Who are Australia's most influential advisers?

By Justin Cleveland
FS Power50

The Financial Standard has released their list of the most influential financial advisers in the nation, as nominated by their peers and the publication's editorial team.

FS Power50

Publisher Michelle Baltazar says the FS Power 50 focuses on those who are not only providing exceptional service but also shaping the future of the industry. "The findings from the Royal Commission put into sharp focus what needs urgent fixing within the industry. On top of that, the largest shift in generational wealth is about to take place in the next decade."

With $3.5 trillion in intergenerational wealth in Australia, there's a lot at stake for financial planners. "We look to the FS Power50 to lead the way and continue to lift industry standards."

It's no surprise that the list predominantly features people with significant experience in the industry. 43 of the top 50 have been in the industry for more than a decade. 18 of those have more than 20 years of experience.

"The average years of experience among the FS Power50 hasn't changed much since we started the guide in 2013," said Baltazar. "But this year, what's new is the growth of advice specialists, whether it's on aged care, estate planning or responsible investing."

How advisers engage with their clients, peers, and the wider public is changing as well. Several use podcasts to share their insights, including Glen James, Victoria Devine, and James Sutherland.

Others mix a strong social media presence, like Pivot Wealth's Ben Nash who has more than 15,000 followers.

Introducing the list, editor Jamie Williamson said, "The list is full of advisers whose ethics and convictions stand firm above all else. The younger generation wants their values considered in their investments and financial decisions. Advisers who cater to that and consider a client's ethical values as part of their holistic plan are bound to flourish."

See the complete list of advisers in The Financial Standard.