Finance News Wrap

Thu, 9th Jul 2026

In this week's Finance News Wrap, Financial Services Online explores Australia's changing financial and EV landscape. The Reserve Bank of Australia reports a 0.7% rise in total credit in May 2026, largely driven by robust demand in business credit. However, lenders remain stringent, prompting businesses to thoroughly prepare loan applications. Australia's financial advice sector presents a disparity, as despite a 71.7% pass rate at June 2026s Financial Advisers Exam, the number of advisers dipped below 15,000. In the EV industry, new additions like Farizon's F3E and Leapmotor B05 serve varied needs of small business and cost-conscious buyers, respectively, but considerations about whole-of-life costs and suitability are paramount. Loan calculators are advised for assessing total EV ownership costs. To stay updated, visit financialservicesonline.com.au.

Wed, 8th Jul 2026

In this week's Financial Services Online podcast, host Paige Estritori guides listeners through recent happenings in the finance and electric vehicle industry. A significant portion of the discussion centres around the decrease in financial advisers and rising compliance demands, despite promising results from the latest Financial Adviser Exam. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission's revocation of 26 authorisations underscores the importance of diligent consumer engagement and verifying adviser qualifications. Changes in the electric vehicle market include the introduction of affordable Farizon F3E and Leapmotor B05 models. While their low starting prices appeal to budget-conscious buyers, Paige stresses the necessity to consider total ownership costs, whole-of-life costs, and practicality before investing. As always, potential buyers are advised to calculate loan implications before finalizing any deals. For more updates and advice, listeners are directed to the Financial Services Online website.n

Tue, 7th Jul 2026

In this episode of the Weekly Finance News Wrap, we cover the latest in electric vehicle updates and mortgage news. Firstly, we discussed Farizon's new F3E electric truck cab for small businesses and service fleets, and Leapmotor's launch of the affordable B05 in Australia. Both models offer impressive ranges, but buyers are advised to consider whole-of-life costs and charging access. We also delve into the topic of refinancing and highlight how aggressively targeted new mortgage rates by lenders might not benefit existing mortgage owners unless they contemplate refinancing. Factors such as financial health, available equity, and credit history determine eligibility, but loan features and fees are significant aspects to consider too. Visit our website for resources like loan calculators to assist in your financial journey.

Mon, 6th Jul 2026

This week on 'Weekly Finance News Wrap', Paige Estritori presents compelling stories on the Australian motor industry, marine industry, and mortgage industry. The affordable electric vehicle Leapmotor B05 enters the Australian under $40,000 market, set to challenge rivals with its two model types and features. Electric boating, no longer an experimental concept, is steadily becoming popular in the marine industry, with factors such as charging access, battery maintenance, design considerations, and costs influencing potential adoption by users. Lastly, in the mortgage sphere, lenders are reducing their rates to invite new mortgage applicants, even while existing holders deal with previous rate increases, proving the importance of considering more than just interest rates in your mortgage plans. Tune in next week for more financial news updates.

Sun, 5th Jul 2026

In this week's Weekly Finance News Wrap, Paige Estritori highlights the launch of Leapmotor's B05 electric vehicle in Australia, an affordable option for prospective electric vehicle buyers with two versions: the B05 Style and the Design LR, offering ranges of 401km and 482km respectively. She also highlights the emergence of the electric boating industry as a serious buying consideration due to its benefits of lower maintenance and quieter operation. In the home loan space, Estritori discusses the pause in the cash rate by the Reserve Bank of Australia, advising existing mortgage holders to negotiate better discounts or consider refinancing to uncover potential savings. Finally, the program touches on the rising commercial credit card debt, which is currently at $2.26 billion, encouraging businesses to shift their focus from convenience to strategic financial planning.n