ASIC Warns on Super “Health Check” Ads: How Lead Gen Funnels Push Risky Switches | Alan Kirkland

Money Magazine’s Friends With Money podcast host Ryan Johnson speaks with ASIC Commissioner Alan Kirkland about online “free super health check” sites, quizzes, and social media ads used as lead‑generation funnels that collect contact details, trigger telemarketing, and can pressure people to switch super into riskier, more expensive products.

Kirkland explains ASIC’s review and its transparency list (44 firms so far), noting that listing is not a finding of wrongdoing and the list will be updated while the review continues. He outlines common funnel tactics, investor harms seen in cases like First Guardian and Shield, and why switching into platform products or self‑managed super funds can reduce protections. Key red flags include unsolicited calls, pressure to act quickly, and offers to “find lost super.”

Consumers are directed to ASIC’s MoneySmart website (moneysmart.gov.au) for trusted guidance and complaints.

00:43 What lead generation means

01:42 ASIC transparency list explained

03:52 Who ASIC Is targeting

04:58 Inside the sales funnel

06:52 When marketing breaks laws

08:12 Case study: First Guardian

10:28 APRA vs ASIC and SMSFs

12:51 Red flags for consumers

14:15 Where to get help

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Email Us: podcast@moneymag.com.au

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Welcome to another episode of the Friends With Money podcast. Hosted by Ryan Johnson, filling in for Tom Watson. In today’s episode, we unpack the world of IPOs (initial public offerings) with Simon James from HLB Mann Judd Sydney.

We break down why companies choose to list on the ASX, analyse how the IPO market performed in 2025, and look ahead to the sectors and standout companies to watch in 2026 — including major global names like SpaceX, Canva and Gusman y Gomez. Simon also shares expert insights and practical tips for anyone considering investing in IPOs.

00:24 Understanding IPOs: Basics and importance

01:50 2025 IPO market analysis

03:08 Materials sector dominance in iPOs

04:08 Private capital vs public listings

05:31 Top Performers and Future Prospects

09:38 Global IPO landscape

14:13 Investing in IPOs: Practical tips

Podcast Links:

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Money Website

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Email Us: podcast@moneymag.com.au

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Are you looking to buy a new home?

This week on the Friends with Money podcast, Vanessa Walker, managing editor of Money, and journalist Ryan Johnson dive deep into the home buying process for first-time buyers.

They discuss the essential steps from initial research, engaging with mortgage brokers and financial advisors, to pre-approval, making offers, and the final settlement.

Get practical tips for navigating real estate websites, understanding mortgage pre-approval, and the importance of conveyancers.

#friendswithmoney #vanessawalker #ryanjohnson #homehunting #firsthomebuyers

00:20 First steps for first-time home buyers

01:38 Researching and narrowing down your options

03:05 Engaging with professionals: Mortgage brokers and financial advisors

05:42 Understanding mortgage pre-approval

07:51 Making an offer and preparing for settlement

10:25 Settlement day and moving in

Podcast Links:

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Listen on Spotify

Money Website

YouTube Podcast Playlist

Email Us: podcast@moneymag.com.au

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