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Fiji Time: 6:54 PM on Wednesday 19 June

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Bank relaxes policies

Elenoa Baselala
Monday, April 09, 2012

LENDING institutions have relaxed their policies to accommodate their customers who have been affected by the floods.

Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ), which has majority share of the corporate sector, has suspended repayments on loans, including credit cards, for up to three months (with interest capitalised).

It has also provided temporary adjustments to lending limits to assist with unexpected costs.

The bank also announced it was waving fees associated with replacement of damaged business EFTPOS/credit card terminals.

Customers could access their term deposits early without incurring any fees.

"The floods had a very real impact on many of our customers, especially in the small and medium business and rural sectors," ANZ CEO Fiji, Norman Wilson said.

"As businesses and communities assess the extent of the damage in the coming days, it is important that our customers know that we are here to provide the financial support they need at this time," said Mr Wilson.

"For customers impacted by the floods, we ask that they get in touch with us as early as possible, either by visiting your nearest branch or contacting your relationship manager to discuss your business or personal circumstances," said Mr Wilson.

The bank gave $75,000 to the Prime Minister's Flood Appeal. Its Nadi branch also experienced extensive damage and is closed until further notice. Home Finance Company (HFC) last week announced its "top gear disaster rehabilitation facility".

"(HFC-TGDRF) is offered to all HFC existing and even new customers subject to RBF approval," HFC chief executive, Isikeli Tikoduadua said.

"The RBF policy allows maximum interest rate of 6 per cent and we at HFC are offering at 4.99 per cent.

"The facility is not only with the view of RBF flood rehabilitation scheme, but as part of social responsibility of HFC, as a local institution to stand out for the people of Fiji," Mr Tikoduadua said.

"In addition to this, we are ready to assist customers affected with repayment holidays and restructure programs."