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Finance News from Personal Loans Australia

Personal Loans Australia is pleased to present the latest financial news headlines.

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Finance News

ANZ Bank Ceases Share Buyback to Fund Strategic Overhaul

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

ANZ Group has announced the cessation of its remaining A$800 million share buyback program, opting to conserve capital for a comprehensive strategic overhaul. This decision aligns with the bank's commitment to strengthening its market position and addressing recent regulatory challenges. - read more

RBNZ Announces Formation of Financial Policy Committee

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) has unveiled plans to establish a new Financial Policy Committee (FPC) by early 2026. This initiative is designed to enhance the central bank's authority in setting prudential regulations for banks and making informed decisions regarding mortgage lending ratios. - read more

Australian Consumer Sentiment Falls Amid Inflation Concerns

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In October 2025, Australian consumer sentiment experienced a 3.5% decline, marking the second consecutive month of reduced optimism. The Westpac-Melbourne Institute survey reported a sentiment index drop to 92.1, following a 3.1% fall in September. This trend indicates a predominance of pessimism over optimism among consumers. - read more

Harley-Davidson's Potential Financing Unit Sale: What It Means for Australian Riders

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Harley-Davidson, the iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, is reportedly in discussions to sell a stake in its financing arm, Harley-Davidson Financial Services (HDFS). This move could have significant implications for Australian riders seeking financing options for their motorcycle purchases. - read more

Small Business Lending Surges After RBA's Interest Rate Reductions

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant development for Australia's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), recent interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) have led to a notable increase in small business loan applications. This trend underscores a renewed sense of optimism among business owners, eager to leverage more favourable borrowing conditions to drive growth and expansion. - read more

Expansion of Private Credit Market Opens New Financing Avenues for Australian SMEs

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian financial landscape is witnessing a significant shift as the private credit market experiences substantial growth, offering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) alternative avenues for financing. This expansion is particularly noteworthy in the context of traditional banks tightening their lending criteria, leaving many businesses in search of accessible funding solutions. - read more

Reserve Bank of Australia Advises Caution on Borrowing as Rate Cuts Loom

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

As the Australian economy anticipates potential interest rate reductions, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has issued a cautionary note to households, advising against excessive borrowing that could lead to financial instability. This advisory comes amidst a backdrop of economic recovery efforts and aims to prevent the emergence of a boom-bust cycle driven by unsustainable debt levels. - read more

ANZ Bank Announces Significant Workforce Reduction by 2026

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a strategic move to streamline operations, ANZ Bank has announced plans to reduce its workforce by 3,500 employees by September 2026. This decision is part of the bank's broader initiative to enhance operational efficiency and reduce redundancy within its organisational structure. - read more

Commonwealth Bank Achieves Record Profit Amidst Lending Surge

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has reported a record full-year cash profit of A$10.25 billion for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. This impressive financial performance is attributed to robust growth in both home and business lending sectors. - read more

DBS Bank Sets Ambitious Goal to Double Australian Lending

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Singapore-based DBS Bank has announced plans to double its Australian lending book from A$11 billion to A$20 billion over the next five years. This strategic expansion aims to capitalise on growing trade ties between Australia and Southeast Asian countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam. - read more

Marinex Underwriting Sets Sail in Australian Marine Insurance Market

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian marine insurance landscape has welcomed a new entrant with the launch of Marinex Underwriting. This agency, backed by global specialty insurance distributor Amwins, is the third venture incubated by the Rhodian Group, a company dedicated to developing specialised underwriting agencies in Australia. - read more

Austal Limited Bolsters U.S. Shipbuilding with $100 Million EFA Loan

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Austal Limited, a prominent Australian shipbuilder, has secured a $100 million loan from Export Finance Australia (EFA) to support the expansion of its shipbuilding operations in Mobile, Alabama. This funding is earmarked for the development of Austal USA's Final Assembly 2 (FA2) project, a significant step in enhancing the company's capacity to construct vessels for the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard. - read more

AMMF Partners with AFG to Broaden Asset Finance Offerings

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Australian Motorcycle & Marine Finance (AMMF) has joined the Australian Finance Group (AFG) panel, a move set to expand asset finance options available to brokers and their clients. This partnership integrates AMMF's specialised financing solutions into the AFG Business platform, enhancing the range of products accessible to brokers. - read more

RBA's October 2025 Review Highlights Financial System Resilience

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has released its October 2025 Financial Stability Review, providing a comprehensive assessment of the nation's financial system. The report affirms that Australia's financial institutions are well-equipped to navigate current global economic uncertainties. - read more

Australian Consumer Sentiment Declines in October 2025

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In October 2025, Australian consumer sentiment experienced a notable decline, marking the second consecutive month of reduced confidence. The Westpac-Melbourne Institute survey reported a 3.5% drop in the sentiment index, bringing it to 92.1. This follows a 3.1% decrease in September, indicating a growing sense of pessimism among consumers. - read more

Prime Capital Introduces 'Business Jumbo Loans' for SMEs

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In response to the growing demand for substantial business financing, Sydney-based non-bank lender Prime Capital has unveiled its 'Business Jumbo Loans' program. This initiative offers loans ranging from $5 million to $25 million, with interest rates starting at 8.64% and a loan-to-value ratio of up to 75%. Notably, the approval process is streamlined to provide decisions within 24 hours. - read more

Scooter Sales Surge 4.6% in 2025 Amid Overall Motorcycle Market Decline

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a notable trend within the Australian motorcycle market, scooter sales have risen by 4.6% in the first nine months of 2025, even as the overall market experienced a 2.2% decline, according to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI). - read more

MotorCycle Holdings Reports Record-Breaking $650 Million Revenue in FY2025

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

MotorCycle Holdings Limited (ASX: MTO), Australia's leading motorcycle retailer, has announced a record-breaking revenue of $650 million for the fiscal year 2025, marking an 11.6% increase from the previous year. This impressive growth underscores the company's robust market presence and strategic initiatives. - read more

Australia's Economy Outperforms Expectations in June Quarter

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In the June quarter of 2025, Australia's gross domestic product (GDP) experienced a 0.6% increase, marking a 1.8% rise compared to the same period in the previous year. This growth, as reported by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), exceeded many economists' expectations and highlights the nation's economic resilience. - read more

IMF Highlights Risks of Inflation Stagnation in Australia

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has issued a cautionary note regarding Australia's inflation trajectory, highlighting significant risks that could impede its decline. The IMF's assessment points to a robust job market and escalating public sector demand as primary factors that may contribute to inflation stagnation. - read more

Business Leaders Urge Skilled Migration Reforms to Revitalise Economy

13 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a concerted effort to address Australia's declining productivity and bolster economic growth, leading chief executives have called for significant reforms to the nation's skilled migration program and a reduction in bureaucratic red tape. This collective stance emerged from the Australian Financial Review's annual Chanticleer CEO Poll, reflecting a growing consensus among business leaders on the need for proactive measures. - read more

Isuzu Australia Unveils Dedicated Financial Services for Truck Buyers

12 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Isuzu Australia Limited (IAL) has announced the establishment of Isuzu Financial Services Australia (IFSA), a new finance and leasing company set to commence operations in the third quarter of 2026. This initiative marks the first time the Isuzu Group has founded a leasing company outside Japan, reflecting a significant commitment to the Australian market. - read more

Australian Truck Market Experiences Sales Dip as Supply Chains Stabilise

12 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian truck and van market experienced a notable slowdown in September 2025, with new sales figures indicating a 14.7% decrease compared to the same month in 2024. According to the latest data from the Truck Industry Council (TIC), 3,878 new trucks and vans were sold in September, extending the softer trend observed throughout the year. - read more

Australian SMEs Drive 20% Surge in Commercial Finance Settlements

12 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent data from Valiant Finance indicates a significant 20% increase in commercial finance settlements during the second quarter of 2025. This surge is primarily driven by heightened activity in the healthcare, agriculture, and construction sectors, reflecting improved lender appetite and rising business confidence across Australia. - read more

Essential Tips for Successfully Securing a Jet Ski Loan in Australia

10 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Acquiring a jet ski is an exciting prospect, but securing the necessary financing requires careful planning and understanding of the loan process. Here are essential tips to enhance your chances of obtaining a jet ski loan in Australia. - read more

Australian Entrepreneurs Embrace Business Acquisitions Over Startups

10 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In recent years, a notable trend has emerged among Australian entrepreneurs: a growing preference for acquiring existing businesses rather than launching new startups. This strategic shift reflects a desire for stability and immediate scalability, reducing the inherent risks associated with starting a business from scratch. - read more

Call for Government-Backed Loan Guarantee to Support SME Acquisitions

10 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Australian accountants are rallying for the establishment of a government-backed Small Business Loan Guarantee to facilitate the acquisition of existing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This initiative aims to address the financing challenges faced by prospective buyers, particularly in light of the impending retirement of numerous business owners. - read more

Embracing AI: How Australian SMEs Are Driving Growth and Efficiency

10 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are increasingly integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their operations, leading to enhanced efficiency and revenue growth. A recent Salesforce report indicates that 85% of Australian SME leaders are either using or experimenting with AI technologies, surpassing the global average of 75%. - read more

Surge in Business Loan Applications Amid ATO Debt Rule Changes

09 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Australia are experiencing a significant shift in financial strategy due to impending changes in tax debt regulations by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Effective from July 1, general interest charges (GIC) and shortfall interest charges (SIC) on tax debts will no longer be tax-deductible. With the GIC rate currently at 11. - read more

RBA Advises Caution on Borrowing as Interest Rates Set to Fall

09 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has issued a cautionary statement to households, advising against excessive borrowing in anticipation of potential interest rate reductions. This warning aims to prevent the emergence of a boom-and-bust cycle that could destabilize the financial system. - read more

Lendela and Revive Financial Join Forces to Address Australia's Growing Debt Challenges

09 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In response to the escalating debt crisis in Australia, Lendela, a leading loan matching platform, has announced a strategic partnership with Revive Financial, the nation's largest debt relief and management firm. This collaboration aims to empower Australians facing financial distress by offering tailored debt solutions designed to restore financial stability. - read more

Macquarie Bank Shifts Strategy: Exits Car Loans to Prioritise Mortgages

09 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant strategic shift, Macquarie Bank has announced its decision to cease offering car loans, redirecting its focus towards expanding its mortgage and deposit services. This move is set to result in the loss of approximately 100 jobs within the bank's automotive lending division. - read more

The Digital Revolution in Auto Financing: A Boon for Australian Car Buyers

09 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The automotive finance industry in Australia is undergoing a significant digital transformation, offering consumers more streamlined and personalised experiences when securing car loans. This shift is largely driven by fintech companies leveraging advanced technologies to simplify the borrowing process. - read more

Revolutionising the Used Car Market: The Rise of Data-Driven Platforms in Australia

09 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian used car market is experiencing a transformative shift, driven by innovative platforms that leverage data to enhance the car buying experience. One such platform, Carma, is at the forefront of this revolution, offering consumers a seamless online process to purchase quality-assured used vehicles. - read more

Gold Reaches Unprecedented Heights Amid Global Instability

08 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In an unprecedented turn of events, gold prices have surged to nearly $US4000 per ounce, positioning the precious metal as Australia’s second most valuable export. This dramatic price escalation is driven by a complex interplay of factors including cuts in US interest rates and global geopolitical tensions, leading investors to seek the security of stable, tangibly-valued assets like gold. - read more

Australian Court Upholds Ruling on Misleading Harvey Norman Ads

08 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Full Court of the Federal Court of Australia has upheld a prior decision against Latitude Financial and Harvey Norman, maintaining that certain advertisements were misleading. These ads, which ran from January 2020 to August 2021, promoted ‘no deposit’ and ‘interest-free’ payment options but failed to disclose the necessity of acquiring a Latitude GO Mastercard to avail the offer. - read more

Regulatory Pressure on Investment Governance Following Fund Collapses

08 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian government has directed the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to reassess current financial resource stipulations for managed investment scheme (MIS) operators. Concurrently, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has advised platform trustees to enhance governance standards. These actions stem from the collapse of the Shield and First Guardian master funds, which led to significant investor losses. - read more

ASIC Initiates Comprehensive Review of Motor Vehicle Finance Practices

08 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has commenced a thorough review of the motor vehicle finance sector, aiming to bolster consumer protections and ensure industry-wide compliance. This initiative is particularly focused on the experiences of borrowers in regional and remote areas, including First Nations communities. - read more

Macquarie Transfers $1.5 Billion Car Loan Portfolio to Allied Credit

08 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant development within the Australian financial sector, Macquarie Group's Banking and Financial Services division has agreed to sell a substantial portion of its car loan portfolio, valued at $1.5 billion, to Allied Credit. This transaction involves over 50,000 car loans and is expected to be finalised by the fourth quarter of 2025. - read more

Bank Australia Ends Financing for New Petrol, Diesel, and Hybrid Vehicles

08 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a bold move towards environmental sustainability, Bank Australia has ceased offering loans for new petrol, diesel, and hybrid vehicles as of February 2025. This policy change is part of the bank's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2035. - read more

Crusader Caravans Triumphs as 2025 Manufacturer of the Year

08 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Crusader Caravans has once again demonstrated its leadership in the Australian caravan industry by securing the Manufacturer of the Year award for 2025, presented by Caravan Industry Victoria (CIV). This marks the fourth time the company has received this prestigious accolade, underscoring its unwavering commitment to excellence in caravan and RV manufacturing. - read more

NRMA's Review Crew: Your Ticket to Authentic Australian Adventures

08 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The NRMA has unveiled an exciting initiative aimed at enriching the travel experiences of Australians: the My NRMA Rewards Review Crew. This program invites members to participate in unique journeys across the country and share their authentic experiences, providing valuable insights for fellow travelers. - read more

Crusader Caravans' Buyer’s Guide: A Must-Read for Prospective Owners

08 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Crusader Caravans has observed a remarkable surge in interest for their comprehensive Buyer’s Guide and Checklist, with downloads doubling over the recent holiday period. This trend underscores the growing demand among Australians for reliable information to guide their caravan purchasing decisions. - read more

Australia’s Housing Market: Navigating the First Home Guarantee Scheme

07 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Albanese government's new First Home Guarantee scheme, effective from Wednesday, aims to assist first-time home buyers by enabling them to purchase property with just a 5% deposit. This means buyers won’t need to pay lenders’ mortgage insurance, as taxpayers will underwrite 15% of the mortgage. This initiative has generated a lot of interest among potential buyers. - read more

Australian Home Prices Reach New Heights Following Interest Rate Reductions

07 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In September 2025, Australia's housing market experienced a significant upswing, with national median home prices increasing by 0.8% to a record A$857,280. This marks the fastest monthly growth in a year, as reported by property consultant Cotality. The quarterly growth rate also accelerated to 2.2%, up from 1.5% in the previous quarter. - read more

ANZ Bank Faces Record A$240 Million Fine for Compliance Failures

07 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In September 2025, ANZ, one of Australia's major banks, agreed to pay a record A$240 million fine following a series of serious regulatory breaches. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) cited misconduct including misleading the government during a A$14 billion bond deal, neglecting to act on customer hardship notices, and failing to refund fees to deceased clients. - read more

Surge in Home Loan Refinancing as Borrowers Capitalise on Lower Interest Rates

07 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported a notable increase in home loan refinancing during the March quarter of 2025, with 65,030 loans refinanced between lenders—a 5.1% rise compared to the preceding quarter. This surge is largely driven by shifts in the cash rate, which influence borrowers' negotiating leverage with lenders. - read more

Australia Partners with Japan's Mitsubishi for New Naval Frigates

07 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a significant move to bolster its naval capabilities, Australia has awarded a AU$10 billion (US$6.5 billion) contract to Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for the construction of 11 new Mogami-class frigates. This decision marks the largest defense industry agreement between Japan and Australia to date and represents one of Japan's most substantial defense exports. - read more

Unprecedented Algal Bloom in South Australia Threatens Marine Ecosystem

07 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Since March 2025, South Australia's coastline has been grappling with a harmful algal bloom (HAB) that has severely impacted marine life, the fishing industry, and tourism. The bloom, attributed to the proliferation of the microalgae Karenia mikimotoi, has led to the deaths of thousands of marine creatures and has caused health issues among beachgoers, including respiratory problems and eye irritation. - read more

Revitalizing Australia's Maritime Industry Through a National Strategic Fleet

07 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Australia's maritime industry is at a crossroads, with only nine Australian-crewed ships currently operating. In response to this decline, industry leaders and policymakers are advocating for the establishment of a National Strategic Fleet to bolster the nation's shipping capabilities and secure vital supply chains. - read more

Westpac's Limited-Time Offer: $0 Establishment Fee on Motorcycle Loans

07 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Westpac has announced a promotional offer for individuals seeking to finance their motorcycle purchases. Until 30 October 2025, the bank is waiving the $250 establishment fee on its unsecured personal loans for motorcycles. This initiative aims to make motorbike ownership more accessible and affordable for Australians. - read more

National Finance and Loans Joins Forces with Honda Racing Australia

07 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

National Finance and Loans (NFAL) has entered into a multi-year partnership with Honda Racing Australia, marking a significant collaboration in the Australian motorcycle racing scene. This alliance was unveiled at the final round of the Australian Supercross Championship, where NFAL assumed title rights for rider Alex Larwood's #5 entry. - read more

Plenti's Competitive Motorbike Loans: Finance Your Dream Ride

07 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Plenti, a multi-award-winning personal lender, has introduced motorbike loans with interest rates starting from 6.28% per annum. This offering is designed to assist Australians in financing their dream motorcycles, whether new or used. - read more

Westpac's Strategic Expansion in Business Lending

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Westpac Banking Corporation is embarking on a significant expansion of its business banking division, aiming to hire 350 new bankers over the next two years. This initiative is part of Westpac's strategy to reclaim its leadership position in Australia's business lending sector. - read more

CBA Achieves Record Profit Through Robust Lending Growth

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has announced a record full-year cash profit of A$10.25 billion for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. This achievement surpasses analyst expectations and marks an increase from the previous year's profit of A$9.84 billion. - read more

NAB's Third-Quarter Earnings Reflect Steady Growth

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

National Australia Bank (NAB) has reported a marginal increase in third-quarter cash earnings, reaching A$1.77 billion, up from A$1.75 billion in the same period last year. This growth is supported by improved net interest margins and increased lending volumes. - read more

MotorCycle Holdings Expands National Presence with Strategic Acquisition

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

MotorCycle Holdings Limited (ASX: MTO) has significantly expanded its national footprint by acquiring select dealership and eCommerce assets from the Peter Stevens and Harley-Heaven networks. This strategic move enhances the company's presence across four Australian states and introduces new product categories to its portfolio. - read more

Westpac's Strategic Expansion in Business Banking

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Westpac Banking Corporation has announced a significant expansion in its business banking division, with plans to recruit 350 new bankers over the next two years. This strategic move is part of Westpac's concerted effort to reclaim its leadership position in Australia's business lending market. - read more

New Credit Check Requirements for BNPL Services in Australia

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian government has introduced new legislation mandating that buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) providers conduct credit checks on borrowers. This move aims to align BNPL services with traditional credit providers, enhancing consumer protection and financial transparency. - read more

APRA's Decision to Retain the 3% Serviceability Buffer

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced its decision to maintain the 3% serviceability buffer for home loan lending. This buffer requires lenders to assess a borrower's ability to meet loan repayments at an interest rate 3% higher than the current rate, ensuring borrowers can withstand potential rate increases. - read more

Star Entertainment Group Secures Loan Covenant Waiver Amid Financial Challenges

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Star Entertainment Group, a prominent Australian casino operator, has successfully secured a loan covenant waiver under its syndicated facility agreement as of September 30, 2025. This development comes at a critical juncture for the company, which has been navigating a series of financial and operational challenges. - read more

ANZ Bank Faces A$240 Million Penalty for Bond Deal Misconduct and Customer Service Failures

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

ANZ Group, Australia's fourth-largest bank, has agreed to pay a record A$240 million ($159.5 million) in penalties following investigations by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) for major misconduct. The violations include acting unconscionably during a A$14 billion government bond deal in April 2023, which the regulator says led to A$26 million in lost government funds. ANZ’s improper trading placed downward pressure on bond prices, undermining government funding. - read more

Commonwealth Bank of Australia Achieves Record A$10.25 Billion Profit Amid Lending Surge

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has reported a record full-year cash profit of A$10.25 billion ($6.69 billion) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. This impressive performance is attributed to robust growth in both home and business lending, coupled with stable interest margins. - read more

ANZ Bank Penalised AU$240 Million for Corporate Misconduct

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a landmark decision, ANZ Bank has agreed to pay a record AU$240 million penalty following investigations by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) into significant corporate misconduct. This penalty, the largest ever imposed on a single entity for corporate wrongdoing in Australia, underscores the gravity of ANZ's violations and their widespread impact on customers and the federal government. - read more

RBA Calls for Prudent Lending as Borrower Financial Health Improves

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has recently highlighted the need for continued caution in lending practices, even as data indicates an improvement in borrowers' financial health. This advisory comes in the context of a dynamic economic environment where both opportunities and risks coexist. - read more

Australian Marine Industry Achieves $229 Billion Economic Milestone

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian marine industry has reached a remarkable economic milestone, with its output soaring to $229 billion in 2023. This 19% increase from previous years underscores the sector's robust growth and its pivotal role in the national economy. - read more

Coffs Harbour Marina Transformed with World-Class Upgrade

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Marine Structures, Australia's leading marine infrastructure provider, has successfully completed a multi-million-dollar upgrade of the Coffs Harbour Marina. This significant development delivers a world-class boating facility to the New South Wales coast, enhancing the experience for both local and visiting boating enthusiasts. - read more

Westpac's Bold Move to Reclaim Business Lending Leadership

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Westpac Banking Corporation has unveiled an ambitious plan to bolster its presence in the Australian business lending market by recruiting 350 additional bankers over the next two years. This initiative is part of Westpac's broader strategy to reclaim its former leadership position in the sector, which has seen intensified competition among Australia's major banks. - read more

CBA's Record-Breaking Profit Fueled by Robust Lending Growth

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has announced a record full-year cash profit of A$10.25 billion for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025. This impressive figure surpasses both analyst expectations and the previous year's profit of A$9.84 billion, highlighting the bank's strong performance in a competitive financial landscape. - read more

Japanese Banks SMBC and MUFG Drive Business Lending Growth in Australia

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Australia's business lending sector is witnessing a significant shift as Japanese banking giants Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) emerge as leading growth drivers. In July 2025, the combined business loan books of Australia's top 10 authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs) reached A$925 billion, with SMBC and MUFG recording the highest percentage growth rates among them. - read more

Australian Motorcycle Sales Experience Downturn in Early 2025

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian motorcycle market has experienced a slight decline in sales during the first quarter of 2025, with a 3.5% decrease compared to the same period in 2024. This downturn reflects the broader economic challenges affecting discretionary spending among consumers. - read more

Exploring Australia's Two-Speed Economy and the Growing Wealth Divide

05 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent analyses have highlighted a growing economic divide in Australia, often referred to as a 'two-speed economy.' This phenomenon is characterized by significant disparities between different demographics, businesses, and regions, driven by factors such as persistent inflation, elevated interest rates, and housing pressures. - read more

Record Growth in Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Financing in Australia

04 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Australian Finance Industry Association (AFIA) has released its latest Electric Vehicle & Hybrid Finance Report, revealing a significant surge in financing for electric and hybrid vehicles across the nation. In 2024, Australians secured over $6.17 billion in loans for these vehicles, representing a 50% increase compared to the previous year. This substantial growth underscores a clear shift towards cleaner transportation options among both consumers and businesses. - read more

Thailand's New Loan Guarantee Program Aims to Boost Pickup Truck Sales

04 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a strategic move to rejuvenate its automotive sector, Thailand has introduced a loan guarantee program specifically targeting pickup truck sales. The government has allocated a 5 billion baht (approximately $147.80 million) support package over seven years, aiming to incentivize financial institutions to approve loans for pickup trucks—a segment that traditionally accounts for a significant portion of the country's domestic auto sales. - read more

Increase in Car Loan Delinquencies Signals Financial Strain Among Australians

04 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Recent data indicates a concerning rise in car loan delinquencies across Australia, with a 13% increase in vehicle repossessions over the past six months. This trend underscores the growing financial pressures faced by many Australians, as inflation and high interest rates continue to impact household budgets. - read more

Investors and First Home Buyers Surge Back to Australia's Property Market

03 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Australia's property market is experiencing a notable revitalisation, spurred largely by Labor’s recently implemented First Home Guarantee scheme. Designed to make homeownership more accessible, this scheme allows first home buyers to enter the market with just a 5% deposit, bypassing the need for lenders’ mortgage insurance through a taxpayer-guaranteed 15% of the mortgage. Since its introduction, it has sparked significant interest among prospective purchasers, marking a significant shift in the housing sector. - read more

Entireti Revamps Managed Account Platform with Salita Portfolio Services

02 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

Entireti has revamped its managed account offering following its acquisition of Australian Unity’s financial advice business, launching the Salita Portfolio Services. This new service aims to cater to both licensed and self-licensed practices, encompassing Fortnum Private Wealth, Personal Financial Services, Akumin (formerly AMP licensees), and Entireti Alliances, its newly branded self-licensed service operations. - read more

Social Media: A Lifeline for Pre-Retirees Seeking Financial Advice

02 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

With financial advisers grappling with the challenge of serving more clients with limited time resources, effectively educating new clients about their financial journey has become a daunting task. According to Deline Jacovides, founder of Mazi Wealth, advisers once had the luxury of time to nurture and educate newcomers, but rising costs now demand clients arrive with a foundational understanding. - read more

First Home Buyers at Risk of Negative Equity Under New Scheme

02 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

In a recent analysis by Eliza Owen, the head of research at Cotality, concerns have been raised about the potential financial consequences for first-home buyers under the Albanese government's new 5% deposit scheme. This scheme, known as the First Home Guarantee, allows buyers to purchase property with just a 5% deposit, with the government covering a 15% mortgage guarantee. - read more

RBA's Hawkish Stance Leaves Homeowners Awaiting Rate Cut Relief

01 Oct 2025: Paige Estritori

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has maintained the cash rate at 3.6 per cent, a decision anticipated by economists and market participants. However, the unexpectedly cautious rhetoric from the RBA's board and governor, Michele Bullock has prompted a rethink among analysts on the timing of future rate cuts. - read more

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Personal Loans Articles

How to Boost Your Loan Approval Chances

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Comparing Loan Options: Strategic Thinking for the Financially Conscious Australian

As Australians navigate the complex world of finance, understanding the nuances of borrowing can make a significant difference in one’s economic well-being. Being credit-savvy is not just about securing a loan; it's about making informed decisions that align with your long-term financial goals. In this pursuit, comparing loan options emerges as a crucial step for the financially conscious Australian. - read more

Essential Steps to Take Before Applying for a Loan

Before considering a loan application, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of your current financial position. Start by noting down all sources of income, including salary, any additional earnings, or government benefits. This will give you a comprehensive view of your financial inflows. - read more

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Knowledgebase

Derivative:
A financial security whose value is dependent upon or derived from an underlying asset or group of assets.