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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.
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
In response to the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) recent decision to lower the official cash rate by 0.25%, National Australia Bank (NAB) has announced a corresponding reduction in interest rates for eligible business lending products. Effective from 30 May 2025, new and existing business customers with variable rate NAB Business Options Loans or NAB Business Overdraft products will see their interest rates decrease by 0.25% per annum. - read more
Australian non-bank lender Bizcap has announced an increase in its lending limits for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), now offering loans up to $7.5 million, up from the previous $5 million cap. This decision comes in response to escalating demand from SMEs across the nation seeking larger financing options to support their growth and operational needs. - read more
The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA) has recently raised concerns regarding the increasing number of small businesses engaging with unregulated lenders. This caution comes in response to a record 4,648 complaints lodged by small businesses in the 2024-25 financial year, marking a 4% increase from the previous year. Notably, 21% of these complaints were dismissed as they fell outside AFCA's jurisdiction, primarily because the lenders involved were not AFCA members. - read more
Recent changes to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) debt regulations have led to a significant increase in business loan inquiries among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Effective from 1 July 2025, general interest charges (GIC) and shortfall interest charges (SIC) on tax debts will no longer be tax-deductible. With the GIC rate currently at 11.17% and compounding daily, this change has prompted many SMEs to seek alternative financing options to manage their tax liabilities. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently expressed concerns regarding the compliance practices of certain small credit lenders. A comprehensive review conducted by ASIC revealed that some providers of small amount credit contracts (SACCs) may be steering vulnerable consumers towards financial products that offer fewer protections, potentially exposing them to increased financial risk. - read more
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently conducted a comprehensive review into the practices of payday lenders, uncovering potential breaches of consumer protection laws. This scrutiny comes in the wake of reforms introduced under the Financial Service Reform Act 2022 (FSR Act), aimed at enhancing safeguards for consumers engaging with small amount credit contracts. - read more
Harmoney, a prominent Australian non-bank lender, has expanded its offerings to include small personal loans designed to meet the diverse needs of consumers. These loans range from $2,000 to $100,000, with interest rates starting from 5.76% per annum, tailored to each individual's credit profile. - read more
Swoosh Finance, an Australian online lender, is offering small cash loans ranging from $2,200 to $5,000, with a streamlined application process that can result in same-day approval. This service is designed to provide quick financial relief for individuals facing unexpected expenses or short-term cash flow challenges. - read more
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
Budgeting is often seen as a restrictive practice, something that curtails fun and spontaneity. However, the truth is quite the contrary. Proper budgeting is a fundamental aspect of nurturing financial well-being. It's about understanding your income, controlling your spending, and ensuring that you prioritize saving and investing. A well-crafted budget can lead to a stress-free financial life by giving you a clear view of where your money is going and where you can potentially save. - read more
It is no secret that the foundation of financial well-being is rooted in effective budgeting. In today's fast-paced world, where consumerism reigns, understanding how to manage one's finances has never been more crucial. Budgeting is not merely about restraining spending; it’s about creating a strategic plan that aligns with your financial goals and lifestyle. It allows individuals to gain control over their money, rather than letting their spending habits dictate their life course. - read more
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
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
In the landscape of modern finance, credit scores can often feel like gatekeepers to our goals, barring or granting access to essential funding when we need it most. The truth is, debt is as common as it is complex, threading through the lives of many with silent tenacity. Understanding its prevalence is the first step in navigating the choppy financial waters it can create. - read more
Your credit score is much more than just a number; it's a reflection of your financial history and a determining factor in securing future loans. Understanding how bad credit can affect your loan applications is crucial in today's financial landscape. Bad credit can lead to frustration and disappointment when looking for a competitive loan offer, but don't lose heart—there are actionable steps you can take to improve your situation. - read more
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
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
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Foreclosure: The legal process by which a lender takes control of a property, evicts the homeowner, and sells the home after the homeowner fails to make mortgage payments.