FOLLOW US
Follow us!

We are a proud member of the Financial Services Online network!

Connect with us on your favourite social media platform for the latest financial news, views, tips, tricks, resources and information.

Follow us on social media
Car Loans Australia
Private & Commercial Car Loans for New & Used Vehicles
Car Loans Australia :: News
SHARE

Share this news item!

Merger Approved: ANZ Set to Acquire Suncorp Bank

Merger Approved: ANZ Set to Acquire Suncorp Bank

Merger Approved: ANZ Set to Acquire Suncorp Bank?w=400

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.

In a pivotal ruling, ANZ's bid to consolidate with Suncorp's banking division has been granted permission, marking a significant evolution in Australia's banking landscape.
The Australian Competition Tribunal (ACT) delivered a positive verdict for ANZ's $4.9 billion acquisition, challenging the earlier decision made by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), which had raised concerns about market competition last August.

Deputy president of the ACT, Justice John Halley asserted that the merger should deliver "net public benefits" and downplayed the potential for ANZ's slightly increased market share to meaningfully stifle competitive practices among leading banks.

Commenting on the tribunal's decision, ANZ CEO Shayne Elliott welcomed the news as a significant advancement, anticipating that Suncorp Bank's customers will benefit from access to ANZ's comprehensive banking solutions, technology, and platforms. Elliott underscored the merger as presenting substantial prospects for all parties involved and contributing to the public interest within Queensland.

Echoing Elliott's sentiment, Suncorp Group's chair Christine McLoughlin considered the approval a nod to the imperative of robust and adaptable insurance and banking entities that can effectively cater to customer demands and economic dynamics. She also highlighted the win for Queensland's job market and investment climate arising from the agreement.

Steve Johnston, Suncorp Group's CEO, envisions the bank's sale marking a strategic pivot towards shaping Suncorp into a focused insurance entity within the Trans-Tasman region. According to him, this focused approach will empower the organization to better address customer needs and navigate complexities of crucial matters like climate change and insurance affordability.

Not all feedback on the acquisition has been supportive. The Finance Sector Union (FSU) articulated its opposition, with national president Wendy Streets expressing concern over diminishing competitive dynamics and potential job losses. The FSU also contested the ACT's right to overrule the ACCC's earlier reservations about the merger's impact on market competition.

The process towards the merger’s finalization remains underway, with legislative action by the Queensland Parliament and governmental authorization still pending. Industry observers note that following the announcements around the merger approval, there was a notable jump in Suncorp's stock value, reflecting an uplifted investor sentiment on this corporate maneuver.

ANZ first announced the acquisition plans for Suncorp Bank in mid-2022, depicting the long-term process of wrapping up this merger, which is now close to crossing the finish line with the tribunal's endorsement.

Published:Wednesday, 21st Feb 2024
Source: Paige Estritori

Please Note: If this information affects you, seek advice from a licensed professional.

Share this news item:

Finance News

ASIC Investigates Car Finance Practices to Strengthen Consumer Safeguards
ASIC Investigates Car Finance Practices to Strengthen Consumer Safeguards
20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has commenced a thorough review of the motor vehicle finance sector, focusing on enhancing consumer protections and ensuring compliance with responsible lending obligations. This initiative is particularly attentive to the experiences of borrowers in regional and remote areas, including First Nations communities. - read more
New Low-Interest Loans Make Electric Vehicles More Accessible to Australians
New Low-Interest Loans Make Electric Vehicles More Accessible to Australians
20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian government has unveiled a new initiative to make electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible to a broader segment of the population. This program offers low-interest loans to Australians earning less than $100,000 annually, as well as to essential workers such as police officers, teachers, firefighters, and nurses, regardless of their income level. The loans are available for both new and used EVs priced up to $55,000. - read more
Macquarie Bank Ends New Car Loan Services to Enhance Home Loan Offerings
Macquarie Bank Ends New Car Loan Services to Enhance Home Loan Offerings
20 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
Macquarie Bank has announced a strategic decision to cease offering new car loans through its direct, broker, and novated leasing channels. This move is part of the bank's broader strategy to concentrate on expanding its home loan and deposit services. - read more
ASIC's Review Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
ASIC's Review Highlights Concerns in Car Finance Practices
12 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) has recently conducted a comprehensive review of the nation's motor vehicle finance sector, uncovering significant issues that raise concerns about responsible lending practices. The findings indicate that some consumers are being subjected to exorbitant fees and are defaulting on their loans shortly after approval. - read more
Allied Credit Strengthens Position with Macquarie Loan Acquisition
Allied Credit Strengthens Position with Macquarie Loan Acquisition
12 Jan 2026: Paige Estritori
In a significant development within the Australian financial sector, Allied Credit has announced the acquisition of a substantial portion of Macquarie Group's car loan portfolio, valued at $1.5 billion. This strategic move is set to bolster Allied Credit's position in the car finance market and expand its customer base. - read more
Click for more Finance News


Car Loans Articles

How to Create a Flexible Budget for Your Next Car Purchase
How to Create a Flexible Budget for Your Next Car Purchase
When it comes to buying a car, particularly a used one, having a flexible budget is essential. Flexible budgeting allows you to adjust your spending plan according to your current financial situation and any unexpected changes that might occur. This adaptability is crucial in managing your finances effectively and ensuring you make a purchase that won't strain your resources. - read more
The Role of Loan Terms in Car Buying: Flexibility Explained
The Role of Loan Terms in Car Buying: Flexibility Explained
When it comes to buying a car, understanding the loan terms is just as essential as choosing the right make and model. The terms of a loan can significantly affect your financial journey beyond just the asking price. In a marketplace brimming with attractive deals, comprehending these terms can be your greatest asset, ensuring you drive away with a well-suited financing plan. - read more
5 Strategies for Balancing Your Budget with a New Car Loan
5 Strategies for Balancing Your Budget with a New Car Loan
With the excitement of purchasing a new vehicle, the financial responsibilities that come with a new car loan can often be overlooked. Balancing your budget when you have taken on a new car loan is crucial to financial well-being and long-term happiness with your purchase. In this article, we will explore five practical strategies that can help you navigate the common financial challenges that accompany car loans. - read more
Top Tips for Australians Navigating the Online Car Market
Top Tips for Australians Navigating the Online Car Market
The Australian automotive landscape has witnessed a significant transformation with the rise of online car sales. The concept of browsing, selecting, and purchasing a vehicle through digital platforms has gained immense popularity, offering consumers a vast array of choices at their fingertips. - read more
Car Loans: Secured vs Unsecured
Car Loans: Secured vs Unsecured
Car loans play a pivotal role in empowering individuals to afford their own vehicle, which can be a significant purchase. These loans, structured to fit within one's financial situation, can ease the burden of acquiring a car and assist in achieving personal convenience and mobility. - read more


Need Help Finding a Loan?
Get a free car loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored specifically to your circumstances.

Let's help find your car loan!

Loan Amount:
Postcode:
All quotes are provided free and without obligation by a Specialist from our National Broker referral panel. See our Privacy Statement for more details.
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without obligation.
We respect your privacy.

Knowledgebase
Monetary Policy:
The actions of a central bank or other regulatory authority that determine the size and rate of growth of the money supply.


This website is owned and operated by Clark Family Pty Ltd (ACN 010 281 008) as Trustee for the Clark Family Trust (ABN 35 957 893 714), 43 Larch Street Tallebudgera QLD 4228. Clark Family Pty Ltd is an Authorised Representative (AR 1298860) of Unique Group Broker Services Pty Ltd (AFSL 509434) for financial product referrals and an Authorised Credit Representative (ACR 401491) of Saccasan Pty Ltd (ACL 386297). Check our licensing details on the ASIC registers: Clark Family Pty Ltd ACR, Clark Family Pty Ltd AR, Saccasan Pty Ltd, Unique Group Broker Services.
IMPORTANT: We do not provide financial product advice or credit assistance. We act solely as an introducer and refer enquiries to licensed third-party intermediaries, insurers, and lenders - with whom you can then deal directly. We may receive a fee or commission from these third parties in consideration for the referral. Before any action is taken to obtain a product or service referred to by this website, advice should be obtained (from either the third party to whom we refer you or from another qualified intermediary) as to the appropriateness of obtaining those products having regard to your objectives, financial situation and needs. Whilst we have our own process for validating the legitimacy of our referral partners, you should always verify the credentials of your financial adviser before proceeding with recommendations that they may present. Visit the ASIC website for further information.