Advisers say a proposed capital gains tax on rental properties will not deter professional, long-term investors in the market.

The Tax Working Group (TWG) has recommended that income from capital gains – especially those made on residential rental properties – should be taxed more.

Associations are being told to be more openly vocal in their support for financial advisers.

Forget about upfront commissions, one adviser says churn should be tackled by allowing trail commissions to be paid to the servicing adviser – not simply the person who sold the product in the first place.

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.

NZX has signalled plans to grow its Wealth Technologies platform further, despite long delays in bringing on its first customer.

A new online tool, Smart Investor, is being launched today to help Kiwis search and compare New Zealand investments such as KiwiSaver, shares, bonds and other types of managed products for the first time.

New Zealand advisers have an opportunity to raise greater awareness about reverse mortgages, as the product becomes increasingly popular in Australia, according to Heartland Bank CEO Chris Flood.

There are concerns that a bill that would make it easier for foster children to access KiwiSaver may be stopped in its tracks.

Sovereign has had its financial strength rating reaffirmed by AM Best.

nib New Zealand says the $69 million it paid in claims in the latter six months of last year was a record.