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As we reflect on 2025 and look ahead, a clear theme has emerged in global markets: the era of narrow, concentrated leadership is giving way to broader participation. While artificial intelligence and technology continue to advance, investment returns are now coming from a more diverse set of regions, sectors, and companies. This evolution represents not a retreat from innovation, but rather a maturation of market dynamics.   Here’s what we’re observing and what it means for your long-term investing strategy . The expanding investment landscape Markets concluded 2025 with resilience and have entered 2026 with characteristic volatility. Underlying this movement, however, are fundamentally positive conditions: corporate earnings continue to expand, major global economies demonstrate unexpected durability, and investor attention has meaningfully widened beyond a handful of U.S. technology names.   This broadening represents a healthy market development. Dependence on a single sector or region increases vulnerability, whereas diversified sources of return contribute to more sustainable long-term investing strategy . Seven themes defining the current environment Long-term investing strategy. 1. The case for global diversification strengthened In 2025, international equity markets - particularly in the United States, Europe, and Japan - delivered standout performances. In contrast, New Zealand and Australian shares faced headwinds from softer domestic growth and comparatively higher interest rates. This dynamic served as a practical reminder that geographic concentration can be a limiting factor, while global exposure provides access to different economic cycles and opportunities. 2. AI’s second act: The scrutiny phase Artificial intelligence remains a powerful market force, but the narrative has evolved. The initial phase, driven by infrastructure and hardware spending, is being followed by a more discerning evaluation. Investors are increasingly distinguishing between companies making substantial AI investments and those demonstrating a clear path to monetization and profit. This necessary scrutiny introduces short-term volatility but supports more sustainable long-term valuations. 3. The resurgence of traditional sectors Last year witnessed strong performance from established sectors such as finance, industrials, consumer staples, and utilities. The milestone of the Dow Jones Industrial Average reaching 50,000 was symbolic of this shift, reflecting confidence in the broader, diversified U.S. economy. This resurgence highlights that value and growth can coexist outside the technology sphere. 4. International markets reclaim attention A significant rotation has occurred toward markets outside the United States. Europe, Japan, and select emerging economies, including India, have outperformed, driven by attractive valuations, proactive policy support, and improving relative growth prospects. India’s notable performance, bolstered by a major trade agreement with the U.S., underscores how geopolitics can create tangible investment opportunities. 5. Diverging monetary policies Global central banks are no longer moving in lockstep. While the U.S. Federal Reserve and European Central Bank signal a potential shift toward rate cuts later in 2026, the Reserve Bank of Australia recently tightened policy to address persistent inflation. New Zealand’s economy shows a mixed picture, with soft domestic data tempered by early signs of stabilisation in key export sectors. This policy divergence reinforces the importance of a globally diversified fixed-income strategy. 6. Bonds regain their defensive role After a period of correlation with equities, high-quality bonds have reasserted their traditional role in portfolios. They are once again providing predictable income and acting as a buffer during equity market stress. Although global sovereign bonds outperformed their Australasian counterparts last year, current yields in local markets are beginning to offer compelling value for income-focused investors. 7. The strategic role of precious metals Renewed interest in gold and silver reflects a desire for portfolio hedges against a weaker U.S. dollar, persistent geopolitical friction, and lingering inflation concerns. While prices are subject to short-term fluctuations, these assets are re-establishing their historical role as diversifiers that can perform during periods of broader market uncertainty.   Portfolio implications: What worked and what didn’t The recent environment rewarded several disciplined approaches: Maintaining a strategic global asset allocation Remaining invested through periods of volatility Holding exposure to both cyclical and defensive sectors Utilising balanced, multi-asset portfolios designed for various market conditions   Conversely, more concentrated strategies faced challenges, including over-reliance on domestic equities, chasing highly-valued thematic investments, and underestimating market variability. Navigating the path ahead in 2026 As we progress through the year, we advocate for the following principles for a robust long-term investing strategy :   Maintain a long-term perspective. Economic and corporate fundamentals remain sound, but markets will likely continue to exhibit volatility. A focus on long-term objectives is crucial. Prioritise strategic diversification. Future returns are increasingly likely to stem from multiple sources - across geographies, sectors, and asset classes. Be selective within major trends. AI is a transformative, long-term trend, but selectivity and focus on fundamentals are paramount as the industry evolves. Look everywhere for opportunity. Attractive potential exists in both innovative and traditional businesses, as well as in developed and emerging international markets. Trust in your plan . This environment rewards patience, discipline, and a well-constructed financial plan over speculative short-term decision-making.   At Naked Finance, our portfolio construction has always been predicated on the power of diversification. The current market broadening aligns with our core philosophy of building resilient portfolios designed to capture global growth while managing risk.   If you have questions about how these themes or would like to chat to the team about your investment portfolio, book a meeting with a Naked adviser.

The RBNZ February 2026 OCR announcement is set to release its next Monetary Policy Statement (MPS) and Official Cash Rate (OCR) decision on Wednesday, 18 February 2026 at 2:00pm NZT. This announcement comes at a time of ongoing global and domestic economic uncertainty and is relevant for anyone with a mortgage, savings, investments, or plans to buy property. While the general expectation is that the RBNZ will hold the OCR steady at this meeting, the accompanying commentary, particularly around the future path of interest rates is expected to be closely watched by markets.   The OCR is New Zealand’s main interest rate tool and plays a key role in influencing borrowing costs and returns on savings across the economy. The RBNZ’s mandate is to keep inflation between 1% and 3% over the medium term, and the latest data shows consumer price inflation sitting at around 3.1%, slightly above the top of that target range. At its last meeting in November, the Reserve Bank cut the OCR by 25 basis points, but signalled that any further easing would likely be limited. Markets interpreted this messaging as relatively hawkish, which led to an increase in wholesale interest rates and a key reason we’ve seen banks lift rates on many longer-term fixed mortgages despite the OCR being lower.   From a domestic perspective, the OCR currently sits at 2.25%, its lowest level in years, following a series of cuts throughout 2025 aimed at supporting a weak economy and stimulating growth. Economic activity remains patchy and unemployment has continued to edge higher, although there are early signs that demand may begin to improve. A growing number of economists believe the Reserve Bank may need to consider raising interest rates later in 2026 if inflation proves more persistent than expected, with financial markets already pricing in the possibility of rate increases by the middle of the year.   Importantly, the RBNZ does not make decisions in isolation. Central banks around the world are grappling with similar challenges around inflation, growth, and financial stability. Looking internationally, including just across the Tasman, provides a useful reminder of how difficult it can be to bring inflation back under control once it becomes entrenched. These global dynamics influence wholesale funding costs, exchange rates, and ultimately the interest rates offered to borrowers and savers in New Zealand.   Most analysts agree that the most likely outcome at next week’s meeting is for the Reserve Bank to leave the OCR unchanged, while waiting for clearer evidence on how inflation and economic conditions are tracking. The focus will therefore be on the tone of the statement and how future policy decisions are framed. Some commentators expect “hold-for-now” messaging that keeps options open, while others warn that rising wholesale and swap rates could continue to place upward pressure on longer-term lending rates even if the OCR remains low.   For borrowers, an unchanged OCR would likely mean relatively stable repayments in the near term for those on floating rates. However, for anyone fixing or refixing a mortgage, banks are already factoring in less room for future rate cuts, and the potential for increases later in 2026, which makes timing and structure particularly important. For savers and investors, lower cash rates can continue to weigh on term deposit returns, but opportunities may exist elsewhere depending on individual goals and timeframes.   When the announcement is released on 18 February, key things to watch will include the OCR decision itself, the Reserve Bank’s forward guidance, its commentary on inflation trends, and its updated economic and interest rate forecasts. These elements often have a greater impact on markets than the headline rate decision alone.   As always, everyone’s situation is different, and how these developments affect you will depend on your personal finances. For tailored advice, speaking with your financial adviser is the best next step.

The Reserve Bank’s OCR cut last week created plenty of interest and naturally led many to expect mortgage rates to fall straight away. Floating rates did ease, but fixed rates have not followed and there's a straightforward reason for that.   OCR: Floating Rates Have Eased, Fixed Rates Are Holding Firm   Floating rates dropped shortly after the OCR cut, which is normal as they tend to move in line with short-term changes in the cost of borrowing. Fixed rates, however, stayed put. This is because wholesale rates (the funding costs behind fixed loans) increased immediately after the Reserve Bank’s announcement. Although the OCR was reduced, the RBNZ also signaled that more cuts are unlikely in the near future. That message matters.   Will Fixed Rates Drop From Here?   Possibly, but nothing is guaranteed. If competition heats up between banks, we may see lower short-term fixed rates offered as part of sharper pricing. However, whether fixed rates broadly fall depends on what happens to wholesale funding costs, which are influenced by global markets, inflation data, and future Reserve Bank commentary. So while there’s a chance, it’s not something to rely on.   Banks Are Offering Strong Cashback Incentives   While fixed rates have held steady, banks are competing aggressively in other ways, especially through cashback offers of up to 1.5%.   On a $600k mortgage, this could mean up to $9,000, which can meaningfully help at an expensive time of the year. Still, it’s important to consider these incentives within your broader financial strategy.   Are We Near the Bottom of the Cycle? Based on current signals and assuming no major economic surprises, it’s likely we are close to the bottom of the interest rate cycle. There may still be minor movements and competitive pricing, particularly for shorter terms, but large drops appear unlikely under the current economic outlook.   This makes the structure of your lending especially important.   Why Structure Matters More Than the Headline Rate The “best” mortgage is rarely just the cheapest rate. It’s the structure that supports your current lifestyle and  your next 12–60 months.   Key factors include: upcoming changes in income renovation or upgrade plans desire for certainty vs flexibility lump-sum payments you may want to make how long you intend to hold the property whether you may need access to revolving credit or an offset   Two people with the same interest rate can have very different outcomes depending on their structure.   Planning Ahead: Avoiding a Future Repayment Shock   Even if rates settle for now, they won’t remain low forever. When the cycle eventually turns, you don’t want your entire loan rolling off at once into a steep increase. A staggered or diversified structure can help protect your cashflow and make future rises more manageable.   Why It’s Worth Getting Advice Now With floating rates easing, fixed rates steady, and strong cashback incentives available, now is an ideal time to review your mortgage strategy. If you're unsure about: fixing vs floating which terms to choose how to avoid a future repayment spike or how a cashback should factor into your decision   We're here to help.   A well-planned structure can make a significant difference to your long-term financial position, especially at this stage of the rate cycle. Contact our award winning mortgage team.

The sound of the waves on the coast, the stillness of a lake at dawn, the smell of a pine forest; for many of us, owning a bach is the ultimate Kiwi dream. It’s not just a property - it’s a haven for family memories, a well-deserved escape, and a potential slice of financial opportunity. But is buying a bach the right move for you? And how do you navigate this unique part of the property market? At Naked Finance, we’re here to strip back the complexity. Let’s explore the key things every Kiwi should consider before taking the plunge on a bach. Step 1: Be honest about your "Why" Your motivation is the foundation of your entire bach-buying journey. Getting clear on this will guide your budget, location, and property type. Ask yourself: Is it a family retreat? Is your primary goal to create a permanent, debt-free holiday spot for generations? If so, sentimental value might outweigh financial return. Is it an investment?  Are you planning to rent it out on platforms like Bachcare, Bookabach or Airbnb to help cover the costs? This requires a different strategy, focusing on rental yields, occupancy rates, and property management. Is it a future retirement home?  If you plan to retire there one day, you’ll need to consider long-term factors like accessibility, healthcare, and community. Understanding your core driver is the first and most crucial step.    Step 2: Look beyond the price tag – The hidden costs of bach life It’s easy to get fixated on the purchase price, but the ongoing costs can be a steep surprise. Some factors that need to be budgeting into your decision include but are not limited to: Rates & insurance: These can be significantly higher in coastal or remote areas due to specific risks like erosion, flooding, or limited fire services. Maintenance:  Bachs often bear the brunt of salty air, strong winds, and long empty periods. Budget for regular maintenance, and consider the cost of a property manager if you live far away. Utilities:  Power, water, and internet might require alternative (and more expensive) solutions like gas bottles, tank water, and satellite broadband. Furnishing & setup:  Unlike a primary home, you’re often starting from scratch with furniture, linen, and all the essentials. Step 3: The location & logistics conundrum The perfect bach location is a balance of dream and reality. Whichever way you sway, having due diligence over your decisions is paramount to any successful purchase.  The 3-hour rule: A common rule of thumb is that a bach within a three-hour drive from your main home will be used far more often than one that requires a long journey. Do your due diligence:  This is non-negotiable. For any bach, you must check: Title and land:  Is it freehold, cross-lease, or leasehold? Is there any risk of erosion or slippage? Building report: Never skip this. Bachs can have hidden issues from weather-tightness to old wiring. Council files (LIM Report): Check for any consents, future development plans, or land restrictions. Community vs. seclusion:  Do you want a bustling holiday community with neighbours close by, or a totally private, off-the-grid escape? Each has its pros and cons.   Step 4: The financial nuts and bolts Financing a bach isn't always the same as financing your primary home. 1. Using your equity:  Many Kiwis use the equity built up in their main home to help finance their bach purchase. This can be a smart way to access a deposit. 2. Deposit requirements:  If you plan to rent out the bach, lenders may view it as an investment property, which can sometimes require a larger deposit (e.g., 30-40%). 3. Loan structure:  Your mortgage structure needs to be optimised. Should you have a separate loan for the bach? How will rental income be factored in? This is where tailored advice is essential. 4. Tax considerations: If you rent out the bach, you must declare the income and can claim related expenses. It's wise to talk to an accountant to understand the implications.   Ready to make the bach dream a reality?

So, you’re thinking about your next property move. Whether you’re a first-home buyer who’s ready to upgrade, a family needing more space, or you’re looking to downsize for a new chapter, congratulations! This is an exciting milestone. But let's be honest, navigating the property market can feel daunting, even if you’ve done it before. The rules, finances, and your own goals have likely changed since you last bought a home. At Naked Finance, we believe that clear, straightforward advice is the key to a successful move. So, let’s break down the journey for Kiwis looking to buy their next home. Step 1: The big picture – defining your "Why" Before you dive into listings or open homes, take a moment to get crystal clear on your goals. Upsizing: Are you needing an extra bedroom, a bigger yard, or moving to a better school zone? Be specific about what your current home is lacking. Downsizing: Is this about freeing up equity for retirement, less maintenance, or a lifestyle change? Your focus here shifts from "more" to "smarter." The "step-up" buyer: You've built equity in your first home and are ready for something that better fits your long-term plans. Understanding your core motivation will guide every decision that follows, from the suburb you choose to the type of mortgage you need.   Step 2: The financial health check - It’s more than just a deposit This is where the rubber meets the road. Your financial situation is different now, and understanding it is crucial. Know your equity: This is your superpower as an existing homeowner. Equity is the difference between your home's current market value and the amount you still owe on your mortgage. For example, if your home is worth $800,000 and you have a $400,000 mortgage, you have $400,000 in equity. This equity can often be used as a deposit for your next home. Get pre-approval revisited: Even if you have a mortgage, you need to know what you can borrow now . Lenders will look at your current income, existing debts, and living expenses. A new pre-approval gives you a clear budget and shows real estate agents you’re a serious buyer. Understand the full costs: Don’t get caught out. Remember to budget for: Legal fees Building inspections & LIM reports Real estate agent commission (if you're selling) Moving costs Potential mortgage break fees (if you're on a fixed rate) Updating wills (let your adviser know if you need help with this)   Step 3: The logistics - The dance of selling and buying This is the classic "chicken and egg" dilemma for most next-home buyers. Do you sell first, or buy first? Selling first: This is often the safer financial route. You’ll know exactly how much money you have from the sale, making you a cash-ready, attractive buyer with no conditions. The downside? You may need to arrange temporary accommodation if the dates don’t align. Buying first: This can be less stressful in terms of moving, but it’s riskier. It often requires a conditional offer (like "subject to the sale of my current property"), which can make your offer less appealing to vendors. You also need to be confident your current home will sell for the expected price. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. We can help you model the different scenarios based on your financial position and risk appetite.   Step 4: The search & the purchase - Doing your due diligence Once your finances are in order, the fun begins! But stay vigilant. Look past the staging: Visualise the property for your life, not the seller’s décor. Get expert advice: A builder's report is non-negotiable. It can identify hidden, costly issues like leaky building syndrome, faulty wiring, or poor insulation. Understand the process:  1 - Make an offer (either by negotiation, tender, or auction) 2 - Going through the due diligence period 3 - Settlement day where the keys are handed over Knowing these steps inside and out will make the process feel much less overwhelming.   How Naked Finance can help you move forward Your property journey is unique, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. We’re here to help you: Understand your borrowing power and get a rock-solid pre-approval. Navigate the financial complexities of using your equity and managing two properties. Review your existing mortgage to ensure you’re not paying break fees unnecessarily or are at the best possible rate. Provide clear, Naked advice with no confusing jargon, just straight answers. Ready to make your next move? Get in touch with the Naked Finance team today for a no-obligation chat about your property goals. Let’s get you where you want to be.

Thinking about expanding your financial future with an investment property? You’re certainly not alone. For many Kiwis, property investment is a trusted path towards building wealth and long-term security. However, a successful investment requires more than just a "buy and hope" strategy. It needs a clear plan, an understanding of the rules, and rock-solid financial foundations. At Naked Finance, we know that smart investing starts with stripping back the jargon and looking at the facts. Let’s walk through the fundamental steps for building a strategic property investment portfolio. Step 1: The foundation – Your investment "Why" and strategy Before you look at a single listing, get clear on your goals. Are you aiming for capital growth  over decades, regular cashflow  to supplement your income now, or a mix of both? Capital growth strategy: You're banking on the property's value increasing over time. This often involves buying in areas with high development potential, good infrastructure plans, or strong long-term demand. Cashflow might be tighter, but the payoff is in the future sale. Cashflow strategy:  Your primary goal is for the rental income to exceed your mortgage and expenses, putting money in your pocket each month. This may involve looking at different locations or property types than you'd choose for a home. Step 2: The financial fitness check – More than just a deposit Financing an investment property has different rules to financing your family home. Lenders scrutinise these applications more closely. 1.  Servicing is key:  Your income needs to comfortably cover all your debts - your existing home loan, any personal loans, credit cards, and the new investment loan. Lenders apply strict "stress tests" to ensure you can afford rates of 8-9% or higher. 2.  Deposit requirements:  The days of 20% deposits for investors are largely gone. You will typically need at least 30-35% of the property's value as a deposit. This often comes from the equity you've built in your own home. It's a big hurdle, so knowing your exact equity position is crucial. 3.  Understanding rent and expenses:  Lenders will often add a "buffer" (e.g. only counting 75% of the expected rental income) to account for vacancies and maintenance. You must have a realistic budget for rates, insurance, property management, maintenance, and potential body corporate fees. Step 3: The rules of the game – Bright-line & tax changes The regulatory landscape for property investors has changed significantly. Understanding these rules is non-negotiable. Bright-line test: If you sell a residential investment property within a certain period of buying it, you may have to pay tax on any profit. This period is currently 10 years for most properties (with some exceptions for new builds, which remain at 5 years). This rule makes a long-term "buy and hold" strategy even more sensible for many. Interest deductibility:  The rules around claiming mortgage interest as an expense have changed. Interest deductibility is being phased back in for existing properties, but the rules are complex and impact your cashflow calculations. Always consult a tax advisor for your specific situation. Healthy homes standards:  Your rental property must meet specific standards for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture ingress, and draught stopping. Factoring in any upgrade costs is a critical part of your due diligence.   Step 4: Building your team - You are not a one-person band A successful investor relies on experts. Your core team should include: A Mortgage adviser (That's us!):  To navigate the complex lending landscape, secure the right finance structure, and ensure your portfolio is built on a solid foundation. A property accountant/tax specialist: To advise on entity structure (e.g., under your own name, a trust, or an LTC), tax obligations, and maximizing your legitimate expenses. A property manager:  A good manager finds quality tenants, handles day-to-day issues, and ensures compliance, saving you time, stress, and potential legal headaches. A solicitor:  To handle the legalities of purchase, tenant agreements, and ensure your asset is protected.   Ready to Build Your Portfolio? Property investment can be a powerful wealth-building tool, but it demands a disciplined, well-informed approach. The most successful investors are those who plan meticulously and seek expert advice from the start. At Naked Finance, we specialise in cutting through the complexity to build robust, tailored finance strategies for investors. We can help you: Assess your equity position and realistic borrowing power. Navigate the specific lending criteria and deposit requirements for investment properties. Structure your loans to align with your investment strategy and tax position.

Your home loan shouldn’t be a “set and forget” part of your financial life. In fact, treating it that way could be costing you thousands. Just like you’d service your car or see a GP for a check-up, your mortgage needs regular attention to ensure it’s still fit for purpose. With life’s constant changes and interest rate movements, the home loan you signed up with three years ago might not be the best one for you today.   At Naked Finance, we believe in transparent, stress-free mortgage advice. Here are five clear signs it’s time to pick up the phone and have a professional broker review your mortgage.   1. Your Fixed Rate is About to Expire (Or Already Has) This is the most obvious trigger. When your fixed-term ends, you’ll typically roll onto your lender’s default rate, which is often much higher than advertised specials. Don’t just accept the refix offer in your inbox - this is your golden opportunity to negotiate or shop around. A mortgage broker can compare rates across multiple lenders to secure you the best deal and potentially save you a significant amount per month. 2. Your Life Circumstances Have Changed Got married? Had a baby? Changed jobs? Maybe you’ve come into some inheritance or your income has increased. Any major life event can impact your financial goals and capacity. A review can help you adjust your repayments, access equity for renovations, consolidate debt more smartly, or restructure your loan to pay it off faster. Your mortgage should adapt to your life, not hold you back. 3. You’re Hearing About Lower Rates “Out There” If friends or the news are talking about competitive cashback offers or sharp rates you’re not on, it’s a sign you might be on your bank’s “back book” (loyal customer) rate. Lenders often reserve their best deals for new customers. A broker acts as your negotiator, ensuring you’re treated like a new customer every time and have access to the same competitive offers. 4. You’re Struggling with Repayments or Feeling Financially Stretched Financial stress is a major red flag. If rising interest rates or other bills are making your mortgage feel like a burden, don’t wait. A broker can explore options like extending your loan term to lower payments, switching to interest-only for a short period (if suitable), or finding a lender with more favourable rates. There are pathways to relief, and acting early is key. 5. You Haven’t Had a Mortgage Review in Over Two Years Even if none of the above signs feel urgent, the mortgage market evolves rapidly. Lender policies, interest rates, and your own financial position change. An annual or bi-annual check-up with a broker ensures you’re not missing out on better products, lower fees, or more flexible features that have come to market since you last looked. Not sure if any of these apply to you? Let’s find out. Take our free Mortgage Health Check Questionnaire This quick quiz will help you identify if your mortgage is still working as hard for you as you are for it. Based on your answers, we can provide personalised insights on what your next best step might be.

Mortgage refinancing – the strategic decision to move and restructure your home loan. But why would you ever want to consider doing this? You might be coming to the end of your fixed term but you may just want to see if there is a better way to manage your loan. Let’s use your car as an example - It is due a service so you take it into the garage. You may not think there is anything wrong with the car but the mechanic will change the oil and check to see if any tweaks can be made to prevent any future breakdowns and keep you motoring on confidently. That's what refinancing is all about – reviewing your loan and tweaking the setup to make sure the combination of fixed and floating terms is structured in a way that is working best for you, and avoids any potential breakdowns. Should this be done periodically? Not necessarily but it is certainly worth a check in if you are finding yourself coming to the end of a fixed term or stressed out about your repayments.  Can everyone consider refinancing? Well, yes, but you will need to qualify for refinancing just like you had to qualify for your original mortgage. The process should include your chosen mortgage adviser diving into the depths of your financial situation and examining everything from the rates you're shelling out to the structure of your loan, and even your lofty goals for the future. Armed with this intel, they should be able to whip up a recommendation for refinancing that could save you money in interest payments and fast-track your journey to mortgage freedom. But hold your horses, before you dive headfirst into the refinancing waters, it's wise to weigh the costs against the benefits. After all, switching mortgage providers isn't always a straightforward process. You might encounter a few hurdles along the way, like early repayment costs, valuation costs or legal fees. It's all about doing the maths and making sure the savings outweigh the costs. Now, why enlist the help of a broker instead of marching straight to your bank? Well, brokers have many benefits that might not be shared with your bank. For example, brokers have access to a plethora of lenders, they are not restricted to the products offered by one bank. They're here to ensure your repayments are structured in a way that trims down interest while keeping your loan repayments in check. Plus, they'll handle all the nitty-gritty with the banks, sparing you the headache of dealing with it yourself. So there you have it, mortgage refinancing demystified. If you think you could benefit from a different repayment structure, it might be time to reach out to someone who can help . The Naked Finance team of mortgage advisers offer free, professional advice that is tailored to you and your needs. Reach out to the team today and let’s make it a financially freer tomorrow!

We are trying to do things differently at Naked Finance. We approach financial advice holistically and with the aim to educate our clients. We practice what we preach and match our employees KiwiSaver contributions to promote smart investing. And we have moved every part of our business to be paperless to lower our impact on the planet. Which makes us proud to announce a significant milestone in our journey to minimise our environmental impact: by going paperless, we have saved a staggering 86,400 pages and counting .   This number isn't static; it grows with every piece of financial advice we provide. Every client meeting, every report, and every piece of correspondence we handle digitally adds to this positive tally, helping us reduce our footprint on the planet.   Our motivation is simple: we want to be as green as we can be. The financial industry has traditionally relied on reams of paper, from lengthy application forms to voluminous reports. We decided to challenge that norm. By embracing digital tools and cloud-based systems, we’ve streamlined our processes, enhanced security, and, most importantly, drastically cut down on waste.   There is one notable exception to our paperless rule, and it’s one we’re required to follow. For our UK Pension Transfer business, the policy of the UK pension companies themselves mandates that all documentation is received in hard copy. This is a regulatory step outside of our control, but we continue to handle everything else surrounding these cases within our digital framework.   Our commitment to the planet is as important as our commitment to your financial future. While we navigate the necessary paperwork for pension transfers, our core business operations are proudly paper-free. We’re proving that you can build a secure financial future without costing the earth.   Join us in making a difference. By choosing Naked Finance, you’re not just getting expert advice; you’re partnering with a company dedicated to reducing our negative impact on our beautiful planet.

Hosting a golf day always sounded like a brilliant idea, but as soon as you get started, you realise it really does take a village to pull everything together. From finding teams to securing prizes, coordinating food and drinks, shirts, hole sponsors, and everything in between it’s a much bigger job than most people realise.   But on the day it was all worth it!   Strong winds kept everyone honest out on the fairways, but the rain held off just long enough for every group to make it around the course in good time and with the skies opening up that evening, we couldn’t have timed it more perfectly if we tried. Charity Golf Day - A Day With Purpose: Supporting KidsCan While the Charity Golf Day was a chance to bring our community together and have some fun, it was also about something bigger: supporting KidsCan.   KidsCan is a fantastic Kiwi charity which provides Kiwi kids in hardship with the essentials they need to engage in learning. Things like food, shoes, warm jackets, and health items. Their work gives children the opportunity to participate, feel included, and simply have a fair shot.   Thanks to the generosity of everyone involved from players, sponsors, donors, and supporters we’re incredibly proud to say we raised over $15,000 for KidsCan.   If you’d like to contribute further, you can donate directly to the charity here: https://www.kidscan.org.nz/donating-to-kidscan/#giveonce   A Huge Thank You to Our Sponsors Events like this don’t happen without an army of supporters, and we want to acknowledge every business that helped bring this day to life.   Major Sponsors & Supporters   A huge thank you to:   Partners Life Booster MySolutions MRT Therese Leslie Real Estate Electus Financial Minor Co AIA Home Loans Resourcefully SortMe Lake Build Rothbury Insurance MW Insurance FieldTurf NZ SportWay Golf Warehouse   Bed Bath & Beyond   Kumeu Butchers   Special Acknowledgement: Grouse Signage   We want to give a massive shout-out to Grouse Signage, who went above and beyond to get our golf polos printed at incredibly short notice. The shirts looked sharp, the branding was clean, and they genuinely helped lift the professionalism of the entire event. Thank you for coming through when it mattered most. Tight Competition and a Well-Deserved Win A huge congratulations to our mates from Electus Financial , who took out the top prize in a very close finish with The Golf Warehouse team pushing them all the way.   Plenty of laughs, plenty of banter, and plenty of golf balls lost. More Than Just Golf What made the day truly special wasn’t just the competition, it was the feeling of community. Seeing clients, partners, friends, and supporters come together for a cause bigger than ourselves was a reminder of why we wanted to host an event like this.   This was our first ever Naked Finance Golf Day, and the support blew us away. We’re already thinking ahead to next year and how we can build on this momentum.   To everyone who played, sponsored, donated, helped organise, or simply came along to be part of the day, thank you! Your support helped raise over $15,000 for a great cause and made our inaugural event something we’ll never forget.

What is the OCR and the OCR Announcement? The O fficial C ash R ate is the interest rate the Reserve Bank of NZ sets for overnight loans between banks. It’s their tool to keep inflation in check. When the OCR goes up, borrowing gets more expensive, helping slow down inflation. When it drops, borrowing gets cheaper but so do the interest rates banks offer on savings accounts. The RBNZ is about to decide where to set the August Official Cash Rate (OCR), and it could mean real changes to what you’re paying each month. The banks aren’t waiting around. In the past week, we’ve seen them cutting fixed-term rates, especially in the shorter terms. And for borrowers, that can be exciting and slightly confusing. Do you lock in now? Wait until after the announcement? Go short? Go long?   Let’s break down what’s happening, what could happen next, and why talking to your adviser before making a move could be the smartest decision you make this year. Why Everyone’s Watching the OCR The OCR is the rate the RBNZ uses to influence borrowing costs across the economy. Right now, the OCR is sitting at 3.25%, down from a peak of 5.5% last year. Market pricing suggests the RBNZ will trim it by 0.25% to 3.00%, thanks to softer inflation, slower growth, and a cooling job market. But the number itself isn’t the only thing to watch. The RBNZ’s tone and whether they hint at more cuts to come, will shape mortgage rates over the rest of the year. Banks Are Already Making Moves Even before the RBNZ has spoken, the major banks are battling it out for borrowers. Over the past week we’ve seen sharp drops in popular fixed terms: 6-month fixed:  around 5.09% 1-year fixed:  as low as 4.79%, the cheapest we’ve seen since mid-2022 18-month fixed:  also down to about 4.79% These are meaningful moves, especially for anyone coming off a higher fixed rate. Shorter terms have seen the biggest cuts, as banks position themselves ahead of any official OCR move. What Happens After the 20th?   If the RBNZ cuts to 3.00%, we’re likely to see further easing in short-term fixed rates, particularly if the Bank signals more cuts ahead. If they take a more cautious stance, rates may not fall much further right away, but competition among lenders could still keep them trending lower. For borrowers, this means timing and term length will matter more than ever. It’s Not Just About the Cheapest Rate While it’s tempting to grab the lowest rate on offer, that’s not always the smartest move for everyone. The “best” mortgage rate depends on: Your time frame  - Will you need to refix in 6 months? Could rates be lower or higher then? Your stability needs  - Do you value certainty over chasing every drop? Potential costs  - Break fees can eat up any savings if you need to break your loan early for any reason. Extra perks  - Sometimes a slightly higher rate with cash incentives or better flexibility is the better long-term deal. Why Speaking to an Adviser Is Essential   Your mortgage is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll make. An adviser can help you: Weigh up the pros and cons of short vs long terms. Match your mortgage to your personal plans and budget. Access deals and structures you might not find on your own. Avoid the trap of locking into something that doesn’t fit your needs just because it’s the “lowest” rate today. How quickly can you pay your mortgage off by keeping your repayments the same when rolling onto lower interest rates?   With rates moving quickly and plenty of noise in the market, getting personalised advice can save you money, stress, and missed opportunities. Bottom Line The RBNZ’s 20 August decision will set the tone for the months ahead, but banks have already kicked off the rate war. That means there are good deals out there right now but the right choice for you might not be the cheapest headline rate.   Before you lock anything in, talk to your adviser. They can help you make a call that works not just for today’s rates, but for your life and goals in the months and years ahead. Some helpful terms to understand when investing in property Compounding Returns Think of compounding returns like a snowball rolling down a hill - except instead of snow, it’s your wealth, and instead of getting stuck halfway, it just keeps getting bigger. For example, a $500,000 asset compounding at 6% per year will generate half the returns of a $1 million asset. Basically, the more you invest, the more your money works overtime. So, keep rolling that snowball, folks. Leverage Leverage is like using a cheat code in the game of property investment - borrow some money, buy an appreciating asset, and let it outpace the cost of interest. Smart investors are not scared of "good debt." It’s the kind of debt that helps you acquire assets that grow faster than the interest rates. And with rates dropping, this is pretty much the best time to grab that cheat code. Professional Help Good investors know they can’t do it all alone—so they recruit a team of financial wizards to guide them. Think of it like assembling the Avengers, but for your money. Professional advice helps you make the right moves, so you're not flying blind. Naked Finance can be that team for you. With financial adviser specialising in mortgages, investments, insurance and so much more, we can be your financial GPS, guiding you toward a prosperous future. The Power of Property Investment As you may have gathered from this blog, we are all about smart investment and property takes centre stage in many people's portfolio. It’s like the tortoise in the race, slow and steady, but it wins. Property tends to appreciate over time in New Zealand, giving you both passive income and capital growth. It's like planting a money tree—you just have to water it (and maybe prune it occasionally). Do you think you are optimising your property for maximum benefit? If you want to chat more about it, our property team is always here to help. Financial Literacy At Naked Finance, we believe financial literacy + action = financial success. Knowledge is power, folks, and understanding how money works is key. Savvy investors make it a point to learn about business, finance, and taxes—and they’re the ones who spot opportunities that others miss. Playing the Long Game Building wealth isn’t about hitting the jackpot tomorrow—it’s about sticking to the plan and letting time do the heavy lifting. The best investors focus on long-term gains, not the latest market buzz. They ride out short-term ups and downs and stay focused on their goals. It’s the financial equivalent of a marathon, not a sprint. So, if you want to crush it in 2025 and beyond, start embracing these principles. Because when you combine patience, persistence, and a few smart moves, you’ll be on your way to securing that shiny financial future. For more information, talk to the team today .

New Zealanders are no strangers to insurance, whether it’s protecting their homes, cars, or belongings. But when it comes to health insurance, Kiwis seem to lag behind. The most common insurance held by Kiwis is home insurance, followed by car insurance and lastly, health insurance. Home insurance is winning in the polls due to the fact that many mortgage lenders will require home insurance to be taken out on the property as a condition of their lending. But New Zealanders are twice as likely to have car insurance than health insurance. On average, Kiwis go to the doctor once a year but only 1 out of every 15 Kiwis will claim on their car insurance in a given year. Seeing as you are much more likely to get sick than have an incident in your car, it is surprising that Kiwis as a whole give car insurance more value than health cover. The numbers don’t lie: health issues are far more common than car accidents, yet many still overlook the importance of private health cover. How Does NZ Compare to Other Countries? In countries like the UK and the US, private health insurance is far more prevalent. But many of these policies are provided through employers as part of the remuneration package. In England, 80% of policies are provided by employers, while in America, half the population has private health cover through their workplace. These systems make healthcare more accessible and reduce the burden on public health services. So why isn’t this the norm in New Zealand? One major roadblock, as identified by the Financial Services Council, is Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT). FBT is a tax that employers in New Zealand pay on certain non-cash benefits they provide to employees such as company cars, gym memberships, or private health insurance. The idea behind FBT is to ensure that employees don’t receive tax-free perks that would otherwise be considered taxable income. How does FBT affect health insurance? If an employer offers private health insurance as part of an employee’s remuneration package, the cost of that insurance is subject to FBT. This means the employer must pay an additional tax (63.93% for most benefits as of writing this, July 2025) on the value of the health insurance premium. If health insurance were exempt from FBT, we could see a significant increase in workplace-provided cover, just like in other developed nations. The Financial Services Council are continuing to engage with Ministers and policy makers on these issues to advocate for policy reform based on the research they are conducting. You can read their full report on their website here . The Benefits of Private Health Insurance While New Zealand’s public healthcare system does a commendable job, it’s no secret that waiting times for non-urgent procedures can be lengthy and that treatment options for conditions such as cancer, can be limited. Some of the top motivators for getting private health cover include: Faster access to specialists and treatments - Skip long public waiting lists. Choice of healthcare providers - Pick your preferred doctors and hospitals. Cover for non-Pharmac funded medications - Access treatments not fully subsidised by the government. Preventative care - Many policies include wellness benefits like dental, optical, and GP visits. For a deeper dive into the benefits of private health cover, have a look at our article here. 5 Benefits of health insurance that might surprise you Is It Time to Rethink Your Priorities? At Naked Finance, we believe in making insurance simple and accessible. Whether you’re considering health cover for yourself or exploring options for your employees, it’s worth weighing the long-term benefits. Could a change in FBT rules be the key to unlocking better health coverage for Kiwis? Perhaps. But in the meantime, taking control of your health insurance now could save you time, money, and stress in the future.   Have you considered private health insurance? Let’s start the conversation.