Briefs: EzeATM makes savings and S&P arrears data

EzeATM is using its increased scale to squeeze out cost savings from suppliers. The Perth-based deployer of automatic teller machines said in an investor presentation lodged with the ASX that it negotiated cost savings of A$1 million over five years from First Data, which switches transactions to the card holders' banks. EzeATM said it was seeking savings on its bailment expense (this is the cost of renting the stock of banknotes stored in the ATMs). It said that it was now "well on track" for an annualised EBITDA for the year to June 2012. It also mentioned a "potential" dividend payment in 2013.

A second credit ratings agency confirmed a rise in arrears amongst those with low doc home loans during the March 2012 quarter. Standard & Poor's put the rise in arrears of 30 days or more for this class of borrower at 6.10 per cent, up from 5.88 per cent at the end of December. Fitch Ratings reported similar trends last week. S&P said it estimated arrears on prime home loans at 1.61 per cent at the end of March, up from 1.52 per cent three months before, with the rise consistent with seasonal trends. Arrears on non-conforming loans increased to 12.57 per cent from 11.09 per cent over the quarter.