Banks adopting more prudent lending practices

chief executive

9 December 2009
| By Caroline Munro |
image
image
expand image

Banks will be engaging in more prudent business lending practices in the current economic climate, according to Australian Bankers’ Association chief executive David Bell.

Speaking at an ABA and member banks business roundtable in Cairns yesterday, Bell said the current economic conditions will mean that banks will be tightening up on their requirements — in that they may require more information, covenants or new conditions of businesses seeking to refinance or apply for a loan.

“It is important that banks continue to make prudent decisions on lending,” he said. “Obviously it does not make business sense to lend to a customer who cannot repay the loan. We need to remember the vital role played by sound lending in restoring economic growth, and we must work together to get through these difficult times.”

Bell said businesses that are doing it tough should contact their bank to work out a strategy for keeping on top of their loan. He added that many banks have specialist staff that assist customers who experience hardship.

Read more about:

AUTHOR

Recommended for you

sub-bgsidebar subscription

Never miss the latest news and developments in wealth management industry

MARKET INSIGHTS

Completely agree Peter. The definition of 'significant change is circumstances relevant to the scope of the advice' is s...

1 month 2 weeks ago

This verdict highlights something deeply wrong and rotten at the heart of the FSCP. We are witnessing a heavy-handed, op...

1 month 3 weeks ago

Interesting. Would be good to know the details of the StrategyOne deal....

1 month 4 weeks ago

SuperRatings has shared the median estimated return for balanced superannuation funds for the calendar year 2024, finding the year achieved “strong and consistent positiv...

1 week 4 days ago

Original bidder Bain Capital, which saw its first offer rejected in December, has returned with a revised bid for Insignia Financial....

4 days 8 hours ago

A relevant provider has received a written direction from the Financial Services and Credit Panel after a superannuation rollover resulted in tax bill of over $200,000 fo...

4 weeks ago

TOP PERFORMING FUNDS