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 ri...

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, administr...

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 framewor...

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.&nbs...

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 shap...

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 ...

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 AFSLThe pros and cons of "renting" an...

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 s...

Welcome back! In this episode, 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 AIThank you to our sponsors Beyond Billables https://www.beyondbil...

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 meansHow ASIC is stepping in to more heavily regulate ESGGreenwashing, some recent trou...

In our first episode Mike & Celeste discuss what the new Trump White House might mean for financial services, the big macro issues facing Australian markets this year, ASIC and its approach to AI and why it is important to focus your message on your clients! Key points: What does the new Trump white house mean for investment markets and Australia? How the deregulatory push will impact our markets. How will the Federal Australian election impact financial services regulatio...