Loan Amortisation Schedule: This is the formal name for the repayment schedule that shows each of your mortgage payments with a breakdown of how much is applied to principal and how much is applied to interest.
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
The evolution of banking has hit a new velocity with prominent banks steering away from traditional branch-focused models.
Notable Australian financial institutions are taking bold steps that signify a changing ethos, amid surges in digital banking technology and customer preferences shifting dramatically towards online services.
In a move underscoring this sea change, Commonwealth Bank recently confirmed that it will shutter the doors of three branches located in prime city locales. With each footfall reduction, the digital footprint enlarges; savvy consumers are turning keystrokes into cash withdrawals and direct deposit clicks.
The classic bank branches facing imminent closure include an iconic outpost in Adelaide's bustling Rundle Mall, the beach-adjacent Coolangatta zone in the Gold Coast, and the trendy suburbia of Coogee in Sydney's eastern precincts. The final transactions in these establishments will draw to a close before the calendar flips to March.
This pattern of closures is hardly an isolated event; it is a strategic response reflecting an irreversible drift towards digital dominance in personal finance management. Here are a few other indicators of the shifting sands in financial service provision:
Consumer Convenience: Today's banking customer values the ability to transact anytime, anywhere, far from the confines of traditional banking hours and locations.
Fintech Innovation: An explosion of financial technology startups breeds a competitive market that caters to niche demands and simplifies complex financial operations.
Cost Reduction: The logistical economics of maintaining a physical presence versus the streamlined digital interface results in cost-cutting considerations for banks.
The retreat from the high street does not leave customers stranded, however. Banks invest heavily in enhancing digital platforms, offering virtual advisory services, and employing algorithms that can predict and cater to individual financial needs with precision.
Yet, there remains a demographic less inclined or less able to navigate this digital divide-elderly customers, those with limited internet skills, or individuals in remote towns without robust internet infrastructure may find themselves adrift if physical bank outlets continue to wane.
As the shuttering of prominent city bank branches fast becomes an economic leitmotif, it places into sharp focus the expectation of banks to bridge the gap, ensuring that while they voyage boldly into the digital future, they do not leave pockets of society stranded in their wake.
Published:Monday, 12th Feb 2024 Source: Paige Estritori
Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.
The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced a significant policy change aimed at mitigating risks in the housing market. Effective February 2026, APRA will impose a cap on high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, limiting such loans to 20% of new home lending. This measure applies to both owner-occupiers and investors, with an exemption for new housing developments. - read more
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), the nation's largest lender, has raised concerns about the current high demand for home loans, which is contributing to escalating property prices. CEO Matt Comyn acknowledged that while the bank has benefited from the surge in housing credit, such high levels are unsustainable and could undermine long-term financial stability, housing equality, and market accessibility. He suggested that a more moderate pace of credit growth would be beneficial. - read more
As Black Friday sales gain popularity in Australia, consumer advocates are raising concerns about the financial strain these events place on individuals and families. The allure of significant discounts and the social pressure to participate in these sales have led many Australians to increase their credit card debt, potentially exacerbating financial stress. - read more
In a significant development for Australia's banking sector, Nuno Matos, Chief Executive Officer of ANZ Group, has been appointed as the new chair of the Australian Banking Association (ABA) council. This appointment marks a pivotal moment for the industry, as Matos brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the role. - read more
In a proactive move to address potential risks in the housing market, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) has announced the implementation of a cap on high debt-to-income (DTI) home loans, effective from February 2026. This measure is designed to curb the issuance of loans that could pose systemic risks to the financial system. - read more
In a world marked by economic uncertainties and the ever-mounting cost of living, the importance of a sound family budget cannot be overstated. Today's economic climate necessitates not just prudent but strategic financial planning. With the right budget in place, families can navigate the choppy waters of their finances, avoiding the all-too-common pitfalls of overspending and under-saving. - read more
Welcome to our blog, where we're dedicated to helping you make the most of your financial journey. Today, we're going to delve into an important aspect of financial health: tracking your progress after debt consolidation. - read more
Budgeting is the process of creating a plan to manage your money. Essentially, it allows you to allocate your income towards expenses, savings, and other financial goals. By keeping track of where your money goes, budgeting helps you ensure that you are not overspending and are prepared for future financial needs. - read more
Managing personal debt effectively is crucial for maintaining financial stability. Debt, when left unchecked, can quickly spiral out of control, leading to financial stress and a host of other problems. - read more
Welcome to Financial Planning 101: How to Get Ahead of Your Debt! If you're feeling overwhelmed by your financial situation, you're not alone. Many people struggle with managing debt and finding ways to achieve financial stability. - read more
