ING Life says its has paid out its first insurance claim for the breast cancer drug Herceptin.

Wellington

Guardian Trust has decided to suspend new investments and withdrawals in its $249 million mortgage fund to protect investors.

A slowing economy has reduced the take-up of health insurance policies according to the latest statistics.

Education Minister Chris Carter and Commerce Minister Lianne Dalziel have welcomed New Zealand Qualification Authority (NZQA) approval of a national qualification for financial advisers.

Invercargill

New qualification for advisers, Tauranga firm goes bust.

Newpark owner Darren Gannon has scotched rumours that Professional Investment Services (PIS) is buying the group.

Dunedin

AIG Life says it has had one of the biggest 12-month periods in its 27-year history, propelled in part by a 150% increase in the group and employee benefits business.

UPDATED: Hanover Finance took a double hit yesterday with a ratings downgrade and news of a Commerce Commission investigation.