The important role that AI will play in the wealth management industry of tomorrow will come under the microscope at the 2024 SMSF Association National Conference.

It will be a component of a National Conference agenda that is placing an increased emphasis on delivering targeted sessions in the Advice, Practice and Regulatory stream.

SMSF Association Head of Technical, Mary Simmons, says: “The Association is acutely aware of the need to keep SMSF practitioners abreast of the latest regulatory developments and essential practices for compliance within the superannuation sector.

“We also acknowledge the considerable pressures the ever-changing SMSF landscape places on our members and their teams and the impact this can have on mental wellbeing. It’s not just about technical knowledge and compliance; we are equally committed to offering resources, tools and activities at this year’s National Conference to promote a healthy work-life balance.

“The sessions have been structured in such a way that they will encourage professionals to ‘level up’ by examining and enhancing their current practices. The sessions will provide indispensable tools and insights for participants to assess the health and efficiency of their processes, practices, and teams.

“On the AI front, Netwealth General Manager Marketing, Andrew Braun, will discuss ‘Navigating the future: How AI is transforming the advice industry’, in which he will offer insights into how AI is reshaping the wealth management industry and discuss ways about how firms can be at the forefront of this technological revolution.

“Navwealth CEO Craig Banning, in his topic titled ‘Shaping tomorrow’s adviser: Disruption, AI and generational shifts’, will explain to delegates how they can integrate AI into their practices and address the need for advice practice models to evolve in response to new client expectations and generational changes.”

Simmons says staffing issues are always a hot topic for professional services firms, so Striver Founder & CEO Alistair Barr’s topic, “Talent triumph: How to attract, cultivate and retain top staff”, should attract plenty of interest as he explores strategies to leverage unique firm strengths to attract high calibre talent, tailor development programs, and promote a team culture that embraces inclusivity.

“Tangelo Advice Consulting Directors & Principal Consultants, Selin Ertac and Conrad Travers , will offer delegates a practical ‘Health Check’ for their firms aimed at identifying improvements to compliance, client satisfaction, risk management, and governance to boost business and align with top professional and ethical standards.

“We have also put cybersecurity on the agenda with The Cyber Collective Founder Fraser Jack examining the critical elements of cybersecurity and how to meet the expectations of regulators, clients, and the professional community while protecting sensitive client information.”

There has been overwhelming interest due to the success of workshops at previous National Conferences and the stellar program announced for 2024. Bookings for these sessions are open, so delegates are encouraged to secure a spot early.

The SMSF Association National Conference is being held at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre from 21-23 February 2024.

Register today to avoid missing out.