The Serious Fraud Office raid on an Authorised Financial Adviser's office in Dunedin just over a week ago raises questions about the effectiveness of the regulatory environment.

We are entering into what I would suggest is one of the more interesting times in the financial services industry.

Non-bank mortgage lender Conrad Funds Management is looking to grow its mortgage book after opening up its fundraising to retail investors.

Financial Advice New Zealand is making a set of KiwiSaver recommendations to Commerce Minister Kris Faafoi in the wake of the 2019 Wellbeing Budget.

An insurance broker lost his court battle to stop Asteron Life reclaiming payments made under his disability policy, which he said were used to fund a holiday home and expensive cars, among other things.

The Financial Markets Authority has had no increase in its funding to assist with a transitioning all financial advisers to a new licensing regime.

Contributions to NZ Super Fund siphoned off to new start-up fund.

Contributions to the NZ Superannuation Fund will continue under the current government but at a lower rate than prescribed.

ANZ New Zealand CEO David Hisco is taking extended sick leave and stepping down temporarily from the top job.

New Zealand life insurers are highly profitable compared to their international peers, the Reserve Bank says, as it suggests requiring them to hold more capital.

The Reserve Bank has decided against easing loan to value ratio restrictions, and believes current settings "remain appropriate for now".

Fundraising sites are more likely to serve as a reminder of the importance of insurance than to take its place, local industry commentators say.

Advisers are being told they need to help their clients better understand the processes available to help them when problems arise.