Small Loans Australia

... helping Australians to finance a better future

Small Loans Australia :: News

Share this news item!

Institutional Investors Maintain Course Amid Escalating Geopolitical Risks

The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.

Institutional investors across the globe are largely standing firm despite acknowledging the rising geopolitical risks impacting their portfolios.

Recent research by investment consultancy firm Bfinance, involving over 160 institutional investors worldwide, reveals that most entities have not adjusted their strategic investments amidst the current economic turbulence driven by trade conflicts.

The survey found that a significant 82% of respondents have noticed an increase in geopolitical risks since the start of the year. European investors particularly feel the pressure, with 85% responding to increased risks, compared to 80% in the Americas and other regions. Unstable political environments and shifting global alliances are major factors contributing to this sentiment.

Despite these challenges, 75% of the institutional contingent report their risk appetite remains unchanged, indicating resilience amid turbulent times. Bfinance highlighted that the view of increased risk is shared across all investor categories, from pension funds to sovereign wealth funds, suggesting a wide-reaching consensus on the issue.

In terms of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations, nearly half of the investors report no change in strategy. However, opinions are shifting, with 24% viewing ESG as less appealing amidst growing policy resistance in the US. Around 50% are actively reassessing their approaches to ESG-related investments, focusing particularly on sustainability and climate-oriented strategies.

This divide on ESG priorities varies among investor types. Mission-linked investors like endowment funds are staying committed to ESG objectives, while those under more economic performance scrutiny are reconsidering their positions. Notably, institutional investors showed a split stance: 36% are staying the course, yet significant proportions are either downgrading (25%) or upgrading (17%) the appeal of ESG.

Ultimately, Bfinance's study shows a strategic recalibration phase for institutional investors, even as geopolitical uncertainties and policy shifts, especially in the US, prompt reassessments of certain tactics. Yet the dedication to long-term goals persists, with European investors leading in maintaining ESG principles whereas US investors navigate a shifting policy environment.

Published:Thursday, 17th Apr 2025
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

APRA's New Lending Cap: What Homebuyers Need to Know

25 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market. Effective February 2026, APRA will implement a cap on high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, limiting banks to issuing no more than 20% of new home loans with DTI ratios of six times or higher. This measure applies to both owner-occupier and investor loans, excluding new housing developments. - read more

ASIC's Findings on Private Lending Practices

25 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently conducted a comprehensive review of the private lending sector, uncovering several areas of concern. The investigation revealed inconsistent and unclear reporting, downplayed risks, opaque fee structures, conflicts of interest, and poor valuation practices within the industry. - read more

OnDeck Australia's Broker-Originated SME Loans Skyrocket by 246%

17 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In a significant development for Australia's small business sector, OnDeck Australia has reported a remarkable 246% year-on-year increase in broker-originated small business loans funded in November 2024 compared to the same month in 2023. This surge underscores a renewed confidence among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in leveraging broker channels for their financing needs. - read more

AFCA Alerts Small Businesses to Dangers of Unregulated Lending

17 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has issued a cautionary advisory to small businesses regarding the risks associated with engaging unregulated lenders. This warning comes in response to a notable increase in complaints that fall outside AFCA's jurisdiction, leaving many business owners without recourse when disputes arise. - read more

So Money Launches Tailored Lending Solutions for SMEs and Self-Employed

17 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In response to Australia's burgeoning small business sector, non-bank lender So Money has unveiled new lending solutions specifically designed for self-employed borrowers and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This strategic expansion aims to simplify the income verification process and provide more flexible financing options to a traditionally underserved market. - read more

Non-Bank Lenders Capture 26% of SME Loan Market

09 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

In recent years, non-bank lenders have significantly increased their presence in the Australian small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) financing sector. As of early 2025, these lenders account for 26% of smaller loans to SMEs, marking a notable shift in the financial landscape. - read more

Australian SMEs Navigate Cashflow Struggles Amid Cost Increases

09 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are currently grappling with significant cashflow challenges, primarily driven by rising operational costs. Factors such as increased wages, inflation, and higher interest rates have placed considerable strain on these businesses, affecting their financial stability and growth prospects. - read more

OnDeck Australia Sees Significant Growth in Broker-Originated SME Loans

01 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

OnDeck Australia has reported a remarkable 246% year-on-year increase in broker-originated small business loans funded in November 2024 compared to the same month in 2023. This substantial growth underscores a renewed confidence among Australian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in seeking financial support through broker channels. - read more

AFCA Issues Caution to SMEs on Unregulated Lending Practices

01 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has issued a warning to small businesses regarding the risks associated with engaging unregulated lenders. This caution comes in response to a notable increase in complaints related to lenders not covered by the Credit Act and who are not members of AFCA. - read more

Click for more Finance News

Personal Loans Articles

Quick Fixes for Common Credit Score Issues in Australia

Credit scores play a crucial role in your financial life, influencing your ability to access loans, credit cards, and even housing rentals. In Australia, your credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, which lenders use to assess the risk of lending to you. - read more

Debt Consolidation Strategies: How to Regain Control of Your Finances

Debt can often feel like a formidable obstacle on the path to financial stability. Many individuals battle with various forms of debt, from high-interest credit cards to significant loans that seem to have an unyielding grip on their financial lives. Recognizing the challenges that debt presents is the critical first step towards regaining control of your personal finances. - read more

How to Boost Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Personal Loan

Your credit score is a numerical representation of your financial trustworthiness. Lenders use this score to assess the risk of lending you money. - read more

Smart Budgeting Tips to Improve Your Financial Health

Smart budgeting is one of the most vital tools in maintaining and improving your financial health. It provides a clear picture of your financial situation, helping you make informed decisions about spending, saving, and borrowing. - read more

Understanding the Key Differences Between Secured and Unsecured Loans

In simple terms, a loan is an amount of money you borrow from a lender and agree to pay back over time, often with interest. Loans come in various forms and can be tailored to suit different needs, such as buying a home, financing a car, or consolidating debt. - read more

A Beginner's Guide to Personal Loans During Financial Hardship

Welcome to our beginner's guide on personal loans during financial hardship. Navigating financial challenges can be overwhelming, but personal loans could serve as a viable solution. This article will cover what personal loans are, how they work, and why they might be beneficial during tough times. - read more

Interest Rates for Small Loans: Breaking Down the Basics

Interest rates play a vital role when it comes to borrowing money. They determine how much extra you'll pay on top of the amount you've borrowed. - read more

Secured Versus Unsecured: Which Loan Option Aligns with Your Financial Goals?

The landscape of personal financing is broad and varied, particularly in the Australian market where individuals have access to an array of loan options. When considering lending, the fundamental distinction to comprehend is that between 'secured' and 'unsecured' loans. - read more

The Smart Borrower's Guide: Understanding Interest Rates on Small Loans

When it comes to borrowing money, whether it's for personal use or for your small business, understanding interest rates is paramount. An interest rate, simply put, is the cost you pay to borrow money. It's typically expressed as a percentage of the principal amount you're loaned. This fee is how lenders earn on the funds they lend and is a key component you should consider before signing a loan agreement. - read more

Need Help Finding a Loan?

All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase

Interest Rate:
A rate which is charged or paid for the use of money. An interest rate is often expressed as an annual percentage of the principal. It is calculated by dividing the amount of interest by the amount of principal. Interest rates often change as a resul

This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.

IMPORTANT: We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party intermediaries, insurers, and lenders - with whom you can then deal directly. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should always verify the credentials of your financial adviser before proceeding with recommendations that they may present. Visit the ASIC website for further information.