Specialist lenders are an often underestimated, yet critical pillar of our economy.

• With over $20 billion in loans, our members ensure more New Zealanders have access to finance to help businesses grow, employees get to work, and support individuals in moments of transition.
• FSF members provide finance and leasing solutions for both personal and commericial purposes, whether a mortgage, new family car, equipment for a new business, farming machinery, or supplying fleet vehicles to primary industries and government.
• Almost half of all personal consumer loans in New Zealand are provided by an FSF member, giving choice and flexibility to over 1.7 million businesses and consumers every year.

FSF backs policy and regulatory frameworks that encourage innovation and competition that benefit businesses and consumers.

The finance sector has changed a lot in the last 60 years, from rapid deregulation in the 1980s to financial shocks like the 1987 market crash, and the Global Financial Crisis. These have left their mark on our industry, challenging trust in the sector and resulting in heightened regulation and compliance.

We advocate for proportional regulation and a balanced approach to compliance to avoid unintentional consequences for consumers and members, such as reduced availability of credit or increased costs.

We know the vast majority of people who take out a loan understand and are able to honour their commitments. However, we also know that because a loan is paid off over a period of time, unforeseen changes to life circumstances can leave even the most unexpected person in financial strife. This is why, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach to regulation, we support targeted measures to protect consumers who may become vulnerable, and allow our members to work with their customers to help get them back on track.

Our members are indispensable in New Zealand's financial ecosystem and provide welcome competition to traditional providers. A fair, competitive, flexible, financial system that prioritises customer outcomes while enabling specialist lenders to invest, innovate and grow will work for everyone.

At the heart of our mission is a connection to the people of Aotearoa. We understand that behind every financial transaction is a story; a family looking to build a future, an entrepreneur chasing a dream, or a community striving to grow. By championing the values of transparency, fairness, and innovation, specialist lenders are driving positive change in the lives of New Zealanders every day.