Insurance and Finance

Bank of Queensland’s interim result was mixed, with a number of factors needed to fall into place to ensure a positive outlook.

Bank of Queensland’s interim results will be scrutinised for the margin pressure flagged earlier in the year and for any deterioration in asset quality.

The Chartist suggests ANZ might enjoy a short term bounce from an oversold position, but the trend remains weak.

Announcements of rising bad debt charges, principally from ANZ Bank, have provoked renewed negativity towards the banking sector.

Drone potential; Electric vehicles and copper; Bell Potter initiates on OncoSil; Challenges for established insurers; Canaccord Genuity initiates on Think Childcare; bank margins.

CYBG plc, the former Clydesdale Bank division of National Australia Bank, hit the listings recently and brokers evaluate the outlook.

Brokers believe Australia’s banking sector is managing its risks well and find little to justify the prevailing negativity.

Both the banks and new brands are challenging the territory of traditional insurers, making dents in market share and pressuring margins.

Negative speculation on banks; caution prevails in general insurance; AirXpanders opportunity; gaming machine potential in the US; international visitors grow strong.

Health insurers were thrown a lifeline by the government’s latest allowable premium rate increase but headwinds to margins persist.