At 50Plus, we believe the value of good quality advice, from a highly professional financial planner, will have a much greater bearing on the success of your financial plan - than any other issue.

Currently, the financial planning industry is experiencing considerable pressure from consumer groups, industry funds, etc. This pressure has generally been targetted at the fees/commissions being charged by some financial planners. Whilst keeping the fees/commissions you pay as low as possible is certainly important, we believe it is equally important to recognise the importance of good quality advice - delivered consistently over the long term. This is particularly important for people who are approaching retirement - or have retired, as it is at this time when a complete planning service, with regular ongoing communication can pay great dividends.

Some examples of the areas where a planner can add considerable value are;

• Structure - in which name should your investments be held? Should they be held in individual names, joint names, through a super fund - if so, should this be a managed super fund or a self managed fund, family trust or company ownership, etc?
• Cash Flow Planning - have you structured your retirement income effectively? How do we minimise tax on your income and capital gains? What about that big expense you have in six months - how should we fund this expense?
• Asset Allocation - where should you invest your assets, ie shares, property, fixed interest or cash. What proportions should be invested in each of these areas? Should we invest overweight or underweight in any markets/sectors?
• Financial Markets - how will financial markets affect your investments?
• Fund/Investment Manager Selection - are you using fund/investment managers who have a consistent track record?
• Centrelink/DVA - how can we maximise the growth of your investments by getting Centrelink/DVA support? What about applying for one of the many Centrelink Concession Cards?
• Estate Planning - have you prepared a Will that will ensure your assets transfer to your chosen benefifiaries in a timely and tax effective manner? Do you have the proper power of attorneys in place? Where children are involved, could you benefit from a Testametary Trust?

The above examples are just some where quality advice can make a huge difference.

The Financial Planning Association provides some valuable insights into the value of advice. This information can be viewed at http://www.goodadvice.com.au/