Australia

Capital / Liquidity

Fitch Warns of Downgrade Amid RBNZ Bank Capital Review

By Manesh Samtani | 08/04/2019

Fitch Ratings says its assessment of New Zealand’s largest banks could change if capital requirements become so onerous as to cause their Australian parents to divest.

Enforcement

ASIC, APRA Granted New Intervention Powers

By Editors | 05/04/2019

ASIC can intervene where financial and credit products put consumers at risk; APRA can intervene to prevent harm to superannuation members.

Enforcement

Australia Budget Delivers Additional Funding for APRA, ASIC

By Editors | 04/04/2019

APRA and ASIC will get more than A$550mn in funding to enhance their effectiveness in addressing financial sector misconduct.

Market Infrastructure

APRA Consults on Financial Sector Shareholdings Rules

By Editors | 03/04/2019

The proposed rules set out the matters that must be considered in determining if a person is “fit and proper” to own 20% or more in an ADI, life insurer or general insurer.

Fintech / Regtech

APRA to Implement New Data Reporting System in March 2020

By Editors | 03/04/2019

APRA says in its initial implementation plan that entities must start ensuring their readiness for the new system now, as there is only a one year timeline for implementation.

AML / KYC

FMA Monitoring Report Reveals Multiple AML/CFT Deficiencies

By Editors | 02/04/2019

New Zealand’s Financial Markets Authority has released a report highlighting failures in reporting entities’ AML/CFT programmes, risk assessments and customer due diligence.

ESG / Sustainability

Australian Financial Sector Teams Up on Climate Initiative – Report

By Editors | 30/03/2019

Overseen by APRA, a group of industry players – including the big four banks – are looking to reshape the financial system to ensure readiness for climate risks.

Enforcement

ASIC ‘Ready to Prosecute’ Underperforming Super Funds

By Editors | 30/03/2019

Australian regulators are trying to force an estimated 100 small and poor performing super funds out of the system using criteria devised by the Productivity Commission.

Fintech / Regtech

Banks Not Using Latest RegTech Solutions Must Explain Why – ASIC

By Editors | 29/03/2019

ASIC reportedly plans to force banks to explain why they aren’t using the latest technology to improve regulatory compliance, including systems offered by regtech startups.