Viridian names CFS Edge as provider partner

Just two months after its launch, Colonial First State (CFS) Edge has secured Viridian Advisory as a client, with firm set to leverage its wealth platform and managed account (MA) capabilities.

With over 350 staff including 120 financial advisers and $7 billion in funds under administration (FUA), joint CEO of Viridian Financial Group, Raamy Shahien, said CFS’ platform had a unique edge in technology.

“We like CFS’ continued investment in technology to transform the way advice is delivered,” he said.

“Viridian has always been dedicated to continuously improving outcomes for our clients and team. We view investment in capability, specialisation and technology coupled with open architecture central to achieving our aspirations in this space.

“Working with CFS will enhance our ability to unlock opportunities for advisers and their clients and provide a great platform for our continued growth with like-minded advice firms.”

CFS Edge, co-developed with wealthtech company FNZ, was touted to be the “first major new platform in the Australian wealth management sector in almost a decade” at its launch in September. The platform provides digital dashboards and workflows for advisers, improved data and portfolio analytics capabilities and an integrated app store – built with a managed accounts focus.

CFS Group Executive, Bryce Quirk, said he was pleased to cement the new relationship with Viridian Financial Group.

“We see a huge advice gap in the Australian market. By choosing Edge, we believe professional advice businesses like Viridian are well positioned to help provide more advice to more Australians and to deliver even better outcomes for their clients,” Mr Quirk said.

“CFS Edge was co-developed with financial advisers and that really resonated with a group like Viridian. They understand how important it is to have a strong technology offering that is flexible, integrated and adviser friendly.”