Economy

The Western Australian government has warned brokers of online scamming after consumers were defrauded by a scheme involving a Perth brokerage.

Australian regulators could be keeping a close eye on New Zealand after new investor rules were introduced by its central bank to combat a “growing housing market risk”.

A mortgage broking association has urged the appointment of a federal housing minister, which it says will help make property more affordable.

Westpac has reported a surge in consumer sentiment, which the bank describes as a “very strong result”.

Reserve Bank deliberations suggest another interest rate cut may be coming in the months ahead.

Negative gearing probably has a “detrimental effect” on housing affordability but the impact on rental affordability is unclear, according to a federal inquiry.

AMP Capital chief executive Stephen Dunne has announced he will retire from the specialist investment manager later in the year.

La Trobe Financial Asset Management has received a ‘strong’ rating from Australia Ratings for the second consecutive year.

One bank has tightened its investor LVRs due to APRA pressure – but nine others are growing their investor lending faster than a key risk indicator.