Voluntary AFAs 'ahead of the game'
There are several types of Authorised Financial Adviser, including Category 2 AFAs, who must follow the AFA code of conduct but are unable to provide advice on Category 1 products including KiwiSaver.
This means they can't advise on anything beyond what a Registered Financial Adviser can, but they are held to a higher standard than an RFA on the advice they provide.
Tate spoke highly of those who have taken the path of voluntary authorisation, saying it will increase their professionalism and put them in a good position if the current regulatory requirements for advisers are ramped up at some point in the future.
He said making such a choice indicates "commitment to the profession", given it involves higher costs and liability than remaining an RFA.
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