Financial Services News Wrap, hosted by Paige Estritori, is your definitive source for the latest and most significant news in the Australian Financial Services sector
We meticulously search for important news to bring you updates in insurance, mortgages and loans, superannuation, and money management, including budgeting and financial planning
With a keen focus on the developments from the past week, our podcast selects news items that resonate most with Australian business and personal consumers
After conducting in-depth research, we craft original articles on each chosen news story, summarizing the crucial information into a concise, engaging podcast
Whether you are a professional navigating the financial services industry or a personal consumer seeking to stay informed, Financial Services News Wrap offers the insights you need to stay ahead in the fast-moving world of finance.
Welcome to Our News Podcasts! Dive into the latest episode from any of our 5 podcasts ... or explore our archive for topics that interest you.
Paige Estritori reports on findings from a Life Code Compliance Committee inquiry into income protection and total and permanent disability claims
The review found insurers could have requested information earlier in many cases, contributing to delays and uncertainty
Clear, timely communication, thorough record-keeping and prompt responses may help support claims.nnThe Reserve Bank of Australias fifth rate increase of 2026 lifted the cash rate by 0.25 percentage points to 4.85%, effective November 4
Higher rates may increase variable mortgage repayments and borrowing costs for households and small businesses
The update also encourages savers and investors to review their options, while households and businesses may benefit from checking budgets and maintaining a financial buffer amid ongoing inflation and rate uncertainty.
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| How Credit Card Balance Transfers Can Damage Your Credit Rating Since the banks and finance providers have been castigated for the way they seemingly indiscriminately awarded credit to people who could ill afford it, the chances of being accepted for loans and credit cards have decreased. Concurrently, there is a greater focus on individual's being aware of how credit works and what their financial behaviors means in terms of a credit score and history. - read more
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| Credit Card Secret Guarantee Most people use credit cards in some form or another but few truly appreciate one of the special features of credit cards that make using their credit card to insure their purchases. - read more
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| 5 Credit Killers A good credit score speaks volumes about your financial habits. It's the evidence most creditors need to evaluate your credit worthiness. - read more
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| 7 things you need to know about a Hire Purchase loan There are seven things you should know before you ever think of getting a Hire Purchase loan. Knowing these things will give you control and power in the loan process. Power and control will will save you money - read more
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| What to Do if an Income Protection Claim Is Delayed or Declined An income protection claim can be delayed, disputed or declined for several reasons, including missing documents, policy definitions, medical evidence or income proof. This guide explains practical steps Australian policyholders can take, including reviewing the decision, keeping records, using the insurer's complaint process and escalating eligible disputes to AFCA. - read more
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| Balloon and residual payments on truck loans explained A balloon or residual payment can reduce regular truck loan repayments by leaving a larger amount payable at the end of the term. This guide explains how these payments affect cash flow, total cost, calculator results and end-of-term planning for Australian truck finance borrowers. - read more
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| Costs to Consider When Buying a Home in Australia Buying a home involves more than saving a deposit and comparing repayments. This guide explains the upfront, loan-related and ongoing costs Australian home buyers should consider when planning a property purchase. - read more
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| Business Loan Borrowing Capacity and Repayment Capacity in Australia Business loan borrowing capacity and repayment capacity in Australia are commonly assessed through cash flow, revenue, profitability, existing debts, loan purpose, security, credit history and supporting documents. Understanding these factors can help business owners prepare before applying for finance. - read more
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