In this week's Finance News Wrap, the surge in Australians seeking debt assistance due to rising living costs and interest rates is discussed, indicating a growing financial awareness and a need for stronger financial education. Consumer confidence sees a slide due to increasing inflation and unstable energy prices, impacting retail and discretionary spending. Businesses are responding by boosting their loyalty programs and value propositions. On the regulatory front, the ASIC has issued updated guidelines enhancing standards in the financial advice sector, aiming to improve consumer outcomes through clarified interaction requisites, better disclosures, and increased transparency. Lastly, financial advisers are endeavouring to meet requisite qualifications ahead of the 2026 deadline, with a significant rise in enrolments at Kaplan Professional noted.