Mark Bristow

RBA looks at more affordable electronic payments

Despite changes to interchange fee regulations earlier this year, small businesses and Australian consumers are still paying more for the convenience of electronic payments, according to the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), indicating that some acquiring banks are yet to pass on their savings on interchange costs.

Bank customers prefer solving problems face to face

While Aussies are happy to do their banking digitally, it takes a conversation, preferably in person, to answer tricky question and resolve problems, according to a new study.

Prepare for buyer's remorse this Christmas

Over two thirds of Australians suffer from ‘post-purchase blues’ following impulse buys in the lead-up to the Christmas season, according to new research from AMP.

What Is A Balloon Payment? Car Loans | RateCity

Despite how it sounds, balloon payments have nothing to do with buying inflatable novelties, and everything to do with car loans and vehicle finance.

Dodging the crowds, What are Australia's busiest Christmas shopping days?

Australians are planning to spend around $11 billion this Christmas, with new research from the Commonwealth Bank putting each person’s average spend at around $593.

Banking royal commission announced

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has announced a royal commission into Australia’s banking sector, following repeated calls for an inquiry into the scandal-prone sector from the finance community and beyond.

Disabled Australians at financial risk

A new study has confirmed that people living with disabilities are vulnerable to financial exploitation and abuse by unscrupulous service providers, and that access to financial education may be able to help disabled Australians and carers make more confident financial decisions.

Aussies looking on the bright side

Things are looking up for the Aussie economy, with declining unemployment and the recent same-sex marriage survey result boosting consumer confidence to a 16-week high, according to ANZ and Roy Morgan Research.

Are paper billing fees unfair? Government plans to investigate

If your bank, utility company or telecommunications provider charge you extra to receive paper bills, the Australian government may want to hear from you.

How much is Lender's Mortgage Insurance?

Because Lender’s Mortgage Insurance (LMI) can be a significant extra expense when purchasing a property, it’s important to include it in your budget when calculating whether you can afford a home loan, to avoid finding yourself in financial stress at the very start of a 30-year mortgage term.