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".

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

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

Investment in infrastructure and development in Northland means the future looks bright for Whangarei investors – thanks to a tight rental market but affordable prices, writes Miriam Bell.

Research showing many New Zealanders are not on track for retirement proves the need for advisers, ASB says.

Advisers say Aegis will need significant investment if it is to continue to be a viable platform option in the future.

The Commerce Commission has launched an investigation into BNZ over the bank's compliance with the Credit Contracts and Consumer Finance Act.

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%.

Sorting out what the financial advice industry is going to look like under the new regime is something akin to trying to solve the Rubick cube.

Non-bank mortgage provider Resimac has bolstered its New Zealand underwriting team with the appointment of a new Senior Underwriter.

Investors borrowed just $988 million in April, down from $1.26 billion in the same month last year, according to new figures from the Reserve Bank.

Westpac says the Reserve Bank’s bank capital proposals will mean homeowners with an average mortgage in Auckland will be paying about $6,000 a year more in interest.