Last year was pretty horrendous for financial markets but to judge by many commentators 2009 could be worse still. The protracted process of unwinding excessive leverage and poor asset quality that built up in the global financial system over recent years is likely to continue across this year

AXA’s rating has been raised to AA from AA- by credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s, due to its ability to pay under its insurance policies and contracts.

Fisher keeps Kingfish contract; KBC Water Fund dries up; Small tax changes – big growth opportunities

One of the most interesting stories this week had to be the one Good Returns ran about AXA and Gould Wealth Management.

Saving habits formed early can make a life time’s difference when it comes to managing money, according to a recent survey, “Attitudes to Money” released by AMP Financial Services.

Ring-fencing of rental losses on rental properties could end up resulting in 116,000 fewer rentals, Stop the War on Tenancies spokesman Mike Butler cautions.

The Sorted website has been updated to include information for employers about the changes to KiwiSaver which come into effect on 1 April.

SBS Bank is introducing a five-year bond, specifically for its customers, but is looking to make a broader offering to the public in the future.

Sovereign has retained its A+ financial strength rating from international credit analyst firm A M Best for the second year in a row.

Nationwide

Moody's has announced ratings changes for Packaged Income Notes (PINs) 2005-1 and 2006-1, due to problems with the notes' managers.

PIS rolls up its sleeves; Record numbers using Sorted resources

The government has agreed to pressure from the life insurance industry to put off implementation of a new tax bill.

Money at Work looks at Meridian's Renewable Energy Notes, cutely called RENs.

Money at Work looks at Meridian's Renewable Energy Notes, cutely called RENs.

The Weekly Wrap sums up all the important news stories in the financial services industry.