New Zealand's Financial Market's Authority Podcasts
A quick look at the latest in financial regulation and research in New Zealand, with experts from the Financial Markets Authority – Te Mana Tātai Hokohoko.
Episodes
#22 Financial Conduct Report 2026/27
Join FMA Chief Executive Samantha Barrass as she shares an overview of the Financial Conduct Report (FCR) and what it means for the year ahead.The Financial Conduct Report sets out the FMA’s regulatory priorities for the next 12 months, highlighting the key risks and opportunities we see across financial markets and how we plan to respond. It also reflects on the progress made over the past year t
#21 Insurance Incentives Report
Join Michael Hewes, Director of Deposit Taking, Insurance and Advice, as he discusses the risks incentives can pose to fair consumer outcomes.Why non‑monetary benefits and sales campaigns can create conflicts of interestWhat insurers need to consider under CoFI and Fair Conduct ProgrammesWhere the FMA is seeing gaps in incentive design, governance and oversightListen now for a practical overview.R
KiwiSaver in uncertain times | Jess Learns to Invest
Feeling unsure about your KiwiSaver right now? You’re not alone.With rising costs and market ups and downs, many New Zealanders are asking whether they should be making changes to their KiwiSaver.In this episode of Jess Learns to Invest, Jess speaks with John Duffy from Consumer NZ about what’s happening and what to think about before making decisions.In this episode, we cover:✅ Why KiwiSaver can
#20 Sustainability related disclosure guidance
We’ve released updated guidance to help issuers clearly and accurately disclose sustainability‑related characteristics of financial products.As products are increasingly marketed as ethical, sustainable, ESG or green, good disclosure matters. Our updated Sustainability‑related disclosure guidance:✔ explains how existing fair‑dealing and disclosure obligations apply ✔ outlines what good practice lo
Occasional Conversations Series - Finfluencers
Kiwis are increasingly turning to social media for money advice from finfluencers and online forums to podcasts. Some of this content can be genuinely informative, but other posts can be misleading, heavily promotional, or even linked to scams.In this episode of our Occasional Conversation podcast, Jess is joined by Anna Godfrey from our Financial Advice team and Elizabeth Asmerom Asfaha from our
#19 Access to Financial Advice
Financial advice can make a real difference to people’s financial wellbeing but not everyone in New Zealand is able to access it.In this episode of 5 mins with the FMA, we talk with Romil Ghelani, Head of Financial Advice at the FMA, about the findings from the FMA’s Access to Financial Advice Review.The review looks at:How many New Zealanders are accessing financial adviceWhy some groups are unde
How do you build a diverse investing portfolio with Tom Hartmann | Jess Learns to Invest
In this episode of Jess Learns to Invest, Jess sits down with Tom Hartmann, Personal Finance Lead at Sorted, to unpack one of the most important concepts in investing: portfolio diversification.Together, they break down what a portfolio actually is, why diversification matters, and how spreading your investments across different assets, industries and regions can help manage risk over time. They a
Psychology of Investing with Dr Puspha Wood | Jess Learns to Invest
Jess Learns to Invest is back for Season 2! In Episode 1, Jess is joined by Dr Pushpa Wood, Director at Massey University, to unpack investment psychology and explore how emotions and biases influence the way we make money decisions.This episode covers loss aversion, anchoring, and herd behaviour along with practical, behaviour‑based strategies to keep investing aligned with your goals. In this e
Jess Wraps It Up: A Beginner’s Guide to Investing
Jess Learns to Invest season 1 offers a comprehensive introduction to investing, emphasising the importance of starting small, being consistent, and learning progressively. The series covers fundamental concepts such as compounding interest, market volatility, and different investment types, while also addressing practical tips and ethical considerations.Some of the key takeaways from this season
#18 Audit Quality Monitoring Report
Join FMA Head of Audit, Financial Reporting and Climate Related Disclosures, Jacco Moison, as we unpack the latest Audit Quality Monitoring Report. ✔ Why audit quality matters ✔ Key findings from this year’s review ✔ What auditors and directors should focus onWatch now and stay informed about how we’re building trust in New Zealand’s financial markets. Read the full report here: Audit Quality Mon
Crypto Explained with Peter Griffin | Jess Learns to Invest
Join Jess from the FMA External Communications team for a deep dive into the world of cryptocurrencies! In this episode of Jess Learns to Invest, tech journalist Peter Griffin shares his insights on what crypto is, how it works, and how to invest safely. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned investor, you’ll learn about the evolution of crypto, market risks, scams, and practical tips for
Inside the FMA - Operational Resilience
As part of their CoFI licence obligations, financial institutions have a legal obligation to comply with a set of standard conditions. Two of these – Standard Condition 4 and Standard Condition 5 – are critical to operational resilience. Standard Condition 4 relates to outsourcing. If a financial institution outsources any system or process essential to providing services, it must ensure the prov
#17 Regulatory Returns
All licensed Financial Advice Providers must submit an annual regulatory return as part of licensing conditions. With seven more calendar days to go have your submitted your return? The submission period closes on 30 September 2025.Regulatory returns should be submitted through the FMA Online Services portal: https://www.fma.govt.nz/business/online-servicesYou can find frequently asked questions
#16 Complaints
In this episode of 5 Minutes with the FMA, host Heidi Norman is joined by Executive Director Licensing and Conduct Supervision, Clare Bolingford to discuss why complaints are a focus for the FMA the We want financial service providers to ensure their complaints processes are accessible, fair, and effective, not only by making it easy to complain, but also by understanding and addressing the reason
How to Spot and Stop Investment Scams in NZ | Jess Learns to Invest
In this powerful episode, Jess from the FMA’s external communications team sits down with Samantha McGuire, Manager of Regulatory Services, to unpack the growing threat of investment scams in Aotearoa.From slick fake crypto platforms to deepfake endorsements featuring celebrities and politicians, scammers are getting smarter and everyday New Zealanders are being targeted.In this episode:What defin
Ethical Investing with Victoria Harris | Jess Learns to Invest
In this episode, Jess sits down with Victoria Harris from The Curve to explore the world of ethical investing. What does it mean to invest ethically? Can you still get good returns? And how do you know if your KiwiSaver or investment fund aligns with your values?From fast fashion and fossil fuels to greenwashing and generational shifts, Victoria breaks down the key concepts behind ethical investin
All about Shares with Natalie Ferguson | Jess Learns to Invest
Join Jess, a 28-year-old newbie in the world of investing, as she navigates the ups and downs of becoming an investor. Just like you, she's learning the ropes. Each month, Jess teams up with a different expert who shares practical insights and tips to help demystify investing.In this episode, Jess sits down with Natalie Ferguson from Powrsuit to explore the world of shares. What are they? How
Inside the FMA - Fair Dealing Cases
In the first episode of our new podcast series Inside the FMA, we discuss the Financial Markets Authority’s efforts to ensure fair dealing in New Zealand’s financial services sector. Since the Conduct and Culture review in 2018, the FMA has taken 12 cases to court, leading to over $215 million in customer repayments and $16 million in penalties.Join Sinéad Lloyd, Manager Investigations, and Rachae
Bonds with Kim Martin from The Treasury | Jess Learns to Invest Episode
Join Jess, a 28-year-old newbie in the world of investing, as she navigates the ups and downs of becoming an investor. Just like you, she's learning the ropes. Each month, Jess teams up with a different expert who shares practical insights and tips to help demystify investing.At the FMA, we believe in empowering New Zealanders with the knowledge to make informed financial decisions. The Jess
#15 Scams
In this episode of 5 Minutes with the FMA, host Chris Daniels is joined by Regulatory Services Advisor Elizabeth Asmerom Esfahan to unpack the latest trends in investment scams targeting New Zealanders.Elizabeth sheds light on the evolving tactics scammers are using from fake comparison websites to impersonation via text and messaging apps. They discuss AI, where deepfake videos and automated scam
#14 Financial Conduct Report
We’ve released our 2025 Financial Conduct Report.This report outlines the key risks and opportunities the FMA will focus on over the next 12 months. It reflects our outcomes-focused approach and provides clarity for industry on our regulatory priorities.We encourage Boards, Executives and Leaders within financial services to consider how these insights can support better outcomes for consumers and
Property Investing with Vanessa Williams | Jess Learns to Invest
Are you ready to take your first step into property investing? In this episode Jess talks to Vanessa Williams from Realestate.co.nz, diving deep into the do's and don'ts of real estate and property investing. Vanessa talks about navigating New Zealand’s housing market, spotting investment opportunities and maximising your returns. Property investing is the process of purchasing real esta
Occasional Conversations Series - Good Cents
New research published by the FMA's economics team this week shows that while many New Zealanders feel confident in their financial decisions, there are significant gaps between their financial goals and actual holdings of investment products. Good Cents: Kiwis on Savings and Debt looks into New Zealanders' attitudes and behaviours towards savings, debt reduction, and financial guidan
#13 Consumer Confidence Survey
Market Volatility and Your Investments with Brad Olsen | Jess Learns to Invest
Market volatility is about how much and how quickly prices in the market change. When prices move a lot, there's a chance to make money, but there's also more risk. Remember, market volatility is normal. In this episode, you'll learn what market volatility is, how it can affect your investments, and what it means for your KiwiSaver.This episode features Brad Olsen, the Chief Executi
#12 Access to Financial Advice Review
In this edition of 5 mins with the FMA Head of Financial Advice Romil Ghelani speaks to Heidi Norman about the Financial Advice Review. Regulatory Returns data signals a healthy financial sector. This is the first time the FMA has collected a comprehensive snapshot of the financial advice sector since the new Financial Advice regime came into effect in March 2023. This data is derived from the 20
Understanding Managed Funds with Tom Hartmann | Jess Learns to Invest
A managed fund is a type of investment where your money is pooled together into a larger investment fund with other investors. A fund manager with expertise in investing then manages that money and decides what assets to buy and sell on your behalf. Learn this and more as Jess learns how to get started in a managed fund. This episode features Sorted.org.nz’s Personal Finance Lead, Tom Hartmann.Joi
#11 Outcomes Focused Regulation
In this special episode of our 5 mins with the FMA podcast, we take a look at outcomes- focused regulation with Liam Mason, FMA Executive Director of Evaluation and Oversight and General Counsel. Today we’re releasing a document that provides you with an update on our approach to Outcomes-Focused Regulation. An outcomes-focused approach means we focus on the end results that regulation is aiming t
Women who Invest with Frances Cook | Jess Learns to Invest
As we approach International Women’s Day, we’re thrilled to bring you the second episode of our Jess Learns to Invest podcast series. In this episode, Jess sits down with financial Journalist and educator Frances Cook to discuss how women often approach investing differently. They chat about the opportunities women can embrace, and how women are increasingly shaping the future of investing. “Women
Investing 101 with Simran Kaur | Jess Learns to Invest
Are you ready to kickstart your investing journey in 2025? Dive into our new podcast series. Join Jess, a 27-year-old newbie in the world of investing, as she navigates the ups and downs of becoming an investor. Just like you, she's learning the ropes. Each month, Jess will team up with a different expert who will share invaluable insights and tips about investing. At the FMA, we believe in
Navigating KiwiSaver Episode 4: KiwiSaver Fees
Jess and Stuart are back for episode 4 of our Navigating KiwiSaver series. Last week they discussed contributions, this week Stuart explains KiwiSaver fees, he also touches on active and passive investments. The fee is calculated as a percentage of the net asset value of each fund, and is already deducted from your investment, so returns will be reduced.Actively managed funds are where investment
Navigating KiwiSaver Episode 3: KiwiSaver Contributions
Did you know there are five contribution rates when it comes to your KiwiSaver — 3%, 4%, 6%, 8% or 10? Along with your personal contributions, your employer contributes to your KiwiSaver as well as the Government.Episode 3 of our Navigating KiwiSaver series is out now! This week Stuart explains to Jess the importance of contribution rates and why a yearly review could be beneficial.This podcast h
Navigating KiwiSaver Episode 2: KiwiSaver Funds
In this episode, Jess asks Stuart to break down the different types of KiwiSaver funds.Funds are grouped by how much of the riskier investments they hold, like shares and property (also known as "growth assets"). Whether you're looking to dial your risk up or down, it's important to pick the right fund that aligns with your savings goals. Stuart also shares where to find out ex
Navigating KiwiSaver Episode 1: KiwiSaver 101
Want to learn more about KiwiSaver? This is episode 1 of our new navigating KiwiSaver series.This first episode is a KiwiSaver 101, you will learn what KiwiSaver is and how it works. Jess asks Chief Economist Stuart Johnson how much she should be contributing and when to review her contributions.This podcast has been prepared by the FMA. The advice is of a general nature, and is not intended to be
Occasional Conversations Series: Episode 4 Market Cleanliness
Occasional Conversation Series: Episode 3 Commercial Real Estate and the KiwiSaver Industry
The FMA has just published its latest piece of research from the economics team, looking at Commercial Real Estate and the Managed Funds Industry. We’re joined by FMA chief economist Stuart Johnson to tell us more.
KiwiSaver Annual Report 2024
KiwiSaver has just reached a huge milestone! According to our latest KiwiSaver Annual Report, the KiwiSaver funds under management have soared to $111.8 billion as of March 31, 2024, marking a 19.3% jump from last year’s $93.6 billion. This is a big win for New Zealanders who rely on KiwiSaver for their retirement savings. The growth this year came from a mix of $13.1 billion in investment returns
Occasional Conversation Series: Episode 1 Fairness in Financial Services
In the first episode of our new podcast series ‘Occasional Conversations,’ Chief Economist, Stuart Johnson and Senior Adviser, Sophia Scragg discuss a new piece of research around fairness in financial services.Overall, this research has shown that when presented with specific customer focused scenarios, consumers have a remarkably consistent understanding of what constitutes fairness in financial
Occasional Conversation Series: Episode 2 AI in Financial Services
In the second episode of our new podcast series ‘Occasional Conversations,’ Chief Economist, Stuart Johnson discusses a new piece of research around AI in financial services.To download the research paper in full head over to www.fma.govt.nz.
#10 What is outcomes focused regulation?
In this special episode of our 5 mins with the FMA podcast, we take a look at outcomes- focused regulation with Liam Mason, FMA Executive Director of Evaluation and Oversight and General Counsel. The FMA is moving towards an outcomes-focused approach to regulation and part of this change is setting out ideas around fair outcomes for consumers and markets. Our new guide: "Fair outcomes for con
#9 Ethical Investing – World Investor Week special
In this episode, to mark World Investor Week, we take a look at ethical investing, with Paul Gregory, Executive Director, Response & Enforcement at the FMA. We talk with Paul about the challenges facing investors looking for ethical investments and the role of a regulator in making sure fund managers really are doing what they promise. We also explore the main things that investors should thin
#8 KiwiSaver Annual Report 2023
In this episode, we look at the latest KiwiSaver Annual Report, with John Horner, Director of Markets, Investors and Reporting at the FMA.The FMA’s latest KiwiSaver Annual Report shows that KiwiSaver has held firm through a continuing period of market volatility. Total funds in KiwiSaver have grown again this year, by $4 billion, due to contributions of $10.5bn from members, employers, and governm
#7 Phony investment scams and how to protect yourself
Today we’re looking at scams – particularly those investment scams that have led to Kiwis losing a lot of money – we’re talking retirement savings, house deposits and hard-earned savings being stolen by overseas criminals. We’re speaking to Sam McGuire, the FMA’s Regulatory Services manager. She sees a lot of the scam complaints that come in and she’s got some good advice for keeping safe. Chec
#6 Financial Advice Providers
Today we discuss the licensing of Financial Advice Providers (FAPs) with the FMA’s Michael Hewes. From March 17, 2023 all financial advice providers (FAPs) must hold or operate under a full licence from the FMA if they want to provide regulated financial advice to retail clients. With full licensing now in effect, this will continue to give Kiwis greater confidence in consistent standards acros
#5 Climate-related disclosures
Today we discuss New Zealand’s new climate-related disclosures regime with the FMA’s Jenika Phipps. Organisations covered (known as Climate Reporting Entities or CREs) will soon have to make annual disclosures covering governance arrangements, risk management, strategies and metrics and targets for mitigating and adapting to climate change impacts. This applies to the larger publicly listed compa
#4 Wholesale property investments report
FMA Director of Capital Markets Paul Gregory discusses the FMA’s recently-published review of the wholesale property investment sector, which led to the FMA issuing formal warnings to several entities.He explains why the FMA conducted the review and what the major findings were, particularly in relation to some firms using deficient eligible investor certificates. Mr Gregory says the report and wa
#3 KiwiSaver Annual Report 2022
FMA Director of Investment Management Paul Gregory talks about the FMA’s latest KiwiSaver Annual Report, for the 2021-22 financial year. The report includes figures and trends found in KiwiSaver providers’ consolidated data, and summaries of the FMA’s key activities and ongoing focus areas.Here we talk about the key stats, including the early impact of lower fee settings for default members, anoth
#2 Conduct of Financial Institutions (CoFI)
FMA Director of Banking and Insurance Conduct Clare Bolingford discusses the incoming Conduct of Financial Institutions (CoFI) regime, which will require New Zealand's retail banks, insurers and non-bank deposit takers to treat customers fairly at all stages of the relationship.Here she outlines the key changes CoFI will bring about, what treating customers ‘fairly’ means in practice, and wha
#1 Cyber resilience
FMA Director of Supervision James Greig discusses the FMA’s new message to financial service providers to ensure their cyber defences are robust, in an age of increasingly sophisticated and successful cyber attacks. Here he explains why the regulator issued the “Cyber Security & Operational Systems Resilience” information sheet in June 2022, which includes details around standard FMC Act licen
