http://www.moneyfacts.co.uk/articlesThe latest articles from the world of finance.(c) 2008, Moneyfacts Group plc. All rights reserved.5Anyone looking for a personal loan can no longer find rates of less than 7%. Yourpersonalloan.co.uk, which is funded by The Co-operative Bank, has increased its rate from 6.9% to 7.3%. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/personal-loans-rates.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 03 Jul 2008 00:00:00 GMTFixed rate mortgages available on the market today breaks the 7% barrier and stands at 7.02%. Anyone looking for a fixed rate mortgage for five years is also paying the price as the average rate on offer now increased to 6.82%. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/fixed-rate-mortgage.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMTMany families will be reaching for their credit cards to buy some luxuries over the summer as disposable incomes have been reduced. Whether it's a family holiday or days out, the credit card costs can soon mount up.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/credit-card-wisely.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMTBy becoming regular savers, reformed smokers could be feeling the benefits in their pockets aswell as the health benefits. The average smoker could put up to £250 in a regular saver account.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/regular-savers-reformed-smokers.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMTFootball fans everywhere are starting to look forward to the start of the 2008/09 football season. Throughout the UK fans will be getting ready to support their team, either by buying this season's latest kit, shouting at the TV screen or singing on the terraces.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/Finance-football.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 19 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMTMoneyfacts.co.uk shows that the average two year fixed rate mortgage stands at 6.75%, the highest rate we have seen in the last 10 years. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/mortgage-10-year-high.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMTCredit cards charge a foreign usage charge, some as much as 3% for both purchases and cash transactions. This charge is applied each time the credit card is used and can soon mount up to a significant amount. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/using-credit-cards-debit-cards-abroad.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 11 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMTNew research from Halifax Home Insurance reveals British kitchens have £2.6 billion of kitchen gadgets rusting in cupboards completely unused. From spice shakers to blenders, kitchens are filled with unused appliances. Men spend an average of £119 on unused kitchen appliances, a third more than women who spend around £88. Over a quarter of a million British households have more than £500 worth of abandoned kitchen gadgets stored away.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/Over-500-of-abandoned-kitchen-gadgets.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 04 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe Financial Services Authority (FSA) has today launched a new website designed to be a one-stop-money-information-shop for young adults and forms part of the watchdog's National Strategy for Financial Capability.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/young-adults-can-do-money-website.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 03 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMTFriends Provident International (FPI) announced today the launch of its new web-based portfolio planning tool, Dynamic Portfolio Planner international (DPPi).http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Offshore/articles/New-Web-Based-Portfolio-Planning-Tool.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 02 Jun 2008 00:00:00 GMTPolice forces are not the only ones cracking down on motorists who risk lives by using hand-held mobile phones. Motor insurers are now showing support by increasing the premiums quoted for offenders - or even refusing cover, according to new data from the AA.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/mobile-phones-driving-offenders.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 16 May 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe Rate Matcher mortgage is available to all UK homeowners whose fixed-rate mortgage period matures before 31 August, subject to clear affordability criteria and a maximum loan-to-value of 80 per cent.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/HSBC-extends-Rate-Matcher-mortgage-offer.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 14 May 2008 00:00:00 GMTEgg, the online bank, is offering a fixed 12-month introductory rate of 6.05% gross pa/AER on its Egg Savings Account (Internet). The introductory rate is available for new money for both new and existing customers.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/eggs-new-internet-savings-account.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 GMTWith less than one in ten (8%) people in the country saying that they understand 'most' financial terminology, NS&I has today launched an independent website - You and your money (YouAndYourMoney.info) to provide straightforward, impartial information, helping people to make more informed financial decisions.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/nsi-battles-brits-money-muddles.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe new account, by the Leeds Building Society, allows unlimited access of 50% of the initial amount invested at any time, without notice or penalty, for the first three years and instant access in years four and five.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/new-5-year-fixed-rate-escalator-bond.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 12 May 2008 00:00:00 GMTBarclaycard today announced its plans to issue over one million contactless cards this year. Cards will be issued across the UK as the card issuer begins its plans to upgrade cards with contactless technology.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/barclaycard-leads-the-way-to-a-contactless-britain.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe Miles & More American Express® Credit Card from MBNA offers a competitive rate of interest plus the feature to more quickly earn Miles & More award miles, which can be redeemed for flight, upgrade and travel awards and for a wide range of non travel related goods and much more.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/New-Miles-More-American-Express-Credit-Card-from-MBNA.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMTLloyds TSB today announces the second stage of its AIRMILES partnership, with the launch of an AIRMILES mortgage.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/trips-and-mortar.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMTThere has been a tidal wave of bad news for anyone who relies on credit – and that means almost all of us.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/10-ways-to-get-it-right-when-credit-is-tight.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 06 May 2008 00:00:00 GMTIt’s not only mortgage rates that continue to increase, so too have the rates and monthly repayments on personal loans.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/more-personal-loan-pain-for-borrowers.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 28 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe protection market can be very complicated to even the most experienced customer and Income Protection (IP) is one of the more complex products out there. Due to the current financial turmoil more people are becoming concerned about protecting their debts and lifestyle, so payment protection specialists LifeSearch have put together their Top 10 tips on how to pick through all the options and choose the best policy for this important but undersold product.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/income-protection-plans-tips.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTMortgage lender Newcastle Building Society has announced the launch of its new Day 1 bridging product which is designed to provide a fast bridging option for buy to let investors.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/Buy-To-Let-Bridging-Mortgage.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 25 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTAlliance Trust Research Centre's Financial Reality Index highlights the worsening financial reality facing households and points to household spending growth cooling over the year ahead.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/britain-reins-in-on-spending.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 24 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTTwo weeks on from the base rate cut 38 mortgage lenders (38%) have announced that they will cut their mortgage standard variable rate. The majority of mortgage lenders have passed on the full 0.25% Bank of England base rate cut however five have cut their mortgage standard variable rates by less than 0.25%, including Northern Rock which has only passed on a 0.10% cut.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/mortgage-facts.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe current credit crunch has highlighted the need for people to build themselves a savings safety net to help them through the more difficult times or unexpected circumstances where their finances may become stretched.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/Childrens-Savings-Just-Got-Easier.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 23 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTResearch by Saga Motor Insurance has revealed that oldies are still the best with classic Meat Loaf named as the nations favourite driving song. However listeners to 'Bat out of Hell' are least likely to be caught driving like one. Instead the study exposes blues fans as statistically most likely to be caught speeding and listeners of country music as most likely to have an accident.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/blues-listeners-crying-over-speeding-fines.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTWith recent reports highlighting a rise in the cost of living, potential first-time buyers are finding it more difficult to save for their deposits.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/saving-for-deposits.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe Co-operative Bank, voted number one on the high street for customer satisfaction levels in two recent consumer surveys from Watchdog and Which?, is today (Monday 21 April 2008) launching a new Current Account Plus with a linked savings account.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/New-current-account-plus-from-the-co-operative.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe most popular savings account amongst savers are instant access and no notice. The majority of savers like the comfort of knowing that if they require immediate access to their money, they can get it. But with some savings accounts this comes at a price.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/Are-Instant-Access-Savings-Accounts-Always-What-They-Seem.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 21 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTMore than 80,000 UK households are now 3G families with three generations living together as financial pressures force adults with children to provide support to their elderly parents, according to new research from Prudential.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/parents-move-to-live-with-children.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTApril 2006 the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) declared that default charges on credit cards were too high and suggested capping these at £12. In the months that followed credit card lenders cut these charges to £12 but in an attempt to recoup lost revenue, they hiked rates and charges elsewhere. Two years on, how much have the rates and charges on credit cards increased?http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/OFT-Credit-Card-Default-Charges-Two-Years-On.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 16 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMT Savings account provider The Cheshire Building Society has launched a new Premier Postal Savings Account offering a competitive 6.00% gross/5.88% AER including an introductory bonus of 0.75%, guaranteed until the 31st December 2008, subject to a minimum balance of £10,000 being maintained.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/market-leading-premier-postal-savings-account.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTIn just six months time, all credit card providers will be obliged to include on statements details of the order of payments they use. Nationwide Building Society urges these companies to act now, lose the "smoke and mirrors" and tell their customers clearly how they allocate their repayments, rather than be forced by regulation in six months time. Nationwide estimates that consumers will have paid up to £500 million in interest payments, in the 12 months since it was announced that providers will have to highlight the order of payments they use.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/credit-card-customers-waste-500-million.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTBuy-to-let investors could leave themselves open to substantial losses by opting for standard household insurance rather than policies designed specifically for landlords, buy-to-let specialist lender Paragon Mortgages has warned.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/beware-of-landlord-insurance-shortfall.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 14 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee today voted to reduce the official Bank Rate paid on commercial bank reserves by 0.25 percentage points to 5.0%.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/base-rate-apr-08.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 10 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTAmongst all the current uncertainty surrounding the personal finance industry, the Moneyfacts.co.uk consistent savings survey shows that not all good savings deals are here today, gone tomorrow.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/moneyfacts-consistent-survey.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTThis year's moneyfacts.co.uk cash ISA survey shows the projected value of £3,000 over the tax year 2007 to 2008. Assuming that the full investment of £3,000 was made on 6 April 2007, no withdrawals were made and all interest was compounded during the tax year, the survey has yielded some very interesting results.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/mini-cash-isa-survey.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTAs the clocks have now gone forward Halifax Home Insurance warns homeowners to be aware of opportunist garden thieves and take steps now to protect outdoor property.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/summertime-brings-green-fingered-thieves-to-UK-gardens.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTFigures from energy regulator Ofgem show that the switching rate for gas and electricity suppliers hit more than five million in 2007, as energy customers went in search of cheaper deals. This is the highest level of switching for five years.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/switching-rate-hits-5-1-million-in-2007.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 02 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTfirst direct is temporarily withdrawing its mortgages, including its two-year fixed rate offset mortgage (4.95%), from sale to non first direct customers with effect from 5pm on Tuesday 1 April.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/first-direct-to-withdraw-mortgage-sales.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 GMTNot only have personal loan rates increased by an average of 1.7% over the past year, lenders have also made some significant changes to the way that they offer personal loans. Product changes Unsurprisingly the personal loan market has not escaped the effects of the credit crunch. In 2008 alone we have seen 27 changes to personal loan products. In the majority of cases, these have been increases across the board, with personal loan lenders combining large one off rate increases with gradual small rises the overall effect does not favour consumers looking for extra borrowing. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/credit-not-so-easy.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 28 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTOver the last few weeks we have seen more changes in the mortgage market time than ever before. It seems that there is no stopping it. Over the last two weeks, mortgage lenders have been even more ruthless in withdrawing mortgage products from the market and/or tightening their criteria.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/smaller-lenders-hit-by-crunch.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 26 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTCar insurance provider Swiftcover reports that British motorists are easy picking for thieves, with a careless attitude towards leaving gadgets in their carshttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/Car-Gadgets-Are-Easy-Pickings.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTCash ISAs provider Bradford & Bingley is to launch a one-year fixed rate ISA and one-year fixed rate eISA, both at a market-leading rate of 6.25% tax-free p.a./AERhttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/Market-Leading-Fixed-Rate-ISAs-Hit-625.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTFixed Rate Cash ISAs provider Cheshire Building Society is offering savers a new product ideal for investors looking to take advantage of this year’s tax-free savings allowance, before the end of the tax year on the 5th April 2008.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/Fixed-Rate-Cash-ISA-for-Last-Minute-Investors.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTSainsbury’s Finance estimates that the storms that have battered many parts of the country this month, have so far generated as many as 20,400 home insurance claims. However, it warns that hundreds or thousands of other homes may have been damaged by the recent storms but are without insurance. Indeed, its research reveals that 10% of adults are without contents insurance and 5% of those people who own a home do not have buildings cover.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/Insurance-Claims-Go-Down-a-Storm.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 25 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe fallout from the credit crunch and predicted falling house prices have forced mortgage lenders to consider their positions in the market and reassess their attitude to risk based lending. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/biggest-not-always-best.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe savings market at the moment is a hotly contested arena. The credit crunch has seen institutions upping their game and launching savings products offering fantastic rates. The result being that some institutions now have in excess of 20 plus savings products to choose from.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/loyalty-pays.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTCar insurance provider DirectLine highlights that 50% of those considering buying a new car and polled by Direct Line just days after the budget said they are now much less likely to purchase a high-emission vehicle in the future. A further 14 per cent said it made it a little less likely. Only 9 per cent remained unmoved by Darling’s efforts to push the green agenda to motorists.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/high-emission-sales-drop.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTMen are facing a big financial hit from 21st century dating, according to the latest NS& I Quarterly Savings Survey, which reveals old-fashioned expectations among men and women. On average, men expect to pay 60% more on a date than their female counterparts and some are even prepared to go into debt to fund this. While spending to impress is making many wallets groan, encouragingly some sensible guys are planning ahead and saving in advance.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/great-dating-expectations-take-toll-on-men.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTOn Thursday 20 March, Coventry Building Society, the UK’s fourth largest building society, will be extending its highly successful Sixty-Plus Notice account to the over 50s.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/market-leading-50-plus-savings-account.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTFigures from the Office for National Statistics today show that the consumer prices index (CPI) annual inflation – the Government’s target measure – was 2.5 per cent in February up from 2.2 per cent in January.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/gas-and-electricity-price-rises-fuel-inflation.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTrom April 6th 2008, the rules governing ISAs will be changing: * There will no longer be a distinction between Mini ISAs and Maxi ISAs. There will be 2 types of ISAs: Cash ISAs and Stocks & Shares ISAs * The annual limit will be increased from £7,000 to £7,200 http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/isas-changes.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 14 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTBudget 2008 - On 12 March, Alistair Darling stepped up to deliver his first Budget as Chancellor of the Exchequer, of which he labelled a ‘responsible Budget to restore and sustain stability’. What does it mean for us?http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/budget-2008.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 13 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTJust two weeks ago the FSA suggested that the days of cheap credit were over. The latest exclusive Moneyfacts.co.uk research into the cost of unsecured personal loans underlines that this is certainly the case.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/loans-on-the-up.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTFollowing the Budget announcement this afternoon, Andrew Hagger of Moneyfacts.co.uk comments on the topic of longer term fixed rate mortgages: Uncertainty is a key deterrent As well as uncertainty over the future direction of interest rates, there is another perceived downside of a longer term fixed rate mortgage which may deter some consumers.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/budget-effect-on-mortgages.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMT“The current stamp duty threshold set at £125,000 is totally out of line with the housing market in 2008. An increase from £120,000 to £125,000 in 2006 was nothing more than a token gesture and will have done little to help the majority of first time buyers (FTB).http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/help-homebuyers.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTToday's Budget is a missed opportunity to help home owners, and those aspiring to property ownership. We would have expected the Chancellor to address the challenging market conditions and revise stamp duty. Our research also shows that borrowers remain to be convinced by long-term fixed rate mortgages.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/budget-2008-fails-first-time-buyers.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 12 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTThis time last year Northern Rock was just another bank and the words ?credit crunch? had no significance. One year on and the mortgage world is a completely different place. Maximum loan to values The dust has finally settled on the surge of mortgage lenders reducing loan to values. Mortgage borrowers with a deposit of less than 10% have got a lot less choice of mortgage products than a few months ago.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/large-mortgage-deposit.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 05 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTAs we head towards spring, we see the return of many high profile charity events including Sport Relief and Race for Life. But giving to charity doesn’t have to be limited to sponsorship on an event once a year.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/giving-to-charity.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 05 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTResults from the Council of Mortgage Lenders this week have shown an increase in the number of mortgages taken by buy-to-let landlords in 2007. With first time buyers finding it increasingly difficult to get onto the property ladder, it might be expected that private landlords are having it easy.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/lanlords-feeling-pinch.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 05 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe rush for a slice of the tax-free market is really heating up now, with 42% of mini cash ISA products being amended since the beginning of February and 80% since the beginning of January.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/isa-heating-up.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 03 Mar 2008 00:00:00 GMTWhilst many people shop around for cheaper car insurance when it comes up for renewal, they tend to be more apathetic when it comes to insuring their most valuable asset, their home. Failure to check out the market for a better home insurance dealjust ends up boosting the coffers of the home insurance company. However, more importantly, if your contents are under-insured, you could find yourself severely out of pocket should you need to make a home insurance claim.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/home-content.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 26 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTBy the close of play yesterday four of the six lenders that were offering 125% loan to value mortgages had announced that they were to withdraw these higher risk home loans. Alliance and Leicester, Coventry BS, Godiva Mortgages and Abbey are all set to pull these deals this week.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/125-mortgages.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTEnergy regulator Ofgem today (Thursday) has launched an investigation into the markets in gas and electricity for households and small businesses. Ofgem chief executive Alistair Buchanan said: “The decision to conduct the probe is in response to public concern about whether the market is working effectively. We are concerned about the increased volatility of wholesale prices and we want to investigate how European and other global energy market developments are affecting energy bills in Britain. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/gas-and-electricity-under-microscope.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTMore than 23 million frugal drivers (71 per cent) are putting their lives at risk by delaying a trip to a garage despite being aware of a fault with their vehicle. Research commissioned by esure car insurance found that one in three (33 per cent) motorists admitted ignoring car defects to avoid paying out for repairs. Around one in five (19 per cent) even ignore warning lights on their car dashboard. Ten per cent admitted to ignoring the faults until their cars’ MOT was due – causing potential danger on UK roads.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/car-insurance-premiums-steady-increase.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe majority of the banks offer packaged current accounts, but are these accounts really worth the monthly fee and do any of these accounts offer a better deal than the standard current accounts? With us all currently waiting on the outcome of the Office of Fair Trading’s test case in the High Court with banks over charges and with speculation rife that free banking may be a thing of the past, packaged current accounts may become increasingly popular.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Banking/articles/packaged-current-accounts.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 25 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTMotorists everywhere are now searching across the country to find the best deal for the new 08 plate cars. Unfortunately the same effort is rarely put into sorting out the best car finance and car insurance deal and getting this wrong can be an extremely costly mistake.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/financing-your-next-car.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 20 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTAdvice from brokers will be vital to help landlords maximise their returns in the Buy-to-Let market, according to research from Alliance & Leicester Mortgages.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/buy-to-let-returns-maximised-by-brokers.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTParents whose children are born on 01 April 2008 can look forward to receiving £21,049 in weekly child benefit payments before their child turns sixteen.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/regular-saving-parents-provide-nest-egg.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTThis time last year the base rate was at the same level as it is today (5.25%). Savings rates on the other hand, are far higher than 12 months ago Despite the latest cut in base rate, the second in the last three months, fierce competition within the savings market and particularly the battle for best buy recognition means that savers have the opportunity to grab some great deals at the moment.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savings-year-on.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTAs the year goes on, an increasing number of mortgage borrowers will be facing the dilemma of what to do once they come to the end of their fixed rate mortgage deals. Trackers without penalties If you think interest rates are going to drop further and want to hold out for lower rates, before committing to a new fixed rate mortgage deal, there is an alternative to simply reverting to your current lenders standard variable rate. A fee free tracker for term without a penalty could behttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/fixed-rate.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTIt was way back in 2004 when Credit Card balance transfer fees first started to raise their ugly heads on 0% credit card deals. However with increasing levels of personal debt, the market for transferring credit card balances has become more competitive, but for the consumer it has become harder to get these deals.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/balance-transfer-not.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 18 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTBuy to Let mortgage provider, Birmingham Midshires, carries out a review of the 2007 Buy to Let market.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/buy-to-let-returns-rise.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 15 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTHalifax Home Insurance reports that more than 1.5 million British homes’ roofs were damaged by high winds last year.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/cost-storm-damage-can-hit-roof.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTPlanned spending on cars has plummeted to its lowest point for two years and has dropped by an average of £976 within just six months, according to new figures from AA Personal Loans.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/record-low-on-car-buying-budgets.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTHome insurance provider, Direct Line, is adding Identity Fraud Assistance to its home insurance policy, at no extra charge to policy holders.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/home-insurance-provider-has-identity-fraud-covered.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTCredit card provider, Nationwide Building Society, is is awarded for its Most Responsible Credit Card Lending Practices.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/credit-card-provider-voted-most-responsible.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 14 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTPost Office® Financial Services has attracted over £3 billion in savings deposits and has won half a million car insurance customers, strengthening its position as one of the fastest growing financial services providers in the UK.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savings-accounts-car-insurance-strengthen-post-office.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 12 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTSainsbury’s Home Insurance is urging landlords to ensure that they have adequate home insurance as it estimates that the collective value of their rental properties has reached £641 billion.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/home-insurance-for-lanlords-essential-says-sainsburys.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTThis year the battle for a slice of the Mini Cash ISA savings market has kicked off earlier than usual, with two of the current top three Mini Cash ISA Best Buys having been launched in the last month. Scarborough BS' Notice ISA offers 6.30% gross and Icesave's Easy Access ISA offers 6.10% gross.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/mini-cash-isa-war.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTIn response to feedback from our customers we are pleased to announce that Moneyfacts.co.uk now offers you an even wider choice when it comes to savings best buy tables. In 2007 we were first to bring you the option of viewing the most consistent savings accounts, but rather than rest on our laurels, we have expanded our range of best buy data even further by introducing the following new categories:http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savings-deals.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTEgg recently announced that it is to withdraw credit cards from 161,000 customers, who it believes are “high risk”, following a review after Egg was purchased by Citigroup last year. Egg isn’t demanding immediate repayment of balances, but customers won’t be able to spend on their cards anymore.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/egg-withdraw-credit card.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 11 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTNew research from Abbey Mortgages has found that almost four times as many homeowners would opt for a fixed rate mortgage as a tracker if they had to renew their mortgage tomorrow.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/fixed-rate-mortgages-prefered-says-abbey.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 08 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTCash ISA rates reach a new heigh of 6.25% at Alliance & Leicester as they launch a new ‘best buy’ version of its popular Direct ISA account.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/cash-isa-rates-reach-new-high.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 08 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTIn response to E.ON’s price rise announced today - 15% for gas and 9.7% for electricity - Mike Stevenson, from Which? , urges people to review their energy payments and not to hesitate to switch to a better tariff if they could get a better deal elsewhere.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/gas-and-electricity-eon-powergen-hike.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 07 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTNew research by Halifax Unsecured Personal Loans* shows that when it comes to sticking to our New Years' Resolutions, as far as personal finances are concerned, we're determined to stay on track.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/new-year-loans.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 06 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTOnce again we are in the situation where double digit price rises for Gas and Electricity are the norm and everyone is wondering where to go for the best Gas and Electricity deals. Whilst it is a good time to be shopping around, Moneyfacts is calling on the Gas and Electricity suppliers to do more to help customers.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/gas-and-electricity-issue.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 06 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTAs the end of another tax year fast approaches, savers should be looking to make the most of their tax free saving allowance with a Mini Cash ISA. Any allowance not used by the 5 April deadline will be lost forever.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/none.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 06 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTWhether you are someone who runs your current account in credit or makes regular use of an overdraft limit, there are financial benefits to be had when switching your current account. Whilst switching a mortgage, credit card or savings account has become almost the norm as people have started to become more savvy about making the most of their money, there is a combination of reluctance and apathy when it comes to moving your current account.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Banking/articles/current-accounts-switch.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 06 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTBritish small businesses have dug in their heels against a tide of market pessimism. Far from being defeatist, the industry remains confident about sales and profit growth for the year ahead, according to the second NatWest and RBS Small Business Monitor. Whilst the issue of CGT reforms have loomed over small businesses for months, research shows this clearly wasn’t their No1 concern.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Business/articles/small-businesses-show-resilience.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 05 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTNationwide estimates that, during the current tax year (2007-08), savers in the UK could be paying more than £230 million extra in tax by failing to take advantage of their yearly ISA allowance.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/isa-simplification-doesnt-go-far-enough-for-savers.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 05 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTTenants across the UK are gambling nearly £8billion of personal possessions by not protecting themselves against bad weather or crime, according to Zurich Insurance.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/contents-insurance-not-tenants-priority.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 05 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTNew research from Halifax Estate Agents reveals that when moving, men with a partner or spouse are more likely to be solely responsible for sorting the finances than women.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/women-let-men-sort-finances-when-moving.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 04 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTNationwide estimates that, during the current tax year (2007-08), savers in the UK could be paying more than £230 million extra in tax by failing to take advantage of their yearly ISA allowance.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/isas-could-generate-millions-for-taxman.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 04 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTWith adverse wintery weather causing dangerous driving conditions, British motorists are likely to experience a third more (31 per cent) accidents this winter season than during the summer months, mainly down to poorly gritted local roads.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/de-icing-with-death.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTIn response to ScottishPower’s price rise announced today, averaging 15% for gas and 14% for electricity, Mike Stevenson, Switch with Which? says that this latest increase is yet more incentive for consumers to vote with their feet and switch to a better deal.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/gas-and-electricity-scottishpower-hike.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTToday sees news that selected Barclay's savings rates will be hit for the third time in as many months. Barclay's Savings Builder and Day to Day Savings Accounts face a 0.24% reduction on 1 February. Barclay's Day to Day savings account will pay 3.69%; Barclay's Savings Builder savings account will pay 4.17% at £10000, 4.31% at £25000, 4.41% at £50000, 4.55% at £100000 and 4.65% at £250000.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/more-savings-rate-drop.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTOnly five days after the bad news that Barclays had reduced its savings account rates again, today we will see the launch of a great new instant access savings account from West Bromwich BS.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/new-easy-access-savings-account.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTAs fixed rate savings continue to fall, Moneyfacts.co.uk looks at what this sector of the savings market still has to offer. Although we have seen a dramatic drop in some short term fixed rate savings over the last couple of weeks, with larger institutions such as Halifax dropping rates by up to 1%, there are still some really good fixed rate savings deals to be found.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/best-fixed-rate-savings.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTWith speculation rife that the Bank of England will cut the base rate again next week, mortgage lenders have been preparing for the potential increased demand by increasing margins offered on tracker rate mortgages.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/mortgage-lenders-squeeze-rate.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTBT today made UK weekend call charges a thing of the past by extending free weekend calls to its 10.8 million Option 1 customers. The move takes effect from today and will mean that, for the very first time, all 14.8 million BT households - the majority of British households - will no longer have to pay for weekend calls.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/millions-set-to-enjoy-free-weekend-calls.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 01 Feb 2008 00:00:00 GMTWith severe gales battering much of the UK, and with snow on the way, Halifax Home Insurance offers some timely advice to help homeowners reduce the risk of weather-related damage to their property.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/windstorms-and-snow-batter-britain.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 31 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTThe female-focused Sheilas’ Wheels brand will move beyond car insurance for the first time next week (launch Sunday 3 February 2008) and aims to reshape people’s expectations of home cover with the launch of Sheilas’ Wheels home insurance.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/home-insurance-for-modern-women.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 30 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTSales of used cars fell by 3 per cent during quarter three of 2007, but younger cars suffered the most, according to the latest figures from Experian®, the global information services company.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/cars-under-three-years-old-lose-their-appeal.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 30 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTOn Friday 1st February Norwich and Peterborough Building Society (N&P) is launching a brand new range of savings accounts for families with dependent children* - offering some of the best ‘no strings attached’ rates in the market.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/family-savings-get-a-helping-hand.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 28 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTAccording to Energywatch, the independent gas and electricity watchdog, British Gas customers have seen their dual-fuel gas and electricity bills increase from £567 to £1,049 in the last 5-years, a whopping increase of 85%.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/energy-price-rise.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 23 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTOne in five (20%) of those questioned do not have any buildings insurance and would not be covered in the event of damage caused by floods, storms, or worse, a house fire. Of those people who do have buildings insurance, almost 25% do not know what is covered under the policy.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/one-in-five-without-buildings-insurance.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 22 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTAlthough some insurances are must-haves, such as buildings insurance, contents insurance, life insurance, and car insurance, others are often completely unnecessary, have high obstacles to climb and pay out in comparably few cases, warns the Which? Essential Guide.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/thousands-wasted-on-unnecessary-insurances.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTMany people in the UK are faced with having to stretch their finances to the limit with the news that NPower, EDF energy and British Gas are hiking fuel prices by around 15 per cent, but for many elderly members of our society, this could prove a hike too far.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/ofgem-and-energy-rise.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTPayment Protection Insurance, or PPI as it is more commonly known, is designed to protect you to cover your repayments on your mortgage, loan or credit card should you become unable to work through sickness or injury. Sounds useful, doesn't it? But the fact remains that not only is PPI incredibly expensive it could fail to pay out when you need it the most.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/ppi.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 21 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTNpower customers are facing staggering price rises of up to 27% this year, taking the average household’s annual energy bill to over £1,000. Other Energy suppliers are expected to follow suit, with similar eye-watering price rises over the next few weeks. In a market of rising prices, experts are predicting that Energy suppliers will be announcing new capped or fixed rate deals, but often these fixed rate deals require a minimum term of usually one year and have penalties if you try and leave early.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/new-utilities-comparison.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTExperian’s latest Motor Insurance Benchmark report stated that the cost of online car insurance was over 6% higher compared to 2006. The true impact of the floods in 2007 is yet to filter through to home insurance premiums, and experts are now starting to see insurance premiums rising.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/car-home-insurance-comparison.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTFive weeks on from Decembers shock reduction in base rate, many experts are predicting yet another cut tomorrow. Despite the festive period we would have expected the dust to have settled by now, with most savings account providers having made a decision. But some savings account providers are still undecided, with some savers happily sitting on higher than expected return.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savings-rate-cut-wait.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTFive weeks on from Decembers shock reduction in base rate, many experts are predicting yet another cut tomorrow. Despite the festive period we would have expected the dust to have settled by now, with most mortgage lenders having made a decision. But some mortgage providers are still undecided, with mortgage borrowers continuing to be charged at a potentially higher rate.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/mortgage-rate-still-waiting.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTWith expectations of a housing market slowdown this year, it seems that mortgage lenders have started to take a more cautious approach to ensure their fingers don’t get burnt. The latest market analysis from Moneyfacts.co.uk highlights the current trend for mortgage lenders to be reducing their maximum loan to values.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/lenders-tighten-their-belts.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTFor most of 2007 we reported rising personal loan rates, with the demise of sub six percent personal loans and the market finally settling at the end of the year with the best personal loan deals around 6.5% to 7%. But as 2008 starts, there is good news for borrowers as personal loan rates begin to fall.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/personal-loans-rate-fall.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTHigh savings rates have been a by-product of the credit crunch, as providers source deposits as an alternative option to raising funds on the money markets. Competition is still alive, with savings account rates almost 1% more than Bank of England base rate in the variable rate savings account market, and as much as 1.35% within the fixed rate savings account market.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/fixed-rate-savings-tumble.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTToday sees Icesave launch into the ISA market with yet another market leading product. The Icesave Easy Access ISA fits the same mould as their other savings accounts, it’s simple, straightforward and pays a very competitive return. Savers really do get what they see when it comes to Icesave products.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/icesave-scores-a-hat-trick.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 15 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTIn the UK, around 75% of our electricity is used by burning coal and gas in power stations, releasing millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide, the gas responsible for climate change. As we see with our own eyes the impact of our energy is having on the environment, more and more of us are looking to reduce our carbon footprint. This can be done through the gas and electricity we choose and use – as the more energy you use, the greater the effect on the environment.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/green-energy.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 14 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTFor savers who are fed up with excessive savings rate cuts or too busy constantly to switch between short term deals. Recent events in the savings account market underline the importance of providing consumers with details of the most consistent savings accounts available.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/consistent-savings-account.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 11 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTUK savers are faced with a huge array of savings accounts to choose from, but how can they pick a savings account that hasn’t had its rate slashed to a derisory level or find a savings account that doesn’t include a short term bonus?http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/big-rates-short-term.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 10 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTIt’s the time of year when most people will be dreading the day their credit card bill hits the doormat, unveiling the true extent of their festive spend. If you do find yourself unable to repay your credit card in full, or are perhaps still carrying over a balance from 2007, there are still plenty of credit card balance transfer deals to be found. But getting one might not be a simple as you think.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/balance-transfer-deals.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 10 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTWith many predicting that the base rate may be cut again on Thursday we thought this might be worth keeping on your desk.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/base-rate-reckoner.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 09 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTBritain's four gas distribution network operators have accepted energy regulator Ofgem’s final proposals for the 2008-2013 price controls.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Utilities/articles/all-four-gas-providers-accept-ofgems-controls.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 09 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTMany of us will have lumbered ourselves with more debt than we should have done last year, and made a New Year’s resolution to sort out our finances this year. Moneyfacts can help you stay true to your word and help you get back in control of your finances and make morehttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/sort-out debt-in-2008.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTPay day may seem like an eternity away, with your bank account put under extra pressure trying to cope with your post Christmas spend and regular household bills. But it is vital that you keep on top of your finances. Going into unauthorised overdraft, buying items without the funds to cover them or having items returned by your bank can be a costly mistake.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Banking/articles/unathoruised-overdraft.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTChristmas has come and gone and our bank accounts will certainly have felt the pinch over the past few weeks. Our mortgages were probably the last of our worries over the festive season, but given the lingering credit crunch engulfing money markets, if your mortgage is set to expire this year, then you should have a plan in place.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/new-mortgage-for-2008.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTAs Christmas 2007 fades into the distance, you may be too scared to check just how much you actually spent, and regret not having put a plan in place before you flexed your plastic. But just because it may have been too late to have prepared yourself financially for the festive season, doesn't mean you can't start preparing for Christmas 2008 today. Opening up a Christmas savings account really can be a great way to make sure your money is safe and secure until it's time to go shopping.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/saving-in-2008.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTIf you’ve been good this Christmas and spent within your means, congratulations! Now is the perfect time to start some serious saving, or possible boost a nest egg you may already have. When thinking about where to start, start by deciding on a target. Perhaps you want to maximise your Individual Savings Allowance (ISA), or lock away your funds for a set term. The best place to start is your ISA, because every penny you earn in interest is free from tax. You have until 1 April to use up your allowance, which is currently £3,000 but this is set to change to £3,600 for the next tax year. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/boost-your-savings-2008.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTIf your new year’s resolution is the tackle your debt by consolidation, tread carefully as you could be caught out by high interest rates and over priced insurance. Consolidating your debts onto one loan can prove an ideal solution. It could cut your monthly payments and see your interest bill lower. Also for those less disciplined, the fixed monthly repayment might offer the structure you need to commit to repay the debt within a given time.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/wrong-loan.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTWith still more than a fortnight until payday for most of us on monthly pay, are you sure you can get to the end of the month without a little financial assistance from your bank or building society? The overspend at Christmas will be starting to bite hard for many, especially with the dreaded credit card bills due to hit the doormat any day now.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/paying-your-ovedraft.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTIt’s the time of year when most people will be dreading the day their credit card bill hits the doormat, unveiling the true extent of their festive spend. If you do find yourself unable to repay this in full, or are perhaps still carrying over a balance from 2007, there are still plenty of balance transfer deals to be found. But getting one might not be a simple as you think.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/endless-credit-card-deals.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 08 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTMany people are predicting that it is going to be a tough year in the personal finance world, so now is the time to get prepared for the rough ride ahead. Here's the Moneyfacts.co.uk guide to getting to grip with your finances and how to make better financial decisions in 2008.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/finance-2008.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 02 Jan 2008 00:00:00 GMTAt long last there is scrap of good news for borrowers on variable rate mortgages linked to standard variable rates, with just over 50% of mortgage providers (53 lenders) having already signalled their intention to cut rates.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/base-rate-update.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 21 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMT44 savings account providers have announced savings rate cuts since the base rate cut. 24 savings account providers have reduced savings rates by the full 0.25%. These changes to savings account rates are more or less as expected. A few more smaller institutions have reduced their savings rates earlier, perhaps because they are coming to year end and wanting to have their books in order before the Christmas break. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savings-base-rate.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 21 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMTMoneyfacts.co.uk comments on the changes so far in the mortgage and savings market following last week's surprise 0.25% reduction in base rate: Mortgages * 31 mortgage providers have announced changes to their standard variable rate (SVR) * Six mortgage providers have reduced their SVR by less than the 0.25% base rate reductionhttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/credit-crunch-on-base-rate.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 14 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMTWith signs that variable rate mortgages are becoming back in vogue, it is important that mortgage borrowers realise the difference in how discounted or tracker mortgage rates can work. Trackers will follow the Bank of England base rate by a given margin, whereas discounted mortgages can be a discount off the mortgage lender's standard variable rate.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/changing-mortgage.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 13 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMTWith only two weeks before Christmas, still frantically shopping for presents and preparing for the festivities most of us have probably realised that we should have prepared earlier for Christmas this year. With a significant strain put on our wallets, it may not be a festive time for our finances. So why not think ahead and get prepared for Christmas 2008, so at least next year your finances will be prepared even if you are not.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/saving-for-next-xmas.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 11 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMTIt seems that some institutions had almost pre-empted the recommendations issued by the FSA on the 4th of December and are already assessing their funding and liquidity positions. As a result they are already attempting to bring in more funds through savings accounts.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savings-liquidity-crisis.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 07 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMTAs the Northern Rock situation continues to dominate much of the media and with changes across a number of their products this week, we thought a brief update might be of some help.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savers-and-borrowers.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 06 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMTDespite the continuing tightening of lending criteria in the mortgage market, especially on riskier loans, five mortgage lenders are still offering the much talked about 125% mortgages. However 125% loan to values may not be quite what they seem. Mortgage lenders have put such tight restrictions on them that only in very specific circumstances can a mortgage borrower will get the full 125% loan.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/125-mortgage.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 06 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMTAnother two personal loans lenders bite the dust in the personal loan market this week, with the withdrawal of Hanley Economic BS and Northern Rock funded Eskimo Loans. They join GE Money, Leeds BS and LV= which withdrew earlier this month, marking an almost a 10% reduction in the number of unsecured personal loan providers.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/personal-loans-shrink.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 06 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMTNew research conducted by Sainsbury’s home insurance reveals that confusion abounds in the home insurance marketplace, with 2.94 million people believing that they had to buy their buildings insurance from their mortgage lender in order to secure their mortgage.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Insurance/articles/buildings-insurance-from-your-mortgage-provider.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 04 Dec 2007 00:00:00 GMTChoosing to switch current accounts is not a decision many of us take lightly, as even with the best current account switching service it takes time and effort. With the transfers of direct debit, salary and other payment instructions to be taken care of, it’s usually takes at least a few weeks before your new current account will be fully operational.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Banking/articles/current-accounts-long-term-relationships-won-with-short-term-deals.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTExclusive research from Moneyfacts.co.uk reveals the average mortgage arrangement fee has almost doubled during the last 2 years. Figures from November 2005 showed an average flat mortgage arrangement fee at £441, whereas today it stands at £827.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/mortgage-fees-double-trouble.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 28 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTWith most other lending areas introducing stricter conditions, restricted availability and in some cases inflated interest rates, it's surprising to see the equity release sector beginning to broaden its horizons by lowering minimum ages and increasing maximum loan to values.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/eguity-release-widens-market.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 23 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTToday sees the launch of two new five-year fixed rate mortgage deals from the, with the unique feature of a three-year redemption charge. For first and second time buyers the mortgage rate is 5.99% fixed until 28.2.13, and for re-mortgage borrowers 6.09% to 28.2.13. Both charge a below average fee of £699 with early repayment charges of 4% to 28.2.09; 3% to 28.2.10; 2% to 28.2.11 http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/five-year-fixed-rate.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 22 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe West Bromwich Building Society has raised the savings account bar with the launch of its instant access Premier Bonus Tracker 4 savings account, paying a market-leading savings rate of 6.6% from £1000.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/instant-access-account.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 22 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTWith Christmas only weeks away, you may be planning on splashing out on presents and the festivities. Whatever your purchase, remember that although a personal loan can be a useful way of funding such spending, they are a big responsibility - so you need to make sure you get the best personal loan to suit your circumstances and that you can afford to pay it back.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/personal-loans-for-xmas.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTHalifax has announced today that it is reducing its core savings rates by up to 0.25%. Whilst we have seen the launch of some competitively priced savings products this week, Halifax has bucked the trend by cutting rates on its core range. It is uncommon to see a provider reduce their rates in a period of base rate stability.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savings-rate-change.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTToday Standard Life Bank announced its standard variable mortgage rate would increase by 0.15% to 7.46% or 7.66% depending on the loan to value of the mortgage. It is very rare to see a mortgage lender increase its standard variable mortgage rate outside a Bank of England base rate change. It could very well be the first sign that the mainstream 'prime' mortgage is feeling the pinch of the credit crisis. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/mortgage-rate-changes.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 19 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTAs far as Banks and Building Societies are concerned, current accounts are the gateway to cross-selling you other profitable accounts and services. Whilst some Banks and Building Societies take a very proactive approach to recruiting new customers by offering incentives and attractive terms, others will rely on customer apathy as a retention strategy and continue to offer very basic and uncompetitive deals.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Banking/articles/switching-account.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 16 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTASDA has entered into the savings accounts market with a bang, offering a competitively priced no notice internet savings account paying 6.35% with a minimum deposit of £100. The rate includes a 0.60% bonus for the first 12 months, and the underlying rate is guaranteed to be at least equal to Base Rate until 31.10.10.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/asda-savings.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTThis week sees the re-launch of the Co-operative Bank's 25 year fixed rate mortgage deal, which is available for up to 95% loan-to-value, has an arrangement fee of £599 and charges a fixed mortgage rate of 5.95%. It also offers a free valuation & legal fees for borrowers re-mortgaging.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/coop-relaunch-mortgage.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe level of competitiveness for savings accounts shows no signs of slowing down. In the last couple of weeks we have seen the launch of many competitive new deals for internet savings accounts and the ever popular over 50s savings accounts.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savings-bonanza.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTNorthern Rock sees the first tightening of personal loan criteria, reducing its maximum term for personal loans from 10 years to seven years. Northern Rock are the first personal loans lender to make changes to the conditions of their personal loans deals. Northern Rock did stand out from the crowd offering a 10-year personal loan, so this latest move brings them back in line with the market.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/northern-rock-tightens-loans.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTWith Children in Need dominating our TV screens over the coming weekend, we may be considering the best ways to give to our chosen charity. By using one of the growing numbers of charity savings accounts or charity credit cards we can donate as part of our everyday banking.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/support-charity-save.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTAbbey now pays 8% credit interest on current accounts to new customers up to £1000 and switcher customers £2500 on it credit option current account. This is a market leading current account deal, paying 1.5% (AER) higher than its closest current account competitor. However you do need to be aware that it is only paid on balances up to £1000, unless you switch your current account, when it is paid up to £2500.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Banking/articles/abbey-current-account.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTCompetitive personal loan rates can still be found, especially if you are borrowing larger sums of money. But as rates continue to rise and lenders begin to withdraw from the personal loans market, it could look a very different picture in a few months' time. Leeds Building Society withdrew at the end of last week, with very competitive PPI charges and low rates on small personal loans, it left a hole at the top of some of the personal loan best buys. And this week GE Money followed suit, withdrawing its competitive rate of 6.9% on personal loans between £7.5K and £25K. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/personal-loans-back-out.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTRisk limitation is the key feature of many of today's mortgage changes. Sub-prime was the first casualty, with vastly tightened mortgage credit criteria and rate changes. Now it seems that the self-certification mortgage market, both for prime and sub-prime mortgage borrowers, is also beginning to feel the pinch.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/mortgage-borrowers.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 08 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTExclusive research by Moneyfacts.co.uk has revealed that in the last two months, no less than 125 fee and rate increases have hit the credit card market. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/credit-card-caos.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 05 Nov 2007 00:00:00 GMTWhen it comes to their banking, new research suggests ethical consumers are not as green as they think. Well-meaning ethical consumers are failing to do the one thing that even they recognise could change the world most, according to a report released today from ethical banking specialists, Triodos. ‘How Green is Your Money?’,http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Ethical/articles/how-green-is-your-money.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTAmerican Express has raised the bar in the credit card cashback market, offering an impressive offer to challenge the current market leaders Capital One. Credit card cashback is a hotly contested market, and with Christmas just around the corner it's an ideal time to make full use of these introductory credit card offers.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/cashback-card-battle.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe last two months has seen a boom in the variable rate savings market, with rates rising and new savings accounts being launched to top the savings best buy charts. The savings market is booming, and with rates to be found at 0.75% above the Bank of England base rate, it’s a great time for savers to review their accounts. Fierce competition is driving savings accounts rates forward, but there has got to be a point at which it is....http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savings-rate-rise.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTAn exclusive survey by Moneyfacts.co.uk reveals that Building Societies offer 70% of the top 250 mortgages available today and that those looking for a mortgage may well be better off going to a building society than to one of the larger banks or mortgage lenders.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/mortgage-deals.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 31 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe rules surrounding Power of Attorney have been changed as of October 1st, which has wider concerns when it comes to Inheritance Tax (IHT). Prior to the date, it was the Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) which enabled relatives or trusted friends to take charge of your financial affairs should you no longer be able to. Under the Mental Capacity Act, this has now been changed to the Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Life/articles/power-of-attorney.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 29 Oct 2007 16:19:58 GMTAlliance & Leicester have just launched a new Premier 50 Current Account, which is an impressive account all round and unrivalled in many of its features. Paying a market leading credit interest rate for the first year, and sustaining a competitive rate thereafter makes this a great account for the longer term too. 7% AER (up to £2.5K) is better than any standard variable savings rate in the market today. But for those who do slip into the red, the same market leading overdraft structure also applies.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/Over_50s_current_ac.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 29 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTYour child may be at university, enjoying their first year of student life. But you may already be considering buying a home for them to live in next year. If that sound's like you, you need to make sure you do your homework.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/student_accomodation.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 26 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTWhile the rest of the savings accounts market seems to be booming with increasing rates and new best buy savings accounts being launched almost daily, this week Barclays Bank became the first provider to announce a reduction in rates on its savings accounts range. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savings_rate.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 26 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTToday sees the launch of a new two year discounted tracker rate mortgage from the Co-operative Bank, taking the market by storm and shooting straight into the Moneyfacts.co.uk discounted variable rate mortgage best buys. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/coop_tracker_rate_mortgage.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 26 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe &More MasterCard from Marks & Spencer Money continues to offer its competitive loyalty rewards scheme, but today its purchase rate increases by 1% to 18.9% and sadly its competitive life of balance deal, previously at 5.9%, now becomes 7.9% for only two years. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/Mands_credit_card.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 26 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTFigures from Shelter revealed that over a million householders have used their credit card to make their mortgage payments or rent over the last twelve months. Moneyfacts.co.uk urges borrowers to think carefully before going down this road, as it’s one of the most expensive solutions you could choose. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/Credit_cards_and_mortgages.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 26 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTMoneyfacts.co.uk urges people looking for life assurance to assess the full cost of cover over the term of the policy when selecting the best deal. The warning from Moneyfacts.co.uk follows the launch of a new life product from the Post Office, which offers a £100 cash back bonus to anyone taking out either a level or decreasing term assurance policy. The incentive of £100 looks generous, but you may be able to obtain cheaper cover elsewhere which outweigh the benefits of the cash back deal. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Life/articles/cash_back_deals.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 25 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTIn the wake of the savings rate war, first in the fixed rate market and subsequently with variable rate products, the offshore savings market has stolen the march in the last week, offering market leading offshore savings rates. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Offshore/articles/great_rates_are_you_safe.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 23 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe recent speculation of Gordon Brown calling an election brought the political parties' manifestos to the fore. However, although Mr Brown made a U-turn after losing an 11 point lead to the Conservatives, the electorate is a starting to be a bit clearer on who stands for what.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/moneyfacts_manifesto.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 17 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe total number of buy-to-let and residential mortgage products available has fallen by a staggering 40% overall in the last three months. Most of this is due to bad credit (or "sub prime") mortgages being withdrawn from sale. In fact, 72% of bad credit buy-to-let mortgage products were withdrawn and 54% of bad credit residential mortgage products were withdrawn. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/bad_credit_mortgage.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 17 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTA lot of our customers have been asking us if their savings are 100% safe and are worried about which Financial Institution owns which savings companies and what level of protection the Government gives to savers in the unlikely event that a Financial Institution goes under. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/savings_are_u_safe.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 17 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTA war is currently being waged in the one year fixed rate bonds savings market, which is great news for savers as we'e witnessed fixed rate savings deals at levels not seen for over six years. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/fixed-rate-savings-best-in-6-yrs.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTFor over 50s savings accounts there are now some great deals to be had, with rates reaching 6.4% with no hidden catches. Over 50s savings accounts offer the same range of notice, no notice and fixed accounts but limit their availability to those aged over 50 and there are now over 50 providers exclusively competing to help you find a new home for your savings. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/over_50_savings.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTA recent survey by the Halifax has shown that nearly two thirds of parents would use their salary to put their children through university, to prevent them being saddled with debt on graduation.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/student_debt.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTBelieve it or not there are less than 9 weeks before Christmas, so why not make the most of the credit card deals available so you can profit from your Christmas spending! Abbey are offering 5% cashback, but that's limited to the first £1000 spent in a supermarket until 31.1.2008, so the most you can get back is £50. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/xmas_spending.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTWith a year of base rate rises and the shock impact of the credit crisis behind us, the mortgage market is in an unusual equilibrium whereby fixed and variable deals are being priced more or less the same. The mortgage market has moved back to the state we saw 18 months ago, whereby fixed rate deals no longer come at a premium, and can sometimes cost less than a discounted deal. With increases to variable rates of late, combined with a reduction in fixed rates, there's now little difference between the cost of a fixed rate or variable rate mortgage deal. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/identical_rates.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 16 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTWith overdraft charges in the spotlight, and undoubtedly a target for the Office of FairTrading (OTF) to intervene and impose reductions, Lloyds TSB has been the first off the mark to announce reductions to its overdraft fees. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Banking/articles/lloyds_tsb_changes.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTBuy-to-let mortgages are beginning to show signs reminiscent of the sub prime lending market over the last few weeks with tightening credit criteria, the withdrawal of buy-to-let mortgage products and rising fees. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/sub_prime_credit_crunch.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe extensive Northern Rock residential and buy-to-let mortgage range has seen its number of products cut by over two thirds, in its first product change since seeking emergency funding from the Bank of England. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/northern_rock_Mortgages.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 15 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTIf you don’t have the time or inclination to continuously chase the best rates by switching your savings from one best buy account to another, Moneyfacts.co.uk has the answer – we now provide details of savings accounts that have historically offered consistency in the form of a good rate of return.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/most-consistent-savings-accounts.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTStephen Rumbelow, Head of Moneyfacts.co.uk - the leading independent financial comparison site, comments: "We have been constantly pushing for a code of practice to be introduced in our industry to ensure that consumers benefit from using best buy tables that search the whole market.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/comparison-websites-code-of-practice-long-overdue.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 11 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe Moneyfacts.co.uk consumer website has gone from strength to strength since Stephen Rumbelow joined the Norwich based leading independent financial comparison site earlier this year from Virgin Mobile.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/the-virgin-effect.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 09 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTAndrew Hagger Head of News and Press at Moneyfacts.co.uk looks at the performance of Child Trust Funds, one year on.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/savings/articles/child-trust-funds-long-term.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 04 Oct 2007 17:38:00 GMTCash-based child trust funds (CTF) have delivered an average growth of just over 10% in the last two years. The average growth for equity based child trust funds however, is over three times as much over the same period. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/child-trust-funds-best-returns.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 04 Oct 2007 17:31:24 GMTThe first batch of Child Trust Fund (CTF) vouchers issued in January and February 2005 are now a year old. Any unused vouchers will soon be automatically invested by the Government with one of the 11 approved providers of default stakeholder accounts.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/savings/articles/child-trust-fund-one-year-on.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 04 Oct 2007 17:04:03 GMTBy the end of the year new and existing Halifax Websaver customers will see their accounts 'carbon labelled'. With green becoming the new black of financial services, providers are becoming increasingly innovative and creative in ways which they can wear the green badge. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Ethical/articles/halifax-goes-green.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 04 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe Northern Rock crisis has resulted in some good news for savers – as from October 1st 2007, the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) has been expanded to protect even more money deposited in UK banks and building societies. Out with the old… http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/saving-even-safer.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 01 Oct 2007 00:00:00 GMTAbbey's new cashback credit card allows customers to claim 5% cashback on their first £1,000 spent at large supermarkets across the UK until the end of January. Because Abbey estimates the average household monthly spend in supermarkets is around £190, cardholders should be covered for almost five months worth of shopping. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/maket-leading-cashback-card.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 27 Sep 2007 17:04:07 GMTMore than 250,000 borrowers will see their two-year fixed rate loans come to an end before the end of the year. Fixed rates were much cheaper two years ago, with an average two-year fixed rate deal standing at around 4.5%. Current fixed rate deals could mean an increase in repayments of around £230 per month for a homeowner borrowing £120,000. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/fixed-or not-fixed-rate-mortgage.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 26 Sep 2007 09:48:44 GMTThousands of cars with shiny new '57 registration plates have started rolling off forecourts this month. However, new research has shown that car buyers are more likely to choose car forecourt finance deals rather than a personal loan - but this could prove to be a costly mistake. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/costly-car-finance.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 26 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe stories in the press this week have been surrounding the sudden increase of mortgage rates. Looking at the market is this just the press searching for the bad news and desperate to link the rising rates to the credit crunch in financial markets. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/fixed-rate-fall.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 25 Sep 2007 16:39:44 GMTFind out who owns whom in the finance markethttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/who-owns-whom-listings.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 24 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe latest survey by Moneyfacts.co.uk reveals that ethical investors are being rewarded for following their conscience, with ethical fund returns surging ahead of mainstream traditional funds.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Ethical Money/articles/ethical-investors.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 20 Sep 2007 10:49:03 GMTNorth American companies are lagging behind Europe, although a core of larger companies have started to adopt responsible business practices. The Eiris report shows that European companies tended to be more socially and environmentally awarehttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/Ethical Money/articles/ethical-standards.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 20 Sep 2007 10:43:01 GMTNorthern Rock Crisis - Northern Rock revealed last week that it had to ask the Bank of England for emergency funding to help with its balance sheet and keep its business ticking over.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/northern-rock-crisis.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 17 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMTWith peak holiday season fast approaching, many of us will be spending time searching for the most competitive travel package, insurance, flights or car parking. But one area we seem to neglect is our travel money, often choosing the convenience of our own bank or airport rather than shopping around to find the best travel money deal available. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/travel-money.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 14 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe current account war shows little sign of easing, with several banks battling it out to offer customers the best current account rates and deals. Moneyfacts experts have practised what they preach and earned an extra £125 in interest simply by switching their current account. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Banking/articles/earn-extra-on-current-accounts.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 13 Sep 2007 16:57:06 GMTHSBC has re-launched its fee free mortgage deals, but have also increased the rates on most of these deals - a bit like robbing Peter to pay Paul! The fee free mortgage deals offered by HSBC are far from market leading and the same features can be found on more competitive mortgage deals. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/HSBC-fee-free-mortgage.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 13 Sep 2007 15:35:09 GMTYour Personal Loan.co.uk, a subsidiary of Co-operative Bank, has launched a new unsecured personal loan at a rate of 6.3% APR http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Loans/articles/Your-Personal-Loans.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 13 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMTSaga has expanded its range of over 50s accounts with the launch of a new internet account Online Savings, paying a best buy rate of 6.20%. While this rate is very competitive, Northern Rock are paying 6.30%,http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/Saga-new-inter-account.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 13 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMTMoneyfacts has released its latest Moneyfacts SVR mortgage survey showing the annual interest cost of a £150,000 mortgage at the lenders standard variable rate (SVR) between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2005http://moneyfacts.co.uk/mortgages/articles/svr-mortgages-survey.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 12 Sep 2007 14:20:17 GMTThe current account and offset mortgage market has showed strong growth since its launch in the UK in 1994. In 2004 it was worth £29.2 billion and made up 10% of the total UK secured lending market and this is predicted to rise to £84.7 billion by 2009, making up 30% of the total secured lending market.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/mortgages/articles/offset-mortgages-savings.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 05 Sep 2007 13:41:15 GMTRachel Mckay, Mortgage analyst from moneyfacts.co.uk comments on offset and current account mortgages and the options available to consumershttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/mortgages/articles/winning-mortgages.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 05 Sep 2007 13:37:15 GMTHSBC recently announced plans to scrap its interest-free overdraft facility for graduate accounts, meaning that student account holders could face up to £140 interest charges each year for using their overdrafts.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Banking/articles/switching_graduate_accouonts.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 04 Sep 2007 09:17:58 GMTThe report on climate change, by Sir Nicholas Stern, described climate change as the 'greatest market failure the world has ever seen' and certain groups criticised the Government for using it as a means to 'pave the way for a whole host of new green taxes'. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Ethical Money/articles/stern-review.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 04 Sep 2007 00:00:00 GMThttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/good-bad-ugly-200708.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 29 Aug 2007 14:45:24 GMTIn the case of mortgages, we have witnessed mortgage arrangement fees rising at an alarming rate. Five years ago we were seeing arrangement fees of around £399, but we’re now witnessing arrangement fees of three times this size or even more.. So the message is to do your homework and make sure that you look at all of the mortgage fees, as these fees might wipe out any benefit from what appears to be a very competitive headline interest rate.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/mortgage-exit-fees-dont-get-cought-out.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 29 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMTNational Savings and Investments have launched an advertising campaign to help people trace £435m worth of unclaimed money that’s been sitting dormant in savings accounts for years. Banks and Building Societies are also trying to help people trace lost accounts as well.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/unclaimed-money.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 21 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMTWith card providers' profits suffering at the hands of rate tarts and rising bad debts, consumers will find the long-term 0% balance deals free from fees becoming few and far between as providers look for alternative means to recoup their losses. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/loans/articles/lifetime-balance-transfers.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 14 Aug 2007 18:06:30 GMTStudent Bank Accounts - As you have probably found, getting to grips with funding university life can be a tricky and not to mention an expensive task. According to the National Union of Students, many of today’s students will have to find nearly £10,500 per academic year, and that is top of hefty top-up fees, which were introduced in 2006. As a result, NUS estimates that this year’s students face graduating with a total debt of over £20,000http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Banking/articles/student-bank-accounts.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 14 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMTIt doesn’t seem five minutes since the last football season ended, yet here we are in the second week of August, ready for the big ‘kick off’ once more.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/football-credit-cards-and-savings-accounts.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 10 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMTAplying for a new credit card?. These are the things you'll need to know.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/cards/articles/credit-cards-watch.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 03 Aug 2007 13:43:35 GMTReclaim Mortgage Exit Fees - The Financial Services Authority (FSA) has urged borrowers who think they have been charged higher exit fees than the one originally set out in their mortgage contract to reclaim them. The controversial fees, charged by mortgage lenders to borrowers ending their current deal, range from £50 to around £300.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/reclaim-mortgage-exit-fees.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 03 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMTSavers in the UK today can take advantage of a wide range of high interest accounts, and the cream of the crop can be found right here on Moneyfacts.co.uk in our Best Buy tables. However, many of you have been contacting our savings department asking why we exclude ICICI’s HiSAVE account from our charts.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/icici-moneyfacts-stance.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 27 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMTGoing green around the house does not mean making life-altering changes; it’s the simple things that will have the greatest impact. By saving energy not only will you help to save the planet, you’ll save yourself a small fortune too. So let’s get started with Moneyfacts’ top 10 ways to slash those bills to help you start saving those pounds.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Ethical/articles/10-ways-to-save-money-going-green.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe Government have recently announced plans that all new homes in England will have to be carbon neutral by 2016. With the UK’s housing stock responsible for nearly 30% of all CO2 emissions, the Government believes that these measures are critical to it meeting its targets of cutting CO2 emissions by 60% by 2050.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Ethical/articles/carbon-neutral-homes.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMTThere are several ways in which you can support a charity of your choice like Friends of the Earth, Oxfam or The World Wildlife Fund etc. Most charities need a reliable, regular and long-term supply of income to campaign effectively for a better world, which is why a regular monthly donation by direct debit is probably the best way for you to provide your support.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Ethical/articles/charitable-giving.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMTAccording to the Fairtrade Foundation, Fairtrade is essentially about ensuring that producers in poor countries get a fair deal. Most of you have probably seen the Fairtrade mark, which is an independent consumer label that appears on products to guarantee that producers in the developing world are getting a fair deal. For a product to display the Fairtrade mark it must meet the international Fairtrade standards. http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Ethical/articles/fairtrade.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMTYou may have already started to make great strides in turning your home green, but it doesn’t have to stop there. Every year, Britain’s businesses are responsible for 77 million tonnes of waste. By turning your workplace green, not only will your company save thousands of pounds each year, you’ll be making a real difference to not only the environment, but your local community too!http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Ethical/articles/green-workplace.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMTEnergy efficient homes can end up costing you a small fortune in the short term. However, you’d be amazed at how many grants and special offers are available to help you make your homes more energy efficient. Even if you’re not over 60 or on benefits, you are still eligible for a wide range of grants and offers to help you tackle climate change from the comfort of your own home.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Ethical/articles/energy-efficient-homes.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 10 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMTShared ownership mortgages are aimed at helping potential first time buyers to get on the property ladder, as this is increasingly becoming an almost impossible task for many. According to recent figures, only around 1 in 10 new buyers are currently first timers.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/shared-ownwership-mortgages.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 04 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMTThe average UK saver has accumulated just over £20,000 worth of savings and the difference between the best and worst paying savings accounts can be as much as £1,000 in lost interest every year.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/earn-extra-1000-pounds.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 25 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMTDo you ever have that sinking feeling when it comes to your mortgage payments, finding it increasingly harder to meet them each and every month? The good news is that you really can pay off your mortgage early and stop worrying. For an average mortgage of £130,000 for example, a £98 overpayment each and every month will shave 5 years off your mortgage term and save you over £22,000 in interest alonehttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/really-pay-off-your-mortgage-early.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 20 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMTAt the end of this month Chancellor Gordon Brown will replace Tony Blair as Prime Minister, but before he takes over the reigns of the country he’ll leave a financially crippling legacy.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/gordon-browns-legacy.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 20 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMTWe’re now into summer, and unlike the weather the world of personal finance is sizzling with activity. Here’s our monthly review of the latest developments for savers, investors and borrowers…http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/good-bad-ugly-200706.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 20 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMTIt seems that Gordon Brown is leaving no stone unturned in his quest to squeeze every last drop of tax out of savers and investors, with around 200,000 people having already been sent a letter from HM Revenue & Customs over unpaid taxes on their offshore savings account. Now however, buy-to-let investors are next up on Gordon Brown’s hit list as he tries to extract as much tax as possible to boost revenue for the Treasury.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/buy-to-let-tax.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 15 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMTIt's unusual to come across a market leading interest rate that doesn't have any unpleasant baggage hidden within the small print. The increased rate of 6% on offer from Sainsbury's latest online savings account deal is not only welcome news for prospective new customers but, equally important, it is also being passed on to their existing customer base.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/online-savings-accounts.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 13 Jun 2007 00:00:00 GMTOver the past month there’s been a surge of activity in the world of personal finance. Here’s our monthly review of the latest developments for savers, investors and borrowers.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/good-bad-ugly-200705.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Mon, 21 May 2007 00:00:00 GMTTake the Natwest challenge - You may have seen the recent adverts proudly broadcast by NatWest, encouraging borrowers to take their ‘mortgage challenge’ and get £1,000 if you can find a mortgage cheaper elsewhere. However...http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/nawest-challenge.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 15 May 2007 00:00:00 GMTEvery day it seems that we see the launch of yet another eco-friendly product claiming to help tackle climate change. But is there a high price to pay for being green and are companies merely trying to cash in on consumers' interest in green issues?http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Savings/articles/green-money.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 11 May 2007 00:00:00 GMTDespite store cards being a very expensive piece of plastic over 11 million people in the UK today own one, and it’s estimated they cost British shoppers at least £55 million a year in interest payments alone.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Cards/articles/store-cards-wealth-warning.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Wed, 02 May 2007 00:00:00 GMTOver the last few years we’ve enjoyed a stable economic environment, with little fluctuation in interest rates. However, the recent increase in inflation to 3.1%, against the Government target of 2%, suggests that we may be moving towards a more volatile economic period.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/mortgage-rate-uncertainty.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Tue, 01 May 2007 00:00:00 GMTMortgage lenders are prepared to lend first time buyers much higher amounts and offer lots of headline grabbing ‘freebies’ - free valuations, free legal fees, cashback, free insurance.http://moneyfacts.co.uk/Mortgages/articles/first-time-buyers.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Thu, 26 Apr 2007 00:00:00 GMTMoneyfacts has recently seen an increase in the number of providers that have introduced a credit scoring system to set the level of their income multiples when calculating a customer's affordability for a new mortgagehttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/mortgages/articles/credit-scoring.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 20 Apr 2007 11:04:24 GMTWith Premiership football under way, loyal fans up and down the country will be donning their club colours and getting ready to support their team. Going to games and singing your heart out for your team is one thing, but there is another way you can help your clubhttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/savings/articles/affinity-savings-accounts.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 20 Apr 2007 11:04:24 GMTThe latest survey by Investment, Life & Pensions Moneyfacts has revealed the worrying extent to which falling with profits pension payouts are continuing to scupper many investors dreams of a comfortable retirement. The figures show that an individual with a with profits personal pension retiring today could be almost 38% worse off than someone who made the same premium contributions but reached retirement just three years ago. In July 2002 a male retiring at age 65, having contributed to a with profits personal pension for 20 years would on average have accumulated a fund worth £98,450. However, the same man retiring today, after paying identical premiums would be left with an average with profits pension value of just £61,578, a fall of almost 38% in three yearshttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/pensions/articles/with-profits-pensions.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 20 Apr 2007 11:04:24 GMTOut of approximately 120 mortgage lenders in the UK, three quarters still charge a Higher Lending Charge (HLC).http://moneyfacts.co.uk/mortgages/articles/high-lending-charges.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 20 Apr 2007 11:04:24 GMTAndrew Hagger of Moneyfacts.co.uk looks at the pitfalls of purchasing payment protection cover from your loan providerhttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/loans/articles/payment-protection.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 20 Apr 2007 11:04:24 GMTConsumers looking for a long term 0% home for their credit card debt will be dismayed to learn that one of the longest interest free term deals on the market is being withdrawn todayhttp://moneyfacts.co.uk/cards/articles/credit-cards-rate-tarts.aspx?WT.mc_id=343435Fri, 20 Apr 20