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3 issues for £1

Rebecca Atkinson

Rebecca is editor of Moneywise.co.uk

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Dislikes: Housing market doom and gloom

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Rebecca Atkinson

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3 issues for 1 pound

Articles by Rebecca Atkinson

Credit cards

The end of 0% credit cards?

The days of 0% balance transfer credit cards could be numbered as a result of new rules designed to protect consumers from unscrupulous credit card company behaviour. Read more
Pile of credit cards

Credit card rip-off banned

Credit card companies are to be banned from using customers’ payments to clear balances attracting the least amount of interest before more expensive debt under new measures unveiled today. Read more
Man banking online

Scam-proof your computer

Online banking fraud is on the rise - find out how to stay safe from malicious software and phishing emails. Read more
Broken washing machine

Faulty goods cost consumers £5,000

Faulty goods cost consumers nearly £5,000 because many people don’t know their rights when it comes to refunds. So what are they? Read more
Richard Branson with credit cards

Virgin launches new 0% and charity credit cards

Virgin Money has launched a 0% credit card and a cashback deal that donates to charity as you spend. Read more
Toy car

Are you committing motor fraud?

Thousands of drivers are committing insurance fraud – and risking the validity of their car insurance – by trying to keep their car insurance costs down. Read more
Microphone

Which is the worst bank for complaints?

New figures reveals that just five banking groups account for more than half of all complaints made against financial firms – but which is the worst? Read more
Gas hob

British Gas unveils 58% jump in profits

British Gas has unveiled a bumper 58% jump in annual profits just days after the energy regulator revealed the margin suppliers make on bills has increased over the past few months. Read more
Skipton Building Society

Skipton and Chesham building societies to merge

Skipton Building Society has announced plans to merge with Chesham to create an enlarged society with over £15 billion of assets and a 92-strong branch network. Read more
Deal of the Week

Best-buy cash ISA from Santander

Santander has kicked off the ISA season with the launch of a new cash ISA paying 3.5%. So what's the catch and how does it compare to other deals on the market? Read more
Internet symbol in the sand

Cut the cost of using the internet abroad

As Virgin Media launches new EU travel passes, Rebecca Atkinson investigates the best ways to go online while overseas. Read more
Estate agent

How to negotiate estate agent fees

House buyers and sellers have been urged to negotiate estate agent fees - and consider using alternatives to sell their homes - amid concerns that there is little price competition among firms. Read more
Pothole

Claim compensation for pothole damage

Rebecca Atkinson explains what to do if you hit a pothole - and reveals how you could claim compensation to cover your repair costs. Read more
Gas hob

British Gas cuts bills by 7%

British Gas has unveiled a 7% cut to gas bills - but with energy bills still expected to increase by 25% over the next decade, households are being urged to take action to beat rising costs. Read more
Conman

Are you on a fraudster 'suckers list'?

A ‘suckers list’ containing the names and personal details of around 10,000 people is being used by fraudsters to sell them worthless shares, the financial watchdog and City of London Police have warned. Read more
Car bumper

Why are car insurance costs increasing?

New research reveals that car insurance premiums jumped at the end of 2009 - Rebecca Atkinson looks at the reasons why car cover is becoming more expensive. Read more
Bowl of eggs

Calls for fairer deal for savers

Savers should be protected from falling interest rates, according to a new action group campaigning for fairer treatment and political recognition of the “silent majority”. Read more
Credit card

Credit cards rip-offs here to stay

Credit card providers have rejected new rules to end borrowing rip-offs - leaving millions at risk of paying hefty rates of interest. Read more
Skipton Building Society

Skipton announces shock SVR hike

Thousands of homeowners could see their mortgage repayments jump by more than £2,000 a year after Skipton Building Society confirmed it will hike the cost of its standard variable rate. Read more

Standard Life fined £2.45m for misleading savers

Pension provider Standard Life has been fined £2.45 million for misleading pension customers about underlying investment risks. Read more
Standard Life logo

Standard Life fined £2.45m for misleading savers

Pension provider Standard Life has been fined £2.45 million for misleading pension customers about underlying investment risks. Read more
Doorstop salesman

How to deal with doorstep energy salespeople

Households have been warned to be on their guard against doorstep energy salespeople, despite new rules that aim to offer consumers greater protection. Read more
Friends at home

How to have a cheap night in

Staying in is the new going out - especially in January when it's cold outside and money's tight. Moneywise shows you how to enjoy a cheap and cheerful evening. Read more
Santander Branch

How will the Santander re-brand affect you?

Now that the Santander re-brand is fully underway, what will the changes mean for you? Read more
Airplane

Avoid this travel rip-off

People looking to book flights during January have been warned to watch out for a common practice that could see you fork out a shocking 243% more than another passenger on your flight. Read more
NEST logo

New pension scheme to be called NEST

New low-cost pension schemes that aim to encourage more people to save for retirement will be called National Employment Savings Trusts – or NEST – when they are introduced in two years' time. Read more
Richard Branson

Virgin to become high street bank

Virgin Money has taken the first step to launch itself as a retail bank by buying a small regional bank in Somerset. Read more
Snowy road

Can I claim for snow disruptions?

Whether you’ve been trying to travel by rail, road, plane or foot, what rights do you have to compensation or refunds? Read more
Duty free sign

Boost for duty-free shoppers

Holidaymakers and online shoppers will now be able to buy more from stores in non-EU countries before being hit with duty charges. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Trade in your old boiler

The government says 44% of vouchers for the boiler scrappage scheme have been claimed, meaning some 70,000 people could still take advantage of this £400 discount. Read more
Child with toy plane

Ryanair's payment policy "childish"

Ryanair's payment policy, which allows some passengers to waive booking fees, has been branded “puerile” and “childish”. Read more
Woman shopping

Beat the VAT rise

VAT returns to 17.5% from 1 January 2010 - but there are ways to avoid taking a hit. Read more
Women shopping

Sales start early

High street stores are unveiling huge price cuts and opening their doors for post-Christmas shoppers. Read more
Stamps

Cost of stamps to rise next year

The price of first and second-class stamps will increase next year, Royal Mail has confirmed Read more
Toy airplane

British Airways strike "illegal"

The British Airways cabin crew strike has been called off, after the High Court found the balloting process was illegal. Read more
Fortune cookie warning

Savers – beware the return of inflation

News that the rate of inflation jumped last month has come as a double blow to savers with many of the top deals being pulled in recent weeks. Read more
Airplane

Airline collapse: what can you do?

Globespan, Scotland's biggest airline, has collapsed leaving thousands of holidaymakers stranded - and an estimated 100,000 people unsure about how to get their money back. Read more
Jigsaw puzzle

New insurance rules will see premiums rise

Insurers will have to pay out millions more in claims under proposed legal changes – but consumers have been warned that premiums will rise as a result. Read more

BA strikes: what are your rights?

Holidaymakers flying with British Airways over the Christmas and New Year period are set to have their trips disrupted by strikes. Find out what your rights are. Read more
Economy

Economic recovery next year, says Darling

Alistair Darling says the economy will return to growth next year, but admitted that public borrowing in 2009 will exceed previous forecasts. Read more
Westminster

Highlights from the pre-Budget report

Chancellor Alistair Darling is delivering his pre-Budget report, the last before 2010’s general election.Read the highlights. Read more
Christmas decorations

Avoid this Christmas shopping scam

The Metropolitan Police has busted more than 1,000 websites selling fake designer good - find out how to spot an online scam and what to do if you fall victim, Read more
Kitchen

Who will pick up the bill for smart meters?

Energy companies will have to supply all UK households with smart meters over the next decade - but who will pick up the bill? Read more
Nationwide branch

Exodus of savers from Nationwide

Nationwide has admitted low interest rates has seen an exodus of savers over much of 2009, with a whopping £5.6 billion of retail deposits withdrawn during the six months to September. Read more
Investment pages

Compensation for Keydata victims

Thousands of people who lost money when investment firm Keydata collapsed can now apply for compensation. Read more
Trains in station

Rail companies accused over price hikes

Rail fares are to rise by an average of 1.1% in January, the lowest increase since privatisation, yet passengers on some lines have been warned to expect crippling hikes of 10%. Read more
Rocking horse

Don't fall for money mule scam

Income seekers are being targeted with ‘too good to be true’ money-making opportunities and fake jobs that could see them tricked into becoming money mules and laundering cash for criminals. Read more
Row of houses

Repossessions slow

Homeowners will be protected from repossession under tighter laws that will make it compulsory for lenders to go through the courts before they can sell customers’ homes. Read more
Row of flats

House prices will keep rising

House prices will keep rising, despite claims that the recovery in values is unsustainable, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has said. Read more
Older couple

What happens if I die without a will?

Many people fail to write a will because they assume their partner will inherit their estate - but despite proposals to safeguard the position of bereaved spouses, this is not currently the case. Read more
Credit card

Free credit cards could be scrapped

Paying an annual fee for a credit card could become the norm, as bad debts, regulation and funding constraints put unsustainable pressure on lenders, a new report has warned. Read more
Worried man

Insolvencies soar

The number of people declared insolvent has soared over the past year to hit a record high, the Insolvency Service has announced. Read more
Woman shopping

Right to a refund under threat

Our right to receive a refund for faulty goods is under threat from a European directive, the Law Commission has warned. Read more
Pound coins

What impact will "printing" new money really have?

The Bank of England has increased the amount of new money being created to £200 billion, and voted to maintain the interest rate at 0.5%. What will this mean for you? Read more
Workers divided

Pensions: are private sector workers hard done by?

The widening gap between private and public sector pension provision puts the country at risk of social division and unrest, experts warn. Read more
Property

Mortgage lender fined over repossession policy

One of the UK’s biggest specialist mortgage lenders has been ordered to pay a record £10.5 million for treating struggling borrowers unfairly and being too ‘trigger-happy’ with repossessions. Read more
Cash machine

What will new banking rules mean for you?

The financial regulator is to start policing banks’ and building societies’ day-to-day contact with customers. But what will this mean for you? Read more
Coins

PPI refunds for 350,000 borrowers

Over 350,000 loan insurance customers will be offered full refunds following a high street insurance broker being found guilty of mis-selling policies. Read more
Couple

Borrowers penalised by credit checks

Credit searches are putting borrowers off shopping around for competitive products, MPs have been told. Read more
Wallet full of cards

New laws to stop credit card firms exploiting customers

Credit card companies are to be banned from increasing credit limits without consent and from using repayments to clear the cheapest debts first under a major overhaul of the credit card sector. 
 Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Ditch your current account for a better deal

Not only do many current accounts pay 0% interest, but others have seen overdraft fees rise - meaning now is a good time to review your bank account and switch to a better deal. Read more
Alarm clock

Five things to do when the clocks go back

With the clocks turning back one hour this weekend, follow Moneywise's guide to preparing your home and car for winter. Read more
Bear market

UK remains in recession

The UK remains in a recession with the economy suffering a further 0.4% contraction between June and September. Read more
Umbrella

The soaring cost of insurance

Car and home insurance premiums have rocketed in cost over the past year, as insurers try to mitigate their losses from fraud and bad weather. Read more

Anger over plans to scrap childcare vouchers

Nine former MPs have warned the government not to scrap tax breaks on childcare vouchers, following more than 76,000 people signing a petition on the Prime Minister’s website. Read more
Medals

Three things to do while interest rates are low

The interest rate could stay below 2% for five more years - but what should you do to make the most of the situation? Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Protect your post from fraudsters

Fraudsters continue to intercept post in order to steal their victims' identities. Follow these steps to protect yourself and your post. Read more
Money

Banks agree to highlight overdraft charges

Banks have been ordered to make their current account costs more transparent and make it easier for customers to switch providers. Read more
Model house

House prices back to 2008 levels

House prices are now at the same level as September last year, after the fifth consecutive month of increasing values. Read more
Model of an old car

Should you trade in your old banger?

The car scrappage scheme has been extended with a cash injection and relaxed criteria. But should you take advantage? Read more
Computer mouse with wings

Do online savings accounts offer the best deal?

Online-only savings accounts offer better average returns than those that can only be managed via telephone, post or in-branch. But are they really a better deal? Read more
Loophole

Could you cash in on this ISA loophole?

Loopholes in the taxman's rules allow savers to open more than one cash ISA in a tax year - but should you take advantage? Read more

Victory for consumer rights

Controversial plans to force consumers to take more personal responsibility when picking financial products have been ditched by the financial watchdog. Read more
Lemon squeeze

Rate squeeze on first-time buyers

First-time buyers and borrowers with small deposits are being squeezed by mortgage lenders despite a fall in the cost of lending. Read more
EasyJet aircraft

EasyJet cuts Luton flights

EasyJet is cutting flights from Luton in an ongoing dispute over airport fees in a move that is likely to increase the cost of holidays to Spain and Portugal. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Enhance your pension income by 40%

Pension pots have been hit hard by the impact of the credit crunch, but thousands of retirees could boost their retirement income by as much as 40%. Read more
Loyalty cards

Benefit from loyalty schemes

Tesco has doubled the number of points its Clubcard shoppers can earn - find out how you can benefit and boost the points you collect. Read more
Empty dining room

Slowing repossessions could be false dawn

The number of people losing their homes to possession during the recession dropped during the spring, but experts warn this fall could be a false dawn. Read more
Profit sign

Lenders profit from credit crunch

Lenders have seen margins on mortgages soar since 2007 despite the base rate falling from 5.75% to just 0.5%. But is this greed or a sign of the times? Read more
Email symbol

Don’t fall for tax rebate scam

Fraudsters are targeting thousands of taxpayers with scam emails asking for their bank details in order for them to claim tax rebates. Read more
London's West End

Protect yourself from rogue ticket sellers

Find out how to protect yourself from fraudster ticket touts and what rights you have should things go wrong. Read more
Lloyds branch

Warning over low-cost mortgage from Lloyds

A new mortgage from Lloyds TSB with an introductory rate of just 2.59% has been branded "rotten" for being more expensive over three years than the bank's standard deal. Read more
Empty office

Unemployment jumps to 2.38 million

Total unemployment is now at its highest level since 1995, with the number of people out of work hitting 2.38 million in May. Read more
Egg MasterCard

The end of free credit cards?

A new card from Egg could spell the end of free credit, with customers paying for features like balance transfers, low interest rates and cashback soon becoming the norm. Read more
Homebuyer with Nationwide leaflets

Nationwide offers 125% mortgage

Nationwide has launched a new scheme that allows customers to borrow up to 125% of a property's value. Read more
Traffic lights

Health warning on mortgages and pensions

Mortgages, pensions and other financial products could be issued with traffic-light ratings, as part of government plans to improve transparency for consumers. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Reduce your mortgage debt

Follow our guide to reducing your mortgage debt during the downturn. Read more
Gas ring

E.ON cuts gas bills

E.ON has announced it is passing on a 3.3% cut in the cost of gas to its customers, a move that should leave around 1.8 million households better off. Read more
Deal of the week

Best new instant access savings accounts

Alliance & Leicester has upped the stakes in the instant access savings market with the launch of an online deal paying 3.15%. And its not the only provider to increase rates. Read more
Pile credit cards

Credit card cheques banned

The government has proposed an outright ban on unsolicited credit card cheques under new plans to tackle the high levels of personal debt in the UK. Read more
Five percent sign

The return of the 5% savings account

Savings accounts with rates of 5% and more are back as banks once again start to vie for your money. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Protect your home from subsidence

Homeowners are being warned of the danger of subsidence, with the summer's hot, dry weather putting more homes at risk of collapsing. Read more
Living room

Households overcharged for energy

Energy suppliers are overcharging customers by an average of £74 a year by failing to pass on the cheaper cost of crude oil, an independent consumer watchdog has claimed. Read more
Shocked woman at a cash point

Fraud: how to get your money back

One in five victims of identity theft fails to get all of their lost money back from their bank - find out how to protect yourself and what your rights are if the worst happens. Read more
Mortgage due

Sharp rise in missed mortgage payments

Mortgage lenders are bracing themselves for a near 100% jump in the number of borrowers missing repayments this year - but say there will be fewer repossessions that previously expected. Read more
Open padlock

The best instant access savings accounts

Instant access savings accounts are coming into their own now that the base rate is unlikely to fall any further. Rebecca Atkinson reviews the best accounts. Read more

Capital One sells savers to Skipton

Capital One has announced it is selling its savings business to Skipton Building Society, prompting concerns that savers could end up losing their protection under the compensation scheme. Read more
Woman reading small ads

Write-off debt claims 'misleading'

An advert by a claims management company that purported it was able to write-off borrowers’ debt has been banned by the advertising watchdog for being misleading. Read more

Four buyers for every property

Demand for housing is now outstripping supply - with four house hunters for every property - but a fall in mortgage lending in May means this demand may not translate into sales. Read more
JobCentre Plus

Wage inflation at lowest level since 2001

New figures show unemployment rose to 2.261 million in April - the largest increase since 1971 - while wages are growing at their slowest rate for eight years. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Don't fall victim to takeover fraud

The difficulty in obtaining credit has seen fraudsters increasingly resorting to taking over victims' bank accounts. Find out how to stay safe. Read more
Light at the end of the tunnel

Recession will be over early 2010

The UK’s economy may be stabilising but people shouldn’t expect a recovery until the beginning of next year, the country’s leading business organisation has claimed. Read more
Nationwide branch

Nationwide hikes mortgage rates

Mortgage borrowers have been dealt a blow after Nationwide announced interest rate hikes across its fixed-rate mortgage range. Read more
Fuel-poor couple

Winter fuel payment could be taxed

A government committee has raised hackles among pensioner groups for suggesting that the winter fuel allowance should be made taxable. Read more
Shops in Ledenhall Market, London

High street sales slump during May

The warm weather and two Bank Holidays during May failed to stop sales on the high street slumping during the month. Read more
Cheltenham & Goucester branch

Cheltenham & Gloucester branches to close

Lloyds Banking Group has confirmed it is closing all 164 branches of Cheltenham & Gloucester, making 1,660 staff redundant. Read more
Roll of plaster

Protection for savers extended

The City watchdog has extended the additional protection put in place to protect savers’ money should their building society flop. Read more
HSBC branch

Could HSBC match your mortgage rate?

HSBC is offering to match your existing mortgage rate to as low as 2.49%. But what's the catch? Read more
House of cards

Crackdown on controversial housing schemes

Companies and individuals that buy people’s homes and let them rent it back are to be regulated from July. Read more
Wrench

Should you fix your mortgage?

The Bank of England's base rate is unlikely to fall any further - so should you stick to a tracker mortgage or grab a fixed-rate now? Read more
Interest rates

Barclays slashes ISA rates

Barclays has ditched the 1% bonus on its popular Golden cash ISA and cut the rates on other ISA accounts despite the base rate remaining on hold. Read more
Mortgage

Housing market shows signs of stabilisation

Another house price rise has been confirmed for May, with the average property increasing by 2.6% during the month. Read more
Map of Europe

The UK regions hardest hit by house price falls

New figures from the Land Registry reveal the regions hit the hardest by the housing market correction. Read more
Ferris Wheel

What next for house prices?

Does the house price increase seen in May suggest the beginning of the end, or could changes to supply and demand actually result in bigger falls down the line? Read more
Petrol pumps

Petrol prices over £1 per litre

The average cost of petrol has exceeded £1 a litre for the first time since October 2008. Find out how to cut the cost of filing your tank. Read more
Graph

Rental market showing signs of recovery

The cost of renting a room or property remained unchanged in May following nine months of consecutive falls. Read more
Toy car

Warning over car scam

Thousands of people are falling victim to a car-matching scam that costs consumers nearly £3 million each year. Read more
Dispute

Financial disputes on the up

Complaints about financial companies hit a record high in the last financial year, with disputes about mortgages, credit cards and insurance jumping by up to 84%. Read more
Santander logo

Re-brand for Abbey

Abbey, Alliance & Leicester and Bradford & Bingley will soon disappear from the high street under a major re-brand by their owner Santander. Read more
Office workers

Threat to pension savers

Nearly four million Brits who currently pay into occupational pension schemes could be at risk of losing their employer contributions in light of changes to tax relief for higher earners. Read more
Older couple

Cost of living 77% higher for over 75s

Older people face a rate of inflation 77% higher than people under the age of 30 despite the official cost of living falling in April. Read more
Pennies

Pick up a penny bargain

Marks & Spencer is celebrating 125 years of trading by selling two million items for just 1p for three days from Wednesday 20 May. Read more
Shoppers at Sainsbury's

Sharp fall in cost of living

The official measure of the cost of living fell sharply in April, mainly as a result of cheaper energy bills and food prices. Read more
Fluffy die

Should you trade in your old car?

Drivers of old cars could claim a £2,000 discount on a new vehicle - but taking car depreciation and insurance costs into account, is it worth it? Read more
Pile of chips

‘Cheap as chips’ mortgages

Mortgages are now at their cheapest level since 2004, for borrowers able to put down deposits of 25% of more. Read more
Family on holiday

Parents face fines for term-time holidays

Parents are prepared to face fines of up to £100 for taking their children out of school to go on holiday because of the crippling cost of summer breaks outside of term time. Read more
Renter

Better protection for renters

Landlords will soon have to sign up to a national register, under new plans unveiled by the government designed to drive out rogue buy-to-let investors. Read more
Get well soon

Bank of England points to slow recovery

The Bank of England says the economic downturn in the UK has started to moderate but warns the timing of a full recovery is still uncertain. Read more
Box on desk

Unemployment rises to 2.22 million

A further 244,000 people found themselves out of work in the first three months of 2009, bringing the total unemployment figure to 2.22 million. Read more
£5 note

Minimum wage to increase to £5.80

An estimated one million people will benefit from an increase to the national minimum wage to £5.80 an hour from October. Read more
Woman cooking

The end of estimated energy bills

Estimated bills and meter readings could soon be a thing of the past, with the government unveiling plans to install smart meters in every home by 2020. Read more
Costa del Sol, Spain

Abbey relaunches fee-free overseas card

Abbey has relaunched its Zero credit card that not only offers 0% on balance transfers and new purchases but is also fee-free when used overseas. Read more
Rulers

How long should you fix for?

Fixed rate savings accounts continue to look competitive - but should you opt for a one-year account or go for a longer-term deal? Read more
Bicycle

Protect yourself from bike theft

Experts are warning that this summer will see a spike in the cycle theft as the warm weather prompts more people to take their expensive bikes out for a ride. Read more
Pause button

Interest rate held for second month

The Bank of England has voted to hold the official interest rate at 0.5% for May and will boost its scheme to create new money by £50 billion to £125 billion. Read more
Lamps

British Gas cuts electricity bills

British Gas has announced a surprise 10% electricity price cut, making it the cheapest supplier in the market. Read more
Aviva logo

Aviva to pay with-profit bonuses

Aviva is reconsidering returning surplus money from its with-profits funds to policyholders, with one million customers liable to receive cash payments of up to £1,150. Read more
Older man in a wheelchair

Government rebuked over Equitable Life failings

The government has been reprimanded by the parliamentary ombudsman for failing to act on its recommendations to compensate Equitable Life victims. Read more
Front door

House price falls not over yet

One of the UK’s biggest mortgage lenders has warned that house price falls are far from over. Read more
Breaking a lock

Banks challenge PPI ban

Barclays and Lloyds Banking Group are challenging a ban on the sale of controversial payment protection insurance, despite strong evidence that this product is mis-sold to consumers. Read more
Broken window

Confidence is key to housing recovery

The housing market can not recover until consumer confidence does, with house prices likely to continue falling for the rest of 2009 and beyond, experts have warned. Read more
Mortgage services

Halifax offers to pay stamp duty

First-time buyers have been warned against being seduced by a new mortgage from Halifax that promises to pay their stamp duty. Read more
The Co-operative Insurance Tower

Super-mutual merger set for August

The Britannia Building Society and Co-operative will merge to create a super-mutual on 1 August following a successful vote by members. Read more
Iggy Pop in Swiftcover's adverts

Iggy Pop advert banned

A car insurance advert featuring legendary punk rock star Iggy Pop has been banned by the advertising watchdog after viewers complained that the policy on offer didn’t cover musicians. Read more
Classroom

Money lessons complusory for pupils

Every child should be taught about how to manage their money effectively as part of their primary and secondary school education, an official report has concluded. Read more
Table football

Savings rates bounce back

April’s interest rate freeze has prompted something of a rally on fixed-rate savings accounts with providers pushing out ever-more competitive deals and increasing returns for savers. Read more
Toy house

Help for homeowners?

Commentators are unimpressed by the three-month stamp duty holiday extension announced in the Budget. Read more
The Bank of England

“Upbeat” message from the Bank of England

The Bank of England has indicated that the interest rate is unlikely to fall any further amid positive evidence of a slight recovery in the mortgage market. Read more
Row of houses

House sales up 40% in March

House sales jumped by 40% during March but still remain significantly lower than numbers seen in the same month last year and at the height of the housing market boom in 2007. Read more
Toy houses

Could you defer your mortgage payments?

Homeowners struggling to meet their mortgage debt could be offered lower monthly repayments as part of a new government and banking initiative. Read more
Baloon

Cost of living turns negative

The cost of living has turned negative for the first time since 1960, and could fall to levels not seen since 1949. Read more
Lone businessman

High earners could lose pension tax relief

More than three million higher-rate taxpayers could lose the tax relief on pension contributions in this week’s Budget. Read more
House with percentage signs

900,000 in negative equity

Around 900,000 homeowners are now in negative equity as a result of falling house prices, with some people owing up to £37,000 more than their home is worth. Read more
An older man looking stressed

Over 50s hardest hit by recession

The over 50s have been hit the hardest by the recession with older workers most at risk of redundancy and pensioners suffering an income fall of almost 25%. Read more
Folder for rent

Stagnant sales see property lets jump 128%

The number of properties being put up for rent in London has increased 128% in the past year, as the stagnant property market sees increasing numbers of owners resorting to letting out their homes. Read more
Danger sign

The danger of bonus savings rates

Savers have been warned to check the small print on accounts offering bonuses, after one provider slashed the introductory rate for both new and existing customers. Read more
A trolley with a toy house in it

Middle-classes rush to downsize

Record numbers of middle-class homeowners with £500,000 plus properties are desperate to offload their homes as the economic slump hits ‘white collar’ workers hard. Read more
Easter hen and eggs

Great Easter savings deals

Make the most of the Easter break by finding a better home for your savings. Read more
Bowling ball

Cash ISA savers hit by rate falls

Cash ISA savers have seen a further drop in the return they earn on their money, despite average interest rates on all other savings accounts rising slightly in March. Read more
Interest rate

Interest rate held at 0.5%

The Bank of England has voted to hold the base rate at 0.5% following six months of cuts, also also pledged to inject more new money into the economy. Read more
An older woman on the phone

Women hit by pension deficits

Women are expected to be harder hit by pension deficits than men, forcing many to have to stay working beyond the age of 65. Read more
Dispute

Consumers receiving "dismal" treatment

More people are suffering dismal treatment by financial businesses, with credit-crunched firms increasingly brushing off complaints. Read more
Piggy bank

Mutual offers 4.11% fixed-rate account

Newcastle Building Society has launched a fixed-rate account paying up to 4.11% AER over three years. How does it compare? Read more
Investigation

Three banks focus of OFT investigation

The Office of Fair Trading has announced it will focus on just three banks in its ongoing investigation into the fairness of overdraft fees. Read more
April

April's tax and price changes at a glance

The new tax year brings with it a host of changes to taxation and state benefits. Read more
Daffodils

Spring bounce for house prices

House prices have fallen by 4.2% so far this year, although March saw a slight bounce with prices increasing by nearly 1%. Read more
House of Lords

Bank charges battle could go to House of Lords

Bank charge victims could have to wait even longer for compensation after the House of Lords gave banks the right to appeal a recent court decision that could have seen overdraft fees capped. Read more
Runners

Cash ISA transfers speed up

Cash ISA transfers should be speedier and more efficient this year following three of the UK’s biggest banks signing up to a new electronic scheme. Read more
Traffic jam

Misery for drivers as fuel duty rise kicks in

Drivers face a tough time ahead following the postponed 2p increase in fuel duty coming into force. Read more
Savings accounts

Are five-year savings deals worth it?

A number of competitive fixed-rate savings account of recently been launched but their long terms mean savers could end up missing out down the line. Read more
Deposit protection box

More protection for savers

People whose bank balances exceed £50,000 could be offered additional protection up to £500,000 in the event of a UK bank collapsing. Read more
Ruins of St. Andrews Castle in Fife, Scotland

What next for Dunfermline customers?

Nationwide is to take over the Dunfermline's retail business, including its mortgage customers and savers. What does the rescue mean for you? Read more
View of a house

Could you slash your mortgage costs?

Some borrowers could be better off redeeming their mortgage early and paying a fee to take advantage of lower rates currently on offer. Read more
A woman in a kitchen

Does your energy company owe you money?

Energy companies continue to come under fire for taking too much money from direct debit customers. Could you get a refund? Read more
Barcode

Beware April's price hikes

From prescription charges to petrol prices and stamps, this April sees a host of price hikes. Read more
Couple with bills

Pensioners hit by falling inflation

Pensioners with certain annuity products could see their income frozen or even decrease as a result of falling inflation. Read more
Piggy bank

Bank payments still take too long to clear

Banks continue to let their customers down by not processing electronic payments and clearing cheques quickly enough. Read more
Woman vacuuming

Energy firms use direct debits as 'free loans'

A consumer group has accused energy companies of overcharging customers and using their money as interest-free loans. Read more
Zero

Inflation hits zero

Inflation, or the cost of living, fell to 0% in February, potentially paving the way for the UK to enter a period of deflation, where prices actually fall rather than rise. Read more
Energy gas ring

Fairer energy bill rules under-fire

New rules to make energy bill pricing fairer could see pre-payment customers actually see their costs increase. Read more
Deal of the week

cahoot launches fix paying 4.01%

cahoot has launched a new two-year fixed savings account paying 4.01%. How does it compare? Read more
Battle of the savings providers

Savings accounts: banks versus building societies?

Banks are now offering more competitive deals than their building society counterparts, with interest rates at the latter taking a hit from the historically low Bank of England base rate. Read more
Businessman in the corner

Banks to be named and shamed over complaints

Banks and other big financial companies with the worst record for complaints will be publicly named and shamed for the first time from this September. Read more
Banks want your money

Banks fight for savers

Mortgage lenders have accused the government of limiting their ability to lend by “sucking” savers into National Savings & Investments. Read more
Credit cards

Credit card crack-down

The Prime Minister has pledged to ban credit card cheques and to crack down on credit card companies that raise borrowing limits when the customer has not requested the increase. Read more

Two million unemployed

The number of people out of work has exceeded the two million mark for the first time since 1997. Read more
Stop clock

Time running out to boost state pension

Anyone planning to top up their state pension by buying back missing National Insurance contributions has less than three weeks left before the cost increases by nearly 50%. Read more
Green shoots

Savings rates show green shoots

The fixed-rate savings market appears to be showing some green shoots of recovery, while instant access deals continue to suffer from the historically low Bank of England base rate. Read more
A toy house

Sharp rise in missed mortgage payments

An alarming 377,000 mortgage borrowers are currently in arrears on their loans, data from the financial regulator reveals. Read more
An estate agent

Estate agents complaints remain high

Complaints regarding estate agents remain “surprisingly” high despite the housing market slump. Read more
Plug

npower cuts electricity bills

npower has become the final of the big six energy suppliers to announce price cuts, with electricity bills set to fall by 8% at the end of March. Read more
Barclays branch

Barclays set to join Treasury insurance scheme?

Barclays is looking at taking part in the Treasury's toxic debt insurance scheme, a move that would see it accept financial help from the government for the first time. Read more
Money in a jar

ISA allowance set to increase

Gordon Brown has hinted that the ISA allowance could be increased in this year’s Budget, offering greater tax-free saving opportunities for people hit by historically low interest rates. Read more
An older couple in the rain

Pensioners squeezed by bail-out plans

The Bank of England’s plan to create more money to get banks lending again could have a devastating impact on pensioners, experts have warned. Read more
Dried up river bed

Savings rates near rock bottom

Savings rates have all but dried up over the past year, with the average instant access deal now paying a pathetic 0.17%. Read more
Deal of the week

Last-minute ISA deal turns up the heat

Barclays has launched a new Golden cash ISA paying 3.61% AER, which trumps NatWest’s recently launched cash ISA and leads in the best-buy tables. Read more
Lloyds TSB logo

Lloyds 65% owned by taxpayer

Lloyds Banking staff are due to be given details of their bonuses totaling around £80 million, despite the bank now being 65% owned by the taxpayer. Read more
Spider web

Don't get stuck in the SVR trap

Mortgage borrowers taking advantage of low rates on their lenders’ standard variable deals have been warned they could end up paying more for their loans down the road. Read more
Percentage pointsq

Interest rate cut to just 0.5%

The Bank of England has voted to reduce the official rate of interest to a new low of just 0.5%, and has also announced it will inject £75 billion in the market through quantitative easing. Read more
Rate cut

Rate cut will hurt savers and borrowers

The Bank of England has cut the base rate to just 0.5% in March, a move that experts warn will hurt both savers and borrowers. Read more
Deal of the week

Abbey launches 3.5% ISA

Rates on cash ISAs continue to creep upwards, with the launch of a new deal from Abbey that pays 3.5% AER. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Give up smoking

Giving-up smoking isn't just good for your health - quitting could also give your savings a real boost and reduce the cost of insurance at the same time. Read more
Five percent

Five top fixed-rate savings deals

With savings providers on the verge of pulling their top fixed-rate deals ahead of the anticipated Bank of England base rate cut, fixing now could be a smart move. Read more
HSBC

HSBC announces 62% fall in profits

HSBC it is to tap up shareholders to the tune of £12.5 billion after announcing a 62% plunge in profits. Read more
Pan on a hob

ScottishPower to reduce energy bills

ScottishPower is the latest energy supplier to announce price cuts for its gas and electricity customers. Read more
Financial results

Bailed-out bank reveals dismal performance

The Treasury is to buy billions of pounds of toxic debt from Royal Bank of Scotland, as the bank announces the largest annual loss in UK corporate history. Read more
A man viewing a rental property

Renters benefiting from crunch

The credit crunch may be preventing thousands of people from getting on the property ladder, but research suggests that renters have rarely had it so good. Read more
Older couple by their home

Beat council tax rises

Council tax bills are set to jump by 3% this year - but there are ways you can reduce your bill. Read more
Economy

Economic decline unrevised

The latest British economy healthcheck has revealed that the 1.5% decline in economic output in the final three months of 2008 does not have to be revised downwards. Read more
Worried man

More misery for with-profits investors

Prudential has become the latest insurer to slash with-profits bonus rates amid continuing stockmarket turmoil. Read more
No entry sign

FSA tells firms to stop selling rip-off PPI

The financial watchdog has told firms to stop selling controversial single premium payment protection insurance alongside loans by the end of May. Read more
The end of the tax year approaches

ISA market hots up as deadline approaches

With the end of the tax year just five weeks away, time is running out to use your 208/09 ISA allowance before you lose it forever. Read more
Man on his mobile phone

Get mobile phone contract for under £10

It is now possible to get a mobile phone contract for less than £10 a month. Read more
Number on wood

Your cash can still earn 7%

Rates on cash ISAs look pretty unattractive at the moment, but there are a few deals offering returns on cash of 7% AER. Read more
Deal of the week

Abbey and A&L launch 4.01% fixed deal

Abbey and Alliance & Leicester have stormed into the best-buy tables with a two-year fixed-rate bond paying 4.01% AER. Read more
A man comforts another

Home repossessions continue to rise

The number of people whose homes were repossessed by their lenders jumped by 40,000 last year. Read more
Falling dominoes

Pension values down 25%

Workers saving into defined contribution pension schemes have seen the value of their nest-eggs plummet by 25% since the credit crunch hit. Read more

Where did all the mortgages go?

Mortgage lending has fallen to its lowest level since April 2001, new figures have revealed. Read more

Lloyds in nationalisation rumour

Speculation is mounting that the government might be forced to nationalise the newly formed Lloyds Banking Group. Read more
Energy gas ring

E.ON refuses to budge on gas bills

E.ON customers are to see their electricity bills cut by 9%. But gas bills will remain at their current rate despite increasing by 31% last year. Read more
A chess board

Should you move your savings into a current account?

Average savings rates on notice accounts are now a measly 0.29% - prompting some savers to consider current accounts as an alternative home for their money. Read more
Deal of the week

NatWest ISA pays up to 4.01%

NatWest has launched a new ISA that pays up to 4.01% AER. But how does this compare with other ISA deals? Read more

Recession "deeper" than expected

The Bank of England has warned that the recession is likely to be deeper than previously expected - and hinted that it may have to print more money to stimulate economic growth. Read more
A lightbulb in cupped hands

Is now a good time to change energy provider?

Several energy providers are cutting customers' bills and more are expected to follow. So, should you wait for price cuts or switch today? Read more
Man drops boxes

House prices must fall further

House prices need to fall further before the housing market can begin to recover, experts have warned. Read more
Bowl of eggs

Top fixed savings rates now under 4%

The top fixed-rate savings account now pay less than 4% AER after the Bank of England cut the base rate by a further 0.5% last week. Read more
Shattered piggy bank

Do you trust financial services companies?

The credit crunch could shatter consumer confidence in financial services, leading to long-term changes in the way we engage with savings, pensions and protection products. Read more
Hand holding a key

Sale and rent back to be regulated

The controversial practice of sale and rent back is to be regulated by the financial watchdog amid widespread concerns that vulnerable homeowners facing repossession are being ripped-off. Read more
Hot water bottle

SSE announces energy price cut

Scottish and Southern Energy customers will see their gas bills reduce by 4% and their electricity bills by 9% on 30 March. Read more
A group of older people enjoy a meal out

Question mark over benefits of pensions

Pension experts have criticised the government’s much anticipated review of pension reform for failing to offer conclusive evidence that people who save will be better off in retirement. Read more
Hammer and nail

Interest rate cut "final nail in coffin" for savers

The Bank of England has voted to cut the interest rate by 50 basis points to just 1% in February, in a move described as the 'final nail in the coffin' for savers. Read more

First house price rise in 15 months

Halifax has reported a 1.9% increase in house prices in January, offsetting the 1.6% fall in December. Read more

Interest rate cut could make things worse

The decision to cut interest rates by 0.5% in February is set to hurt savers – and could also damage the economy. Read more
Woman holding a credit card

Barclaycard freezes rates

Barclaycard has pledged to freeze credit card interest rates for at least the next four months to help borrowers during the downturn. Read more
Aviva advert at Bank tube station

Aviva backtracks on bonus payouts

Aviva has backtracked on plans to distribute £1 billion to policyholders this summer. Read more
Bench with snow on it

Calls for interest rate freeze

Savers are in real danger of seeing the returns on their nest-eggs drying up even further if the Bank of England cuts the base rate again this week. Read more
Balanced stones

Get a consistent savings rate

Building societies have offered savers the most consistent rates over the past 12 and 36 months, despite fluctuations in Bank of England interest rates causing havoc for many savers’ returns. Read more
Falling house of cards

House prices continue to fall

House prices continued to fall in January, with Nationwide reporting a 1.3% fall in values during the month. Read more
Nanny with child

Childcare costs continue to rise

Parents are paying as much as £8,684 a year for a full-time nursery place, with those in London facing the biggest cost. Read more
Car manufacturers

Car makers' rescue unveiled

Struggling car makers are to be offered government loans as part of new plans to help the industry weather the economic downturn. Read more
Fool's gold

Should you swap your pension for an ISA?

A leading pensions commentator claims people might be better off ditching their pensions and saving in an ISA instead. Read more
A woman holding a piggy bank

Savers missing out by not switching

A third of savings accounts now pay less than 0.5% but savers could earn significantly more interest by switching accounts. Read more
Roof

Mortgage lending down 50%

The number of people being approved for new mortgages has nearly halved over the past year, while loans to existing homeowners have dropped by 54%. Read more
Deal of the week

M&S launches new cash ISA

Marks and Spencer Money has launched a new cash ISA that offers a fixed or a variable rate of interest – or a combination of both. Read more
A front door

Repossessions up 92%

The number of homeowners facing repossessions have jumped by more than 90% over the past 12 months, according to official statistics from the financial watchdog. Read more
Row of slot machines

Grab a bonus rate to boost your savings

Moving your savings into an account with a 12-month bonus period could help you evade lower interest rates and still make a return on your savings. Read more
Credit card

Taxpayers in credit card debt warning

For the first time, HMRC is allowing people to pay their tax bills by credit card. But some commentators warn this could push cash-strapped individuals and businesses deep into debt. Read more
Wooden building blocks

Lending at eight-year low

December saw the lowest level of mortgage lending for nearly eight years with approvals on home loans plummeting 47% since the same month in 2007. Read more
Men applying for jobs

Unemployment hits 1.92 million

The number of people out of work rose by 131,000 between September and November to hit 1.92 million - the highest level of unemployment since August 1997. Read more
Co-Operative branch

Britannia and Co-Op to create super-mutual

Britannia and the Co-Operative have confirmed that they will merge to create a super-mutual with nine million customers and more than 300 branches. Read more
Dead end

Is this the end of the road for PPI?

Six of Britain’s biggest banks have announced they will stop selling controversial payment protection insurance alongside loans. So what future is there for PPI? Read more
A broken egg

More misery for savers

The cost of living may be coming down but with inflation still well above target, savers continue to suffer. But there are ways to beat inflation and boost returns. Read more
Deflation

Big fall in the cost of living

The cost of living fell sharply in December, prompting concern that the UK is fast heading into a dangerous cycle of deflation. Read more
RBS

RBS one step closer to nationalisation

Royal Bank of Scotland has moved a step closer to full nationalisation after the government increased its stake in the bank from 58% to 70%. Read more
Banks

Second banking bailout confirmed

The Treasury has confirmed a second banking bailout with a host of measures that it hopes will enable banks to increase their lending to consumers and businesses. Read more
Someone signing a document

Compensation for some Equitable Life victims

The government has apologised to Equitable Life victims and promised compensation for some policyholders. Read more
Moira Stuart

Self-assessement deadline looms

Taxpayers face paying £479 million in fines if they fail to meet the 31 January tax deadline. Follow our guide to filling your return in. Read more
A manager talks to chefs in a restaurant

Government bail-out for small businesses

The government has unveiled a £20 billion plan to help small businesses survive the economic downturn. Read more
Clamps

Bank accounts fall victim to rate cuts

The biggest banks and building societies are hitting their current account customers by reducing interest rates while increasing overdraft charges, research shows. Read more
A lemon juicer

Savers squeezed as rates fall below 1%

Average savings rates have fallen to under 1% for the first time since records began, with some accounts paying customers zero interest on their nest-eggs. Read more
Bear market

UK at risk of prolonged recession

The UK is at risk of suffering a prolonged recession as both business leaders and the high street report dismal figures. Read more
Men shaking hands

Brown promises help for jobless

Gordon Brown has pledged to help 500,000 back into work by providing additional funding and business funding for people who have been unemployed for six months. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Get a refund on your train fare

Passengers affected by January's train chaos could claim compensation for delays to their journeys. Read more
Toy house

Beat falling house prices

Future house price falls mean your chances of remortgaging could be growing slimmer by the day. But there are ways to improve your options. Read more
Pile of gambling chips

Friends Prov slashes with-profit bonuses

Friends Provident has slashed final bonuses on its with-profit funds by as much as 22.5% after experiencing what it terms a 'challenging year'. Read more
Pile of currency

Interest rate cut good news for holidaymakers

Today’s interest rate cut has been welcomed as good news for holidaymakers following the pound rallying against the euro and the US dollar. Read more
Shaking clock

Compensation shake-up on the cards

Savers should be paid compensation if a bank collapses regardless of their level of debt with the same firm, the financial watchdog has proposed. Read more

Interest rates hit all-time low

The Bank of England has cut interest rates to the lowest level seen in its 315-year history. Read more
A coffee pot on the stove

Benefit from the energy price war

Scottish Power has announced it is cutting its fixed-price tariff PriceSure by 10% in a move that experts say could herald the beginning of an energy price war. Read more
David Cameron

Tories promise tax cuts for savers

David Cameron has pledged to help the 'innocent victims' of the credit crunch by introducing tax cuts for savers and pensioners. Read more

A&L offers £100 current account incentive

Alliance and Leicester is offering people a £100 incentive to switch to two of its Premier current account offerings. Read more
A toy house

More support for struggling homeowners

Homeowners who struggle to pay their mortgages after losing their jobs will now only have to wait for 13 weeks before they can apply for state help. Read more

Join the Financial Fightback

2009 is set to be a dire year but by taking control of your finances now you can beat the downturn and come out on top. Read more
A woman writing her new year resolutions

Five New Year money resolutions for 2009

Make the most of your good intentions this January and get your finances ready for the year ahead. Read more
Row of houses

House prices down by 16% in 2008

House prices fell by 16% in 2008 bringing the average property value to 2004 levels, according to figures from Nationwide. Read more
Homes for sale

Homes on market for all of 2008

Over a quarter of properties for sale have been on the market for the whole of 2008 in some areas of the UK, new figures reveal. Read more

Refund probems for Zavvi gift vouchers

People who have yet to spend their Zavvi gift vouchers will have to apply to the troubled music retailer’s administrators if they want to get their money back. Read more
Pile of credit cards

Find a 0% balance transfer credit card

A new 0% balance transfer deal from Abbey shows that it is still possible to get an interest-free credit card. Read more
egg in basket

Homeowners shoring up capital

The looming recession and lack of mortgage credit have led to homeowners injecting £5.7 billion into their properties in the third quarter of 2008. Read more
Deal of the week

ING launches 5% AER online deal

ING Direct has launched an easy access deal paying 5% AER on deposits from £1. But how does it compare? Read more
Hands

Five websites to pick up things for free

More people than ever are using the internet to get rid of their old stuff and pick up replacements for free. Read more
Pie chart

Economy shrinking faster than expected

The British economy shrunk by 0.6% in the third quarter of this year, a bigger contraction than previously expected by economists. Read more

npower fined for mis-selling

npower has been fined £1.8 million for mis-selling energy contracts to people. Read more
50% off

Boxing Day sales start early

Several major retailers are to start their clearance sales on Christmas Eve - a full 48-hours earlier than normal. Read more
Fifty pence

Bank becomes first to ditch overdraft fees

Unity Trust has become the first bank to ditch overdraft charges levied on people who stray into the red without permission. Read more
Debt definition

Consumer responsibility under the spotlight

The financial watchdog is to investigate how much responsibility people should take for their own finances, prompting concerns that banks will be given a 'get out of jail free card' despite their own failings. Read more
Pile of crunched cans

Have your savings been crunched?

Saving banks have slashed rates by as much as 4% on over 150 products since interest rates started to fall in October. Read more
Wonky barn

Mortgage lending to dry up in 2009

Mortgage lending is expected to turn negative next year as more people repay their housing debt than look to borrow more. Read more
Pound sign

Pound takes a dive as rate chop looms

The pound has hit new lows amid speculation that interest rates could be cut to 0% next year. Read more
Percentage points

Are 0% interest rates heading our way?

The Bank of England is expected to slash interest rates to 0% in light of rising unemployment as well as similar moves in the US. Read more
Job Centre Plus

Unemployment continues to climb

The number of people out of work continues to rise, hitting 1.86 million in the three months to October. Read more
Arrow on a keyboard

Deflation looms as prices fall

The cost of living has fallen for another month, with inflation at 4.1% in November down from 4.5% in October. Read more

Watchdog to ban unfair energy bills

The energy regulator Ofgem says it will ban unfair pricing if energy companies do not speed up moves to slash gas and electricity bills. Read more
Internet

Virgin launches 50Mb broadband

Virgin Media has launched a new broadband service that offers up to 50Mb that promises to 'transform' the home internet market. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Don’t take a gamble with your heating

Getting stuck without any heating might seem an unlikely eventuality, but research shows this is one of the most common type of home emergency during the cold winter months. Read more

Take 'snow' chance with the weather

The heaviest snowfall seen in more than a decade has left much of Britain in frozen limbo, and drivers and those impacted by travel delays have been urged to check their insurance. Read more
Pile of credit cards

Credit card shake-up could hit new customers

Borrowers who pay off their credit card debt in full each month could see their rates increase in light of new rules brought in to help those struggling with shopping debt. Read more
Older couple playing chess

State pension to increase next April

The government has confirmed that the state pension will increase by 5% from next April to take into account the higher cost of living. Read more
Sterling

Falling pound hits holidaymakers

The British pound has hit a record low against the euro, sparking fears for holidaymakers planning to hit the beaches or slopes over Christmas. Read more
Woolworths logo

Woolies to be relaunched online

Woolworths is to be relaunched as an online store after its name was bought for an undisclosed sum by the owner of Littlewoods. Read more
Lion

New Star suspends Africa fund

Troubled fund management firm New Star has suspended dealing in its Heart of Africa fund citing “illiquid sub-Saharan markets”. Read more
Egg credit card

Bank fined for “over-egging” PPI

Egg has been fined £721,000 for pressurising 40% of its credit card customers to take out payment protection insurance over the phone. Read more

Energy firms urged to cut bills

The government is considering taking action to force energy companies to cut bills and pass on the benefits of cheaper crude oil costs to customers. Read more

Estate agents to be probed

Estate agents are to be investigated by the Office of Fair Trading amid concerns that there is little price competition between firms and consumers’ interests are not being fully protected. Read more
Man with shopping bags

The secret sale on the high street

Increasing numbers of shops are circulating discount vouchers, but there is an art to finding the best deals. Read more
Closed for business

Discounts fail to tempt shoppers

Discounts might be aplenty on the high street but the latest figures show retail sales have fallen for consecutive months the first time in 14 years. Read more
Monster

Five forms of credit to avoid at all costs

Borrowing to pay for Christmas could end up costing you dearly if you fall for one of these five forms of credit. Read more
Woman shops for Christmas

Online shoppers in scam warning

Online shopping sales are expected to peak this week but people buying their Christmas presents have been warned to stay alert to scams. Read more
Runners pass a baton

Tracker mortgage rates may not fall

Up to 600,000 mortgage borrowers will not benefit from yesterday’s interest rate cut because of rate floors on tracker deals. Read more
Halifax

Halifax brand will survive merger

Halifax and the Bank of Scotland will survive on the high street after the HBOS merger with Lloyds TSB completes. Read more

Interest rates cut to 2%

The Bank of England has cut interest rates by 100 basis points today to 2%, the lowest level for more than half a century. Read more
Row of houses

Jobless can defer mortgage payments

Homeowners facing repossession will be able to defer part of their payments for up to two years, Gordon Brown announced today. Read more
M&S Store

More discounts on the high street

Marks and Spencer and Debenhams are both holding 20% discount days this week in their second attempt to tempt shoppers to part with their cash. Read more

Queen's Speech: economy is top priority

Beating the recession and helping cash-strapped families is the government’s number one priority, the Queen told Parliament today. Read more
House of cards

Good news for struggling homeowners

Northern Rock has given struggling homeowners a six-month period to get back on track with payments before it starts repossession proceedings. Read more

Prospect of 2009 mortgage recovery unlikey

Government claims that mortgage lending will return to 2007 levels next year have been rubbished by the head of the Council of Mortgage Lenders. Read more

Savers rescued after another bank flops

Around 10,000 London Scottish Bank savers have been promised 100% of their money back even on balances over £50,000 after the Manchester-based bank was placed in administration. Read more
House and keys

Watchdog cracks down on repossessions

Mortgage lenders have been given a deadline to ensure homeowners facing repossession are treated as fairly as possible. Read more
An older couple looking concerned

Pre-Budget "cheated" pensioners

The pre-Budget report will make it harder for pensioners to buy-back missing national insurance contributions, according to pensions experts. Read more
Golden egg

Mutual savers offered extra deposit protection

Building society savers have been offered additional deposit protection by the financial watchdog. Read more

Mutual savers offered extra deposit protection

Building society savers have been offered additional deposit protection by the financial watchdog today, which takes into account the number of mergers across the mutual sector. Read more
Sale price tags

Bag a bargain this weekend

VAT will decrease to 15% from 1 December but people planning to hit the shops this weekend could still be able to find a bargain or two thanks to a price war between the major retailers. Read more
Chess set

Credit card rates under the spotlight

Credit card providers have been grilled by MPs over concerns that they aren’t treating their customers fairly during the current downturn. Read more
Stop clock

Watchdog calls time on commission-bias

People who seek professional investment advice could soon be told exactly how their adviser is paid by providers, as part of a proposal for reform from the financial watchdog. Read more
Global squeeze

UK badly placed to cope with recession

The UK is set to suffer one of the most severe recession of all the G7 countries, according to a new report. Read more
Westminster

Pre-Budget report round-up

How will the pre-Budget report impact your finances? Read more
Gordon Brown

Brown hints at major government intervention

Letting the recession run its course is not an option, Gordon Brown said this morning, paving the way for tax cuts and increased government spending in today’s pre-Budget report. Read more
Pound sign

What difference will a VAT cut make?

VAT is to be slashed later to 15% from 1 December - but what difference will this actually make to your finances? Read more

VAT: how the UK stacks up

How does VAT in the UK compare to other EU countries? Read more

More help needed for homebuyers

Alistair Darling has been urged to do more to help mortgage banks lend to homebuyers in his forthcoming pre-Budget report after figures revealed a 44% fall in the number of approved home loans since 2007. Read more
Service charge

Where do your tips go?

Restaurants will be banned from using tips to top up their staff’s wages to the minimum wage in light of a government investigation into how fair tips really are. Read more
Slice of cake

More rate cuts expected in December

The Bank of England is expected to cut interest rates again in December but says much hangs on the government's pre-Budget report. Read more
Couple unpack

Rents fall as unsold homes hit market

Rents have fallen for the first time since April 2003 as a result of the rising number of homeowners forced to rent their properties because they can’t sell. Read more
Hand in biscuit jar

Calls for early access to pension pots

Allowing early access to pension funds would encourage more people to save for their retirement, according to a new report. Read more
Woman shopping for a dress

Cost of living starts to slow

Inflation appears to have peaked with the cost of living standing at 4.5% during October, down from 5.2% in September. Read more
Jar of pennies

Savings banks protect own interests

Banks and building societies have been accused of acting to protect their own interests by drastically cutting rates on saving accounts by up to 2.55% following the Bank of England’s rate cut. Read more
Businessman by the London Eye

Job losses could hit 2.9 million

The recession is expected to hit the UK harder than previously expected with negative economic growth for most of 2009 and unemployment set to peak at 2.9 million. Read more
Post office sign

Victory for pensioners and Post Office

Pensioners will be able to continue to collect their money from the Post Office after the government renewed its contract to distribute benefits to over four million people. Read more
Prohibit

Sale of PPI with loans to be banned

The Competition Commission has recommended banning the sale of payment protection insurance alongside loans as part of its high profile investigation into the sector. Read more
Computer mouse

New warning over price comparison sites

Insurance price comparison websites have been rebuked by the financial watchdog for making assumptions about their customers’ needs. Read more
A globe being squeesed into a jar

Recession "very likely" says Bank of England

It is now 'very likely' that the UK will enter a recession before 2008 is over, the Bank of England has warned in its latest inflation report. Read more
London Skyline

Property sales hit 30-year low

Property sales have hit a 30-year low as mortgage lending dries up by more than 50% in just 12 months. Read more
Tax files

Tories pledge tax cuts

David Cameron has unveiled tax cut plans that he says will create employment and boost the economy. Read more

Banks shamed into cutting rates

Critical media attention and government intervention has led to several big mortgage lenders cutting their standard variable rates in-line with the 1.5% Bank of England base rate cut. Read more
Muddy boots

Flood-hit families offered council tax discounts

Over 1,500 flood-hit families are to be given help with their council tax bills, the government has confirmed. Read more
Man looking worried

Bankruptcies on the rise

The number of people going bankrupt jumped by over 12% over the summer, while the number of companies going bust has leapt by 26% over the past year. Read more
Interest rates hammer

Bank of England cuts rates by 1.5%

The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has shocked the City with a surprise 1.5% cut in interest rates, from 4.50% to 3%. Read more
Crossed fingers

Consumers feel more optimistic about future

The government’s banking bailout has bolstered consumer confidence and left households feeling the most optimistic they have been since December 2007, according to Nationwide. Read more
Barack Obama

Stockmarkets react to Obama victory

The FTSE 100 has opened down this morning despite a good performance yesterday and the news this morning that Barack Obama has been elected as the next president of the United States. Read more
Skipton BS

Skipton and Scarborough to merge

Skipton and Scarborough building societies have announced plans to merge early next year, creating the fifth biggest society in the UK. Read more
Lloyds TSB debit card

Don't dismiss VISA chargeback

Paying with a VISA debit card can offer you protection against airlines collapsing. Read more
Savings

Abbey launches first-time buyer savings deal

Abbey has launched a new regular savings account that pays 8% AER to first-time buyers keen to save for a deposit. Read more

House prices down nearly 15%

House prices are now nearly 15% lower than they were just 12 months ago, with the average property worth £30,000 less than last year. Read more
A package

Abbey ups packaged account stakes

Abbey has launched into the packaged current accounts market with two deals aimed at families and frequent travellers. Read more
Piggy banks squeeze

Banks squeeze overdraft fees

As Britain’s biggest banks return to court to defend overdraft fees, new research reveals average interest charges on overdrafts have increased to over 13% since June. Read more
BP Petrol Station

Calls for drivers to benefit from BP profits

Petrol giant BP has come under pressure to pass on the benefits of cheaper oil to drivers after announcing profits of £6.4 billion in the third quarter. Read more
Row of houses

Home repossessions up 71%

The number of people losing their homes because they are unable to keep up with payments has risen sharply, with a 71% increase in possessions since last year. Read more
Judge and hammer

Banks back in court

Britain’s biggest banks are back in court today to challenge a legal ruling that gives the Office of Fair Trading the right to decide whether overdraft charges are fair or not. Read more
A painting of a house

Five-year setback for house prices

A leading economic group has downgraded its house price forecast, and is now predicting 25% of property values will be wiped out by the end of 2009. Read more
Older women smiling

Pension boost for 500,000 women

Around half a million women are set to benefit from bigger state pensions in light of a shake-up of current rules. Read more
Businessman by London Eye

Economy shrinks for first time in 16 years

The British economy has shrunk for the first time in 16 years, putting the UK on the brink of a recession. Read more
Food shop

Food prices force consumer cut-backs

Households are cutting back on their weekly grocery shop, with food sales falling at their fastest rate since records began in 1986. Read more
Empty pockets

Pension incomes set to shrink

The amount of money people can earn from their pension annuity is set to fall sharply over the next year as a result of the economic downturn coupled with longer life expectancy. Read more
Percentage

November 0.5% rate cut forecast

The Bank of England is expected to announce another 0.5% interest rate cut as early as November - but economists warn consumers may not feel much benefit. Read more
Yorkshire BS cash machine

Icelandic crisis prompts mutual merger

The collapse of Icelandic banks has taken its first direct hit on the building society sector, with Barnsley BS forced to go cap-in-hand to the Yorkshire amid fears it may have to write-off £10 million. Read more
House with percentage signs

A&L pulls two-year trackers

Alliance and Leicester is to pull all its two-year tracker mortgages following a surge of demand from borrowers hoping to cash in from base rate cuts. Read more
Exit sign

Standard Life cuts customer bonuses

Standard Life has become the latest with-profit player to slash final bonuses and extend exit fees in a move that means most policyholders will see a fall in the value of their plans. Read more

Halifax borrowers in mortgage squeeze

Halifax tracker borrowers face seeing their interest rate increase by a full percentage point even if the Bank of England base rate does not change, thanks to a clause in its terms and conditions. Read more
House and percentage sign

The great interest rate swindle

Interest rates are forecast to fall as low as 2% in the year ahead - but thousands of mortgage borrowers may not benefit from cuts because lenders are unlikely to pass the full savings on to them Read more
Castle Cornet, St. Peters Port, Guernsey,

Offshore depositors fight back

Thousands of depositors who thought offshore accounts were a safe haven for their cash face losing 70% of their savings after the collapse of Icelandic banks. Read more
Car mirror

Cut the cost of car insurance

Car insurance has never been more expensive and is set to jump a further 20% in 2009. But there are ways to cut the cost. Read more
Woman and plant

Recession is here, say economists

A leading economic forecasting group has warned that the UK is already in a recession, with the economy, household budgets and property prices set to shrink over the next 12 months. Read more
Pound coins

ING in €10 billion bailout

ING Bank, which owns UK-based savings bank ING Direct, has been bailed out to the tune of €10 billion by the Dutch government. Read more
Light bulb

Energy bills need to come down

Energy companies are coming under increased pressure to slash bills inline with cheaper crude oil. Read more
Deal of the week

An easy access deal with no withdrawal penalties

Egg has lauched an easy access account paying 6.55% AER that actually does what it says on the tin. Read more

Crackdown on sale and rent back

Landlords who buy properties at under market value and allow the previous owners to rent it back are to be investigated by the Office of Fair Trading amid concerns they take advantage of desperate homeowners. Read more

Recession fears prompt stockmarket falls

European stockmarkets have opened higher this morning in response to a rally on the US markets last night Read more

Supermarket petrol wars see further price cuts

ASDA and Morrisons have upped the pace in the supermarket petrol wars by slashing the cost of fuel even further. Read more
Job Centre

Unemployment hits 1.79 million

Unemployment has shot up by 164,000, the biggest rise since 1991, and is expected to increase even further as the UK heads into a recession. Read more
M&S Store

M&S to start selling energy

Marks and Spencer is to launch into the energy market through a partnership deal with Scottish and Southern Energy. Read more
An older couple

Basic state pension set to increase

The basic state pension is expected to increase after official figures revealed inflation exceeded the 5% mark in September. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Spread your cash around

Spreading your savings across several different accounts isn't just good sense for people with more than £50,000, as Rebecca Atkinson explains. Read more
bacon

Inflation rising at fastest rate since 1992

Inflation hit 5.2% in September and is now at its highest rate since March 1992, largely as a result of rising energy bills and the cost of bacon. Read more
Northern Rock

Northern Rock reveals performance

The 100% guarantee offered to Northern Rock savers led to a whopping £3 billion increase in deposits between June and September, as savers sought out safe havens from the banking crisis. Read more
George Bush

Bush unveils $250 billion rescue plan

George Bush has unveiled the details of the $250 billion banking bailout, which will see the US government take stakes in some of the biggest banks on Wall Street. Read more
Icelandic banks

Scammers target Icesavers

Scammers are believed to be targeting Icesave customers by posing as the FSCS and demanding sensitive bank account details. Read more

Britannia and Co-Op in merger talks

Britannia, Britain’s second biggest building society, is in talks with the Co-Operative about a possible merger. Read more
HM TREASURY

Government takes £37bn stake in banks

The government is to inject £37 billion into Royal Bank of Scotland, HBOS and Lloyds TSB in a move that part-nationalises three of the biggest banks in the UK. Read more
Deal of the week

NatWest 7.32% ISA

NatWest has launched a new ISA deal paying up to 7.32% AER for people with previous tax-free savings to transfer. Read more

Stockmarket “bloodbath” warning

The FTSE 100 plummeted nearly 9% on Friday reflecting investors’ frazzled nerves despite the banking bailout and 0.5% interest rate cut. Read more
Older lady doing her finances

Tories call for annuity rules to be scrapped

The Conservative Party has called for emergency pension protection to shield retirees from the global stockmarket turmoil. Read more

New ruling on unfair bank charges

Bank charge victims have been dealt a blow after the High Court judge hearing the high profile case said most banks’ terms and conditions were fair. Read more
Ice

Icesave shut down

Troubled savings bank Icesave has been declared in default but the authorities say its 300,000 customers will get their money back. Read more
House welcome mat

House price falls slowing

House price falls appear to be slowing, with the 1.3% decline in September the smallest monthly fall for seven months. Read more
World

World heading into deep recession

The world faces the prospect of a major downturn with a deep and long-lasting recession set to last until the end of 2009 at the earliest, the IMF has warned. Read more

Bank of England cuts interest rates to 4.5%

The Bank of England has cut interest rates by half a percentage point to 4.5%. Read more

ING acquires Icelandic saving accounts

Savings bank ING Direct is to buy more than £3 billion of British cash deposits held in Icelandic-owned banks Heritable Bank and Kaupthing Edge. Read more
Mind the gap

Offshore savers exposed by 'gap' in protection scheme

Billions of pounds of British savers’ money in offshore accounts is potentially at risk if a bank goes under as no deposit protection schemes exists in Channel Islands Jersey and Guernsey. Read more
A&L

Alliance & Leicester in record £7 million fine

Alliance and Leicester has been fined a record £7 million by the City watchdog for putting pressure on loan borrowers to take out payment protection insurance. Read more

Brown unveils 'solution' to bank crisis

Gordon Brown has unveiled a plan to 'rescue' the British banking sector that includes pumping around £50 billion of taxpayers money into the biggest names on the high street. Read more
Eight ball

B&B shareholders revolt

Angry Bradford and Bingley shareholders are demanding an investigation into the bank's nationalisation amid concerns that they will receive no compensation. Read more

Icesave savers offered 100% guarantee

The government has promised to protect 100% of British savers' money in Icesave following the Icelandic-owned bank putting a block on all cash withdrawals. Read more
Bears and bulls

Stockmarkets start to recover

Global stockmarkets have started to recover as traders welcome co-ordinated rate cuts by central banks. Read more
GuestInvest advert

GuestInvest goes into administration

GuestInvest – the firm that encouraged people to invest in hotel rooms either directly or through their pensions – has gone into administration. Read more
Piggy safe

Savers' protection increased to £50,000

British savers are now protected up to £50,000 if a British bank fails and this guarantee could be increased further still, the financial watchdog has announced today. Read more
Deal of the week

Deal of the week

Marks and Spencer Money has launched a 0% credit card offering for new customers, which benefits from 0% interest on all purchases for 10 months and on balance transfers for six months. Read more
Savings squeeze

Northern Rock pulls saving ranges

Northern Rock has been forced to slash its saving range - including all fixed-rate accounts - as savers increasingly seek out 100% protection for their money. Read more
Fraud

Credit card fraud rockets

Credit and debit card fraud rocketed in the first half of this year, with fraud abroad accounting for a massive 40% of the £301 million lost to conmen. Read more
Couple at computer

Better protection for consumers

New laws to protect consumers from rogue traders, lenders and debt collectors come into force today, which aim to help people keep track of their borrowing more effectively. Read more
Empty purse

Brown promises to protect savers' money

Gordon Brown has reassured savers that he will increase the amount of protection they receive should a bank fail to £50,000 or more, despite Parliament previously dismissing such a measure. Read more
Cut red tape

New rules cut planning permission red tape

Thousands of homeowners are set to benefit following the introduction of new home improvement rules that aim to cut the red tape associated with home extensions. Read more
Shark

Is this the end for single premium PPI?

The financial watchdog is urging banks to stop selling single premium payment protection insurance alongside personal loans as part of its plans to beef up the regulation of this controversial protection product. Read more

How bad will it get?

The collapse of the US banking bailout will have global repercussions, with British homeowners, borrowers, businesses, retirement savers and investors all set to feel the pain. Read more
US flag

US bailout collapses sending markets into turmoil

The US Congress has rejected a $700 billion banking bailout, sending stockmarkets into freefall and ending what has been named one of the worst days of the credit crunch seen so far. Read more
George Osborne

Tories pledge council tax freeze

The Conservative Party says it will introduce a freeze on council tax increases for two-years if it is elected to power at the next general election. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Beat the pension credit deadline

Two million people are still missing out on pension credit, and with new rules coming into play on 6 October, time is running out for many to claim what they are rightfully owed. Read more
House of cards falling

Housing slowdown not over yet

Mortgage lending hit record lows in August official figures show today, suggesting the market slowdown still has some way to go. Read more

Reform pension credit, urges charity

Rising prices and restricted credit is forcing more than 50% of older people to cut back on essentials such as food and heating, and pushing one in 12 into debt, Age Concern has warned. Read more
B&B

Government nationalises B&B

The government has confirmed that it has taken troubled mortgage lender, Bradford and Bingley, into public ownership and sold-on its savings business and branch base to Spanish bank Santander. Read more
FSA

Mortgage lender fined £1.12 million

Sub-prime mortgage lender GE Money Home Lending has been fined a whopping £1.12 million by the financial regulator for leaving nearly 700 borrowers at a financial loss. Read more
Flooded street

Homeowners could be denied insurance

Thousands of homeowners may find themselves unable to obtain insurance or forced to pay crippling premiums thanks to government plans to build one million new homes on floodplains. Read more
New build

Faulty new homes hitting homebuyers

Many people who buy new-build properties are still facing significant costs and distress as a result of faults and delays in moving in, a major investigation has revealed. Read more
Mini

Fears for petrol prices after oil surge

The biggest ever one-day jump in crude oil costs has led to fears that drivers face another hike in petrol prices. Read more
Mobile phone

Lloyds TSB introduces mobile phone banking

Lloyds TSB has become the first bank to allow its customers to transfer money between accounts and check their balances using their mobile phones. Read more
Balloons

A&L ups rate on flagship savings deal

Alliance and Leicester has increased the rate on its flagship savings deal, in a move that experts say reflects just how competitive the savings market has become. Read more
Stephen Mangan

Barclaycard Green Wing advert branded misleading

Barclaycard’s memorable adverts starring Green Wing actors, Julian Rhind-Tutt and Stephen Mangan, have been branded misleading by the advertising watchdog. Read more

Blow to forced retirement challenge

Brits who wish to work beyond the age of 65 have been delivered a blow by the European court's legal adviser, who has rejected a challenge to current employer retirement rules. Read more
Row of houses

Mortgage lending hits record lows

The number of borrowers being approved for new mortgages has fallen by 64% over the past 12 months as the credit crunch continues to hit banks’ ability to lend money. Read more
Money in a jar

Irish savers given extra protection

The government is facing new calls to protect savers' money after the Irish government upped its deposit protection limit to €100,000 - more than double the British equivalent. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Get protected

There is currently a £2.3 trillion protection gap in the UK, and with a recession looming reviewing your protection policy has never been more important. Read more

Bradford & Bingley to be nationalised

Troubled mortgage lender, Bradford and Bingley, is likely to join Northern Rock as a nationalised bank tomorrow morning. Read more
Deal of the week

Deal of the week

People with ISA savings from previous years could cash in with a new variable-rate ISA from Royal Bank of Scotland paying 7.25% AER. Read more
House with leaves

Economic woe deterring sellers

The government’s stamp duty incentive appears to have failed to kick-start the housing market with the general economic climate still deterring sellers from putting their properties on the market. Read more
Fencing

Cash in on supermarket price cuts

Britain’s two biggest supermarkets have gone head-to-head in of series of price cuts, as the battle over market share continues. Read more
Petrol

Morrisons cuts petrol prices

Petrol prices are expected to fall over the next few weeks as cheaper crude oil costs are finally passed onto drivers. Read more

Cost of living continues to climb

Energy price hikes and the rising cost of pizza have pushed inflation to 4.7% in August. Read more

Savers' money still at risk

There is still a risk that savers could lose their money should a bank fail despite the government’s protection scheme, a Parliamentary committee has warned. Read more

Slash your mobile phone bill

Millions of people are paying for free text and call bundles that they never use. Is it time you slashed your mobile phone bill? Read more
Dominoes falling

Stockmarket turmoil as US bank flops

The FTSE 100 has fallen below the 5,000 mark, hitting lows not seen for three years, in the wake of the collapse of Lehman Brothers. Read more
Plane in sky

Are you covered against collapsing airlines?

If you're concerned about the financial stability of your airline then don't rely on travel insurance to protect you because the chances are, it won't. Read more
Inflation

High prices here to stay

The head of the Bank of England has warned that prices will high for some time. Read more
Woman with credit card

Brits warned to avoid credit card PPI

Millions of people are taking out controversial payment protection insurance on their credit cards because they believe it will improve their chances of being approved for credit. Read more
A lone house

House sales dry up to one a week

Estate agents are selling less than one property a week in some regions of the country as a lack of mortgage finance continues to restrict people’s ability to buy a property. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Write a budget

Millions of people regularly spend £123 more than they can afford each month because they fail to keep a budget, research by PayPal reveals. Read more

Nationwide to snap up smaller societies

Nationwide, the UK’s biggest building society, is to merge with smaller rivals, the Cheshire and Derbyshire building societies, to create a super-mutual. Read more
Friends jump off a boat

With-profit final bonus rates hit by market turmoil

With-profit investors have been advised to jump ship after Norwich Union slashed final bonus rates by up to 10%. Read more

Tide turns on rising annuity rates

Pensioners yet to take out an annuity product have been urged to think about doing so quickly, as rising rates seem to have hit a tipping point. Read more
House with Union Jack flag

Another month, another house price fall

House prices dipped by 1.8% in August meaning values have fallen by more than 10% in the past year, the latest Halifax house price index reveals. Read more
Piggy bank

Saving deals hot up as A&L ups rate

Savers look set to benefit from heightened competition in the savings market, following Alliance and Leicester upping the rate on its instant access deal. Read more

Bank of England keeps interest rates at 5%

The Bank of England has voted to freeze interest rates for the fifth month in a row, despite the British economy likely to sink into a full-on recession before the end of the year. Read more
gas hob

Households urged to switch energy deal

Households hit by energy bill hikes could be paying over £500 too much because they haven’t bothered switching deals. Read more
Money changing hands

Tax rebate for 22 million people

Around 22 million workers are set to receive an extra £60 in their pay packets for September, as new tax measures come into force this month. Read more
Crude oil

Crude oil prices fall below $109

Households and drivers could start to see some respite from higher fuel and petrol bills after the cost of crude oil fell back towards the $100 mark this morning. Read more
Sold signs

Stamp duty exemption finally unveiled

Properties under £175,000 are to be exempt from stamp duty for one year from 3 September, the government has now confirmed. Read more
Pan on hob

Two more energy firms put up prices

npower and Scottish Power have today both announced massive energy bill hikes, with the latter increasing gas bills by 34%. Read more
Plane

Thousands stranded as budget airline goes bust

Thousands of holidaymakers have been left stranded after budget airline Zoom went into administration. Rebecca Atkinson explains how people affected can get their money back. Read more

Better protection for couples without wills

Married couples and civil partners are set receive more money if one partner dies without leaving a will, under new plans unveiled by the government. Read more

British economy faces rocky ride

A leading economic forecasting group has warned that the British Economy will shrink by 0.25% during 2009, the first full-year contraction since 1991. Read more
House in nest

House prices tumble 10.5%

As figures reveal house prices have fallen by 10.5% since last year, borrowers are warned they need at least a £40,000 deposit to secure a competitive mortgage deal. Read more
House repossession

Northern Rock borrowers failing to repay loans

The number of mortgage borrowers failing to meet repayments on their loans has risen to a record level, with the highest default numbers among Northern Rock customers. Read more
Smashed computer screen

Banking details found on eBay computer

An investigation has been launched after a computer sold on eBay for £35 was found to contain banking details of up to one million Royal Bank of Scotland, NatWest and American Express customers. Read more
Maths on blackboard

Government urged to drop money from maths

A financial education charity has called on the government to scrap plans to include personal finance in the maths curriculum, as evidence suggests combining two subjects is flawed. Read more
STOP

British economy grinds to a halt

The British economy has ground to a halt with no growth during the second quarter of the year, official figures today reveal. Read more
Tax cuts

CGT reforms have increased tax burden

Capital gains tax reforms introduced in April have led to a 35% jump in the number of people being hit by this levy. Read more

Energy bills to rise again

E.ON and Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) have today both announced price rises for gas and electricity customers. Read more
Shoppers

Shoppers defy crunch

Credit crunched consumers are not giving up their shopping habits, with figures showing a surprise bounce in July. But is it enough to ward off a recession? Read more
Churchill dog

Challenge Churchill advert banned

One of Churchill Insurance's well-known adverts, featuring a nodding dog, has been banned after the advertising watchdog found it was misleading. Read more
Confused

Price comparison websites leave people confused

Price comparison websites have been accused of offering inconsistent results, leaving many people confused about what the best deal is for them. Read more
House

More lenders slash rates

More lenders are cutting mortgage rates but banks continue to squeeze borrowers unable to put down large deposits. Read more
Balloons

Inflation hits kids' cash savings

Parents have been urged to petition the government and ensure that Child Trust Fund vouchers keep up with inflation. Read more
Pound sign

Banks cut saving rates

Savers with instant access accounts have seen interest rates slashed over the past six months, as banks favour new long-term customers over existing ones. Read more
Couple move in

Buy-to-let booms as house sales dry up

Home sellers unable to shift their properties have turned to renting out their homes in order to weather the current climate. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Cut your broadband bill by 70%

Consumers are overpaying for broadband by 70%. Is it time you thought about switching? Read more
London bus

London house prices hardest hit in July

London house prices bore the brunt of falling values in July, with asking prices in the capital falling by £21,000 over the past month. Read more
Job centre

Unemployment set to climb to two million

As many as 300,000 people risk losing their jobs over the next few years as the UK heads into a recession, a damning new report has warned. Read more
Man watching TV

Brits benefit from cheaper TV, internet and mobile rates

A new report reveals that the cost of watching television, surfing the net and talking on the phone has fallen, despite Brits spending more time than ever before on these activities. Read more

Gloomy outlook for UK economy

Consumers should expect rising prices to lead to a squeeze on their take-home pay for the foreseeable future, the Bank of England has warned, as high inflation shows no sign of abating. Read more
Student

Students unable to manage finances

Today’s students are set to graduate with £20,000-worth of debt, as too many head to university unable to manage their own finances. Read more
Row of houses

Mortgage costs fall but market remains sluggish

The cost of fixed-rate mortgages fell in July, according to official figures, but the housing market remained subdued during the month. Read more
Kite soaring

Inflation soars to 4.4% in July

Inflation soared to an alarming 4.4% in July up from 3.8% the previous month, reflecting the rising cost of food and petrol. Read more

Cost of supermarket shop up £1,404

The cost of food has increased by nearly 30% in the past 12 months with households spending an extra £1,404 a year on their groceries. Read more
Water tap

Water bills set to soar

Water bills are set to soar over the next five years as utility companies unveil measures to invest in improving quality. Read more
Money in a jar

Online saving rates get a boost

As fixed rates start to look a little less attractive, the spotlight in on the instant access market. Rebecca Atkinson takes a look. Read more
Woman worried on the phone

Firm fined over bad PPI sales

Mutual society Liverpool Victoria has been fined £840,000 for pressurising people to take out PPI over the phone. Read more
Piggy bank

Aviva approves payouts for with-profit customers

Around a million Norwich Union with-profit policyholders are to be offered cash payments of £1,000 as part of the firm’s reattribution process. Read more
Lloyds TSB

Banking takes new blow from credit crunch

Lloyds TSB has reported a 70% fall in profits to £599 million in the first half of 2008, reflecting how market turbulence has taken its toll on the banking sector. Read more
Worried man

Barclaycard cancels customer cheques

Barclaycard has cancelled hundreds of cheques sent to its FirstPlus secured loan customers as a result of a system error. Read more
Chess set

Abbey crowned king of mortgage lending

Abbey has knocked Halifax off the top spot as the UK’s largest mortgage lender, after its Spanish owner Santander revealed the bank now writes one in every four new mortgages. Read more
The Young Ones

Students fail to protect possessions

The average student heads to university with £6,000 worth of possessions, yet 41% never take out any form of insurance, new research reveals. Read more
Leaflets at Tesco checkout

Tesco considers current account offering

The Royal Bank of Scotland is to jack-in its 50% stake in Tesco Personal Finance, as the supermarket unveils plans to expand its savings range and potentially offer current accounts for the first time. Read more
Wedding cake

Newly-weds left in limbo as gift firm flops

Thousands of couples have been left in limbo after Wrapit, a wedding gift company, admitted it was in financial difficulty. Rebecca Atkinson reports. Read more
A house of cards

House prices to rise 25% over next five years

Homeowners prepared to sit out the housing market downturn could see their property increase in value by 25% over the next five years, new research suggests. Read more
Northern Rock

Northern Rock relaxes mortgage criteria

Northern Rock has relaxed its mortgage lending criteria and will start to offer its best rates to people with 25% deposits again, rather than those with at least 30% to put down. Read more
50% off

Over 50% chance of recession as economy slows

There is now over a 50% chance of the UK sliding into a recession, after the latest data reveals that the economy slowed sharply in the second quarter of 2008. Read more

Compensation claims hit £1 billion

More than £1 billion of compensation has been paid out to financial consumers in the past seven years, official figures reveal. Read more
Gas hob

British Gas bills to rise by 35%

British Gas is following in the footsteps of EDF Energy and increasing the cost of energy by up to 35%. Read more
A child listens to music

Crackdown on internet pirates

Internet users who illegally download music and films face a crackdown as part of a new initiative to wipe-out online piracy. Read more
Woman with shopping bags

Shoppers tighten their belts

The onslaught of the credit crunch has finally hit shoppers’ wallets with retail sales falling at record levels. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Save money on airport parking

Moneywise offers some tips on cutting the cost of rip-off airport parking. Read more
Couple receive advice

Mortgage advisers offering inadequate advice

An undercover investigation has found that just four in 50 mortgage advisers are doing their jobs properly, with the remainder offering inadequate advice to buyers. Read more
Businessmen divided

Economists divided over interest rates

The team of economists that sets interest rates is divided as to whether rates should increase, decrease or stay the same. So what is the outlook for interest rates? Read more
Asda petrol station

Falling oil prices spark petrol war

BP has confirmed it will cut the cost of its petrol, following in the footsteps of three leading supermarkets, as crude oil costs fall. Read more
Wheelchair

Government unveils reforms to personal injury claims

The government has unveiled a new claims process for people making personal injury claims relating to road traffic accidents, but critics say it has missed a trick in failing to recommend more radical reforms. Read more
Recession

Report predicts two years of doom and gloom

A new economic report has painted a gloomy picture of the future, with the credit crunch and resulting recession likely to grip the nation for the next two years. Read more
HBOS headquarters

HBOS rights issue flops

Shareholders in HBOS have snubbed the banking giant’s offer of buying new shares in the firm. Read more
Filofax

Bank charge waiver extended until 2009

Victims of unfair bank charges will have to wait until at least 2009 to claim any refunds after the financial regulator extended a complaints waiver for another six months. Read more
Line-up

Credit crunch fuelling mortgage fraud among brokers

Fears abound that the ongoing credit crunch is fuelling incidents of mortgage fraud as brokers are under increasing pressure to manipulate applications in order to get deals accepted by lenders. Read more
Wrap up warm

Energy bills to hit £1,000 a year

Households should invest in warm clothing as energy bills look set to rise by 60%, British Gas has warned. Read more
Piggy bank

Is the end nigh for +7% saving rates?

The days of saving accounts with interest rates of over 7% could be numbered as two providers pull their market-leading products. Read more
Gas hob

Energy firms told to improve green tariffs

Energy suppliers that offer “green” tariffs must be clearer about the environmental benefits their deals offer, or face the wrath of energy watchdog Ofgem. Read more
Businessman

Bradford & Bingley rights issue gets green light

Bradford and Bingley shareholders have backed the bank’s £400 million cash call to help boost its balance sheet. Read more
Equitable Life

Government rapped over Equitable Life scandal

Equitable Life policyholders could finally receive compensation after an investigation found the government failed to properly regulate the insurer. Read more
House and keys

Rent now, buy later scheme unveiled

First-time buyers could be given a helping hand onto the ladder under a new homeownership scheme that allows them to rent first, buy later. Read more
Garage

What’s in your garage?

Motorists are collectively losing out on £200 million by not storing their car in their garages, new research reveals. Read more
Pile of pennies

Find a better current account

Few of us ever review our current accounts, but this inertia could be costing you dearly. Read more
Stop sign

Darling scraps 2p fuel duty increase

The chancellor Alistair Darling has scrapped the 2p increase in fuel duty. Read more
Twenty pound note

Current account market failing consumers

A damning new report has found that current accounts are failing customers and leaving many exposed to high charges and dismal rates of interest. Read more
HRMC

HMRC errors result in £4.3 billion overpaid tax credits

The government is still waiting to recover a whopping £4.3 billion in overpaid tax credit, of which £1.8 billion is “in doubt”, according to the National Audit Office (NAO). Read more
Beef on BBQ

Rocketing food costs push inflation to 3.8%

Escalating food prices have pushed inflation up to an alarming 3.8% in June, well above the government’s official 2% target. Read more

Second-hand cars top consumer complaints list

More than 120,000 complaints have been made about defective goods in the first half of this year, with second-hand cars and household goods the biggest problem areas. Read more
Pregnant woman

Maternity rights holding back women, equalities watchdog warns

The head of the equalities watchdog has called for better paternity rights for fathers amid concern that extensions to paid maternity leave puts women at a disadvantage at work. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Renew your tax credits

If you haven’t yet renewed your tax credits claim then you must do so by 31 July or your payments will stop. Read more

Alliance & Leicester to be bought by Spanish bank

Alliance and Leicester is to be bought by Spanish bank Santander for £1.2 billion. Read more
Flooded fields

Homeowners reassured about flood protection

Homeowners at risk of flooding have been given reassurance today that their insurance policies will continue to cover them for the long-term. Read more
Bank of England

Bank of England freezes interest rates at 5%

The Bank of England has voted to freeze interest rates at 5% for the third month in a row. Read more
Bear market

What does the bear market mean for investors?

We are now officially in a bear market, and forecasts of a recession are getting louder. But what does this mean for you? Read more
Pause

Nationwide suspends ISA transfers

Nationwide has temporarily stopped accepting transfers into its cash ISA after a 400% increase in the number of requests. Read more
Barclays' logo

Barclays to can secured loans lender Firstplus

Barclays has announced that it is to stop selling secured loans through its market leading Firstplus brand as a result of the downturn in the mortgage market. Read more
Cafe table

VAT could be slashed under proposals from Brussels

The cost of eating out, converting your loft or hiring a childminder could be reduced under plans tabled by Brussels to cut VAT. Read more

Is Britain on the brink of recession?

The UK is hovering on the brink of recession as the credit crunch hits businesses across the country, a new report warns. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Join a car club

Rising petrol prices have pushed up the cost of running a car. Could joining a car club save you money? Read more

Government pledges £11 million for money lessons for kids

Children as young as four are to be given more financial education at school, in a new initiative unveiled by the government. Read more

Banks make £2.5 billion from overdraft fees

Banks make £2.5 billion a year from unauthorised overdraft charges, but could be forced to repay £10 billion if they lose the current court case into bank charges. Read more
The rising cost of running a car

Tories call for fuel duty to soften blow of petrol hikes

The Conservative Party has proposed a plan to soften the blow of rising fuel prices on families by offsetting expensive petrol with lower fuel duty. Read more
Rubbish bin

Households rapped for wasting food

Gordon Brown has urged households to stop wasting so much food, as a report warns that a decade of price rises lies ahead. Read more
Endsleigh branch

Endsleigh poised to close branch network

Endsleigh is reportedly planning to scrap its entire network of branches during this summer, including its student campus outlets. Read more
House of cards

Lenders cut mortgage rates

Three of Britain’s biggest mortgage lenders have cut interest rates on selected mortgage deals. Read more
Bradford & Bingley branch

Bradford & Bingley increases cash call

Bradford and Bingley has increased its forthcoming rights issue to £400 million after the American investor it had lined up to take a stake in the business got cold feet. Read more
Cocktail shaker

Tories propose tax system shake-up

The Conservative Party has promised to bring an end to stealth taxes in a major shake-up of the UK taxation system. Read more
Elderly couple walk in the woods

Cost of retirement hits £413,000

A couple who plan to give up work at 65 would need to have saved £413,000 in order to fund their retirement, new figures reveal. Read more
Fluffy die

Car insurance cheats up 70%

Car insurance cheats made fraudulent claims worth £260 million last year, with the number of dishonest drivers up 70% over the past three years. Read more
Mortgage payment due

Mortgage defaults increasing faster than expected

The number of people missing payments on their mortgages has risen by more than anticipated during the past three months, the Bank of England has reported Read more
House covered in bubble wrap

Homeowners offered insurance against rate rises

A new insurance product promises to protect borrowers from interest rate rises. Should you be tempted? Read more
Bull market

FTSE fall sparks pension scheme concern

Following £30 billion being wiped off the value of FTSE 100 companies yesterday, should people invested in pension schemes be worried? Read more
Piggy bank in a safe

Savers' money could receive extra protection

Savers may be able to receive compensation for up to £50,000 if their bank or building society collapses, if new proposals to improve financial stability are adopted. Read more
Estate agent

Pace of house price falls slows in June

The pace of house price falls slowed significantly in June, with average values sinking by just 0.9% compared to falls of 2.5% the previous month. Read more
Sleeping baby

Cash savings in CTFs suffer interest rate blow

Interest rates on cash Child Trust Funds have fallen over the past year, according to new research. Read more
Woman with plants

MPs confirm changes to SIPP rules

The government has confirmed changes to pension rules that will allow investors to transfer protected rights into Self Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs) from October. Read more
Two men in suits

Consumer confidence at lowest level since 1990s

Consumers’ confidence in their personal finances has fallen to its lowest level since 1995. Read more
One Thing To Do This Week

Lower the cost of using your mobile abroad

Making calls or sending texts while on holiday can be costly. Avoid coming home to a massive bill with Moneywise's top tips for using your phone abroad. Read more
Welcome mat

Crackdown on excessive council tax hikes

Local authorities that implement excessive council tax rises face a government crackdown, which could result in rebates for local taxpayers. Read more
Westminster

Equality bill to outlaw age discrimination

The government is to outline new equality plans that will outlaw age discrimination in the provision of products such as insurance, and address pay gaps between male and female workers. Read more
Mortgage file

Mortgage fees under spotlight

Alistair Darling has warned mortgage lenders not to take advantage of borrowers by charging unfair arrangement fees. Read more

Shoppers refuse to end love affair with plastic

A surge in retail spending may have provided some relief from the impact of the credit crunch, but new figures show shoppers are increasingly putting their purchases on plastic – and are failing to pay off their balances. Read more
Piggy banks

Savers offered new account with guaranteed rate for life

Bradford and Bingley has launched a range of saving accounts that offer a guaranteed rate of interest for life. But should savers be tempted? Read more
Homes for sale

Record number of properties for sale

Record numbers of properties for sale mean house sellers are increasingly lowering their asking prices by an average of £3,000, new figures reveal. Read more
Man with keyboard

Financial watchdog launches PPI comparison service

Borrowers looking to take out payment protection insurance are now able to compare policies using impartial comparison tables from the financial watchdog. Read more
Petrol pump

Record petrol price increase in June

The soaring cost of crude oil has resulted in record petrol price increases in June - and is also threatening to push 1.6 million households into fuel poverty. Read more
Women at work

Women twice as likely to be low paid

Women are twice as likely to be stuck in low paid jobs, with is contributing to levels of child poverty in the UK, a new report reveals. Read more
house and keys

Homeowners braced for price falls of 9%

Halifax has forecast house price falls of up to 9% in 2008 as the number of transactions falls by 45%. Read more
The scales of inflation

Darling calls for pay restraint

Chancellor Alistair Darling has called for restraint on pay rises in the public and private sectors to avoid the risk of rising inflation becoming embedded in the economy. Read more

Are interest rate rises on the horizon?

An interest rate rise was narrowly avoided last month, the minutes from June’s base rate vote reveal. But are rates likely to rise in the future? Read more
Piggy bank and hammer

Lloyds TSB to track down owners of £69 million

Lloyds TSB has launched a campaign to reunite customers with £69 million lying in dormant accounts. Read more
Shopping

Tories call for clamp down on store cards

The Conservative Party has promised to clamp down on store cards, including capping interest rates and introducing a seven-day cooling off period. Read more
Students

Student Loan debt exceeds £21 billion

University students and graduates owe a massive £21,944.3 million in student loans alone, new figures today reveal. Read more
Vegetables

Inflation could hit 4% this year

Higher fresh vegetable prices have been blamed for inflation hitting 3.3% in May, and the Bank of England warns there could be worse to come. Read more
Lifestyle

Affluent retirees penalised by postcode lottery

Norwich Union is to introduce postcode-rated annuities, in a move that could penalise healthy and wealthy retirees. Read more
Man with hand out

Barclays confirms rights issue

Barclays has confirmed that it is looking at carrying out a rights issue that will see it raise £4 billion from existing shareholders. Read more
Petrol prices

Offset the cost of petrol with the right card

Using the right credit card to fill up your tank could help offset the cost of petrol and save you money. Read more
empty purse

Households feel the pinch as personal inflation soars

Households in the UK are now coping with an average personal inflation of nearly 5% as rising prices continue to bite, according to the Bank of England. Read more
Man with empty pockets

Non-refundable fees could leave borrowers out of pocket

More mortgage lenders are expected to introduce non-refundable fees on house purchase loans that could leave borrowers seriously out of pocket if the deal fails to complete. Read more

Housebuilders see shares fall as housing market woes continue

Two of the UK’s biggest homebuilders have suffered sinking share prices after more bad news about the future of the housing market and the strength of the labour market. Read more

Claims management companies target PPI policyholders

Consumers have been urged to avoid using claims management companies for PPI claims as experts warn their fees could leave many out of pocket. Read more
Congestion charge sign

Manchester congestion charge given the green light

The government has given the thumbs up to plans to implement a peak-time congestion charge in Manchester from mid-2013. Read more
Fifty pence

Current accounts hot up for those prepared to pay

Current account providers are trying to attract new customers with attractive interest rates. But they only want those customers prepared to make regular payments. Read more
Piggy banks

Halifax launches regular savings account paying 10%

Halifax has launched a limited edition regular savings account that pays up to 10% AER - but is there a catch? Read more
Chelsea Building Society

Chelsea Building Society to merge with Catholic

The UK's fifth largest building society, the Chelsea, is to take over one of the smallest mutuals, the Catholic, as part of a merger deal unveiled today. Read more
Estate agent

Estate agent and architect jobs on the line

More than 40,000 people working in the business services sector - including 15,000 estate agents - could lose their jobs by 2009, an economics consultancy has claimed. Read more

Consumers warned of mis-leading IVA promotions

Consumers have been warned about unsolicited mailings that mislead and encourage them to cancel existing IVAs and opt for a debt management solution such as bankruptcy instead. Read more

Interest rates to remain at 5% for June

The Bank of England has voted to freeze interest rates at 5% for June. Read more
Row of houses

House price falls continue

House prices continued to fall in May, with the latest figures from the UK’s biggest mortgage lender Halifax revealing a monthly fall of 2.4% and an annual drop of nearly 4%. Read more
Decayed life ring

Consumers overcharged for PPI by £1.4 billion

Banks are overcharging borrowers taking out payment protection insurance (PPI) by over £1.4 billion each year, an official investigation has today revealed. It now proposes a ban on the sale of this expensive insurance cover. Read more
Houses on the shelf

Why all is not lost for first-time buyers

Over a quarter of young people are priced off even the lowest rungs of the property ladder despite falls in house prices. But there does appear to be hope on the horizon... Read more
Three piles of money

Could you claim £48,000?

Consumers who have suffered a financial loss could be entitled to claim up to £48,000 in compensation from firms that have recently been declared in default. Read more
Domino

With-profits compensation shake-up on the cards

Insurance companies could be banned from using the inherited estates of with-profits funds to pay compensation to customers who have been mis-sold policies. Read more
Bradford & Bingley branch

What next for Bradford & Bingley?

Despite Bradford and Bingley's profits falling by nearly 50%, experts have reassured us that this is not another Northern Rock. But what does the bank's rights issue mean for customers and shareholders? Read more
Slot machine

Is this the next pension mis-selling scandal?

Annuities could be the next pension mis-selling scandal because insurance companies continue to push their deals onto people without fully highlighting their right to shop around, experts have warned. Read more
Pile of credit cards

Credit card customers hit by repeated rate hikes

Credit card providers have hit their customers with nearly 70 price hikes since the start of the year, with cash withdrawal rates increasing by as much as 7%. Read more
Businessman

Banks raided as part of price-fixing investigation

Barclays and Royal Bank of Scotland have had their offices raided by the Office of Fair Trading as part of an investigation into pricing fixing in the professional loans market. Read more
House covered in snow

Housing market freezes up as lending continues to fall

The “collapse” of the housing market as a result of restricted lending has prompted calls for the Bank of England to cut interest rates later this week. Read more
Bradford & Bingley logo

Bradford & Bingley announcement sparks share plunge

Britain's top banks saw their share prices suffer yesterday after Bradford and Bingley, the UK’s biggest buy-to-let mortgage lender, announced a 50% fall in profits. Read more
Supermarket food

Grocery bills up by £514 million since January

The cost of a weekly supermarket shop has increased by over 5% since January, adding £514 million to the nation’s grocery bills. Read more
Terrace houses

Abbey hikes fixed mortgage rates again

Abbey is to increase rates on fixed mortgage deals today - its second price hike in a period of just two weeks. Read more
Woman next to gas fire

Government unveils measures to help end fuel poverty

New measures unveiled by the government to help vulnerable households heat their homes have been branded inadequate by a charity, which claims they do not go far enough to deal with the looming fuel poverty crisis. Read more
Woman with euros

M&S to launch holiday money cashpoints

Marks and Spencer is to launch commission-free euro and dollar cash machines in 40 of its UK stores. Read more
Child and toy plane

British Airways passes rising oil costs onto passengers

British Airways passengers will have to pay up to £60 more to fly after the airline announced it is to increase fuel surcharges on all tickets. Read more

Young entrepreneurs cashing in around the home

Children are developing their entrepreneurial skills by charging for household chores such as tidying their bedrooms or vacuuming, according to a new report. Read more
Pound coins

Barclays slashes overdraft fees in current account overhaul

Barclays is to slash the overdraft fees on its current account offering, in a move that could set a precedent for lower bank charges. Read more
The roof of a house

House prices nosedive in May

House prices nosedived in May with the average property suffering a 4.4% annual decrease in value, the latest house price figures reveal. Read more
Euro notes in sand

Holidaymakers targeted by bogus holiday clubs

Holidaymakers heading to Spain have been warned not to fall victim to bogus holiday club scams that cost Brits millions of pounds each year. Read more
Woman on phone

Sky advert banned for attacking competitor business

Sky has had an advert for its telephone service banned by the advertising watchdog for “attacking” competitor BT and suggesting its pricing was unfair. Read more
Banks may have to be more transparent

Banks may be "named and shamed" over complaints

Banks may be forced to reveal the number of customer complaints they receive to the public, under new proposals outlined by the financial watchdog to improve transparency. Read more
Paper chain

Two million PPI policies offer no protection

The number of mortgage and banking disputes have more than tripled while insurance complaints have doubled. Meanwhile, it is feared that two million PPI policies offer no protection to those they were sold to. Read more
Money

Brits waste £9.3 billion in unnecessary tax

Around £9.3 billion is wasted each year in unnecessary tax, costing each of us an average of £183, new figures reveal. Read more
Cars on motorway

Pressure mounts for 2p fuel tax hike to be scrapped

Lorry drivers, business leaders and MPs are putting pressure on Gordon Brown to scrap plans to increase fuel tax by 2p this autumn. Read more
Piggy bank and clock

The end of the three-day clearing system draws near

A new system to speed up payments and bank account transfers is to be rolled out this week spelling the beginning of the end for the three-day clearing system. Read more
Bear market

Investors warned to prepare for recession

Investors have been warned to be prepared for a UK recession as the economy continues to slow and the Bank of England focuses its attention on beating rising inflation. Read more
Falling down house

Lenders predict 7% fall in house prices in 2008

House prices will fall by 7% in 2008 as restricted mortgage lending continues to freeze the housing market, mortgage lenders have predicted. Read more
Abacus

Tax change set to hurt 18 million families

Eighteen million families will find themselves worse off in two years time if the government fails to extend last week’s one-off income tax cut, a new report has warned. Read more
House in hand

Should I bother with a mortgage broker?

Mortgage lenders are increasingly cutting out mortgage brokers with just three of the top 20 two-year fixed rate deals available through an adviser. But what does this mean for borrowers? Read more
Office workers

Agency workers to get equal rights

Temps and other agency workers on job placements for more than 12 weeks are to receive the same employment rights as permanent staff. Read more
Inflation

Inflation-proof your pension

Stop high inflation eating into your pension by taking steps to increase your annual contributions. Read more

Teenagers lack basic budgeting skills

A worrying number of teenagers plan to spend on credit once they hit 18 despite being unable to effectively budget, a new study reveals. Read more
Key in lock

First Direct reopens door to new customers

First direct has re-openned its doors to new mortgage customers while Halifax has reduced rates in more signs that the cloud over the mortgage market is starting to lift. Read more
Couple with bills

Middle-classes hit by debt crisis

Seemingly affluent households are increasing seeking debt advice as the credit crunch hits middle-England, debt organisations have reported. Read more

Rail passengers face price hikes

A new ticketing system that comes into effect this week could give train companies the green light to increase rail fares. Read more
Couple shopping on holiday

Holidaymakers hit by foreign usage charges

Holidaymakers face a penalty of up to 3% every time they use their credit and debit cards abroad as foreign usage charges get more expensive, new figures reveal. Read more

Review your current account

The cost of banking is creeping up, as banks attempt to claw back profit lost from overdraft fees and the credit crunch. Is it time for you to review your current account? Read more

Mortgage broker fined £900,000 for sub-prime sales

A large financial adviser has been fined £900,000 by the financial regulator for the way it sold sub-prime mortgages to its customers. Read more
house and keys

Government offers a £300 million helping hand to first-time buyers

The government has pledged £300 million to help first-time buyers onto the housing ladder through shared ownership schemes. Read more

Consumer watchdog to investigate sale and rent back schemes

Sale and rent back schemes are to be investigated by the Office of Fair Trading amid concerns that they can leave vulnerable homeowners out of pocket and even homeless. Read more

Is the mortgage market on the road to recovery?

The mortgage market could be on the road to recovery as Abbey becomes the latest lender to reduce interest rates on its mortgages. Read more
City workers

Thousands now facing a higher rate of income tax

Moves to compensate people hit by the axed 10p tax rate will push thousands more people onto a higher rate of income tax, experts have warned. Read more

Darling announces plan to compensate 10p tax victims

Basic rate taxpayers will see their personal allowances increase by £600 this year, under measures announced by chancellor Alistair Darling to compensate those hit by the 10p tax rate axing. Read more

Hopes for rate cuts dashed as inflation soars

The Bank of England has hinted that it will not cut interest rates again this year as the risk of rising inflation continues to dog efforts to bolster the slowing economy. Read more

Facebook users warned over misleading loan adverts

Credit firms using websites like Facebook to advertise cheap loans have been accused of breaking advertising rules. Read more

Sort out your remortgage

Higher mortgage rates mean it's never been more important to get a good on a new mortgage. Rebecca Atkinson explains why grabbing a remortgage deal now could save you plenty. Read more

Land of Leather fined over PPI sales

Furniture retailer Land of Leather has been fined £210,000 for failing to ensure Payment Protection Insurance was sold fairly to customers taking out loans. Read more

Legal action over Farepak scandal still up in the air

The government has completed its investigation into the collapse of Farepak but victims of the scandal are still waiting to hear whether any legal action will be taken against the firm's directors. Read more

British Gas customers facing another price rise

British Gas customers may see their bills increase again this year after the supplier warned its profits are being hit by the rising cost of wholesale gas. Read more

Halifax tightens its mortgage belt

Halifax is expected to put up prices on its direct mortgage range this week (20/05/08) – and is also believed to be planning to scrap the sale of two-year fixed products through its branches. Read more

Government delays full home pack rollout

The full rollout of Home Information Packs (HIPs) has been delayed until the end of the year, prompting calls for the government to abandon the initiative. Read more

Rising number of borrowers at risk of repossession

The government has pledged £10 billion to help struggling homeowners as figures reveal the number of borrowers at risk of having their homes repossessed has soared in the past year. <br /> Read more

A third of people ripped off by online airplane tickets

A third of people who buy airline tickets online are being ripped off by unfair practices, the European Union has warned. Read more

Travel insurance falls to cheapest ever levels

The cost of travel insurance has dropped to record lows, yet one in seven holidaymakers still ventures abroad without any cover, new research reveals. Read more

Interest rates held at 5%

The Bank of England has voted to hold interest rates at 5% for May. Read more

Surge in tracker fund sales suggests return of investor confidence

A resurgence in sales of tracker funds in the first quarter of 2008 could indicate a return in investor confidence. Read more
The everydayloans leaftet

Lender accused of encouraging frivolous spending

A personal loans company has been forced to withdraw an advertising campaign after it was accused of encouraging frivolous spending on credit. Read more

Rents on the rise as buy-to-let mortgages disappear

The cost of renting a home is set to increase as the credit crunch hits buy-to-let landlords. Read more

New mortgage offers borrowers chance to earn airmiles

Lloyds TSB is offering mortgage borrowers the chance to earn 7,800 airmiles with its new range of fixed mortgages. Read more

Every cloud has a silver lining

Every cloud has a silver lining - even if that cloud happens to be the credit crunch. We all know who is losing from the credit crunch, but is anyone out there winning? Read more

0870 numbers to get cheaper

Calls to 0870 numbers are set to get cheaper under proposals published by Ofcom. Read more

Rising costs increase pressure on debtors

The number of people going bankrupt or taking out an IVA has fallen by 13% in the last year but the ongoing credit crunch could reverse this trend going forward, experts warn. Read more

Millions of women missing out on pension income

Nearly two million women could be losing out on potential pension income because of confusion over eligibility, according to research from HSBC. Read more

Norwich Union brand to be scrapped

The Norwich Union logo is set to disappear from the high street over the next two years as part of a drive by owner Aviva to introduce global branding. Read more

Spinster sisters lose inheritance tax appeal

Two elderly sisters who have lived together for 30 years have had their appeal against inheritance tax rejected by the European Court of Human Rights. Read more

House price falls will not hit double digits, says Halifax

Halifax, the UK’s biggest mortgage lender, says house price falls will not hit double digits in 2008 despite the continuing housing market slowdown. Read more

Lenders told to help struggling borrowers

Banks could be forced to improve the way they support borrowers who can't pay their mortgage following a meeting with chancellor Alistair Darling. Read more

Motorists braced for further petrol price hikes

Motorists should brace themselves for petrol price hikes in light of record oil prices and the threat of strike action. But there are way to save on the cost of filling up a car. Read more

Are mortgages about to get cheaper?

The Bank of England has injected £50 billion into the banking system and the chancellor has asked banks to lower their mortgage rates. So will we see cheaper mortgages anytime soon? Read more

RBS considering sale of Direct Line and Churchill

The Royal Bank of Scotland has confirmed that it will call on shareholders to help it raise £12 billion and that it is considering the sale of its insurance firms Churchill and Direct Line. Read more

Women discriminated against in job interviews

Women face potential discrimination in job interviews because over 50% bosses weigh up their chances of pregnancy when considering them for a role. Read more

Are credit card companies taking advantage of the credit crunch?

It’s been hard to miss the impact of the credit crunch on mortgage borrowing – but the effect on credit cards has been subtler. However, that's not to say providers aren't finding ways to claw back margins. Read more

The hidden catch to instant access accounts

No notice savings account are popular among savers but with almost 25% penalising you for making withdrawals, having instant access often comes at a price. Read more

How Moneywise have you been this week? (w/e 18/04/08)

It's been another week of sobering housing market stats - but what else has been making the headlines? Take the Moneywise quiz to find out. Read more

Mortgage lending down 17% this spring

Mortgage lending has fallen by 17% since last year and is expected to fall further throughout 2008, new figures reveal. Read more

Cost of buying a first home up 200%

The cost of buying a first home in England is 200% more expensive than 10 years ago, according to charity Shelter. Read more

Phishing scams up 200%

The number of people falling victim to phishing scams has risen 200% in the first three months of 2008 as fraudsters find increasingly sophisticated ways to trick their way into your bank account. Read more

Garden thefts set to soar this summer

Garden theft is set to soar this summer but you can deter green-fingered thieves with these top tips. Read more
Car insurance

How to save money on your car insurance

Car insurance is a necessary evil - but that doesn't mean you should put up with paying over the odds. Here are 10 easy ways to save money on your car insurance. Read more
Damaged car window

Drivers warned off street parking

Parking your car on the street could be riskier than a multi-storey car park with 43% of drivers reporting incidents of vandalism, according in a new survey. Read more

Inflation unchanged in March

Inflation remained steady in March despite concerns that February’s interest rate cut could prompt a sharp rise. Read more

Falling house prices hit record level

House price falls have hit a historical level exceeding the falls seen in 1990 when prices crashed, according to a new report. Read more

How to overcome the homeownership hurdle

For some time first-time buyers have struggled to get on the property ladder, and the credit crunch has only made things harder. Putting down a deposit is now essential, but saving enough cash is easier said than done. Read more

Bank of England unveils plan to crack the credit crunch

The Bank of England has confirmed plans to pump £50 billion into the British banking system to allow lenders to temporarily swap mortgage-assets for government bonds. Read more

Households to receive £225m to pay energy bills

Up to 100,000 households could receive assistance paying their energy bills after the UK’s six biggest energy companies promised an extra £225 million to help end fuel poverty. Read more

Tax returns given a makeover

Tax returns are due to hit doormats of 9.3 million self-assessment taxpayers from this week. And a redesign means they should be simpler and quicker to complete. Read more

Weak pound to cost eurozone holidaymakers and home buyers

The devalued pound will hurt the wallets of Brits planning a European break or thinking about buying in the eurozone. But there are ways to reduce the pain of a weak pound. Read more

Bank of England cuts interest rates to 5%

The Bank of England has taken action to ease pressures on the housing market by cutting interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point to 5%. Read more

HSBC offers to match existing mortgage deals

HSBC has promised to help homeowners suffering payment shock by offering them a new mortgage matching their existing rate. But is it too good to be true? Read more

Finding your way through the mortgage maze

With mortgage deals flying off the shelves and house prices on the wane, here is the Moneywise guide to getting a good deal wherever you are on the housing ladder. Read more

Property prices down £5,000 in March

The average homeowner saw nearly £5,000 wiped off the value of their home in March as the property market slowdown continued. Read more

HSBC loses data on 370,000 customers

HSBC has admitted losing a computer disc containing the personal details of 370,000 customers but says the risk of fraud is limited. Read more

Tax changes at a glance

The new tax year has brought in a host of tax reforms. Here is the Moneywise guide to the changes impacting your personal finances this tax year. Read more

Budget may have underestimated risk to economy

Alistair Darling may have underestimated the risks facing the UK’s economy in his 2008 Budget, a report by the Treasury Select Committee has warned. Read more

Today's best saving rates

The Moneywise daily savings round-up is our guide to the best saving accounts on the market. Read more

Halifax demands deposits as house prices fall

Borrowers hoping for a Halifax mortgage will now have to save for a 25% deposit or pay a premium. Read more

More penalties for credit card customers

Credit card customers who have a balance of just 1p face being charged interest of 10,000% in a further sign that banks are penalising good borrowing habits. Read more
Child sitting on pile of cash

Is your child's CTF working hard enough?

Over four million children have benefited from CTFs since the scheme was introduced, but the investment they receive when they hit 18 could vary greatly. Read more

New ISAs for the new tax year

The new tax year is here, and with it the new ISA allowances. Here is the Moneywise round-up of the best new cash ISAs for the new tax year. Read more

Rising energy bills prompt five million to switch

The switching rate for gas and electricity customers has reached a five-year high with five million contracts switched in 2007. Read more

Lenders close doors to new mortgage customers

The Co-operative Bank is to pull its popular two-year mortgage range, just days after First Direct and Lehman Brothers suspend lending. Read more

Moneywise challenges chancellor to take teen money test

Moneywise is challenging Alistair Darling and several other public figures to test their money skills as part of our Kids and Cash campaign to get personal finance into the classroom. Read more

Get your state pension forecast

Finding out your state pension forecast can help you plan for retirement. And if you have taken time out of work to care for others then getting a forecast is essential as you may have gaps that need plugging. Read more

Boarding school fees soar 86%

The cost of private education for boarders has soared by 86% in the past decade with average boarding school fees now equal to 73% of the average annual income. Read more

Northern Rock to ditch 60% of mortgage customers

A massive 60% of Northern Rock mortgage customers will be left out in the cold after their mortgage periods finish under new plans to restructure the national bank. Read more

Mortgage rates on the up

Mortgage lenders are increasing the cost of borrowing as the credit crunch forces them to tighten their belts. Read more

BA offers refunds amid terminal 5 chaos

British Airways says that customers whose flights are cancelled between 27 and 30 March can rebook their flight for free or receive a full refund. If you have been affected, then it's important to know your rights. Read more

Slowing housing market points to UK recession

The UK now faces a 35% chance of a recession as the housing market continues to slow. Read more

Investors urged to claim up to £48,000 compensation

Investors who have lost money as a result of dealing with a now disqualified investment firm could claim up to £48,000 in compensation. Read more

Don’t let the credit crunch eat into your pension

The stockmarket rollercoaster has eaten into some pension pots by up to 20%. Whether you are due to retire this year or have another 15 years to go, maximising the value of your pension savings should be a priority. Read more

Cash and equity ISA round-up

The deadline for using your ISA allowance is nearly here, yet over 50% of Moneywise.co.uk users haven’t yet fully invested into an ISA. Read more

Expats' salaries 43% higher than in UK

People living abroad could benefit from a hike in their wages with the average salary for expats working in the UAE currently £79,000 compared to the UK average of £47,000. Read more

Injured face three year wait for compensation

The compensation system is failing people as figures show the average workplace injury takes up to three years to be resolved. Read more

Young people offered help for money worries

A charity has launched a new project to help young people manage their money. Read more

April Fools' for Scottish and Southern Energy customers

Customers of Scottish and Southern Energy, the second-biggest energy company in the UK, will see their energy bills increase by up to 15.8% from 1 April. Read more

Mortgage market drying up, warn lenders

More people could find themselves refused a mortgage unless the Bank of England takes action to help lenders find funding, experts have warned. Read more

Time running out to take advantage of tax breaks

The new tax year is nearly here, but it isn’t too late to take advantage of today's tax regime before 6 April. Read more

Can investors have a conscience?

Is it possible to have a conscience and still benefit from investment? Rebecca Atkinson takes a look at the world of socially responsible investment. Read more

Deadline looms for winter fuel payment

People aged 60 and over could face higher energy bills if they fail to meet the looming deadline to claim their winter fuel payment. Read more

Money worries haunt consumers

The rising cost of living and global financial turmoil have hit consumer confidence hard with 30% fearing they won’t be able to cope financially for much longer. Read more

Parents prioritise teaching kids about money

Over 80% of parents say they talk to their children about debt and money in order to prepare them for the realities of adult life. Read more

Interest rate cuts unlikely as inflation rises

Interest rate cuts in the UK could be out of the window after figures revealed inflation climbed to 2.5% in February. Read more

Northern Rock to axe staff and focus on savings

Northern Rock is to make around 2,000 employees redundant as the now national bank attempts to morph itself into a smaller, savings focused operation. Read more

Credit crunch fallout continues to bite

The collapse of Bear Stearns has sent stockmarkets into turmoil. But is there worse to come? Read more

ISA deadlines fall before 5 April

With many investment companies only accepting ISA applications until the end of March 2008, investors hoping to invest their ISA allowance before the end of the tax year must act now, says the AIC. Read more

Federal Reserve slashes interest rates

The Federal Reserve has cut interest rates in the US to 2.25% in a bid to restore confidence in the financial markets. Read more

Cut your tax bill with charitable giving

Rebecca Atkinson looks at the most tax-efficient ways to give to charity. Read more

Darling scraps VAT on venture capital trusts

Management fees on venture capital trusts and investment trusts will be exempt from VAT, Alistair Darling’s Budget has confirmed. Read more

Council tax rates to increase by over 5%

Council tax bills are likely to increase by 5.1% in 2008/09 despite the government urging councils to keep increases substantially below this level. Read more

Government does u-turn on trust tax

Alistair Darling has extended the deadline for interest in possession trusts to avoid inheritance tax. Read more

Darling fails to take action over slowing housing market

Alistair Darling’s Budget has failed to offer any immediate support to struggling home owners or first-time buyers despite the faltering property market and threat of negative equity. Read more

Budget round-up

Chancellor Alistair Darling has delivered an underwhelming first Budget with a revised forecast for economic growth and a handful of green measures. Read more

Schools failing kids when it comes to finance

A government body has warned that the “incoherent” way personal finance is currently taught in schools is leaving pupil ill-equipped to manage their money. Read more

Working mums in pay penalty

Motherhood is having a direct impact on women’s salaries with the gender pay divide rising sharply when they hit their 30s. Read more

Petrol prices lead to calls for tax rethink

Petrol price rises have hit record levels leading to calls for Alistair Darling to scrap fuel duty hikes in his 2008 Budget. Read more

Boiler room victims reunited with cash

Over £1 million has been recovered for victims of an illegal boiler room scam. Find out if you could be entitled to a refund. Read more

Will identity cards cut fraud?

The government has unveiled plans to phase in compulsory identity cards with the full rollout penciled in for 2017. But will they help prevent ID fraud - or make it worse? Read more
Bank of England

Bank of England votes no to interest rate cut

The Bank of England has voted to keep interest rates at 5.25% in a bid to offset the anticipated surge in inflation. Read more

Minimum wage to rise by 21p

Low paid workers will see their salaries increase by 21p an hour this October as the minimum wage rises to £5.73. Read more

House price fall prompts call for interest rate cut

The UK’s largest mortgage lender has called for interest rates to be cut after its figures revealed a fall in house prices in February. Read more

Parents disappointed by school selection process

One in five 11-year olds is likely to have missed out on their first choice of school this year despite government promises to give parents more choice for secondary education. Read more
Golden Eggs

Your ISA questions answered

ISAs can protect your money from the taxman but new rules coming into force this April have left many people confused. To help you understand the new rules, Moneywise has compiled a selection of the best questions and answers from our recent web chat with Scottish Widows. Read more
Notes falling

Investors waste £133 million in tax benefits

Nearly four million investors waste millions of pounds every year by investing in equities outside of an ISA. Read more

HSBC predicts £300 million refund for overdraft fees

HSBC might have to pay over £300 million in customer refunds if the High Court rules that overdraft charges are unfair. Read more

Investors rush for global growth

Despite volatility across the equity markets spooking investors, global growth funds overtook cautious managed as the best selling sector in January. Rebecca Atkinson looks at the sector and asks what's next for global growth. Read more

Q&A: ISA webchat

Back in March 2008, Moneywise hosted a live ISA chat with Scottish Widows. Read the answers to your questions here. Read more

Government pledges free financial advice

Free financial advice could soon be available on the high street offering guidance on everything from saving for a mortgage deposit to coping with debt. Read more

Your pension questions answered

Thanks to everyone who contributed to our live pensions web chat. Here is a selection of the best questions and answers. Read more
Live pensions chat

LIVE pensions chat

Back in February 2008, Moneywise hosted a pensions webchat with Alliance Trust. Read the answers to your questions here. Read more
Row of houses

House prices fall in February

Property prices fell by 0.5% in February bringing house price inflation to its lowest level since November 2005, according to figures from Nationwide. Read more
Green piggy bank

Green ISAs to offer significant tax breaks

Savers could receive significant tax breaks for investing their money in environmentally conscious companies under plans unveiled by the Conservative Party. Read more
Anna Sofat and Steve Latto

Pensions webchat

Back in February, Moneywise held a pensions webchat with Alliance Trust. <br /> Read more

Are you covered for earthquake damage?

Home owners hit by yesterday’s earthquake have been urged to contact their insurer as soon as possible to ensure their policy covers any damage. Read more
Chip & PIN machine

Chip & PIN not safe from fraud

Chip and PIN machines do not adequately protect shoppers' account details leaving millions at risk of fraud, a new report claims. Read more

More shocks to come for economy

The global economy is currently in the midst of the worst financial and banking crisis ever seen in peacetime and there are more shocks to come, according to the deputy governor of the Bank of England. Read more

Nationwide to penalise borrowers without 25% deposits

Borrowers with Nationwide will now have to save up for a 25% deposit on their home in order to get the best rate of interest from the lender. Read more
Water tap

Water bills set to rise

Water bills are set to increase by as much as £29 in 2008/09 bringing the average annual cost to around £330. Read more
Foxtons logo

Foxtons taken to court over unfair contracts

Foxtons estate agents is being taken to court by the Office of Fair Trading following complaints about its contract terms for landlords. Read more
Woman on the phone

Phone customers targeted by "slammers"

Rogue phone companies are still “slamming” thousands of consumers despite treats of fines from the industry watchdog. Read more
An airplane

How to reclaim illegal fuel surcharges

British Airways and Virgin Atlantic have been ordered to pay over £100 million to eight million passengers who were victims of its fuel surcharge cartel. Read more

Buy-to-let landlords facing tax crackdown

The taxman is believed to be planning a major crackdown on buy-to-let landlords who have failed to declare their rental income. Rebecca Atkinson examines the current tax obligations on property. Read more
Keyboard with pound sign

Broadband customers pay £70 million for technical support

Broadband customers are being charged as much as 50p a minute for seeking technical support - costing them around £70 million a year. Read more
House

Borrowers being pushed onto fixed rate mortgages

Mortgage borrowers are being pushed onto fixed rate products by the big banks despite another interest rate cut forecast in the coming month Read more
Dominoes falling

With-profit returns hit by stockmarket woes

The turbulence of stockmarkets in 2007 has hit Legal &amp; General and LV= with-profit policyholders, with both firms revealing a slump in performance during the year. Read more
A mortgage file

Mortgage drought spells more woe for buyers

Borrowers struggling to get a mortgage should not expect things to improve anytime soon, despite figures showing mortgage lending increased during January. Read more

Lenders pull deposit-free mortgages

Five top mortgage lenders are to stop selling deposit-free mortgages as concern about the housing market deepens. Read more

Is another bank run on the cards?

Concern is mounting that the nationalisation of Northern Rock could lead to customers withdrawing their savings from other banks. Read more
Piggy bank

35% of users missing out on tax breaks

A worrying 35% of Moneywise.co.uk users have not put any money into an ISA this tax year. Read more
The run on Northern Rock

How will Rock's nationalisation affect you?

The government has announced that Northern Rock is to be nationalised. But what does this mean for its shareholders, savers, borrowers and employees? Read more

Northern Rock nationalisation bill becomes law

The bill to nationalise Northern Rock has been approved by parliament and the Queen and will now pass into law. Read more
Alistair Darling

Please reform inheritance tax, Darling

Inheritance tax has come out top in a survey of the most hated taxes that Brits would like to see reformed in this year’s Budget. Read more
Iceland scenery

Is my money safe with an Icelandic bank?

Press reports have suggested that savers with Icelandic banks could be at risk of losing their nest eggs. Rebecca Atkinson looks at the risks and asks whether savers should be worried. Read more

Asia tipped as most promising investment region in 2008

A Moneywise poll reveals Asia is the most promising investment region in 2008. But fund managers and IFAs disagree. Rebecca Atkinson takes a global look at investment. Read more
House of cards

Scottish Widows' endowments might not pay off mortgages

Scottish Widows has warned that 88% of its mortgage endowment with-profit policies might be in shortfall when they mature. Read more

Retirees forced out of jobs by ageist employers

Research shows that people who have been forced into retirement could be due £45 million in compensation. Rebecca Atkinson looks at workers' legal rights when it comes to retirement. Read more

Borrowers fail to shop around for credit cards

Nearly 70% of consumers don't shop around for credit cards because they find it hard to compare products. Rebecca Atkinson looks at the different types of cards and the most competitive deals available. Read more
Lightbulb

E.ON raises energy prices

E.ON has become the latest major energy supplier to raise the cost of its gas and electricity. Read more
Lightbulb

E.ON raises energy prices

E.ON has become the latest major energy supplier to raise the cost of its gas and electricity. Read more
Bank of England

Take advantage of frozen interest rates

The Bank of England has voted to freeze interest rates at 5.5% in February. But savers and borrowers should still take some time to look at their finances. Read more
Bank of England

How will the interest rate cut affect you?

The Bank of England has voted to cut interest rates to 5.25%. Whether you're a borrower or saver, find out how this will affect you. Read more

NU with-profit policyholders due £2 billion windfall

Norwich Union is to pay 1.1 million with-profits policyholders a £2.1 billion bonus in a move that could encourage a vote for the redistribution of its surplus funds. Read more
Women on hold on the phone

Utility companies failing customers

Energy and telecom companies are failing their customers by offering dismal customer services and the worst call-centre performance in the UK. Read more
Houses

February rate cut needed to support housing market

The UK's largest mortgage lender has warned than an interest rate cut is needed to prevent house prices from falling in 2008. Read more
The run on Northern Rock

Northern Rock board proposes plan to keep lender independent

The board of Northern Rock has asked the government to provide funding for it to restructure the lender without the business being sold. Read more
Plaster

Repair your credit rating

New credit card rules could make it more expensive for new customers to borrow - but repairing your credit rating now could help. Read more
New build property

New-build properties at risk of negative equity

Buyers of new build properties may have paid more than the true value and could be at risk of negative equity, lenders have warned. Read more
Gas hob

ScottishPower customers facing higher bills

ScottishPower customers are facing energy price hikes of up to 15% from this weekend. Read more
Egg credit card

Egg to withdraw credit cards from 161,000 customers

Egg is to withdraw credit cards from 161,000 customers who have missed a payment or exceeded their credit limit over the past year. Read more
Looking at bills

Insolvencies set to rocket despite dip in 2007

The number of people declaring themselves insolvent fell in the last three months of 2007 but experts warn that bankruptcies and IVAs will rocket in 2008. Read more
Man opens front door

Scams cost Brits £3.5 billion a year

Scams cost the British public £3.5 billion every year. Rebecca Atkinson looks at popular scams and offers some tips on how to avoid becoming a victim. Read more
Overdue bill

Personal debt hits £1.4 trillion mark

Personal debt in the UK has hit the £1.4 trillion mark with consumers expected to borrow an additional £327 million today alone. Read more
Tesco store

Tesco to scrap cheque payments

Tesco is to stop accepting personal cheques from shoppers despite concerns that this may disadvantage older customers. Read more
Hand with house on

More pain for first-time buyers

The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors has warned that affordability problems are close to record levels. Read more
The run on Northern Rock

Banks may have to set up compensation scheme for savers

Banks may be required to pay into a fund to refund savers if a bank fails in the same way that Northern Rock did last September. Read more
Kids and Cash logo

Moneywise kicks off Kids and Cash campaign

Moneywise has launched a campaign to get personal finance included as part of the National Curriculum. Rebecca Atkinson looks at why teaching kids about money matters and speaks to students already studying this important subject. Read more
Jame Purnell

James Purnell to replace Hain

James Purnell has been named as the new secretary of state for work and pensions following Peter Hain’s resignation on 24 January. Read more
Chancellor Alistiar Darling

Darling introduces entrepreneurs capital gains tax concession

The Treasury has partially backed-down on plans to scrap tapered capital gains tax by introducing a concessionary rate of tax for entrepreneurs. Read more
Front doors

Council tax bills to rise 4%

Council tax bills will increase by an average of 4% in 2008/09 to around £1,146 per household, the government has confirmed. Read more
Keyboard

Price comparison sites to be probed over confusion fears

Price comparison websites are to be investigated by the financial watchdog amid fears that consumers find them confusing and mis-leading. Read more
Bank of England

Interest rates could be frozen in February

The head of the Bank of England has warned that further interest rate cuts are not a given because of fears that inflation may rise beyond 3%. Read more
Piggy Banks

Banks’ overdraft fees round-up

Overdraft fees are back in the news as the long-awaited court case into bank charges gets underway. Rebecca Atkinson looks at what different banks are currently charging their current account customers that go into the red. Read more

How to avoid unfair overdraft fees

The Office of Fair Trading and some of the biggest banks on the high street are in court to fight out the issue of unauthorised overdraft fees. Rebecca Atkinson looks at the background to the debate and offers some tips on how to avoid being hit by overdraft penalties. Read more

Don't be an energy victim

Energy price hikes by British Gas, EDF Energy, npower and ScottishPower mean over 30 million households are going to have to pay out more each month for the energy they use. But there are ways to avoid the rising cost of energy. Read more
The run on Northern Rock

Northern Rock to pay £400 million for rescue package

Northern Rock will pay the Government up to £400 million in return for it providing a rescue package which will enable the troubled lender to be sold to a private bidder. Read more

British Gas bills to rise by 15%

British Gas has confirmed that it is putting up the cost of its gas and electricity by 15%. Read more
House in hand

Fixed rate mortgages set to become cheaper

Fixed rate mortgages are set to become cheaper after the interest rate banks charge each other fell to below the 5% mark. Read more
Commercial Building

Pension fund returns at lowest level for five years

Pension fund returns are at their lowest for five years having experienced growth of just 5.41% in 2007. Read more
Margaret Cole, director of enforcement at the FSA

HSBC subsidiary fined £1 million for PPI failings

A subsidiary of HSBC has been fined over £1 million by the Financial Services Authority for the way it sold payment protection insurance to customers. Read more
Dice on stock listing

Sub-prime worries spark FTSE 100 dive

The FTSE 100 has fallen below the 6,000 point mark for the first time since August 2007 after sub-prime worries on Wall Street sparked a share sell-off. Read more
Falling down house

Norwich Union warns of 90% mortgage endowment shortfalls

Norwich Union has warned that over 90% of its mortgage endowment with-profit funds may be in shortfall when they mature. Read more
Gas hob

EDF Energy hits customers with price hikes

EDF Energy customers will see their energy bills rise by nearly £100 a year after the company announced gas and electricity price hikes. Read more
A woman in a supermarket

Rising cost of food prompts interest rate fears

The wholesale cost of food has increased by over 7% in the past year sparking fears that inflation may prevent the Bank of England from cutting interest rates. Read more

Banks in court over "unfair" overdraft charges

Some of the high street’s largest banks are being taken to court accused of hitting their customers with unfair overdraft fees. Read more
Medical pills

Insurers promise to pay more claims

Insurance companies have promised to pay more critical illness, income protection and life insurance claims in full even in cases where the policyholder accidentally failed to reveal their full medical history. Read more
The Bank of England

Borrowers advised to opt for tracker mortgages

Mortgage borrowers are being advised to take out tracker products rather than fixed rates despite the Bank of England voting to keep interest rates at 5.5% in January. Read more
Family of ipods

iTunes promises cheaper music downloads

British music lovers will be able to download cheaper music from iTunes after Apple promised an end to price discrimination in the UK. Read more
Row of houses

Experts warn of stagnant house prices in 2008

Home owners have been warned to still expect a subdued housing market in 2008 despite house prices rising by 1.3% in December after three months of falls. Read more
Wallet full of credit cards

Avoid sinking into debt by switching credit cards

It’s common to use a credit card to finance your Christmas spending, but if you don't have the right card you could end up racking up more debt. Get a better deal and you could drastically reduce the level of interest you pay. Read more
Piggy Bank

Inheritance tax deadline approaches

People who have arranged to leave an inheritance to their loved ones through a trust have just two months left to beat new inheritance tax rules. Read more

Energy bills set to hit £1,000 in 2008

Households could see their energy bills increase to over £1,000 in the next few months after npower confirmed its 4 million customers face bill hikes of up to 17.2% in 2008. Read more

Today's best savings rates

The Moneywise daily savings round-up is our guide to the best saving accounts on the market. Updated on a daily basis you can be sure to find the best deals without the hassle of trawling the best-buy tables. Read more
Housing Minister Yvette Cooper

HIPs come under attack from Labour MPs

The Government department responsible for Home Information Packs has been attacked by its own committee of MPs for the “tortuous” way the controversial legislation was introduced. Read more

Outlook for housing market gloomy as lending falls

Consumers hoping to get on the property ladder this year may struggle to secure mortgages after official figures show that banks are not lending as much as they have in the past. Read more
An overdue bill

Personal insolvencies predicted to hit 10,000 a month in 2008

An estimated 10,000 people will declare themselves insolvent every month this year with at least of third of those between now and March hastened by excessive Christmas spending. Read more
Man in suit walks through office

Pension gulf widening between public and private sector

Public sector workers are getting better pension deals than their private sector counterparts as more private firms abandon defined benefit pension schemes. Read more
key in lock

First-time buyers priced out of 96% of towns

First-time buyers are at their lowest levels since 1980 having been priced out of 96% of towns across the country. Read more
A&L logo

A&L launches same-day access loan

Alliance and Leicester has launched a personal loan that allows customers to get their hands on the cash the same day they apply for the loan. Read more

Drivers urged to challenge unfair parking fines

Which? is urging drivers to keep challenging unfair parking fines after its investigations found many are overturned at appeal stage. Read more
row of houses

Mortgage lending plummets as market slowdown hits home

Mortgage lending dropped by £2.8 billion between October and November as the housing market slowdown continued to take its toll. Read more
Chip and pin

MasterCard told to scrap cross-border fees

Consumers could save as much as £7bn a year after MasterCard was told to ditch the fees it charges on cross-border payments. Read more
Bank of England

January interest rate cut on the cards

An interest rate cut could be on the cards in January after official data revealed inflation remained stable in November. Read more
man with mobile phone

Cashback mobile phone deals could be banned

Mobile phone cashback deals could be banned as research suggests that many deals continue to rip-off consumers. Read more
suitcases

Bolt-on travel insurance to become regulated

Travel agents and holiday firms that sell insurance alongside holidays are to become regulated in order to offer better protection to customers. Read more
Margaret Cole, director of enforcement at the FSA

Norwich Union hit with £1.26 million fine

Norwich Union has been hit with a £1.26 million fine by the Financial Services Authority for failing to protect its customers from fraudsters. Read more

IFAs and fund managers give 2008 predictions

The Asia Pacific region excluding Japan has been tipped at the best performing sector in 2008 by fund managers. Read more
British Gas

British Gas customers facing higher bills

British Gas customers could be facing a hike in their energy bills next year if wholesale gas prices remain high. Read more

Saving rates still attractive despite December rate cut

Savers looking for competitive fixed, easy access and regular savings accounts should not be discouraged by the Bank of England's decision to cut interest rates at the beginning of December. Read more
The Bank of England

Banks' cash injection good news for borrowers

The rate of interest at which banks lend to each other has fallen following an injection of cash into the money markets by a group of central banks. Read more

Consumers out to spend this Christmas

The credit crunch hasn’t stopped consumers spending money this Christmas, research from Legal &amp; General reveals. Read more

Lenders accused of luring vulnerable into debt

Sub-prime lenders have been accused of luring vulnerable borrowers into debt by offering unaffordable mortgages and secured loans. Read more

Blog entries by Rebecca Atkinson

What's hot and what's not?

In case you’ve missed all the other signs, a quick glance at the headlines of most national newspapers should make the penny hit home. Yes, it’s Christmas, a time for over-indulging and celebrating with your family. It is also a pretty slow time for news and therefore papers fill up white space with seasonal stories about albino robins and turkey shortages.

But when you turn to the personal finance sections the news keeps on coming – especially this year as firms continue to battle with the credit crunch. So, here’s my roundup of what’s hot and what’s not in the world of personal finance.

Read more

New Year Resolutions

I love New Year not because it’s an excuse to go out until the early hours but because it’s an opportunity to start afresh and make changes in my life. It’s psychological – I would never dream of writing down my ambitions for the other 364 days in the year, but on 31 December you can normally find me scribbling down various lofty goals on a scrap of paper that is invariably lost before the clock hits midnight.

Most years, at least one of my resolutions is financial – for example, last year I wanted to buy my own house (which, I’m glad to report, I did) and take out a pension (ditto).

But in 2008 my financial resolutions are going to be set a little lower, although I know they will make a massive different in the long term.

Read more

What's hot and what's not?

The first few weeks of January can be a slow for news but thanks to the ongoing credit crunch any bit of financial news is still worthy of dissection and intense scrutiny. So here is my review of what was hot and what was not this week.

Hot: Apple, for promising to bring the cost of its iTunes music downloads in the UK inline with the rest of Europe. Okay, so it took a European Commission investigation for it to reach this decision, but better late than never. Next step, please can we pay the same as the Americans?

Read more

Trendy banks don't do it for me

Having just spent most of my lunch break queuing in my local branch of Barclays, I noticed something that my peers probably realised a long time ago. Barclays got hip. Well, as hip as a bank can be which isn’t very. What I mean is that its marketing material seems to be more akin to that of a sixth-form college than a bank’s.

Shame on me for not noticing this change sooner. In fact, it was around two years ago that Barclays first decided to ‘funk-up’ its branches in an attempt to make them more appealing to customers. It did two things - firstly, it replaced the traditional pens-on-chain with blue biros that implore writers to not only use them but take them home.

2 comments
Read more

Meat is off the menu

I haven’t been to many BBQs this August, mainly because of the miserable weather. But I wonder if there is another, more money-orientated, reason why so few of my friends have flung open their garden gates for charred bangers, soggy buns and undercooked chicken this summer?

2 comments
Read more

House price stats don't tell the whole story

You can’t pick up a newspaper these days without coming across a headline about falling house prices. One week the figures come from the Land Registry, the next from the Bank of England and the next from a specific mortgage lender.

As a journalist, the latest housing market statistics are always good for a story especially at the moment when all eyes are on the housing market. But it does sometimes feel as though I’m drowning in a flood of different house price data that is often contradictory and rarely tells us what is really going on with house prices.

Read more

The fail-safe way to avoid bank charges

Last week Barclays grabbed some headlines by giving its current accounts something of an overhaul – changes included the introduction of ‘personal reserves’ for people that slip into the red, reduced overdraft fees and the abolition of in-credit interest on its standard current accounts.

Read more

Northern Rock deal smells fishy to me

Am I the only person with an uneasy feeling about the Northern Rock and Lloyds TSB tie-up?

1 comment
Read more

Increased ISA allowance won’t help savers

Over the past few months, Moneywise has highlighted again and again the plight of savers hit, first of all, by the financial insecurity of the banking sector and then again by the historically-low Bank of England base rate.

1 comment
Read more

Beware the 6% ‘shaving’ bond

When interest rates on savings accounts are as paltry as they currently have been, it’s little wonder that savers are hunting out the most competitive deals they can. Rate is king, after all.

1 comment
Read more

Avoid unsolicited mobile phone calls

There are few things more annoying than unsolicited telephone calls, whether they’re from companies trying to sell you something or that old next-door neighbour you were thankful to wave goodbye to all those years ago.

But a new service from 118 800 is likely to make it even easier for strangers or old acquaintances to get in touch with you via your mobile phone.

3 comments
Read more

Avoid this banking scam

A colleague of mine recently forwarded a scam email on to me purporting to be from Santander, the Spanish owner of Abbey and, more recently, Alliance & Leicester and Bradford & Bingley.

43 comments
Read more

How energy companies are trying to pull the wool over your eyes

What is it about us Brits that we’re loath to complain when things go wrong and would rather doubt ourselves than query the things we’re told? I have lost track of the number of times I’ve smiled politely and pronounced a meal delicious when really I could barely stomach the stuff on my plate.

Read more

Luxury is back on the menu

Apparently, indulgence is back at the checkouts. After months of buying economy tinned tomatoes and packets of lentils, shoppers are supposedly once again popping luxuries such as 
organic produce, ready-made meals and ground 
coffee into their trolleys.

4 comments
Read more

Energy companies need to prove they aren't ripping us all off

Good news for energy companies: profits among the biggest players are up, thanks to 
plummeting wholesale costs.

7 comments
Read more

Do we really need more banks?

A few years ago I was in the embarrassing situation of standing in a branch of HSBC, aruging with the cashier about withdrawing money, when it dawned on me that I didn't bank with HSBC at all, and was actually trying to use a Halifax card to make the transaction.

Read more

Bad service from Play.com has left my blood boiling...

I’ve just got off the phone to Play.com and my blood’s boiling. It’s the third time in two weeks that I’ve had to call to find out what’s happened to the delivery of a new laptop I bought in the sales.

14 comments
Read more

Don't bank on better savings rates even when the base rate rises

Savers have repeatedly been referred to in the media as the “silent majority” who are the “real victims” of the credit crunch.

Read more

Comments by Rebecca Atkinson

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