[Weekly Wrap] Pick n' mix

First up, a little reminder: Have you completed the Good Returns readership survey? If you haven't, click here to take part. It doesn't take long to complete, will help us improve the site for readers and - best of all - you go into a draw to win.

Friday, December 11th 2009, 4:00PM

It's been a mixed bag of news this week with the two biggest stories relating to the IFA. As we reported yesterday, the institute is losing its chief executive.

Also during the week the IFA continued its name and shame regime, suspending an adviser who hadn't responded to complaints lodged against him.

Late last week DNZ announced that it was suspending its IPO following heavy criticism from many quarters, one of these being MMG (formerly Money Managers). The story continues to evolve with both sides explaining their position and making various allegations against each other.

How this story plays out will be fascinating to watch over the coming months.

In the same vein, the Hanover story is nearing a climax. The company and its suitor Allied Farmers have been touring the country drumming up support for the deal. Allied Farmers shareholders have said yes and Hanover investors get to vote next week.

Some of the stories in the media have been fascinating, particularly with regards to the way Hanover's shareholders, particularly Mark Hotchin, have been treated. I comment on this in today's Blog The Good and the Bad. Not doubt many will take umbrage at my comments.

In other news about finance companies and fixed interest investments, we report that there are some concerns over loans made to out-going South Canterbury Finance chief executive Lachie McLeod. Meanwhile Meridian Energy has suspended its Renewable Energy Notes following the government's shake-up of the electricity sector.

Regulation, often a top topic for the Weekly Wrap, takes a back seat today. The closest we get is the Retirement Commissioner's submission to a government select committee this week. Perhaps just as interesting as the story are the comments.

However, we have a must-read issue of ASSET out at the moment. This issue has an Advisers' Guide to Regulation. In this article we outline what advisers need to do to get ready for the new regime.

Also in the magazine, Liz Koh gives her view on the Consumer survey and why she was dumped from the Code Committee.

To get your copy, send an email to subs@goodreturns.co.nz or call 0800-345675.

Back at Good Returns we update readers on how well the life insurance market has been going in the past couple of years and we have a story on PIS doing a deal with one of the other risk groups in the marketplace.

Also, last week's story suggesting advisers sell as much level term cover as they can has provoked a few comments.

This month's Special Report is from Aegis and explains a new way to invest in superannuation.

To round out the Wrap the Diary has been updated with some new events for next year. If you have a date for inclusion email details to amy@goodreturns.co.nz.

Have a great weekend
Philip

« News round-up

Sovereign takes regulation bull by the horns »

Special Offers