- “We support a risk-based approach to setting levies where lower risk entities, such as banks, pay lower levies because they are less likely to call on the scheme.”
- “Some banks have individually made their own commercial decisions to phase out cheques. Some have announced dates for this, while at least one already does not accept or issue them. We’re not aware that any previously announced dates have changed.”
- ANZ, ASB, BNZ, Kiwibank, TSB and Westpac announced today they would honour an earlier commitment not to shut any regional offices until a pilot of four small-town banking hubs wraps up.
- The New Zealand Bankers’ Association says borrowers whose repayments were deferred due to the COVID-19 pandemic and are still struggling, may get an additional temporary payment deferral, have the term of the loan extended to reduce repayments, or be moved to interest-only repayments for a period.
- New Zealand Bankers’ Association chief executive Roger Beaumont said: “Banks are working closely with the few affected customers who still need help to get back on track.”
- “Banks make their own individual risk-based assessments on all lending applications on a case-by-case basis. This will take into account the risk and security of the asset.”
- The banks themselves support the dashboard and whistle-blowing service, with both projects having the backing of bank lobby group the New Zealand Bankers’ Association, the Financial Markets Authority and the Reserve Bank.
- “During the Covid-19 lockdowns, banks helped thousands of New Zealanders get better at using online and mobile banking. Those customers aren’t looking back. However, we know that some customers still prefer face-to-face banking, and that’s what this banking hub trial is designed to test.”
- New Zealand Bankers’ Association chief executive Roger Beaumont said: “Branches are closing in some regional communities due to lack of demand. These changes are occurring because customers are banking differently – they can go online, call their bank or use an app.”
