast - Dr Katherine Hunt! 

Katherine holds many credentials, having started in psychology before going on to become a financial advisor. She then completed her doctorate in law and finance and is now a growth and mindset coach. Most impressively, she still finds the time to surf an hour a day! 

During the show, we dive into topics such as:

• Katherine’s career journey from psychology to financial services,
• Building a career in financial services,
• The power of networking and referrals,
• Aligning your personal values with professional ethics,
• And strategies for business growth and personal development!

Thank you to our sponsors Beyond Billables https://www.beyondbillables.com/ and Rayne Legal https://www.rayne.com.au/.

While we love sharing our thoughts with you, this podcast is for information only and does not create a client relationship or contain any legal or financial advice. Any financial matters discussed are our personal opinions and don’t constitute recommendations.

Welcome back! In episode 3, we dive into strategies for financial services businesses aiming to elevate their branding, marketing, and growth. 

We cover essential topics, such as:

• The importance of a cohesive brand identity,
• Integrating marketing efforts across different platforms,
• The role of authentic content creation,
• How to encourage employee engagement in content generation, 
• and the impact of new technologies like AI

Thank you to our sponsors Beyond Billables https://www.beyondbillables.com/ and Rayne Legal https://www.rayne.com.au/.

While we love sharing our thoughts with you, this podcast is for information only and does not create a client relationship or contain any legal or financial advice. Any financial matters discussed are our personal opinions and don’t constitute recommendations.

In episode 2, we focus on the concept of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), diving into opportunities and issues including greenwashing and the future of conscientious investing. 

ESG type investing is buzzing right now, for good reason, and it is a massive opportunity for financial services firms in Australia. The question is: are you ready to make the most of it?

Key Points:

• What ESG actually means
• How ASIC is stepping in to more heavily regulate ESG
• Greenwashing, some recent trouble waters
• Why good disclosure matters and marketing cannot overstate benefits
• ESG investing is an opportunity to meet client demand
• The great wealth transfer and opportunities in ESG investing

Thank you to our sponsors Beyond Billables https://www.beyondbillables.com/ and Rayne Legal https://www.rayne.com.au/.

While we love sharing our thoughts with you, this podcast is for information only and does not create a client relationship or contain any legal or financial advice. Any financial matters discussed are our personal opinions and don’t constitute recommendations.