Key highlights from Adviser Pulse Fund Preferences Report: November 2024

Market research firm Agile Market Intelligence has unveiled the latest results from its November 2024 Adviser Pulse Fund Preferences Report, offering financial advisers comprehensive insights into the evolving trends and preferences of their peers regarding managed funds and ETFs.

Drawing from a sample of 175 financial advisers from its initial pilot and launch program, Adviser Pulse aggregates data on fund recommendations, asset class trends, research preferences, and platform usage. This introductory report provides a starting point for future insights that will empower advisers to expand their market expertise.

Michael Johnson, Director of Agile Market Intelligence, emphasises the importance of this initiative: “Adviser Pulse is more than just data—it’s a resource that helps advisers stay ahead of market trends. By tapping into the collective expertise of financial advisers across Australia, we enable better decision-making for advisers and their clients.”

Key highlights from the November 2024 report include:

Most Popular Fund Managers

• Vanguard Investments Australia was the top recommended fund manager, with 57% of advisers selecting it for their clients.
• BetaShares Capital and VanEck Investments Limited followed, both recommended by over 30% of advisers, reflecting their strong appeal in the ETF and managed fund markets.

Most Popular Funds

• The Vanguard Australian Shares Index ETF led the rankings, with 24% of advisers (42 out of 175) recommending it.
• Other top funds included the Vanguard Australian Shares Index Managed Fund and the Vanguard International Shares Index Managed Fund, highlighting the growing preference for diversified and cost-effective investment options.

Most Popular Research Houses

• Lonsec emerged as the leading research house for both managed funds and ETFs, used by 56% and 59% of advisers, respectively.
• Morningstar also stood out, utilised by 50% of advisers for managed funds and 45% for ETFs, showcasing its influence in adviser research practices.

Most Popular Investment Platforms

• Macquarie Wrap and CFS tied as the most used platforms for managed funds, with each platform utilised by 32% of advisers. Both were also favoured for ETFs, with a usage rate of 28%.
• Other notable platforms included HUB24 and BT Panorama, emphasising their role in facilitating diversified investment strategies.

Asset Class Trends

• Equity dominated as the most recommended asset class, featured in 90% of adviser recommendations across managed funds and ETFs.
• Fixed interest investments remained strong but showed a disparity, with 71% of recommendations in managed funds versus 35% in ETFs.
• Mixed asset funds were included in 52% of adviser recommendations, reflecting a continued emphasis on balanced investment strategies.

These insights offer participating advisers a vital tool for benchmarking and improving their recommendations while contributing to a broader understanding of market dynamics. “By participating in Adviser Pulse, advisers not only gain access to these critical insights but also contribute to shaping an industry-wide narrative that benefits the entire financial advice community,” adds Johnson.

Agile Market Intelligence, based in Australia, specialises in delivering actionable market insights for the financial services sector. By combining qualitative and quantitative research, the firm connects advisers, fund managers, and platforms with the data they need to make informed decisions.

For more information about Adviser Pulse or to participate in the survey, contact our team directly at hello@adviserpulse.com.au