ASIC cancels boutique's AFSL

ASIC took the action after Protect Ensure failed to meet the conditions laid down by the regulator when a suspension was ordered in September, according to an ASIC statement.

Protect Ensure’s AFSL was previously suspended for three months to give the practice “an opportunity to have its accounts updated to reflect its true financial position and audited to ASIC’s satisfaction,” the statement said.

In addition, ASIC expected Protect Ensure to demonstrate it had adequate financial resources to meet its obligations as an AFS licensee.

“Protect Ensure failed to have its accounts audited and updated to ASIC’s satisfaction and ASIC considers that there is material uncertainty over its financial position,” the statement said.

ASIC deputy chairman Peter Kell said lienceees need to demonstrate they have adequate financial resources to carry on their business.

“ASIC will act to remove companies from the advice industry where they do not have adequate financial resources and fail to comply with reporting obligations,” he said.

The ASIC confirmed its investigation into the group’s conduct is continuing.