AMP is the latest corporate to go to the market with a bond offer. It has launched a listed debt called the AMP Notes which is expected to pay a rate between 8.40% and 8.90%.

Equitable Mortgages and Equitable Life Insurance has had its long-term ratings lowered to BB from BB+ by Standard & Poor’s.

Morningstar has announced the winners in the Morningstar Fund Manager of the Year Awards 2008. This marks the 17th consecutive year we have presented these Awards.

AIG has reported a record fourth quarter loss of US$61.7 billion and said that it is planning to separate Hong-Kong-based AIA from the American parent company. AIG Life New Zealand is part of AIA.

Guardian Trust has announced that it will make the first repayment of capital to investors in the Guardian Mortgage Fund on 16 March. The initial partial redemption will comprise 15% of each investor’s holdings in the Fund.

Trevor Tiplady has joined the Loan Market team as a mortgage broker.

AMP Capital last night was named the Morningstar Fund Manager of the Year with a strong showing across a number of asset classes.

The government’s deposit guarantee scheme is set to have its first test-run, as of today.

Insurance companies are being called on to front up and assist advisers who may have difficulties in complying with GST on insurance commission.

Rodney Deacon is joining the Mint Asset Management team as an equity analyst.

Contact’s proposed fixed bonds rated; Final Provincial payout; Bridgecorp directors appear in court - again

Goldman Sachs, Bancorp named Medical managers; Getting excited about Grosvenor; Senior staff to take over ABN Amro Craigs; IFA Independent Director sought

If there was a common currency in this week’s news, it was ING. The company featured in a lot of stories, however the week didn’t end with an ING.

Southern Cross Healthcare and Medical Care Society have three new team members.