Australia's debt management authority, the Australian Office of Financial Management (AOFM), is considering making significant changes to its auction processes in response to allegations of market manipulation during a A$14 billion government bond sale last year.
The AOFM has already implemented tighter rules, such as pre-announcing large bank-led offerings, to ensure transparency and protect government interests. AOFM CEO Anna Hughes has stated that the agency is working closely with deal managers to reinforce compliance and ethical practices.
Discussions are also underway regarding potential adjustments to the pricing mechanisms for syndicated issuances, as part of a proactive approach to enhance the integrity of the bond market following the scandal.