ANZ Bank fined $240M for misconduct affecting 65,000 customers, including failing to address hardship notices.

Australia's ANZ Bank has been fined $240 million for misconduct affecting nearly 65,000 customers. The bank failed to respond to customer hardship notices, made false statements about savings interest rates, and incorrectly reported bond trading data. ANZ also did not return fees to deceased customers or respond to inquiries about deceased estates. ASIC Chair Joe Longo called the actions an "unacceptable disregard for trust." ANZ CEO Nuno Matos acknowledged the failings and committed to change. The penalties will be determined separately by the Federal Court.