In this Friday edition of Wealth Coffee Chats, we dives into two major updates shaking up the lending world. First, the ongoing speculation around interest rates — with inflation stuck above target and unemployment ticking up, the RBA faces a tough call ahead of its Melbourne Cup Day meeting. But the bigger story this week is Macquarie Bank’s surprise move to stop accepting loans under trusts or companies. Once known for handling complex lending structures efficiently, Macquarie has now paused these applications, citing rising volumes, new anti–money laundering regulations, and social media–driven lending strategies. Cherie explains what this means for investors who rely on trusts or companies for asset protection, tax benefits, or borrowing flexibility, and why this could signal a shift across the broader lending industry. Despite the changes, she reassures investors that solutions always exist — and that smart structuring with expert advice remains key to building a strong, protected property portfolio.

Episode Highlights:

1. “Mortgage brokers are like bartenders” — a fun analogy to start the chat.
2. Quick market update: inflation, employment, and RBA’s looming rate decision.
3. The big news — Macquarie Bank exits trust and company lending.
4. Why Macquarie made the move: rising loan volumes and tighter AML rules.
5. The pros and cons of borrowing under a trust or company structure.
6. How asset protection and servicing flexibility benefit certain investors.
7. What this could mean for the broader banking sector and lending policies.
8. Why investors shouldn’t panic — alternative lenders and strategies still exist.
9. Final thoughts: staying adaptable and proactive through every market shift.