Latest Australian Financial Services News

Sequoia Financial Group has launched a dedicated AFSL Governance Committee to bolster oversight across its licenses, appointing former ASIC Commissioner Danielle Press as Independent Chair.

Stakk Limited has reported a remarkable 262% year-on-year increase in annual recurring revenue receipts, driven by its Embedded Finance services in the US and Australia. The company is poised to broaden its offerings with new client wins and the upcoming launch of Embedded Lending capabilities.

Insignia Financial has provided an update on its ongoing discussions with CC Capital Partners regarding a potential acquisition via a scheme of arrangement. While talks continue, there is no certainty a deal will be reached.

TAL Dai-ichi Life Australia has obtained all necessary regulatory approvals, including from APRA, to finalize its minority investment in Challenger Limited, acquiring a 19.9% equity stake.

L1 Capital and Platinum Asset Management have formalised their merger with a binding agreement, promising continuity for L1 Long Short Fund's management and strategy.

Assetora Limited has been appointed as the new Responsible Entity of the DomaCom Fund, replacing Melbourne Securities Corporation Limited. This change is set to reopen the secondary market and resume new investments, signaling renewed investor confidence.

Solvar Limited has taken a strategic step by acquiring a 19.9% stake in Earlypay Limited, aiming to broaden its footprint in the SME finance sector. This move aligns with Solvar’s focus on underserved commercial markets.

Australian Wealth Advisors Group (AWAG) has completed strategic investments in Oneledger Group and B2B Invest, positioning itself for a net profit before tax exceeding $900k in 2026.

Qualitas Real Estate Income Fund (QRI) declared a distribution for April 2025, delivering an annualized return of 7.60% based on its net tangible assets. The fund continues to focus on real estate loans secured by mortgages across Australia, aiming to provide steady monthly income.

ARC Funds Limited has acquired a controlling interest in The Term Deposit Shop, bolstering its position in the online cash investment space while raising $600,000 in equity and $800,000 in debt financing.

Macquarie Bank Limited reported an 18% rise in net profit for FY2025, driven by growth in its retail banking segment despite margin pressures, while its commodities business faced subdued markets. The bank maintained strong capital ratios and advanced its risk and technology frameworks amid regulatory scrutiny.

Macquarie Group reported a 5% rise in full-year net profit to A$3.715 billion for FY25, driven by growth across its diversified businesses and a solid capital position. The group’s assets under management reached A$941 billion, supported by strong home loan and deposit growth.