Savings Champion

Anna Bowes is a regular contributor to the BBC’s Money Box, Breakfast and News programs, as well as the national press, providing expert analysis and commentary on the UK savings market. Anna has worked in the financial services industry for more than 20 years and for most of that time has been helping people to make the most of their savings.

This week we’re in a reflective mood, looking over the last 12 months and what it’s had to offer.

It’s certainly not been dull and even in the midst of Brexit turmoil there’s still been some positive news. Unemployment is at low levels and wages seem to finally be on the rise.

For savers things are still tough, as rates are low by historic standards BUT this year has seen a continued boost in the interest rates for new savers and actually a slowdown of rate reductions for existing savers. You could argue thought, that there’s less fat on the bone for many older, obsolete accounts these days.

In our article, we’ve highlighted some of the highs for savers over the year. Make sure you’re one of those who are benefiting.

🔖 Read: How has 2018 been for savers?

You are likely to have heard of the Money Advice Service but have you heard of the Single Financial Guidance Body? (catchy name). We explain more about this new free service coming in January.

🔖 Read: Free financial guidance in one place

Next up, we look at an area of the market that may get missed but is proving popular with some competitive rates; 18 Month Fixed Rate Bonds. Savers not looking to tie their money up for the longer term may be surprised to see the rates on offer.

🔖 Read: 18 month bonds - an effective middle ground?

This week, Investec launched a new and innovative notice account – but just how good is it? We look under the bonnet and kick the tyres.

🔖 Read: New innovation from Investec but how does it stack up?

Finally, along with our regular feature, the Rates Rundown, we’ve also turned the spotlight on one of our big winners from our Annual Savings Awards – Charter Savings Bank, which scooped up no less than six awards this year. If you haven’t already heard of them take a look.

🔖 Read: Provider Focus - Charter Savings Bank

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Articles featured in this edition