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. ...

On Saturday 28 March 2020, the Fair Work Commission introduced temporary changes to the Clerks – Private Sector Award in response to the impacts of COVID-19 on clerical and administrative employees. An employer can now agree (in writing, including by email) with an individual employee to reduce the employee's hours (including by more than 25%) or to move the employee temporarily from full-time to part-time hours of work, and reduce their pay proportionately. ...

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

COVID-19 will have a range of impacts on over-the-counter derivative transactions. We set out below some key documentation issues arising as a consequence of COVID-19 and our practical tips. ...

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has unveiled the much-anticipated new regulatory framework for foreign financial services providers that supply financial services to wholesale clients in Australia. foreign financial services providers ...

The newly introduced superannuation guarantee (SG) amnesty scheme provides a one-off amnesty to encourage employers to self-correct historical SG non-compliance. This is done by allowing employers to claim tax deductions for contributions made during the amnesty period, as well as waiving certain penalties and fees that may otherwise apply in relation to historical SG non-compliance. ...

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). ...

Like all industries, the superannuation industry is facing some immense challenges in light of the rapidly developing COVID-19 pandemic. This Insight considers some of the more topical issues the industry is facing ...

The COVID Safe Harbour will provide useful immediate relief for companies and their directors, particularly those who need time to assess the company's position before developing a turnaround plan or pursuing an insolvency administration if that becomes necessary. ...

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 ...