KiwiSaver is one of the most significant investment decisions many New Zealanders will make. Yet, until now, advisers have lacked an evidence-based option they could recommend with confidence. That changed with the launch of the Evidential KiwiSaver Scheme.

 

On 22 May 2025, with over 120 attendees at the Novotel in Auckland, Consilium officially launched the Evidential KiwiSaver Scheme with a day dedicated to the future of KiwiSaver and advice in New Zealand.

The event marked a major milestone - the culmination of more than 12 months of work to build a scheme that puts evidence and financial advice at its core. As we reflect on the many conversations and insights shared throughout the day, we’re proud to see the strong interest and energy from advisers who share our vision for KiwiSaver's potential.

Thank you to everyone who joined us. If you would like to incorporate the Evidential KiwiSaver Scheme into your business, please contact us.

 

Conference highlights

✅ The Future of KiwiSaver – Andrew Bascand

Andrew Bascand shared insights on how KiwiSaver is becoming a bigger part of household wealth in New Zealand... and fast! He looked at where it’s heading, what could happen if contribution rates increase, and why more investors are likely to seek advice. His takeaway? The future of KiwiSaver is undeniable, and advisers have a key role to play.

✅ Explaining Expected Returns – Professor Ben Marshall

Ben Marshall tackled one of investing’s biggest questions – what should we expect from markets going forward? Drawing on nearly a century of empirical evidence, he unpacked why certain investment factors, like value and size, tend to outperform over time. He reminded us that successful investing isn’t about guesswork or trends, but about sticking with what the evidence tells us works.

✅ Dimensional Investing – Slava Platkov & Emmanuel Macrides

Slava Platkov and Emmanuel Macrides built on Prof Ben Marshall's presentation, giving a behind-the-scenes look at Dimensional’s investment approach – one built on decades of academic research, not predictions. They explained how factors like size, value and profitability shape expected returns, and how smart implementation, cost control, and global diversification can add real value over time.

✅ Asset Allocation & KiwiSaver Fund Comparisons – Mitchell Bristow

Mitchell Bristow walked through Consilium’s framework for comparing KiwiSaver schemes, highlighting the many layers that go into building a strong portfolio. From asset allocation and factor analysis to fees, tax and responsible investing filters. Understanding what sits behind the returns helps advisers make better, more informed recommendations.

✅ Sales Tool Demonstration – Ben Brinkerhoff

Ben Brinkerhoff gave a live demonstration of the Fund Comparison Calculator, highlighting how it can help advisers demonstrate differences in expected investment outcomes based on different KiwiSaver fund choices – a great tool to use during client conversations.

Read more about the Evidential KiwiSaver launch on Good Returns and Investment News.