Other Business Activities Before deregulation of the banking market consumers had little choice when it came to mortgages. The market was dominated by the Big Banks offering loans and mortgages with similar interest rates and contract provisions. Without competition and innovation the market remained stagnant and consumers paid the price in higher interest rates, fewer features and higher fees. In the years following deregulation, a new generation of non-bank lenders emerged. However given the complexity of the property market, and the endless range of loans, rates and conditions, it became critical that consumers had access to well informed and more impartial information and advice. Giving rise to a growing number of mortgage brokers. In the late 90's Dr. Gruen realised that a lateral approach to the mortgage market was needed. Peach Home Loans and it's sister operation Expat Home Loans combined under the Peach Financial Group banner differ from many of the other mortgage broking services in its commitment to passing banks’ commissions onto its customers and in ensuring that those proposing loans for clients have no incentives to do other than find the best deal from its panel of lenders to its clients. By embracing the Internet, Gruen recognised the growing importance of the online interface. Most people don't have 45 minutes to spend listening to muzak and being told “your call is important to us and has progressed in the queue”. The value of being able to access information and advice at times and in places that are convenient cannot be underestimated. Quite simply we are at the forefront of the 21st century virtual economy. This is a textbook case of the new economy at work, with benefits flowing to all concerned.