Overview
This regulatory guide issued by ASIC focuses on the proper management and custodial services related to holding assets. It targets entities such as responsible entities of registered managed investment schemes, licensed providers of custodial services, Managed Discretionary Account (MDA) providers, and Investor Directed Portfolio Service (IDPS) operators. The guide explains in detail the obligations under the Australian financial services (AFS) licence regime, establishes minimum standards for handling client assets, and aims to ensure higher levels of asset protection and compliance in the financial sector. The standards include operational controls, compliance requirements, and reporting obligations.