JDFP - Diversity by Design

Advanced features of the next generation of Platforms

So what do we look for in a platform or investment vehicle? This would be the electric windows, sun roof, power steering, etc

Some of the features we look for in a good advanced platform are as follows.

Investment Choice

The markets around the world continue to having their issues, and fund managers not performing better than the market, careful selection of the investments in your portfolio is needed.

A large choice of investments broad across all markets is ideal as it will allow a unrestricted selection process, this forms part of our Diversity by Design concept.

Insurance Providers

When it comes to insurance we try to avoid the square peg trying to fit into a round hole.

Insurance, just like investments, needs to be crafted to meet the clients needs, so we look for vehicles that allow for multiple insurance providers or use a seamless connection and processing.

Direct Local Shares

Over the last 10 years the interest and desire of a client to be more active in their investments has grown significantly. One particular interest is the purchase of shares on the local ASX market. So this feature adds a whole new level to a platform being able to buy direct shares in your favourite companies.

Direct Overseas Shares

A new feature we are starting to see in next generation platforms is the ability for you to buy direct shares in overseas markets. Maybe you always fancied some Apple, or follow Warren Buffett in his Berkshire Hathaway, it is now possible with some investment vehicles.

Communication

Communication may not appear as such an important issue, but it is on both the client level and the advisor level.

Good and effective statements, website, and call centre, all allow for smooth processing of instructions, obtaining information to make decisions easier, and all round better management of the investment vehicle

Cost

The underlying cost is important and ensuring the client gets value for the money paid. There is no problem in paying 1% extra in fees between two platforms, as long as you get bang for your buck.

Stuck in the mud

This is the last feature we look for, we all know times are a changing, technology is growing as a very fast pace, so having a platform that is willing to develop and grow with the times and adopt new features, and new technologies, is worth a lot to a clients investment portfolio.