Looking back on 2015

Michael Dowling, president, Institute of Financial Advisers:
Highlight has been the positive engagement from members, MBIE, FMA and other adviser bodies in the discussion on the FAA review. It has been both a highlight to have all groups working and talking together, as well as a heavy workload to co-ordinate the responses. I must say I have relied on the support of the board and staff of the IFA to get through this year, it has been a credit to them all what we have done.

Natalie Cameron, chief executive, AIA:
It was definitely the launch of our Real Life products, which included pretty attractive bundling discounts and a health product with the highest limits in the market.  The only problem since launch has been getting all the business through quickly but we now have new Underwriters on board and more coming.  I hope that launch is indicative of the type of innovation and boldness we hope to bring the market 2016. For me personally, it was moving to this beautiful place and joining the beautiful people of AIA NZ.

Clayton Coplestone, Heathcote Investment Partners: 
For the first time in a very long time, the advisory community are thinking more about risk mitigation strategies in their portfolios. This has been an extremely satisfying development following three years of presenting downside risk management strategies, and urging the investment community to look beyond the vested interests that encourage temptation.

David Boyle, Commission for Financial Capability:
·         Seeing the FAA review take shape and the way the industry has got behind it. I hope that it will lead to more New Zealanders getting good quality information and advice when they need it
·         The Financial Services industry supporting the work of the Commission particularly at our Summit workshops on the FAA Review and KiwiSaver
·         Being able to get our stories, ideas, and competitions, in the media to get people thinking about what retirement might mean for them in the future, and highlighting it is never too late to start preparing!

Robert Oddy, SiFA:
Having MBIE people much more accommodating in terms of meeting and discussing the options for progressive changes down the track. That has got to be a highlight for us. MBIE deserve credit for that. In terms of the market, there hasn't been a highlight. It's been more like constant tasering by the local cop.