Reported 13 days ago
Australia is nearing a deal with ANZ Group to keep its bank branches operating in the Pacific amid concerns over bank closures affecting access to financial services in the region. Treasurer Jim Chalmers announced that discussions have reached the final stages, with the agreement aiming to sustain ANZ's nine hubs, including in Fiji and the Cook Islands. This initiative comes as Western banks retreat from the region amidst increasing Chinese influence and aims to ensure continued financial connectivity for Pacific communities.
Source: YAHOO