Articles tagged with 'Kiwibank'
Kiwibank says cost of adviser business is marginal
14 March 2025 - The cost to a bank of using mortgage advisers to originate mortgages is marginal compared to the cost of running its own proprietary origination operation, according to Kiwibank chief executive Steve Jurkovich.
Kiwibank grows home loans at twice its market share
27 February 2025 - The government-owned Kiwibank lent on mortgages at the rate of more than twice its market share in the six months ended December.
Next big issue for mortgage advisers
7 February 2025 - The question hovering on mortgage advisers’ lips is when they should start pointing clients to longer fixed interest terms on their mortgages.
Leaving last year's stumbling housing market behind
17 January 2025 - As interest rates ease and job losses climb, New Zealand’s housing market faces a mixed year of modest growth, with conflicting forces shaping the outlook for homebuyers and investors.
Borrowers turn to short term mortgage rates in droves
15 January 2025 - Mortgage borrowers are so confident interest rates will come down even further this year, nearly half the mortgage money borrowed in November was on floating rates.
Saving borrowers money
20 December 2024 - With a $500 million capital injection, Kiwibank says it can save New Zealanders $1.5 billion by having more aggressive pricing, better terms and better turnaround.
Meaningful difference seen as coming from Kiwibank’s capital raise
11 December 2024 - Starting with institutional investment and an eventual IPO is an excellent start for turning Kiwibank into a meaningful disruptor, David Cunningham Squirrel Mortgages chief executive says.
Govt greenlights Kiwibank raising $500m ahead of eventual float
10 December 2024 - The government has given Kiwibank's parent, Kiwi Group Capital, and the Treasury the green light to raise up to $500 million from institutions including KiwiSaver funds ahead of an eventual public float. Once the capital is raised it could allow Kiwibank to lend up to an extra $10 billion to home buyers or $4 billion to businesses.
Percentage of mortgages originated by advisers lifts sharply
5 November 2024 - Kiwibank has lifted its home loans business to now have an 8% market share, with about 64% of its mortgage business originated by advisers.
Bigger rate cuts called for
24 September 2024 - Economists are called for bigger OCR cuts following weak economic data last week and The Fed cutting US interest rates 50 basis points.
Kiwibank grows its share of new mortgage lending at more than double its market share
4 September 2024 - The government's Kiwibank accounted for 19.2% of net new mortgage lending in the June quarter and for 18.8% of new lending in the year ended June.
Advisers originated 71% of Kiwibank home loans in year ended June
23 August 2024 - Mortgage advisers originated 71% of Kiwibank's new mortgages in the year ended June 30 and now account for about 35% of the total mortgage book, chief executive Steve Jurkovich says.
Kiwibank grows mortgage book 2.7 times faster than market
22 August 2024 - Kiwibank grew its mortgage book at 2.7 times the rate for banks as a whole and says that's one of the reasons it is “fulfilling our role as a disruptor.”
Mortgage firm backs Kiwibank as a disruptor
7 August 2024 - Squirrel Mortgages says it makes sense for Kiwibank to be given more capital to substantially grow its balance sheet and become a disruptive competitor.
Squeezed between a rock and a hard place
20 June 2024 - Mortgage holders can expect at least another six months of struggling to save or cope with unexpected bills as they are squeezed by high interest rates and poor economic conditions.
Kiwibank facing criminal charges
11 June 2024 - The Commerce Commission has filed criminal charges against Kiwibank alleging systemic breaches of the Fair Trading Act.
Should Kiwibank move faster on being ready for open banking?
15 May 2024 - Some fintech organisations are calling on Kiwibank to join the big four banks in being ready for open banking this year rather than waiting until 2026 as the government-owned bank had previously pledged.
Kiwibank accounted for 25% of all bank mortgage lending in Dec half year
22 February 2024 - Kiwibank grew its its mortgage book by $1.29 billion in the six months ended December and accounted for nearly a quarter of all mortgage lending by registered banks for the six months, based on Reserve Bank data.
Unemployment up, OCR cuts a way off, house building tanking
8 February 2024 - Despite unemployment ticking up to 4% from 3.9%, labour market conditions haven’t eased as much as the Reserve Bank expected making it likely that the first OCR cut will be later than financial markets are pricing in, says Westpac.
Mounting migration means more demand and pressure
13 December 2023 - A huge surge of new immigrants into New Zealand has some economists updating their forecasts.
Number of Kiwibank customers in hardship revealed; Prospa in lower NI next week
10 November 2023 - Only about 50 of Kiwibank's home loan customers were financially stressed enough to have needed intensive help to work through the impact of rising...
Kiwibank says few customers stresseed by higher mortgage rates
10 November 2023 - Only about 50 of Kiwibank's home loan customers were financially stressed enough to have needed intensive help to work through the impact of rising mortgage interest rates, chief executive Steve Jurkovich told an NZX webinar.
Significant recovery underway
22 September 2023 - Kiwibank chief economist Jarrod Kerr says interest rate cuts could start as early as May next year.
Kiwibank's capital boost means it's no longer last
1 August 2023 - Kiwibank chief executive Steve Jurkovich says the $225 million injection of capital means his bank is no longer the least well-capitalised bank in New Zealand.
Kiwibank gets more capital to grow mortgage business
1 August 2023 - The government has decided to inject a further $225 million of capital into Kiwibank via its wholly-owned holding company Kiwi Group Capital (KGC). ...
Govt tips in a further $225m of capital into Kiwibank
1 August 2023 - The government has decided to inject a further $225 million of capital into Kiwibank via its wholly-owned holding company Kiwi Group Capital (KGC).
Tailwinds are coming
16 June 2023 - Interest rate cuts will start in about nine months, says KiwiBank.
Kiwibank boosts earnings
23 February 2023 - Kiwibank has announced a net profit after tax of $98m for the six months to 31 December 2022, up 53% on the same time last year.
Kiwibank makes appointment
24 January 2023 - Kiwibank has announced the appointment of Julia Jack to the newly created role of Chief Purpose and Brand Officer.
Disappointing year end to tough housing market
18 January 2023 - The market continued to go through the motions of a correction in December, with rising mortgage rates exacting a toll.
Kiwibank increases commission and rates
9 December 2022 - Kiwibank is raising the commission rate it pays to advisers [READ ON] It's the end of the week and banks have pretty much completed their...
Kiwibank raises commission payments for advisers
8 December 2022 - Kiwibank is raising the commission it pays to mortgage advisers.
New highs reached with rates; Last chance to get in; Want a 30 year loan?
21 October 2022 - Kiwibank is the third bank to hike fixed rates and now has the highest fixed rates in the market. Here's how its two-year fixed rate stacks up. Six...
Kiwibank makes interest rate rises a clean sweep
13 October 2022 - Floating mortgage rates have now risen across the board but fixed interest rates remain static.
Kiwibank also raises interest rates
29 September 2022 - Kiwibank has followed the BNZ and announced rises its interest rates today.
From famine to feast
24 August 2022 - The country’s house shortage is expected to be gone within the next 12 months, says Kiwibank’s economists.
Govt pays $2.1 bill for Kiwibank
22 August 2022 - The Government has acquired 100% of Kiwibank’s parent company, which includes NZ Home Loans. [READ ON] ...
Govt buys back Kiwibank
22 August 2022 - The Government has acquired 100% of Kiwibank’s parent company, which includes NZ Home Loans.
Kiwibank to double number of advisers
19 August 2022 - Kiwibank is accelerating its push into the mortgage adviser market, aiming to double the number of firms it deals with in the next year.
Kiwibank reports best ever results
18 August 2022 - Kiwibank has reported its best ever results and mortgage advisers played a significant part in achieving it.
Fisher finally lands Kiwi Wealth
15 August 2022 - Fisher Funds to become second biggest KiwiSaver provider after paying $310 million for Kiwi Wealth.
Kiwibank cuts rates for green improvements
9 August 2022 - Kiwibank is offering cut price loans to fund environmental improvements by businesses.
Former Westpac exec to head up NZHL
28 June 2022 - [Updated] Kiwi Group Holdings-owned NZ Home Loans has appointed a former Westpac executive as its new chief executive.
Kiwibank faces court action after home loan customers overcharged
9 December 2021 - Kiwibank faces court action after home loan customers overcharged [READ ON] ...
Kiwibank apologises for wrongly charged fees – Still faces court
9 December 2021 - Kiwibank says it has apologised to customers who were incorrectly charged transaction fees and has refunded them the money along with any interest they would have earned on it.
nib set to expand into life insurance
8 November 2021 - Health insurer nib is buying Kiwibank's life insurance business which will see it expand into the life insurance market.
OCR hike likely despite lockdown: ANZ
13 September 2021 - The Reserve Bank is likely to stick to its guns and hike the official cash rate by 25 basis points next month despite Auckland's ongoing lockdown, according to ANZ economists.
Kiwibank mortgages up 11% as profit doubles
26 August 2021 - Kiwibank has posted a post-tax profit of $126 million for the year to June, helped by an 11% increase in its mortgage lending book.
Kiwibank cuts two-year rate, raises others
16 July 2021 - Kiwibank has slashed its two-year fixed mortgage by six basis points but has raised its variable rate, revolving credit rate, and 1,3,4, and 5 year terms.
Soaring house prices fuel OCR hike talk
13 July 2021 - House prices jumped 29.8% year-on-year to June, adding further weight to the odds of an official cash rate hike in 2021.
Mortgage growth drives record bank profits
23 June 2021 - Strong mortgage lending drove banking profits to record levels in the first three months of the year, according to a new report from KPMG.
Interest rate hike expectations grow
21 June 2021 - The recent surge in economic growth has increased the odds of an official cash rate hike in February, according to Kiwibank economists.
Short term rates continue to drop
8 June 2021 - New Zealand's biggest lenders continue to cut short term fixed rates despite the growing prospect of a higher official cash rate in 2022: [READ ON] ...
Short term rates continue to drop
8 June 2021 - New Zealand's biggest lenders continue to cut short term fixed rates despite the growing prospect of a higher official cash rate in 2022.
Housing market's unlikely Covid boost
20 April 2021 - Low net migration to New Zealand during the pandemic has given the nation a chance to "dent" its chronic housing shortage, according to Kiwibank economists.
Banks and non-banks given clean bill of health
15 April 2021 - New Zealand's biggest banks and non-bank lenders remain in a robust position despite the pandemic, according to rating agency Standard & Poor's.
Big banks weigh affordability changes
26 March 2021 - ANZ has confirmed it will review its affordability criteria for investor loans in the wake of the Government's housing reforms. TMM Online asked the rest of NZ's major lenders if they plan to follow suit.
Meteoric market to continue until mid-year
16 March 2021 - Kiwibank economists believe that house price inflation will rise by 25% in the year to June, before easing to 14.5% in the year to December 2021.
One bank steps back from advisers – another comes forward
1 March 2021 - Kiwibank has entered the adviser market and has a pilot programme running with two dealer groups.
ANZ halts online mortgage applications
22 February 2021 - ANZ has been forced to halt online mortgage applications amid an unprecedented surge in demand as people rush to beat LVR restrictions.
Call to risk-weight investor loans
25 January 2021 - Banks should be forced to risk-weight investor mortgages and loans on interest-only terms, according to economists from Kiwibank.
ASB, BNZ, Kiwibank slash rates
22 January 2021 - ASB and BNZ have joined their big four rivals in slashing their one year special rates to 2.29%, while Kiwibank has also made cuts, as downward pressure continues in the home loan market.
Housing crisis a supply issue
14 December 2020 - Economists at Kiwibank say DTIs and LVR restrictions will have a "near-term" impact on housing demand, but argue supply-side changes are the key to fixing the housing crisis.
Biden win boosts potential ESG boom
11 November 2020 - The ESG rhetoric of President-elect Biden is a marked improvement on his predecessor, but what will an American boom in ESG mean for New Zealand investors? John Berry and Steffan Berridge weigh in.
Weak inflation means negative OCR: Kiwibank
23 October 2020 - Today's lower than expected inflation figures will force the Reserve Bank to make an aggressive 75 basis point OCR cut in February, according to Kiwibank.
Sales, prices skyrocket in defiant market
13 October 2020 - It’s official: New Zealand’s housing market is going crazy – and the skyrocketing prices have left economists revising their forecasts and worried it heralds a new bubble.
Why Kepa and NZFSG merged; Mortgage Express hire from Kiwibank
2 October 2020 - NZFSG and Kepa have agreed to merge to build scale ahead of the new regulatory regime. Here are the details: [READ ON] Mortgage Express has hired a new...
August lending record; Kiwibank pays $5 million to customers
25 September 2020 - Home lending reached a record high for an August last month, further evidence of the market's resurgence during the Covid-19 pandemic: [READ ON] Kiwibank...
What the Reserve Bank's latest move means for housing
24 September 2020 - The Reserve Bank’s programme to lend directly to retail banks could be ready soon. If it is, that’s likely to mean lower interest rates on loans – and more support for the housing market.
Kiwibank to pay customers $5.2 million over home loan failings
24 September 2020 - Kiwibank will pay 48,000 borrowers compensation totalling $5.2 million after reporting failings on home loan procedures.
Movac fund secures Kiwi Invest backing
24 September 2020 - In a first of its kind move for a KiwiSaver investment group, Kiwi Invest has entered the venture capital market through Movac Fund 5.
Kiwibank sees lending rise; OCR decision later
23 September 2020 - Kiwibank increased lending by 8.8% in the year to June, according to KPMG’s latest banking report, despite a tough period for the nation’s...
Kiwibank about to enter the adviser market
17 September 2020 - Kiwibank says it is on track to roll out its mortgage adviser proposition and Covid-19 has not delayed it. [READ ON] While there are again no rate changes,...
Kiwibank just over a month away from entering adviser market
17 September 2020 - Kiwibank says it is on track to roll out its mortgage adviser proposition and Covid-19 has not delayed it.
Covid be damned – the market is booming
11 September 2020 - Those who were anticipating a Covid-prompted housing market collapse got it wrong with the latest REINZ data revealing strong growth in prices and sales.
Economy performing better-than-expected: ASB
7 September 2020 - The New Zealand economy is faring better than expected despite the second lockdown in Auckland, according to ASB economists.
Kiwibank profits drop by 47%
1 September 2020 - Kiwibank saw profits drop by nearly half in the year to June, as Covid-19 impairments and low interest rates took their toll on the state-backed lender.
Negative OCR would be a mistake: Kiwibank
25 August 2020 - While economists at the big four lenders believe the Reserve Bank will opt for a negative official cash rate next year, Kiwibank analysts believe the move...
Negative OCR would be a mistake: Kiwibank
25 August 2020 - While economists at the big four lenders believe the Reserve Bank will opt for a negative official cash rate next year, Kiwibank analysts believe the move would be a mistake.
Covid-19 return could derail market boom
14 August 2020 - The housing market was booming in July with price and sales up nationwide, new REINZ data shows, but the return of Covid-19 raises questions of how the market will fare going forward.
Kiwibank predicts 6% fall in house prices; Warning over new tenancy laws
7 August 2020 - Kiwibank economists believe the housing market will only fall by 6% due to Covid-19, revising down their prediction amid signs of "strong resistance":...
Kiwibank expects 6% fall in house prices
7 August 2020 - Kiwibank economists believe the housing market will only fall by 6% due to Covid-19, revising down their prediction amid signs of "strong resistance".
Sales, prices surge up - defying expectations
14 July 2020 - The housing market’s post-Covid rebound continued in June with house prices rising further and sales volumes hitting a four year high – but economists are asking if it will last.
Community transmission could force negative OCR: Kiwibank
13 July 2020 - Community transmission of Covid-19 could force the Reserve Bank to slash the Official Cash Rate to negative territory, according to economists at Kiwibank.
Kiwibank ramps up pressure on rivals; Ways to future-proof your business
26 June 2020 - Kiwibank chief executive Steve Jurkovich says the bank's home lending enquiries have risen by 30% since it cut floating rates, and has called on rivals...
Kiwibank ramps up pressure on rivals
26 June 2020 - Kiwibank chief executive Steve Jurkovich says the bank's home lending enquiries have risen by 30% since it cut floating rates, and has called on rivals to follow suit.
QE the preferred tool for lower rates: economists
24 June 2020 - Economists say the Reserve Bank views its LSAP programme as the best way of pushing down interest rates, despite talk of a negative OCR in recent months.
Kiwibank cuts 1% from floating rates, rivals cut fixed rates
11 June 2020 - Kiwibank has slashed 1% from its floating rate home and business loans, while ANZ and ICBC have made further cuts to their mortgage offerings.
Bank LVR limits on hold
4 June 2020 - Banks have not relaxed loan-to-value ratio limits for investors, despite the Reserve Bank's move to scrap LVR rules.
Lending policies changing rapidly
2 June 2020 - Bank lending policies are changing at their fastest rate since the GFC, with huge variations between major lenders, according to one Auckland adviser.
Kiwibank launches record low rate: compare the market
25 May 2020 - This week kicks off with a record low rate, as Kiwibank's previously announced 2.65% home loan comes into effect this morning. ASB's sharp...
Kiwibank smashes record with 2.65% home loan
22 May 2020 - Mortgage rates continue to plummet to record-lows, with Kiwibank launching a one-year home loan at 2.65%.
Markets price in negative interest rates
18 May 2020 - Financial markets have priced in an increased chance of a negative official cash rate after the Reserve Bank mooted the idea last week.
OCR reaction: Reserve Bank open to lower, negative rates
13 May 2020 - Economists say that the Reserve Bank has left the door open to lower or even negative rates, as it kept the official cash rate on hold in its Monetary Policy Statement (MPS) today.
OCR Preview: Economists predict rate will stay on hold
11 May 2020 - Economists expect the Official Cash Rate will remain on hold this week, but many believe the Reserve Bank will open the door to lower or negative interest rates.
ASB and Kiwibank launch sub 3% mortgages; Pepper hires two new BDMs
8 May 2020 - Big news this morning as ASB and Kiwibank slash mortgage rates below 3%, kicking off a new price war during the Covid-19 crisis: [READ ON] Non-bank Pepper...
ASB and Kiwibank trigger price war with 2.99% mortgages
8 May 2020 - ASB and Kiwibank have slashed mortgage rates below 3%, kicking off a new price war during the Covid-19 crisis.
Market strong before turbulence to come
15 April 2020 - Strong price growth and solid demand characterised the pre-lockdown housing market, new REINZ data shows – but the time period covered was the calm before the storm.
Payment holidays won't affect credit scores
3 April 2020 - Banks have quashed speculation that payment holidays will affect customers' credit scores and their ability to borrow in the future.
Banks launch SME support loans
1 April 2020 - With the backing of government guarantees, New Zealand banks have launched support loans for small and medium-sized businesses affected by covid-19.
Banks roll out mortgage holiday
30 March 2020 - Major lenders have launched mortgage holidays for borrowers affected by the Covid-19 outbreak, using online application forms to process customer requests.
Banks roll out mortgage holidays
30 March 2020 - Major lenders have launched mortgage holidays for borrowers affected by the Covid-19 outbreak, using online application forms to process customer requests.
Kiwibank one year cut; key factors to consider
20 March 2020 - Kiwibank is the second bank to slash fixed rates after the Reserve Bank's OCR cut, dropping its one year to 3.09%. The cut comes into effect on Monday:...
Kiwibank cuts one year fixed rate
19 March 2020 - Kiwibank is the second bank to slash fixed rates after the Reserve Bank's OCR cut, dropping its one year to 3.09%.
Banks weigh up fixed rate cuts
17 March 2020 - Most borrowers are yet to benefit from the Reserve Bank's OCR cut, but banks say they are weighing up cuts to fixed rate mortgages.
Banks pass on floating rate cuts after OCR decision
16 March 2020 - Major banks have passed on rate cuts of 0.75% to floating rate borrowers following the Reserve Bank's emergency rate decision.
Housing market powers on – for now
12 March 2020 - New Zealand’s housing market resurgence is showcased in new REINZ data which has the national median price at a new record and sales at a four-year high.
Will mortgage rates fall much further?
9 March 2020 - An official cash rate cut looks increasing likely amid the Covid-19 outbreak, but economists doubt mortgage rates will drop much further than current levels.
Kiwibank to enter adviser market
24 February 2020 - Kiwibank is set to enter the mortgage adviser market later this year, with plans for a "strong, competitive, dedicated broker unit": [READ ON] SBS...
Kiwibank set to enter adviser market
24 February 2020 - Kiwibank says it will be fully entering the mortgage adviser market later this year.
Kiwibank lending rises, profit falls
21 February 2020 - Kiwibank's home lending increased by 4% in the half year to December, but profits fell by nearly 20% over the period.
Strong start for market in 2020
18 February 2020 - Auckland’s housing market has surged back into the game with its busiest January in four years, new REINZ data reveals.
Kiwibank-BNZ takeover talk grows
24 January 2020 - Kiwibank is lining up a multibillion dollar takeover of big four bank BNZ, according to reports.
[The Wrap] Five predictions for 2020
10 January 2020 - It's the start of a new year and a new decade. While it's 2020, Philip Macalister looks ahead and makes some predictions around what may happen in the financial advice sector this year.
Small banks stall on licensing
10 January 2020 - TSB and The Co-operative are among the lenders yet to decide how they will work with financial advice provider licence holders under the new regulatory regime.
Kiwibank and SBS near FAP licensing decision
18 December 2019 - Kiwibank and SBS Bank are close to deciding how they will treat financial advice provider licence holders under the new regulatory regime.
Record prices see upturn gathering pace
13 December 2019 - New Zealand’s housing market resurgence continues to gain momentum with the latest REINZ data showing record prices around the country.
Rate cuts continue despite RBNZ decision
2 December 2019 - Lenders continue to cut mortgage rates as the property market heads into the summer, despite the Reserve Bank's decision to keep the official cash rate on hold.
Kiwibank cuts one year mortgage; landlords reforms announced
18 November 2019 - Kiwibank has cut its one-year fixed term to 3.39%, a new low, despite the OCR remaining on hold: [READ ON]. See our full rates table here. The government...
Kiwibank slashes one-year mortgage to new low
15 November 2019 - Kiwibank has cut its one-year fixed term to 3.39%, a new low, despite the OCR remaining on hold.
Record prices round NZ
14 November 2019 - It looks like the sleeping giant of New Zealand’s housing market could be stirring, with new REINZ data showing that both sales and prices in Auckland are up.
Kiwibank cash offer; Reserve Bank to follow RBA?
11 November 2019 - Kiwibank has launched a new $3,000 cash offer for people switching to the bank. Borrowers need 20% equity and there's a minimum lending requirement...
OCR Preview Survey: Economists tip another cut
7 November 2019 - Economists predict the Reserve Bank is likely to cut the official cash rate again this week – but are far from certain the central bank will pull the trigger.
SuperCity on the rise?
4 November 2019 - Auckland’s housing market saw a noticeable increase in sales in October – and it’s due to an increase in listings, according to Barfoot & Thompson’s managing director.
TMM Conference preview; Peters criticises Kiwibank
22 October 2019 - As this year's TMM Better Business Conference edges ever closer, here's a sneak preview from leading economist and keynote speaker Tony Alexander...
Winston Peters calls for Kiwibank overhaul
21 October 2019 - New Zealand first leader Winston Peters believes "seriously bolstering" Kiwibank can improve competitiveness, conduct and culture in the banking sector.
Return to market form
15 October 2019 - There’s been a rallying of the market with the latest REINZ data showing both sales volumes and median house prices noticeably up with the onset of Spring.
Kiwibank predicts 0.5% OCR cut
1 October 2019 - Kiwibank economists believe the Reserve Bank will cut the Official Cash Rate to just 0.5%, with the possibility of a major cut in November.
OCR on hold: November cut expected
25 September 2019 - The Reserve Bank has kept the Official Cash Rate at the record low of 1%, but economists predict a cut in November.
OCR Preview: economists predict no change
20 September 2019 - Economists believe the Reserve Bank will hold fire on making further cuts to the Official Cash Rate next week, with a further cut more likely in November.
Sales fall highlights sluggish market
13 September 2019 - The Reserve Bank’s dramatic OCR cut in August was meant to prompt a pick-up in the housing market but new REINZ data shows sales have slumped again.
Low deposits won’t lead to mortgage free for all
5 September 2019 - 5% deposits for first home buyers – it’s one of the centrepieces of the KiwiBuild “reset” – but advisers are asking whether it will actually make the sort of difference hoped for.
Kiwibank's shareholders green-light capital-hungry growth plans
29 August 2019 - Kiwibank's owners have approved another year of continued above-market lending growth, even though that's eating further into its available capital.
Kiwibank's annual profit eases as fee income drops
23 August 2019 - Kiwibank’s annual net profit fell $7 million, reflecting both lower fee income and one-off gains in the previous year.
Kiwibank fixed rate cuts; Avanti debt milestone
16 August 2019 - Yet more rate cuts this morning. Kiwibank has made some big cuts on its fixed rate card. Its 1 year special is down to 3.55% from 3.79%, and becomes the...
Stronger market on the cards
13 August 2019 - Those predicting a property market crash might have to reconsider as the latest REINZ data reveals signs of an improving market nationwide, including an increase in sales activity.
OCR cut could prompt housing market upturn
8 August 2019 - The Reserve Bank’s decision to slash the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by 0.5% to a historic low of 1.0% has shocked the financial community, but what could it mean for the housing market?
Banks slash rates after historic OCR cut
8 August 2019 - Lenders have taken action on fixed and floating rates after the Reserve Bank cut the Official Cash Rate to a record low of 1%. Here's a roundup of the cuts as of Thursday morning:
OCR will fall further: economists react to shock cut
8 August 2019 - The Official Cash Rate could drop to 0.75% or even lower this year, economists say, after the Reserve Bank slashed the OCR by an unprecedented 50 basis points.
Reserve Bank surprises markets with 1% OCR
7 August 2019 - The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has surprised economists by slashing the Official Cash Rate by 50 basis points to just 1%.
Talk of 0.75% OCR grows
6 August 2019 - No rate changes this morning, after SBS Bank's big move yesterday. Economists at Kiwibank now say the Official Cash Rate is "likely"...
OCR will fall to 0.75%: Kiwibank
5 August 2019 - Kiwibank has changed its forecast for the Official Cash Rate and now “expects” the OCR will drop to 0.75% in this cycle.
Economists unanimous on rate cut
2 August 2019 - Economists unanimously agree that the Reserve Bank will cut the Official Cash Rate to 1.25% next week, according to TMM's OCR Preview Survey.
Kiwibank loan rates fall again
29 July 2019 - Kiwibank is the latest lender to make home loan rate cuts. As of this morning, Kiwibank's 1 year and 2 year rates are the joint-cheapest on the market...
BNZ two-year rate down to 3.79%
22 July 2019 - The good times keep on coming for borrowers. BNZ has slashed its two-year mortgage rate for owner-occupiers to a market-leading 3.79%. The bank's two-year...
A world of declining yields
21 July 2019 - There was gold in regional rental yields in recent years but that’s changing as property prices in smaller markets go up and their yields go down.
Low rates for a very long time: Kiwibank
19 July 2019 - Economists at Kiwibank predict interest rates will remain low "for a very long time", and say the Official Cash Rate could drop to 0.75%.
It’s all about supply
19 July 2019 - New Zealand’s housing shortage is getting worse, not better, and that’s why huge price falls are unlikely going forward, according to Kiwibank economists.
Hatch's egg grows
19 July 2019 - Kiwi Wealth’s new digital investing platform, Hatch, has passed $25 million in investments since launching last September. The initial public...
OCR below 1% increasingly likely: Kiwibank
8 July 2019 - The need for the Reserve Bank to cut the Official Cash Rate to 1% and below looks "increasingly likely" according to economists at Kiwibank.
OCR on hold: economists predict August cut
26 June 2019 - The Reserve Bank has kept the Official Cash Rate on hold, but gave a clear signal rates may fall further. Economists say an August cut looks increasingly likely.
OCR Preview: Economists predict rates will hold
21 June 2019 - Economists say the Reserve Bank will keep the Official Cash Rate on hold next week, despite mounting global uncertainty and weak growth in New Zealand.
SBS changes adviser model; ANZ and Kiwibank cut rates
10 June 2019 - SBS Bank is making some big changes to its adviser model. The bank is set to reduce the number of brokers it deals with. Will it affect your business? [READ...
Customers sceptical about bank advice
8 June 2019 - Only 27% of New Zealanders view their bank as a place to get good financial advice, according to new survey from price comparison site Canstar.
Banks refuse to release submissions on RBNZ proposals
5 June 2019 - While Westpac has released its submission to the Reserve Bank on the proposed new capital requirements, the other big Australian-owned banks are refusing to follow suit.
Golden rates age set to last
28 May 2019 - There’s no need to worry about interest rates in connection to mortgage debt for the next few years, according to Kiwibank’s chief economist.
Kiwibank one year special down to 3.85%
27 May 2019 - Rates continue to fall across the market in the wake of the OCR cut, with Kiwibank's one year special down to just 3.85%.
Small banks fire warning on capital requirements
23 May 2019 - Four smaller banks have warned that the Reserve Bank's new capital proposals could inadvertently widen the competitive gap between them and the big four.
Mortgage rates hit new lows after OCR cut
9 May 2019 - Banks have made major cuts to floating and fixed rate mortgages following the Reserve Bank's decision to cut the Official Cash Rate to a record low.
OCR cut to 1.5%: could it fall even further?
8 May 2019 - The Reserve Bank has cut the Official Cash Rate to 1.50%, and economists believe we could see a further cut later this year.
Westpac, ANZ, TSB ramp up offers
9 April 2019 - ANZ has cut its one year special to 3.95% while Westpac has cut its three year rate below 4%, as prices continue to plummet for Kiwi borrowers.
Price war heats up with ASB move
4 April 2019 - Homeloan rates continue to fall in the wake of the Reserve Bank's OCR comments and weak business confidence numbers this week. ASB has slashed its three, four, and five year interest rates, joining rivals in a competitive race for borrowers.
Reaction to RBNZ's surprise OCR comments; Kiwibank makes massive cut
27 March 2019 - The Reserve Bank has surprised economists by stating the next OCR move is "likely to be down" due to slowing domestic and global growth. [READ...
Reserve Bank stuns economists with OCR cut prediction
27 March 2019 - The Reserve Bank has surprised economists by stating the next OCR move is "likely to be down" due to slowing domestic and global growth.
Small banks take fight to big four
18 March 2019 - Kiwibank and TSB have upped the ante in the 2019 price war, reviving low interest rates aimed at luring prime customers from the big four.
Kiwibank wants to be a challenger and to embrace advisers
26 February 2019 - Kiwibank is getting back to being a challenger brand after a couple of tough years and it’s looking at future partnerships - including mortgage advisers.
Unprecedented scrutiny on bank conduct: Kiwibank CEO
20 February 2019 - Kiwibank CEO Steve Jurkovich has noted the "unprecedented scrutiny" on bank conduct and culture, after the domestic lender posted a $62 million profit in the six months to December.
Kiwibank brings two year rate below 4%
29 January 2019 - Kiwibank has slashed its two year fixed rate to 3.99% as New Zealand's lenders fight for a small pool of prime mortgage borrowers.
Westpac back below 4%
17 January 2019 - Westpac has slashed its one year special rate to under 4%, prompting the possibility of another mortgage price war in 2019.
Markets price in 40% chance of OCR cut
15 January 2019 - Interest rate derivatives markets are pricing in a 40% probability the Reserve Bank will cut the Official Cash Rate this year, amid weakening inflation and slower growth overseas.
RBNZ proposals will slow credit growth: Kiwibank
17 December 2018 - Reserve Bank proposals for banks to hold significantly more cash on their balance sheets will lead to slower credit growth and rising interest rates, Kiwibank economists have warned.
LVR loosening: advisers react
28 November 2018 - Advisers say the Reserve Bank’s decision to loosen LVR restrictions will boost homebuyers, but warn tighter credit and loan servicing conditions will restrain volumes.
Job numbers 'cast doubt' on future OCR cut
7 November 2018 - Today's stronger than expected job numbers add further weight against the argument for an OCR cut, economists say.
OCR preview survey: Economists divided on tone
2 November 2018 - Once again, no OCR changes are expected during next week’s MPS announcement. Yet economists are divided on how rising inflation will impact OCR forecasts and the governor's tone.
Inflation to "force" OCR hike
16 October 2018 - The impact of rising petrol prices is likely to extend beyond the petrol pump, according to Kiwibank economists, who say inflation will force the Reserve Bank to lift the OCR six months ahead of schedule.
LVR easing talk grows
12 October 2018 - Investors might soon get a break if the Reserve Bank relaxes the LVR restrictions in its next Financial Stability Report as some economists are suggesting it will.
OCR to stay at record low: Preview Survey
21 September 2018 - New Zealand’s top economists predict the Reserve Bank will hold the Official Cash Rate next week, as the central keeps a close watch on GDP growth and inflation.
Kiwibank one-year special to rise
31 August 2018 - Kiwibank's one-year fixed home loan special, at 3.99 percent, is set to end this weekend, as the bank reverts to its standard interest rate.
We're not average: Kiwibank's new boss
24 August 2018 - Kiwibank's new chief executive is keen to grow its share in the home loan market and is considering expanding distrubution through mortgage advisers.
Kiwibank offers 90% KiwiBuild mortgages
13 August 2018 - Kiwibank is offering first home buyers 90% mortgages on KiwiBuild homes, with an extra $2000 for moving and legal expenses.
OCR to stay on hold
25 June 2018 - Don’t expect to see a change to the OCR this week as economists predict the Reserve Bank’s song will remain the same for a long time.
All eyes on Orr in lead-up to OCR call
4 May 2018 - Thursday’s monetary policy statement (MPS) is the most keenly anticipated Reserve Bank outing in many months – but it’s due to the new Governor, not the OCR outlook.
New CEO for Kiwibank
26 April 2018 - Kiwibank announced today that former ASB executive Steve Jurkovich will be taking the helm as the bank’s fourth chief executive.
Kiwibank slashes rates
23 April 2018 - Kiwibank has cut pricing across its 1 to 5 year fixed rate home loans, effective from Monday.
NZ customers more "satisfied" with local banks
6 April 2018 - Kiwi customers are happier with mortgage and credit card products from domestic banks, a new survey from Consumer NZ has found.
KPMG: Small banks growing loan books at quicker rate
26 March 2018 - New Zealand’s small banks increased their lending at higher growth rates than the major banks in the three months to December, according to a new report from KPMG.
Kiwibank changes its OCR forecast
9 March 2018 - Economists at Kiwibank have revised their forecast for the Reserve Bank’s OCR rate hike, changing their prediction from November this year to May 2019.
KiwiSaver fee drop 'missed the mark'
5 March 2018 - Small reductions to KiwiSaver fund managers’ fees are nothing to be celebrated, an adviser says.
Focus on financial crime
12 December 2017 - The New Zealand Police Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) and the five major New Zealand banks are to run a year-long pilot of the New Zealand Financial...
Sunny MPS surprises some
9 November 2017 - Optimism was the order of the day today, with RBNZ releasing a Monetary Policy Statement (MPS) that was most notable for its positivity.
OCR stable . . . for now
3 November 2017 - [OCR Preview] Economists are confident the Reserve Bank won't move the Official Cash Rate off it's historical lows next week, but there is an emerging divergence of views about what will happen in the future now there is a new government in power.
Fintech accelerator to run again
26 September 2017 - Kiwibank is running a second round of its fintech accelerator, which was responsible for helping to launch investment app Sharesies.
Gareth Morgan disappears
12 September 2017 - The Gareth Morgan Investments (GMI) name has been retired and replaced by Kiwi Wealth. Under the change the GMI Private Portfolio Service will now be known...
Kiwibank's IT work-in-progress proves costly
1 September 2017 - Kiwibank’s profit has tumbled more than 50%, largely due to an impairment charge relating to an IT project that may fail to keep up with the pace of customer behaviour change.
Bank boss resigns
22 August 2017 - Kiwibank chief executive Paul Brock is to resign after seven years leading the company.
Bank boss resigns
22 August 2017 - Kiwibank chief executive Paul Brock is to step down after seven years leading the company.
Decline in banking sector profits - KPMG
12 July 2017 - Bank profits dropped in the first part of this year – despite the housing loan driven growth of their loan books.
FMA rules could stop KiwiSaver robo before it starts
6 July 2017 - Plans that would allow roboadvice to enter the New Zealand market as early as next year may stop KiwiSaver providers getting involved.
Hawkish talk foreshadows rate rises
5 July 2017 - Tightening talk is coming from central banks around the world – although not New Zealand’s – and that means more interest rate movement is on the cards.
Is the writing on the wall for handwritten loan apps?
15 June 2017 - Handwritten loan applications may be on the way out for ANZ but are any of the other banks rushing to follow suit?
Local flavour makes for bank winners
24 April 2017 - It seems that locally owned banks rule the roost when it comes to customer satisfaction, with three New Zealand banks taking out the top awards in Consumer NZ’s latest awards.
Kiwibank chairman stands down
10 April 2017 - Kiwibank's chairman and deputy chair have resigned, effective this week.
Shareholders chip in
10 April 2017 - Kiwibank has had to go to its new shareholders for more money.
S&P, Moodys downgrade Kiwibank’s rating
1 March 2017 - Both Standard & Poors and Moody’s have downgraded Kiwibank’s credit rating in response to the expiry of a guarantee following ownership changes last year.
Profits down for Kiwibank
20 February 2017 - Funding pressures and infrastructure spending are to blame for a 13% decline in Kiwibank’s net after-tax profit in the last half of 2016.
Kiwibank rises; Say no to DTIs broker group says
5 December 2016 - Kiwibank has raised some of its longer term fixed home loan rates today. Of interest it's three-year carded rate is the same as its three-year special...
US election casts shadow over OCR response
10 November 2016 - Spectre of US election result looms over reaction to this morning’s OCR cut, but economists say it is too soon to say what impact it might have on the Reserve Bank’s future moves.
Kiwibank sale confirmed
31 October 2016 - New Zealand Post has confirmed the sale of Kiwibank’s holding company Kiwi Group Holdings Limited to the NZ Super Fund and ACC.
Kiwibank terms agreed
15 September 2016 - The NZ Super Fund and ACC have agreed on the commercial terms under which they will acquire a chunk of Kiwi Group Holdings, the sole shareholder in Kiwibank, from NZ Post.
Rising pressures impact on Kiwibank
26 August 2016 - Competitive market and increasing funding costs mean Kiwibank has experienced a small drop in its annual after tax profits.
Little doubt OCR cut coming
5 August 2016 - Rare consensus reigns on the OCR forecast front with economists across the board expecting the Reserve Bank to cut the OCR next week.
Surprise rate cut
1 August 2016 - This came somewhat as a surprise today. Kiwibank has shaved 20 basis points off its three-year fixed rate, bringing it down to 4.29%. If we think in Olympic...
Share sale may help Kiwibank get back market share
9 April 2016 - Much of the discussion around the sale of 45% of Kiwibank to the NZ Super Fund and Accident Compensation Corporation has been around politics and this of state asset sales. This post is about what it means for Kiwibank why the deal is probably a good idea.
NZ Post sells Kiwibank stake
6 April 2016 - NZ Super Fund and ACC are to pick up a 45% share of Kiwibank.
Greens' Kiwibank stance criticised
5 April 2016 - A Green Party proposal to strengthen Kiwibank has been criticised by banking experts.
Flat half-year for Kiwibank
23 February 2016 - Scope for interest rates to drop is limited as funding costs are increasing and this could compress bank margins, according to Kiwibank. Read more. ...
Flat six months for Kiwibank
22 February 2016 - Scope for interest rates to drop is limited as funding costs are increasing and this could compress bank margins, according to Kiwibank.
More AML breaches likely
30 October 2015 - Advisers are being told to use Kiwibank’s high-profile censure for a breach of the Anti-Money Laundering Act as a reminder to check their own processes are up to scratch.
Kiwibank warned over AML
28 October 2015 - Kiwibank has received a formal warning from the Reserve Bank over its failure to meet some requirements of the AML/CFT Act.
Kiwibank adds to broker force
16 September 2015 - Kiwibank is slowly increasing its presence in the mortgage adviser market.
Kiwibank vies for apartment market
14 September 2015 - Kiwibank is set to make changes to its apartment lending policy in about a fortnight.
Lending up but profits flat
7 September 2015 - New Zealand’s five major banks* profits flattened in the second quarter of 2015, although lending growth continued, according to a new analysis by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC).
Kiwibank plans digital future
28 August 2015 - Kiwibank says its focus for the future is transforming into a digital business, with fewer branches and digitally-enabled sales supported by staff.
Property prices to blame for S&P downgrade
18 August 2015 - Rampant Auckland property prices – as opposed to the banking and finance system itself - are to blame for Standard & Poor’s downgrading of New Zealand’s risk assessment.
No surprises in Reserve Bank's move
23 July 2015 - Little surprise followed the Reserve Bank’s OCR cut this morning - and further cuts are now generally expected to come this year.
Banks net interest income falls - PwC
24 June 2015 - A decrease in the net interest income of New Zealand’s major banks reflects the current highly competitive lending environment.
More banks take rates below 5%
19 June 2015 - As you can see there have been lots of home loan rate changes this week. The latest to move are Kiwibank and Westpac, with both now offering sub-5% rates...
Kiwibank removes and reduces many home loan fees
17 June 2015 - Kiwibank has quietly made a whole raft of changes to its home loan fees including the removal totally of 10 fees.
Kiwibank quietly tidies up home loan fees
17 June 2015 - Kiwibank has made a raft of changes to its fees on home loans, removing 10 totally and reducing others. See the full list of changes here ...
KiwiSaver for first homes gets boost: ANZ
22 April 2015 - ANZ is reporting a surge in the number of customers wanting to use KiwiSaver to help buy their first home following the April 1 introduction of new regulations for KiwiSaver first-home withdrawals.
Notes offer confirmed
21 April 2015 - Kiwi Capital Funding is to offer $150 million of perpetual capital notes to the public.
BNZ Special ends; Kiwibank cuts
20 April 2015 - BNZ has removed its two-year special rate and Kiwibank has reduced its carded one-year rate 10 points and its three-year special 16 points. ...
Bank lending up, but profits down
9 March 2015 - New Zealand’s five major banks (ANZ, ASB, BNZ, Kiwibank and Westpac) have continued to show solid lending growth in the fourth quarter of the 2014 calendar year but total reported profits are marginally down.
Rates slashed as mortgage wars heat up
13 February 2015 - Kiwi mortgage interest rates reached a new low today as several major banks slashed their offerings.
