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Moneyfacts Pick of the Week - 02/02/2023

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02/02/2023

Moneyfacts Pick of the Week

The Moneyfactscompare.co.uk Pick of the Week showcases the best of the latest products or rate changes to hit the consumer finance market.

Brief product details, together with independent Moneyfacts analysis, can be used with confidence in your finance sections. You can select one or two products to sit beside a relevant story or use them all as a general feature provided they are sourced to our expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk.

This week, our resident Finance Expert, Eleanor Williams, has analysed the following deals, along with their perks, of note:

Moneyfacts Pick of the Week

The Moneyfactscompare.co.uk Pick of the Week showcases the best of the latest products or rate changes to hit the consumer finance market.

Brief product details, together with independent Moneyfacts analysis, can be used with confidence in your finance sections. You can select one or two products to sit beside a relevant story or use them all as a general feature provided they are sourced to our expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk.

This week, our resident Finance Expert, Eleanor Williams, has analysed the following deals, along with their perks, of note:

Savings 

Close Brothers Bank – 2 Year Fixed Rate Bond  

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Savers who are happy to lock their savings pot away for a period in order to secure a guaranteed return may wish to note that among the accounts to receive a rate increase from Close Brothers Savings this week is the 2 Year Fixed Rate Bond. Following the uplift, this bond now pays 4.35% gross. Although earlier access is not permitted, there is the flexibility to make further additions for 10 days from account opening. This could be an attractive choice for investors as this week’s update sees this bond improve its position in the top 10 compared to other products with similar terms currently available, and earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.35% gross / 4.35% AER payable yearly
  • Notice / term: Two years
  • Minimum opening amount: £10,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £2 million
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 10 days from account opening
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by phone and via post
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Joint account option available.

 

SmartSave – 1 Year Fixed Rate Saver  

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Despite making a rate cut of 0.05% this week, the 1 Year Fixed Rate Saver from SmartSave maintains a prominent position in our top 10 when compared to other fixed bonds currently on offer with similar terms. Now paying 4.16% on maturity, this rate alone could tempt savers who are happy to lock their nest egg away for the term of this account. There is the option to make further additions for 14 days from account opening, which could be another plus for some investors. Overall, the account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.16% gross / 4.16% AER payable on maturity
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £10,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £85,000
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 14 days from account opening
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Tesco Bank – 12 Month Fixed Rate Cash ISA

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Savers who want to utilise their tax-free savings allowance might be pleased to note that Tesco Bank has increased the rate on its 12 Month Fixed Rate Cash ISA. Rising to now pay 3.70% on anniversary, this takes a place in the top 10 compared to other ISAs on offer with similar terms, and applicants can apply online or over the phone. Not only is the rate tempting, but there is also some flexibility for savers as earlier access is permitted, but it should be noted that this is subject to account closure and a loss of interest penalty. Investors are also able to make further additions and transfers in for 30 days from account opening, which could further boost the appeal of this account. On assessment, this ISA earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 3.70% gross / 3.70% AER payable on anniversary
  • Notice / term: 12 months
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to account closure and 90 days’ loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted for 30 days from account opening.
  • Transfers in: Permitted for 30 days from account opening. Accepts Cash ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to account closure and 90 days’ loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online and by phone
  • Managing account: Online, by phone and via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Allica Bank – 95-Day Notice Savings Account (Issue 1) 

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Savers who are happy to balance the ability to access their savings pot with earning a decent rate of return might be pleased to note that among the accounts to receive a rate increase from Allica Bank is the 95-Day Notice account. Now paying 3.40% on anniversary, this takes a place in the top 10 compared to other notice accounts currently on offer. All withdrawals are subject to the notice period specified, but with careful planning this may be a tempting option for some. Overall, this account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating and a position in our top rate tables.”  

Key product details:

  • Rate: 3.40% gross / 3.40% AER payable on anniversary
  • Notice / term: 95 days
  • Minimum opening amount: £10,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £250,000
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 95 days’ notice
  • Further additions: Permitted while issue remains open, via nominated account
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online and by phone
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Paragon Bank –Triple Access Account – Issue 11

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Paragon Bank increased the rate paid on its Triple Access Account this week. Now paying a rate of 2.91 gross%, this account may be a tempting choice for those who are happy to restrict their access to their savings pot, as only up to three withdrawals are possible per year (otherwise the rate paid reduces significantly). This account also offers a monthly interest option, which could further boost the appeal of this account for those who are looking to supplement their typical income. Overall, the deal improves its place in the top 10 compared to other similar easy access accounts and earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 2.91% gross / 2.91% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest rate option of rate 2.87% gross / 2.91% AER also available
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: £500,000
  • Access: Permitted, up to three withdrawals per calendar year, for four or more withdrawals, rate paid will reduce to 0.75% gross / 0.75% AER
  • Further additions: Permitted via nominated account
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Joint account option available.

 

Mortgages 

Virgin Money – Ten-year fixed rate mortgage, 75% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Virgin Money has reduced various of its fixed rate products this week, including applying a cut of 0.11% to its 10-year fixed deal at 75% loan-to-value. Borrowers who are seeking the security and stability of a long-term fixed rate may be tempted by this deal, which was already market-leading on initial rate within its sector, and so the appeal of this product has been further boosted by the rate reduction. Now priced at 3.99% until 1 June 2033, borrowers looking to purchase and who are looking to keep associated mortgage set-up costs as low as possible will be further pleased to note the reasonable £995 fee (which can be added to the mortgage advance) is offset by the generous £1,000 cashback incentive. On assessment, this deal retains a place in our top tables and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 3.99% fixed rate to 1.6.33
  • Product fee: £995
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 75%
  • Available to: House purchase customers (remortgage option also available)
  • Incentives: £1,000 cashback
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments. Payment holidays considered by arrangement.
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Digital Mortgages by Atom Bank – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“One of the products to receive a rate cut in the update from Digital Mortgages by Atom Bank this week is a five-year fixed rate available at 60% loan-to-value. Now priced at 4.24% until 31 May 2028, this may be an attractive choice for those looking to secure the stability of a mid-term fixed rate. Available via intermediaries, this deal has a reasonable £900 fee for which there is the option to add to the advance, and a free valuation incentive is on offer too. Following the rate cut and assessment of features, this mortgage enters our top tables for Intermediaries and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.24% fixed rate to 31.5.28
  • Product fee: £900
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: House purchase customers (remortgage option also available)
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Available via intermediaries.

 

NatWest – Two-year fixed rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“NatWest has made reductions across many of its fixed rate deals this week. One product which may be of interest to borrowers looking to remortgage is the two-year ‘Online Exclusive’ deal which, following a cut of 0.19%, is now priced at 4.84% until 30 June 2025. Available at 60% loan-to-value, this option could be particularly tempting for those who need to keep any outlay required for refinancing their home to a minimum, as not only is there no fee to pay, but there is also a comprehensive incentive package attached, which could help borrowers keep costs down further. On assessment, this deal enters our top tables and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.84% fixed rate to 30.6.25
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: Remortgage borrowers
  • Incentives: Free valuation and free legal fees
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Buy-to-let

HSBC – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Landlords considering purchasing a new rental property and who have a 40% deposit to put down may well wish to note that among the products to receive a reduction this week from HSBC is a five-year fixed rate at 60% loan-to-value. Following a rate cut of 0.15%, this is priced at 4.84% until 30 June 2028. When assessed as an overall package, the combination of the reduction to the initial rate and the fact that this deal continues to offer a free valuation incentive ensure that this option secures a place in our top tables and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.84% fixed rate to 30.6.28
  • Product fee: £1,999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Savings 

Close Brothers Bank – 2 Year Fixed Rate Bond  

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Savers who are happy to lock their savings pot away for a period in order to secure a guaranteed return may wish to note that among the accounts to receive a rate increase from Close Brothers Savings this week is the 2 Year Fixed Rate Bond. Following the uplift, this bond now pays 4.35% gross. Although earlier access is not permitted, there is the flexibility to make further additions for 10 days from account opening. This could be an attractive choice for investors as this week’s update sees this bond improve its position in the top 10 compared to other products with similar terms currently available, and earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.35% gross / 4.35% AER payable yearly
  • Notice / term: Two years
  • Minimum opening amount: £10,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £2 million
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 10 days from account opening
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by phone and via post
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Joint account option available.

 

SmartSave – 1 Year Fixed Rate Saver  

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Despite making a rate cut of 0.05% this week, the 1 Year Fixed Rate Saver from SmartSave maintains a prominent position in our top 10 when compared to other fixed bonds currently on offer with similar terms. Now paying 4.16% on maturity, this rate alone could tempt savers who are happy to lock their nest egg away for the term of this account. There is the option to make further additions for 14 days from account opening, which could be another plus for some investors. Overall, the account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.16% gross / 4.16% AER payable on maturity
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £10,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £85,000
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 14 days from account opening
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Tesco Bank – 12 Month Fixed Rate Cash ISA

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Savers who want to utilise their tax-free savings allowance might be pleased to note that Tesco Bank has increased the rate on its 12 Month Fixed Rate Cash ISA. Rising to now pay 3.70% on anniversary, this takes a place in the top 10 compared to other ISAs on offer with similar terms, and applicants can apply online or over the phone. Not only is the rate tempting, but there is also some flexibility for savers as earlier access is permitted, but it should be noted that this is subject to account closure and a loss of interest penalty. Investors are also able to make further additions and transfers in for 30 days from account opening, which could further boost the appeal of this account. On assessment, this ISA earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 3.70% gross / 3.70% AER payable on anniversary
  • Notice / term: 12 months
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to account closure and 90 days’ loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted for 30 days from account opening.
  • Transfers in: Permitted for 30 days from account opening. Accepts Cash ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to account closure and 90 days’ loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online and by phone
  • Managing account: Online, by phone and via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Allica Bank – 95-Day Notice Savings Account (Issue 1) 

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Savers who are happy to balance the ability to access their savings pot with earning a decent rate of return might be pleased to note that among the accounts to receive a rate increase from Allica Bank is the 95-Day Notice account. Now paying 3.40% on anniversary, this takes a place in the top 10 compared to other notice accounts currently on offer. All withdrawals are subject to the notice period specified, but with careful planning this may be a tempting option for some. Overall, this account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating and a position in our top rate tables.”  

Key product details:

  • Rate: 3.40% gross / 3.40% AER payable on anniversary
  • Notice / term: 95 days
  • Minimum opening amount: £10,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £250,000
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 95 days’ notice
  • Further additions: Permitted while issue remains open, via nominated account
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online and by phone
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Paragon Bank –Triple Access Account – Issue 11

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Paragon Bank increased the rate paid on its Triple Access Account this week. Now paying a rate of 2.91 gross%, this account may be a tempting choice for those who are happy to restrict their access to their savings pot, as only up to three withdrawals are possible per year (otherwise the rate paid reduces significantly). This account also offers a monthly interest option, which could further boost the appeal of this account for those who are looking to supplement their typical income. Overall, the deal improves its place in the top 10 compared to other similar easy access accounts and earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 2.91% gross / 2.91% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest rate option of rate 2.87% gross / 2.91% AER also available
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: £500,000
  • Access: Permitted, up to three withdrawals per calendar year, for four or more withdrawals, rate paid will reduce to 0.75% gross / 0.75% AER
  • Further additions: Permitted via nominated account
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Joint account option available.

 

Mortgages 

Virgin Money – Ten-year fixed rate mortgage, 75% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Virgin Money has reduced various of its fixed rate products this week, including applying a cut of 0.11% to its 10-year fixed deal at 75% loan-to-value. Borrowers who are seeking the security and stability of a long-term fixed rate may be tempted by this deal, which was already market-leading on initial rate within its sector, and so the appeal of this product has been further boosted by the rate reduction. Now priced at 3.99% until 1 June 2033, borrowers looking to purchase and who are looking to keep associated mortgage set-up costs as low as possible will be further pleased to note the reasonable £995 fee (which can be added to the mortgage advance) is offset by the generous £1,000 cashback incentive. On assessment, this deal retains a place in our top tables and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 3.99% fixed rate to 1.6.33
  • Product fee: £995
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 75%
  • Available to: House purchase customers (remortgage option also available)
  • Incentives: £1,000 cashback
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments. Payment holidays considered by arrangement.
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Digital Mortgages by Atom Bank – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“One of the products to receive a rate cut in the update from Digital Mortgages by Atom Bank this week is a five-year fixed rate available at 60% loan-to-value. Now priced at 4.24% until 31 May 2028, this may be an attractive choice for those looking to secure the stability of a mid-term fixed rate. Available via intermediaries, this deal has a reasonable £900 fee for which there is the option to add to the advance, and a free valuation incentive is on offer too. Following the rate cut and assessment of features, this mortgage enters our top tables for Intermediaries and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.24% fixed rate to 31.5.28
  • Product fee: £900
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: House purchase customers (remortgage option also available)
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Available via intermediaries.

 

NatWest – Two-year fixed rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“NatWest has made reductions across many of its fixed rate deals this week. One product which may be of interest to borrowers looking to remortgage is the two-year ‘Online Exclusive’ deal which, following a cut of 0.19%, is now priced at 4.84% until 30 June 2025. Available at 60% loan-to-value, this option could be particularly tempting for those who need to keep any outlay required for refinancing their home to a minimum, as not only is there no fee to pay, but there is also a comprehensive incentive package attached, which could help borrowers keep costs down further. On assessment, this deal enters our top tables and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.84% fixed rate to 30.6.25
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: Remortgage borrowers
  • Incentives: Free valuation and free legal fees
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Buy-to-let

HSBC – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Eleanor Williams, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Landlords considering purchasing a new rental property and who have a 40% deposit to put down may well wish to note that among the products to receive a reduction this week from HSBC is a five-year fixed rate at 60% loan-to-value. Following a rate cut of 0.15%, this is priced at 4.84% until 30 June 2028. When assessed as an overall package, the combination of the reduction to the initial rate and the fact that this deal continues to offer a free valuation incentive ensure that this option secures a place in our top tables and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.84% fixed rate to 30.6.28
  • Product fee: £1,999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Notes to editors

Pioneering financial comparison technology for over 35 years.

Moneyfacts Group plc is the UK’s leading provider of retail financial product data. Used by virtually every bank and building society in the UK, and supplied to the Bank of England, Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Ombudsman Service, HM Treasury, Prudential Regulatory Authority and UK Finance.

Our expert research team monitors the thousands of mortgages, savings, credit card, personal loan, business banking, life, pension and investment products in the UK.

Moneyfactscompare.co.uk is the financial product price comparison site, launched as Moneyfacts.co.uk in 2000 and rebranded to Moneyfactscompare.co.uk in 2023, which helps consumers compare thousands of financial products, including credit cards, savings, mortgages and many more. Unlike other comparison sites, Moneyfactscompare.co.uk shows whole of market data regardless of commercial bias, showing consumers a true picture of the best products based on the criteria they select.

We hope you find this press release insightful. We would appreciate a link back to Moneyfactscompare.co.uk if you decide to source this information.

For more information about us please see our key facts.

Broadcast

Our broadcast suite enables our finance experts to appear in-vision for television, and we regularly comment live on national and regional radio.

To arrange an interview for radio or television, please contact our press department. We have an in-house broadcast room.

 

Notes to editors

Pioneering financial comparison technology for over 35 years.

Moneyfacts Group plc is the UK’s leading provider of retail financial product data. Used by virtually every bank and building society in the UK, and supplied to the Bank of England, Financial Conduct Authority, Financial Ombudsman Service, HM Treasury, Prudential Regulatory Authority and UK Finance.

Our expert research team monitors the thousands of mortgages, savings, credit card, personal loan, business banking, life, pension and investment products in the UK.

Moneyfactscompare.co.uk is the financial product price comparison site, launched as Moneyfacts.co.uk in 2000 and rebranded to Moneyfactscompare.co.uk in 2023, which helps consumers compare thousands of financial products, including credit cards, savings, mortgages and many more. Unlike other comparison sites, Moneyfactscompare.co.uk shows whole of market data regardless of commercial bias, showing consumers a true picture of the best products based on the criteria they select.

We hope you find this press release insightful. We would appreciate a link back to Moneyfactscompare.co.uk if you decide to source this information.

For more information about us please see our key facts.

Broadcast

Our broadcast suite enables our finance experts to appear in-vision for television, and we regularly comment live on national and regional radio.

To arrange an interview for radio or television, please contact our press department. We have an in-house broadcast room.

 

Contact Us If you're looking for extra comment, a chart or more information, then please give us a call. We are always more than happy to help.
Rachel Springall Press Officer / Finance Expert
Caitlyn Eastell Apprentice Press & PR Assistant