Canberra to give ANZ $1.3 billion loan guarantee to keep Pacific branches afloat By Reuters

Loan Guarantee for ANZ: Australia will provide a A$2 billion loan guarantee to ANZ over ten years to maintain its branch network in the Pacific, alongside an additional A$50 million investment by ANZ to enhance digital banking services.

Geopolitical Context: This initiative is part of broader efforts by Australia and the U.S. to strengthen financial ties in the Pacific amidst increasing competition from China, as many small Pacific nations face challenges in accessing global financial systems due to Western banks reducing their operations.