CFS marks $20b managed accounts milestone with MST collab

Colonial First State (CFS) has deepened its existing relationship with MST Financial to mark over $20 billion invested in its managed accounts suite, with advisers gaining access to the firm’s flagship equity research capabilities.

CFS said it now features products from 59 portfolio managers and has been actively working to grow its international managed accounts menu, with the Fidelity Global Top 50 the next opportunity to be made available to advisers from November.

“Surpassing $20 billion invested into CFS Managed Accounts reflects the benefits financial advisers are realising from our significant investment in managed accounts infrastructure, expertise, and broad menu options,” Frances Taylor, Executive Director of Managed Accounts at CFS, said.

“Our ambitious roadmap is focused on providing advisers with managed account solutions that provide them with efficiency, transparency and enable them to deliver better outcomes for their clients.”

CFS has also announced several new updates as its managed accounts range continues to grow to better support advisers to leverage data and insights in client engagement, with a new digital reporting tool and a strategic deal with MST Financial.

The partnership will see advisers gain access to Sandstone Insights, a research platform delivering the latest in-depth information on ASX 200-listed companies including buy, hold or sell notes; monthly-updated company ratings; investment recommendations; and customised trading ideas based on market trends and individual client goals. It also features the ability to create tailored ‘watchlists’ for advisers to remain on the lookout for strong investment opportunities.

“In an environment flooded with market data, this collaboration helps advisers cut through the noise – offering clear, digestible research to support confident conversations with clients about Australian shares,” Taylor said.

“We are delighted to be partnering with CFS as they continue to innovate and develop new ways to help advisers deliver the best possible outcomes for their clients’ investment portfolios,” John Meagher, Manager for MST Financial’s Sandstone Insights, said.

“We hope that our stock research and market insights will support advisers with ideas and information as they navigate the Australian equity market.”