“It’s a good idea to calculate the potential interest rate savings for the balance of the fixed period against the break cost.
Then you can make a carefully considered decision and not just chase a cheaper rate.
Your bank should be able to help with this comparison.”
Bankers’ Association chief executive Roger Beaumont said it was up to each bank as to how it responded if the rules come into effect.
“Our independent economic analysis suggests there will likely be tightening of lending in some parts of the economy such as small business and agriculture.”
New Zealand Bankers’ Association chief executive Roger Beaumont said banks had different organisational structures to deal with hardship and loan repayment issues.
Financial Markets Authority
“Conservative lending practices, which drive consumers to higher-cost and potentially irresponsible lending, run counter to the important policy objectives of promoting financial inclusion and access to safer credit.”
Organisations that carry out business in New Zealand are required to report inactive accounts under the Unclaimed Money Act 1971.
Finance and Expenditure Committee
NZBA said banks know the role farmers play in the economy and that it’s important they succeed.
The New Zealand Bankers’ Association today welcomed the government’s announcement that it will introduce a bill to set up a farm debt mediation scheme.
“Banks are responsible lenders that take a long-term view to the rural sector. They know the vital role farmers play in the economy and that it’s important they succeed,” says New Zealand Bankers’ Association deputy chief executive Antony Buick-Constable.
“Rural bank managers work closely with farmers facing financial challenges on a case-by-case basis to see how they can work together through any issues. This was the situation during the last dairy downturn and the current mycoplasma bovis outbreak.
“The industry supports farm debt mediation to provide clarity and another option for farmers.
“Last year NZBA began developing an industry-led farm debt mediation scheme but it was overtaken by the government’s proposed initiative, which we support in principle.
“We look forward to seeing the Bill and to getting a mediation scheme in place.”
ENDS
“International money transfers made from a banking app or by internet banking usually include a fee to cover other overseas bank costs. And there will also be an exchange rate conversion fee if sending money in a currency other than New Zealand dollars.”