All the news focus is currently on the Christchurch earthquake and our thoughts are with readers in that region.

The Life Brokers Association (LBA) is urging any members affected by the earthquake in Christchurch to get in contact if they need a place to stay.

The country's major banks have announced a number of assistance package measures for home loan customers affected by yesterday’s Christchurch earthquake.

ETITO is making changes to accommodate advisers affected by the earthquake, cancelling and postponing exams and assessments for the National Certificate in Financial Services.

The Reserve Bank said it is working closely with authorities and financial institutions to ensure financial services are available to people and businesses in Christchurch after yesterday's earthquakes.

Professional Advisers Association CEO Edward Richards says his brother had a lucky escape from the Christchurch earthquake: "He was having a haircut and when he came back the building was gone."

DBR has appointed previous mortgage broker Geoff Allen as a business development manager.

Wealth management advice channel sales down 52%; ETITO updates Standard Set B pass figures;  KiwiSaver hits 1.63 mill; The ABCs of QFEs.

Dorchester Pacific has announced the appointment of Greg Peebles as a non-executive director.

A survey out of Australia shows that consumers prefer life insurance advisers to be paid by commission.