New Zealand banks are bucking international trends by holding on to their advice forces.

Non-banks posted a 22.9% increase in net profit last year, according to KPMG's latest non-bank report. The advisory firm tips non-banks to grow further in 2019, as banks tighten up in the aftermath of the Royal Commission.

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.

Two smaller banks have followed the big four in ending their sub-4% special rates, as mortgage rates creep up to more normal levels. 

Morningstar director of manager research, Asia-Pacific, Tim Murphy says it is still committed to the New Zealand market, despite no longer having researchers on the ground here.

It's not unusual that something big drops right on Christmas, and it's happened again this year. MBIE have released a discussion document which goes a long way to answering one of the biggest questions about impeding regulation. How much it will cost.

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has proposed that banks should hold between 20% and 60% more capital on their balance sheets, a move likely to increase borrowing rates and put more pressure on major lenders.

Fidelity Life says it is bolstering its support for advisers with a range of new appointments.

Mortgage Express has hired Anish Martis as an Auckland-based mortgage adviser, after signing its joint venture agreement with Australian group Astute Financial.

Non-bank lender Resimac is set to change the way it handles customer credit assessments, looking at "credit events", rather than individual listings. The move will make it easier for customers with previous credit issues to access financing.

Complete the 2019 Property Investors' Survey and go in the draw to win a $100 Placemakers voucher.

One of the few AIA faces left in its top ranks after the Sovereign merger is leaving.