Research for 2011
12%: WHAT IT'S WORTH
In the 2010 Federal Budget, the Government proposed a gradual
increase in the Superannuation Guarantee from nine to 12 per cent.
This paper, commissioned by AIST and produced by the Australian
Centre for Financial Studies (ACFS) explores the costs and benefits
of the proposed increase, and both measures retirement income
adequacy and calculates the replacement ratio, using a number of
simulations.
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CARBON COUNTS
AIST commissioned Trucost to analyse carbon risks and
management of climate change issues in the Australian equity
portfolios of superannuation funds. The research aims to answer
three questions:
» How exposed are Australian superannuation fund assets to
carbon costs under proposed regulations to limit carbon
emissions?
» How significant is the variation in exposure to carbon costs
(identified by carbon footprints) among Australian equity
portfolios?
» How can investment professionals measure and manage carbon
risks and opportunities in equity investments?
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Asset Owners Climate Change Initiative
In 2008, AIST partnered with the Climate Institute to establish
the Asset Owners Climate Change Initiative, involving surveys of
both superannuation funds and asset consultants.
The third annual fund survey results reveal the climate change
capabilities of Australia's largest superannuation funds, including
their abilities to manage risk and realise opportunities for
growth.
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AIST - Russell Investments super engagement index
AIST is encouraging the debate on the overall structure and
level of fees paid to fund managers, and has undertaken research
into questions raised but not fully answered by the Cooper
Report.
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Super-poor but surviving: experiences of Australian women in
retirement
Many studies have explored the issue of adequate retirement
incomes, but few have explored in detail the actual experiences of
people in retirement, particularly women, and how their incomes and
other lifestyle factors have affected their lifestyles.
This study aims to do just that. AIST has sought to build on
current research around the gender gap in retirement incomes,
particularly in terms of superannuation coverage, and to explore
more ways in which policies and products can better cater to
women's needs.
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Report