FEAR & GREED | Business News Banks claim support for SMEs; ASX hits 6-month low; Trump calls female reporter “Piggy”
Nov 19, 2025
Big banks claim they support small businesses amid fierce competition. The local share market hits a six-month low while the energy and housing sectors face challenges. Wages growth stabilizes but hints at no rate cuts in sight. A controversial moment arises as Donald Trump publicly insults a female reporter. Meanwhile, scientists issue urgent warnings about the dangers of ultra-processed foods. The episode also teases an upcoming Q&A about index funds.
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Banks Hunting Better Margins In SMEs
- ANZ's Nuno Matos says mortgages are far less profitable than 15 years ago and banks now chase small-business margins.
- He argues competition for SME lending is hot and a standard small-business definition would reduce confusion.
Standardise Small-Business Rules
- Standardise the definition of 'small business' across regulations to cut confusion.
- Allow banks access to tax information (with consent) to speed loan approvals.
Regulation Cuts Risk — But Can Hurt SMEs
- Andrew Irvine says APRA's conservative risk settings limit business lending but keep loan losses low.
- He warns government policy and regulation can also impose heavy costs on small firms.