Betashares steps further into expansion mode

Just one month after announcing it would acquire Bendigo and Adelaide Bank’s superannuation business, Betashares has launched a new exchange traded fund (ETF) investment platform.

Betashares Direct enables retail investors to access any ETF on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) with zero brokerage fees, as well as the ability to automate investing with the ‘AutoPilo’ feature.

AutoPilot can create recurring investments, invest in diversified portfolios or construct tailored ETF portfolios with low fees, as well as simplify the investing and tax reporting processes. Users will have access to a hub of educational tools and resources to assist with making financial decisions.

“Betashares is proud to have been a leading innovator in the Australian funds management industry since our inception over 12 years ago. During this time, we have grown to service the investment needs of over one million clients and their advisers, and manage more than $30 billion in assets,” Betashares CEO, Alex Vynokur, said.

“As the next step in our journey, we are excited to introduce this innovative investment platform, which will allow us to add significantly more value to Australian investors. Betashares Direct has been meticulously built based on our experience and understanding of Australian investors, and we believe it will play a meaningful role in enabling Australian investors to progress on their financial goals.

“Since our inception, we have been focused on helping to democratise investing for Australians by expanding choice, reducing costs, and improving investor education. We’re excited to bring our passion for innovation and the value of long-term investing to Australian investors.”

The firm said the features and capabilities of the platform will eventually be expanded, with tools for advisers, such as an investor referral program, at the top of the list.

“The initial launch features of Betashares Direct will be joined by a growing range of tools and functionality that will allow investors at all stages of their investment journey to build robust and well-constructed portfolios,” Vynokur said.

“We expect Betashares Direct to add value to Australian financial advisers, who continue to be a core focus of our business. We are actively exploring the development of adviser-specific features for the platform, as a well as a referral program, which will be added in the future.

“The launch of Betashares Direct is another important milestone for us. We are proud to bring genuine innovation and choice to Australian investors, assisting them in making informed investment decisions and helping them reach their wealth creation goals.”