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Borrowing funds to run class actions ‘not appropriate’, says expert
Class actions throw up all manner of ethical conundrums, but a recent Federal Court decision has shined a light on the question of whether funders and law firms should take out loans to run class actions and whether they can charge the costs to group members.
Settlement reached in bond holders class action over climate disclosures
A class action brought on behalf of sovereign bond investors over the disclosure of climate change risks has settled with the government on terms that don’t preclude further proceedings, a court has heard.
HWL Ebsworth can’t point finger at client to reduce liability for negligence
A judge has ruled that HWL Ebsworth’s negligent advice over property in Paramatta’s 'Auto Alley' cost a client $2 million, rejecting the firm’s plea of contributory negligence against the owner.
Funder wins indemnity costs despite ‘tactical’ $2M settlement offer
A funder has won its bid for indemnity costs following a $2 million settlement offer, despite the offer being a ‘tactical’ move for costs protection in its successful $14.8 million claim against a Sydney property developer. 
Judge asks if class action firm’s uncertain GCO back-up plan ‘artificial’
A judge overseeing a class action against Suncorp subsidiary AAI has questioned whether the "uncertain" plan B of a law firm seeking a 25 per cent group costs order was artificially uncertain to increase the relative appeal of its contingency fee bid.
Deloitte’s $2.5M bill in CBA class action holds up settlement approval
A judge asked to approve a $50 million settlement in a consumer credit insurance class action against the Commonwealth Bank has questioned a $2.5 million deduction for professional services firm Deloitte.
ACCC rejects $4.9B ANZ, Suncorp merger
The ACCC has rejected ANZ's $4.9 billion acquisition of Queensland-based Suncorp, setting up a likely challenge before the Australian Competition Tribunal.
ASIC takes Dixon Advisory director to court over $19M debt
ASIC is seeking penalties against Dixon Advisory & Superannuation Services director Paul Ryan for allegedly failing to consider clients when executing a deed that affected the financial advice firm’s ability to recoup a $19 million debt from its holding company. 
Crumbs! Kraft loses opposition to Mars patent for chocolate flavour
An IP Australia delegate has shot down Kraft's opposition to a Mars patent for a less costly method for producing the distinct creaminess and flavour of crumb chocolate.