Sat, 1st Nov 2025

In this week's financial news, Australian shipbuilder Austal Limited received a $100 million loan from Export Finance Australia, intending to expand operations in Mobile, Alabama. The significant defence deal could bolster job opportunities and economic progress in both Australia and the US. Additionally, Marinex Underwriting, co-founded by Janelle Karnib, Chris Kelly, and Ainsley Smith, have entered the Australian market offering diverse marine insurance solutions. Meanwhile, non-bank lenders now finance approximately half of all Australian SMEs, reflecting changing lending trends. Despite this, a survey by the Commonwealth Bank highlighted significant cash-flow problems among SMEs, with 80% of businesses feeling the impact of declining revenue and low cash reserves. It's advised that SMEs employ proactive financial strategies, considering alternative financing, and leveraging digital tools amidst these tough economic times.