Count Financial has turned its attention to its core business operations with the group undertaking reviews of its financial planning software, research and platform providers.
Count chief executive Andrew Gale used the company's annual results yesterday to unveil Count's strategic plans to expand the group's market share and stay in line with any change due to regulatory reform.
As part of the plans, Count is in the process of outsourcing its internal financial planning software operations; a move Gale said could potentially add additional one-off expenses in 2010/2011.
He did not reveal the name of the software provider the company has signed with however stated the firm is well progressed with its decision.
The company also intends to upgrade its approved platforms and review its external research providers and processes, with any changes to be made where necessary, Gale said.
Count also anticipates the expansion of its advice service offerings, with the planned introduction of estate planning, post retirement solutions and self-managed superannuation fund strategies in the next six to 12 months.
In terms of the company's stance on regulatory change, if government reforms leave Count at a disadvantage, the possibility of restructuring into a manufacturer or provide multi-manager or fund of fund offerings is still an option, Gale said.
He said the company is also well positioned to "benefit" from any upcoming market consolidation within the non-aligned dealer group sector.
Yesterday, Count recorded a 24 per cent ($23.99 million) increase in net profit after tax.
The firm experienced a 17 per cent increase or $40.21 million of in force premiums in its wealth protection operations with new business jumping by 22 per cent or $8.61 million for the full year.
