On Friday the Government released a large package of Exposure Draft Bills to implement the last of the Financial Services Royal Commission recommendations. There are some important and significant changes and Treasury is consulting widely (although not for very long) and seeking feedback. ...

An analysis of the practical implications of COVID-19 on debt capital markets and a summary of some key documentation issues that arise because of this global issue, along with tips to address them. ...

COVID-19 will have a range of impacts on over-the-counter derivative transactions. We set out below some key documentation issues arising as a consequence of COVID-19 and our practical tips. ...

The Demerger Journey - from Facilitation to Frustration. Partner Joe Power and Senior Associate Jay Prasad published their paper on the demerger tax rules at the inaugural Tax Institute Tax Summit at the International Convention Centre in Sydney in March 2020. The paper considers the correctness of the ATO’s recent views on the scope of the demerger tax relief provisions, and compares those provisions to analogous provisions in the UK, US and Canada. ...

In the Final Report, the Commissioner has found that, for the most part, whilst the legislative tools necessary to protect borrowers are already available, there have been significant shortcomings in their application and enforcement. ...

Commissioner Hayne's recommendations may initially seem somewhat modest – they do not undo vertical integration, impose limits on executive remuneration or ban bonuses and they do not recommend that directors prefer the interests of their customers. But, while it is true that the recommendations are not radical, there is much in the report that will mean some real changes for financial services companies, their Boards and their executives, as well as for their regulators and advisers. ...

In the Final Report, the Commissioner has found that, for the most part, whilst the legislative tools necessary to protect borrowers are already available, there have been significant shortcomings in ...

ASIC and APRA have written to all RSE licensees, reminding trustees of their continuing obligations, in light of COVID-19. ...

The fund financing market in Australia continued to be buoyant in 2019. Private equity, infrastructure and real estate funds remain the main drivers of volume, with an increasing number of newly raised as well as existing private debt funds also capitalising on the market's additional liquidity and ...

The real estate industry continues to evolve in a technology focused world, unlocking new REITs (real estate investment trusts) and investment opportunities. Against a backdrop of low bond yields, easing monetary policy and global volatility, our real estate sector M&A experts share insights and consider what opportunities lay ahead for the real estate Mergers and Acquisitions sector. ...