In the journals

MED report on bank lending practices to SMEs
No obvious signs of inefficiency but the MED proposes initiatives to improve SMEs' access to capital.

Unlawful financial assistance – where do you draw the line?
An English decision on the payment of the acquirer's professional fees by the target company is likely to apply to similar transactions under the Companies Act in New Zealand.

Directors' and officers' liability insurance
Insurance offers cover from liabilities arising from company duties.

Where several guarantors are intended, but not all sign
Australian decisions suggest a guarantee may be unenforceable if several guarantors are contemplated - but not all of them sign.

Enquiries and information

For more information on any of the cases, articles and features in Financial Services Quarterly, please email Rachel Gowing or call on 64 9 916 8825.