In this episode of Relative Return Unplugged, hosts Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Keith Ford, along with special guest Steve Kuper, dive into the burgeoning world of defence ETFs in Australia and take a look at what is driving this sudden emergence.

We explore the current state of global military power structures and how a range of factors are influencing defence spending among both the large powers and their smaller counterparts. Viewing this from an investment market perspective, we break down the almost inevitable move from investment managers to launch defence-related ETFs.

Comparing the new defence ETFs launched by VanEck (DFND), Betashares (ARMR), and Global X (DTEC), we look at the key differentiators across the market and which technologies and regions they are focused on.

Tune in to hear:

• How a new era of conflict and defence spending is affecting global markets and investor behaviour.
• The ethical considerations of investing in defence and military companies.
• Whether defence investment is sustainable in the long term.
• The potential risks of volatility in defence stocks over time.

In this episode of Relative Return, host Laura Dew speaks with Anne Fuchs, executive general manager of advice, guidance and education at Australian Retirement Trust, to discuss how the fund is helping its 2.4 million members.

Listen as they discuss:

• The progress of the QSuper and Sunsuper merger.
• Helping its 2.4 million members access financial advice.
• Keeping members engaged with their superannuation.
• Legislative priorities in the super space.
• The next developments for ART.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Relative Return Unplugged, where we dive into one of the most pressing issues in Australia's financial landscape - the future of the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). In this episode, hosts Maja Garaca Djurdjevic and Keith Ford, along with special guest Liam Garman, tackle the rising scrutiny surrounding the RBA and whether its independence is at risk.

We explore the RBA review findings and the controversial proposal to restructure the bank into a two-board system. With recent attacks from political parties and opposing views from key economists like Shane Oliver and Stephen Miller, we break down what’s really at stake.

From internal challenges to political pressure and the push for a change in board governance, this episode delivers insights and analysis on whether the RBA’s authority is being eroded—and what the future might hold for Australia’s central bank.

Tune in to hear:

• The proposed reforms to the RBA’s governance structure.
• Why political parties are divided on these changes.
• The impact of these proposals on the RBA’s decision-making process.
• The bigger picture: Is the RBA’s independence truly being tested?