The information on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG Bank S.A. accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it and as such is considered to be a marketing communication.
The decision comes after both Commonwealth and ANZ banks announced last week, they would increase their home loan rates, following on from Westpac’s decision to hike rates by 5.38%.
NAB’s move to hold their rates took analysts by surprise, many predicting the bank would crumble under pressure, and follow suit.
NAB CEO Andrew Thorburn says the bank is listening to its customers and “doing things differently.”
‘We need to rebuild the trust of our customers, and by holding our NAB Standard Variable Rate longer, we help our customers for longer.’ Mr Thorburn said.
NAB has an estimated 930,000 customers with home loans, with average loan at $300,000. According to NAB, had they increased rates by 15 basis points, the average home loan customer would have to pay an extra $28 each month, or $336 a year on their repayments.
The almost $30 extra dollars a month proved too high for bank officials, saying they're putting customers first.
‘By focusing more on our customers, we build trust and advocacy, and this creates a more sustainable business.’ Mr Thornburn said.
NAB has said it will continue to assess its rates, and review current market conditions, whether funding costs change over time.