2023 in review: SSA Kangaroos happy to supply demand boom
Changing market conditions caused the supranational, sovereign and agency sector to supply more volume to the Australian dollar market in 2023 than it ever has before. Despite typical seasonal issuance patterns, demand remained robust throughout the year – including for newer names – and raised expectations for the sector’s development in 2024.
Values and purpose high on women’s work choice agenda
The 2023 KangaNews Women in Capital Markets Yearbook survey focuses on what women expect from their employers when it comes to purpose, values and public advocacy. The findings suggest financial services businesses should be careful to consider employees’ values if they want to attract and retain high-end female talent – and not be afraid to be public with these values.
Read more: Values and purpose high on women’s work choice agenda
IFC’s late-year activity hints at 2024 prospects for Kangaroo and Kauri markets
While deal flow has slowed into year-end, a brace of benchmark transactions from International Finance Corporation in the Kangaroo and Kauri markets suggests the new year could be set for a fast start. In particular, after a tough year the Kauri market shows signs of promise now there is more clarity on how supranational issuers will be treated in the local regulatory regime for bank liquid assets.
Australian dollars a good fit for MHCUK’s growth ambitions
Following its debut in the Kangaroo market, Mitsubishi HC Capital UK spoke to KangaNews about its plans for Australian dollar issuance as it seeks global growth. The scale of Australian dollar benchmarks and competitive pricing sent the issuer home with an outcome it hopes to build on with further future issuance.
Read more: Australian dollars a good fit for MHCUK’s growth ambitions
AOFM and Treasury publish Australia’s green-bond framework
The Australian Office of Financial Management and federal Treasury released the Australian government’s green-bond framework on 5 December – an important step toward the target of issuing Australia’s first sovereign green bond by mid-2024. The framework includes a tight eligibility window and thus a focus on new initiatives.