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Institutional investors across the globe are largely standing firm despite acknowledging the rising geopolitical risks impacting their portfolios.
Recent research by investment consultancy firm Bfinance, involving over 160 institutional investors worldwide, reveals that most entities have not adjusted their strategic investments amidst the current economic turbulence driven by trade conflicts.
The survey found that a significant 82% of respondents have noticed an increase in geopolitical risks since the start of the year. European investors particularly feel the pressure, with 85% responding to increased risks, compared to 80% in the Americas and other regions. Unstable political environments and shifting global alliances are major factors contributing to this sentiment.
Despite these challenges, 75% of the institutional contingent report their risk appetite remains unchanged, indicating resilience amid turbulent times. Bfinance highlighted that the view of increased risk is shared across all investor categories, from pension funds to sovereign wealth funds, suggesting a wide-reaching consensus on the issue.
In terms of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations, nearly half of the investors report no change in strategy. However, opinions are shifting, with 24% viewing ESG as less appealing amidst growing policy resistance in the US. Around 50% are actively reassessing their approaches to ESG-related investments, focusing particularly on sustainability and climate-oriented strategies.
This divide on ESG priorities varies among investor types. Mission-linked investors like endowment funds are staying committed to ESG objectives, while those under more economic performance scrutiny are reconsidering their positions. Notably, institutional investors showed a split stance: 36% are staying the course, yet significant proportions are either downgrading (25%) or upgrading (17%) the appeal of ESG.
Ultimately, Bfinance's study shows a strategic recalibration phase for institutional investors, even as geopolitical uncertainties and policy shifts, especially in the US, prompt reassessments of certain tactics. Yet the dedication to long-term goals persists, with European investors leading in maintaining ESG principles whereas US investors navigate a shifting policy environment.
ANZ Group has reported a 14% decline in annual cash earnings, amounting to A$5.79 billion for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2025. This downturn is primarily attributed to a significant post-tax impact of A$1.11 billion, which includes A$414 million in redundancy costs for 3,500 employees and A$264 million in penalties from a regulatory lawsuit. - read more
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), the nation's largest bank by market value, has reported a modest increase in first-quarter cash profit, achieving approximately A$2.6 billion. This 1% rise from the previous two-quarter average is primarily driven by robust growth in home loans and household deposits. However, the bank's net interest margin has declined due to lower mortgage rates and intensified competition, reflecting the challenges in maintaining profitability amidst a competitive lending environment. - read more
A recent survey by the National Australia Bank (NAB) reveals an improvement in Australian business conditions for October 2025, marked by a rise in sales and profits. The NAB business conditions index increased by one point to +9, reaching its highest level since March 2024. Despite this positive trend, business confidence experienced a slight decline, dropping one point to +6, though it remains above the long-term average. - read more
Australia's business lending sector is witnessing a significant shift as Japanese banking giants Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) and Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group (MUFG) emerge as leading growth drivers. In July 2025, the combined business loan books of Australia's top 10 authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs) reached A$925 billion, with SMBC and MUFG recording the highest percentage growth rates among them. - read more
In a significant strategic shift, ANZ Group has announced the cessation of its remaining A$800 million share buyback program. This decision is aimed at bolstering the bank's cash reserves to support a comprehensive restructuring plan under the leadership of CEO Nuno Matos. - read more
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has released its October 2025 Financial Stability Review, providing a comprehensive assessment of the nation's financial system. The report underscores the resilience of Australia's financial institutions, households, and businesses in the face of elevated global uncertainties. - read more
In September 2025, Australian business conditions remained steady, according to the latest survey from National Australia Bank (NAB). The survey's business conditions index held firm at +8, while the business confidence index saw a slight increase of 3 points to +7, both figures sitting just above their long-term averages. - read more
Funding is crucial for startups and small businesses looking to grow and succeed. In Australia, there are multiple financing options available, each catering to different business needs. These options range from traditional bank loans to more flexible lines of credit, helping entrepreneurs find the best fit for their specific requirements. - read more
Loan refinancing is a financial strategy where existing debts are replaced with new ones, usually with different terms and conditions. While it might seem like just swapping one loan for another, the nuances can be game-changers for businesses. Refinancing often provides a chance to improve borrowing conditions, such as reducing interest rates, altering loan durations, or switching to a more favourable lender. - read more
Mezzanine finance represents a sophisticated instrument within the realm of corporate finance, often utilized as a strategic tool when more traditional forms of capital are not ideally suited or are insufficient for a firm's needs. Inherently, it serves as a hybrid between debt and equity financing, tailored to support growth initiatives such as business acquisitions. - read more
In the entrepreneurial world, securing the right type of financing can be the catalyst for substantial business growth and success. Commercial property financing in Australia encompasses a range of options tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses, each with its own set of advantages and intricacies. This article delves into the heart of strategic financing, providing Aussie entrepreneurs with guidance on navigating this vital aspect of their business ventures. - read more
Embarking on a startup journey in Australia is both thrilling and challenging. You have a groundbreaking idea, but starting a business involves numerous hurdles—capital being a primary one. This is where business loans come into play. They are crucial lifelines that help convert entrepreneurial dreams into reality. - read more
Starting a business often requires a substantial amount of capital, which many new business owners may not have readily available. Business loans can provide the necessary funding to help get your startup off the ground, from purchasing equipment to hiring staff and everything in between. - read more
When it comes to starting or expanding a business in Australia, securing funding is often a top priority. However, traditional funding options, such as bank loans or government grants, can be difficult to obtain for small businesses. - read more
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Foreclosure: The legal process by which a lender takes control of a property, evicts the homeowner, and sells the home after the homeowner fails to make mortgage payments.