Fiducian’s Funds Under Management Rise 9% to $15.6 Billion in FY2026 H1
Fiducian Group’s FY2026 half-year results reveal robust growth with a 9% rise in funds under management and a 17% jump in underlying net profit, despite ongoing regulatory challenges.
- Funds Under Management, Advice and Administration (FUMAA) up 9% to $15.6 billion
- Underlying Net Profit After Tax (UNPAT) increased 17% to $11.5 million
- Dividends lifted 16% to 25.5 cents per share
- Platform fees reduced from July 2025 to enhance competitiveness
- Ongoing ASIC civil proceedings related to a closed multi-manager fund
Strong Growth Across Core Segments
Fiducian Group has delivered a solid half-year performance for FY2026, underpinned by a 9% increase in Funds Under Management, Advice and Administration (FUMAA) to $15.6 billion. This growth reflects a combination of organic inflows and strategic acquisitions, with net inflows of $178 million invested almost entirely in Fiducian-managed funds. The company’s diversified business model, spanning platform administration, funds management, and financial planning, continues to demonstrate resilience and steady expansion.
The underlying net profit after tax (UNPAT) rose 17% to $11.5 million, outpacing revenue growth, which itself increased by 9% to $48.5 million. This profit uplift was achieved alongside a disciplined cost-to-income ratio of 57%, highlighting operational efficiency amid a competitive landscape.
Strategic Initiatives and Fee Adjustments
Fiducian has actively enhanced its platform offerings, notably launching the Auxilium Portfolio Service, designed to disrupt existing market players with advanced technology and a broad investment menu. The company also implemented a reduction in platform fees effective from 1 July 2025, a move aimed at maintaining competitiveness and attracting inflows despite margin pressures.
The platform administration segment saw Funds Under Administration grow to $4.27 billion by January 2026, a 15% increase over the previous year’s average. Meanwhile, Funds Under Management rose 11% to just over $6 billion, contributing to an estimated $2.8 million in additional annualised revenue compared to the prior period.
Financial Planning and Staff Stability
The financial planning division reported Funds Under Advice increasing to $5.33 billion, supported by a stable workforce of 172 staff with an average senior tenure of 14 years. Fiducian emphasises staff retention and professional development as key drivers of its consistent service quality and growth ambitions. Revenue targets for salaried advisers have been raised by 10% to 20% annually, reflecting confidence in the division’s potential.
Regulatory Headwinds and Legal Proceedings
Fiducian is currently engaged in civil proceedings initiated by ASIC concerning the now-closed Fiducian Diversified Social Aspirations Fund (DSAF). ASIC alleges misleading statements in the product disclosure statement and non-compliance with the fund’s compliance plan. Fiducian has lodged a formal defence and is cooperating fully with the regulator, with court-approved directions in place to progress the matter. While the fund was small, with $15.57 million under management at closure, the case represents a reputational risk that investors will watch closely.
Technology and Innovation as Growth Enablers
Fiducian continues to invest heavily in fintech capabilities, including its proprietary Fastrack platform administration system, FORCe financial planning software, and Fiducian Online client reporting. The recent launch of a mobile app and ongoing cybersecurity enhancements reflect the company’s commitment to innovation and client engagement, supporting its long-term sustainable growth trajectory.
Bottom Line?
Fiducian’s strong half-year momentum faces a critical test as ASIC proceedings unfold, with future growth hinging on regulatory clarity and continued innovation.
Questions in the middle?
- How will the ASIC proceedings impact Fiducian’s reputation and financial outlook?
- What are the long-term effects of reduced platform fees on profitability?
- Can Fiducian sustain its growth trajectory amid increasing competition and regulatory scrutiny?
