AUSTRALIA

Australia’s New APRA Rule to Squeeze Banks’ Returns, Cut Dividends

By Editors | 08/05/2014

Australian Prudential Regulation Authority has told banks it will stop allowing lenders to use non-recourse debt to bolster their Tier 1 capital requirements.

Australian Securities Regulator Outlines Initiatives to Cut Red Tape

By Editors | 07/05/2014

Australia’s securities regulator has outlined ongoing and new initiatives to cut red tape and lower compliance costs for market participants.

New Zealand’s Financial Markets Conduct Act to Promote Cultural Shift

By Editors | 05/05/2014

A long-term cultural shift for the better is underway in New Zealand financial services as the new Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013 takes effect.

Australian Authority Proposes to Simplify Prudential Framework for Securitisation

By Editors | 02/05/2014

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority has released a discussion paper outlining a revised standard for securitisation.

New Zealand Market Regulator Eyes Easy-to-Follow IPO Offer Documents

By Editors | 29/04/2014

New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment will conduct a consultation on the proposal for easier-to-follow product disclosure statements (PDS) which will be required from companies listing on the country’s exchange.

Australia’s Financial System to See More Bond Issuance, Says Central Banker

By Editors | 21/04/2014

Australia’s top central banker sees the country’s financial system moving toward a more market-based sources of finance, particularly bond issuance.

Australian Regulator Improves Capital-Raising Option for Mutual ADIs

By Editors | 15/04/2014

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority said it is relaxing banking rules to give mutually owned authorised deposit-taking institutions more scope to fund their growth.

Australian Prudential Regulator Seeks More Flexibility in Regulatory Function

By Editors | 07/04/2014

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority seeks increased independence from the government or parliament to effectively regulate the banking, superannuation and life insurance industries.

Australian Banks Seek to Widen Money Laundering Net

By Editors | 03/04/2014

Justice Minister Michael Keenan has assured banks that they will not be “overregulated” despite tougher laws to counter money laundering and terror financing.