As the COVID-19 pandemic creates turbulence in global financial markets and propels investors into a race for liquidity, we are beginning to see investment funds grappling with some of the issues they had confronted in 2007–2009 during the global financial crisis (the GFC). ...

Proposed changes giving ASIC powers in relation to financial services industry codes of conduct means that obligations in these codes may become enforceable. This is interesting because the drafting in many of these codes tends to be broad, and, in some cases, goes far beyond the participants' exist ...

In its latest compliance update, ASX reiterated that entities in financial difficulty (including with respect to their debt arrangements) will receive no special treatment. On earnings guidance, it was acknowledged that many listed entities have taken the opportunity to withdraw guidance issued before the outbreak of COVID-19. ASX also strongly encouraged entities to review their published guidance in light of COVID-19 and to either update it if it was not current or withdraw it in this highly uncertain climate. ...

According to the report, more than 40% of the class actions filed in 2019 were filed on behalf of consumers. This result is a change from recent years in which being an ASX-listed company was the ...

It is critical that listed entities understand how COVID-19 is likely to impact their businesses and are prepared to make necessary disclosures to the ASX. To date, the majority of ASX-listed entities have not made any disclosure in relation to COVID-19. In this update we have set out a number of scenarios that should be considered by listed clients as part of the proper and ongoing assessment of the need for disclosure under the ASX Listing Rules. ...

An analysis of the practical implications of COVID-19 on corporate financing transactions and a summary of some key documentation issues that arise because of this global issue, along with tips to address them. ...

Record levels of capital and a turning market for Australia. It's a new decade for private equity (PE) in Australia. After a drop in activity in 2019, we expect both buyside and exit activity levels to pick up considerably in 2020. ...

This Insight: provides commentary on matters Boards, supported by management, may wish to consider in raising equity; makes some observations about what we are seeing in the market to date or expect to see; and outlines some of the recent regulatory changes in light of COVID-19. ...

The recent outbreak of the novel coronavirus is causing disruption across greater China and the region. This cross-practice guide from our colleagues at Linklaters highlights key issues that may affect business operations in the current environment. ...

This insight exams ASIC's proposals on on the new mortgage broker best interests duty. A new duty has been created for mortgage brokers to act in the best interests of consumers where there is a conflict when providing credit assistance. ...