CFS strengthens managed accounts menu

Colonial First State (CFS) has strengthened its managed accounts menu, amid strong growth in client demand and continued momentum across the sector.

The CFS Edge Signature menu has included the CFS 150 portfolio, Pendal Australian equity, and Russell short-term and medium-term retirement-focused portfolios.

The updates are designed to continue supporting advisers and their clients with high-quality investment solutions, broadened manager choice and robust portfolio construction, while preserving the governance and oversight advisers expect, CFS said.

"The addition of the Russell portfolios builds on the introduction of Betashares Retirement Income and Elston Income portfolios in late 2025, reinforcing CFS's focus on delivering solutions to support clients in and approaching retirement," it said.

"This menu now offers advisers and clients the choice of over 185 portfolios from 32 leading portfolio managers."

CFS recently also expanded its FirstChoice Specialist menu with the addition of the Drummond index plus portfolios.

CFS executive director for managed accounts Frances Taylor said: "Today's clients are the drivers of change. They're empowered by stronger financial awareness, the ability to access information whenever and wherever they are."

"The strongest case for managed accounts, in our view, is client confidence. Clients want to understand what they own, why decisions are being made on their behalf and how their investments are being managed through all market cycles."

Moving into FY27, CFS said it will continue investing in technology and capabilities designed to support advisers and improve client outcomes.

"This includes enhancements to its digital reporting hub, with new features providing deeper portfolio insight, including a market-leading portfolio comparison tool, enhanced search and filtering capabilities, and flexible new ways for portfolio managers to share commentary and alerts with advisers," CFS said.

Investment Trends' latest Managed Accounts Report said over 40% of advisers agreed clients in managed accounts are more confident and are less likely to act impulsively during market volatility compared with those not in managed accounts.