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Moneyfacts Pick of the Week - 09/03/2023

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Eleanor Williams, Press Officer
Eleanor Williams, Press Officer / Finance Expert T: 01603 476200 E: Email the Press Team
09/03/2023

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 

Yorkshire Building Society – Limited Access Saver e-ISA

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

“This week Yorkshire Building Society has launched a Limited Access Saver e-ISA which could be an appealing option for savers who are looking to take advantage of their ISA allowance while also maintaining some access to their savings pot. Paying a rate of 3.10% gross, this ISA takes a place in the top 10 when compared to other variable ISAs currently on offer. While this is a no notice product, investors should be aware that access to their savings is restricted, as they can only make withdrawals on one day per account year, so careful planning may be needed. This account takes a prominent place in our top rate tables and earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 3.10% gross / 3.10% AER payable yearly
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, one withdrawal day permitted per annum
  • Further additions: Permitted
  • Transfers in: Permitted. Accepts Cash and Stocks and Shares ISAs, Cash and Stocks and Shares LISAs and Innovative Finance ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, one withdrawal day per annum
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 16

 

Chip – Instant Access powered by ClearBank 

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

“This week Chip increased the rate on its Instant Access powered by ClearBank product by 0.24%. Now paying 3.35% gross, this account scoops the top spot in our tables when compared to other easy access accounts currently available, and takes a place within the top 10 when compared to accounts which pay monthly interest on offer at the moment. Savers who are looking for a flexible account which allows both withdrawals and further additions to be made without restriction may well be tempted by this, as may those looking to boost their regular income due to the monthly interest rate. Savers do need to be aware that they need to hold a Chip subscription (for which both free and paid options are available). Overall, this earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating and prominent positions across a couple of our top tables.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 3.35% gross / 3.40% AER payable monthly
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: £250,000
  • Access: Permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted
  • Opening account: Via its mobile app
  • Managing account: Via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Open banking connection to current account is required. Investors have the choice between holding a fee-free Chip subscription or paying a £4.99 fee per 28-days subscription.

 

Shawbrook Bank – 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA Bond Issue 68

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

“Savers who are yet to use their tax-free savings allowance might be tempted by the 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA Bond from Shawbrook Bank. Following a rate increase this week, this now pays 4.06% on anniversary, which sees it take a notable spot in the top 10 when compared to other ISAs currently on offer with similar terms. This ISA also offers a monthly interest option, which might be a benefit for those looking to supplement their regular income. There is some further flexibility for savers to be able to access their ISA pot, though this is subject to a loss of interest penalty, and this ISA also provides the option to make further additions while the issue remains open, which may also add to its appeal. Overall, this earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating and a prominent place in our top tables.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.06% gross / 4.06% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 3.99% gross / 4.06% AER also available
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted while issue remains open
  • Transfers in: Permitted. Accepts Cash and Stocks and Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online and by phone
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18

 

SmartSave – 1 Year Fixed Rate Saver

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

“SmartSave has launched a new 1 Year Fixed Rate Saver this week. Paying a rate of 4.31%, this takes a place in our top 10 when compared to other bonds with similar terms currently available. Savers with the minimum £10,000 needed to invest may be tempted by the competitive rate of return alone. As is often the case in the fixed rate bond sector, earlier access to funds is not an option, so it’s important that investors are happy to secure their cash away for the term of the account. However, there is a little flexibility for savers to make further additions for 14 days from account opening, which could be a plus for some. Overall, this account receives an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.31% gross / 4.31% 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.

 

Hampshire Trust Bank – 3 Year Bond (Issue 57)

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

“This week sees Hampshire Trust Bank launch a new 3 Year Bond to market. Paying a rate of 4.35% on anniversary, this account secures a place in our top 10 when compared to other fixed rate bonds currently available with a similar term and can be opened by those with minimum investment amounts of just £1. This account might tempt savers who are happy to secure their cash away for the short-term as earlier access to funds is not permitted, however, further additions can be made for 14 days from account opening, which may be another advantage for some investors. On assessment, the account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.35% gross / 4.35% AER payable on anniversary
  • Notice / term: Three years
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: £250,000
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 14 days from account opening
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by phone and by post
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Joint account option available.

 

Mortgages

Digital Mortgages by Atom Bank – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 90% loan-to-value

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

“Digital Mortgages by Atom Bank has made various rate reductions across its residential mortgage range this week. One deal which may be of particular interest for those thinking of purchasing a home is the five-year fixed rate at 90% loan-to-value. Now priced at 4.59% until 31 July 2028, this could be an attractive product for those looking to secure the stability of a mid-term fixed rate. Available via intermediaries, this deal carries no fee and borrowers can also take advantage of a free valuation incentive as well, features which may boost the appeal of this product even further especially for those with limited cash available to pay mortgage set-up costs. Following the rate cut and when considered as a whole, this deal enters our top tables for intermediaries and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.59% fixed rate to 31.7.28
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 90%
  • 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.

 

Furness Building Society – Three-year fixed rate mortgage, 80% loan-to-value

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

“This week Furness Building Society has reduced rates across the majority of the fixed offerings in its residential mortgage range, as well as introducing a handful of new products. One deal which may be tempting for borrowers with either 20% deposit or equity in their home is a three-year fixed rate deal at 80% loan-to-value. Priced at a competitive 4.58% for three years, this product could be an enticing option for those looking to secure the stability and ability to budget which comes with a fixed rate deal. The appeal of this product is further boosted for prospective borrowers who are trying to keep any outgoings associated with taking on a new mortgage as low as possible as there is a generous incentive package on offer. Assessed overall, this option secures places in our top tables and receives an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.58% fixed rate for three years
  • Product fee: £999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 80%
  • Available to: All borrower types
  • Incentives: Free valuation and £250 cashback
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments.
  • Lending area: Great Britain.

 

Buy-to-let

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

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

“Platform returned buy-to-let products to market this week, including a deal which is available to those purchasing a rental property or those remortgaging an existing one and who have either 40% equity or deposit available. Priced at 4.50% and fixed until 31 July 2028, this is one of the initial rates available within its sector and could tempt landlords who are looking to secure a stable fixed rate deal for the medium-term. The fee can be added to the mortgage, and there is also a generous incentive package on offer which could enhance the appeal of this deal further. On assessment, this option enters our top tables for intermediaries and receives an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.” 

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.50% fixed rate to 31.7.28
  • Product fee: £1,999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers and remortgage borrowers
  • Incentives: £500 cashback and, for those remortgaging, a free valuation and free legal fees
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain. Available via Intermediaries.

Savings 

Yorkshire Building Society – Limited Access Saver e-ISA

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

“This week Yorkshire Building Society has launched a Limited Access Saver e-ISA which could be an appealing option for savers who are looking to take advantage of their ISA allowance while also maintaining some access to their savings pot. Paying a rate of 3.10% gross, this ISA takes a place in the top 10 when compared to other variable ISAs currently on offer. While this is a no notice product, investors should be aware that access to their savings is restricted, as they can only make withdrawals on one day per account year, so careful planning may be needed. This account takes a prominent place in our top rate tables and earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 3.10% gross / 3.10% AER payable yearly
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, one withdrawal day permitted per annum
  • Further additions: Permitted
  • Transfers in: Permitted. Accepts Cash and Stocks and Shares ISAs, Cash and Stocks and Shares LISAs and Innovative Finance ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, one withdrawal day per annum
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 16

 

Chip – Instant Access powered by ClearBank 

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

“This week Chip increased the rate on its Instant Access powered by ClearBank product by 0.24%. Now paying 3.35% gross, this account scoops the top spot in our tables when compared to other easy access accounts currently available, and takes a place within the top 10 when compared to accounts which pay monthly interest on offer at the moment. Savers who are looking for a flexible account which allows both withdrawals and further additions to be made without restriction may well be tempted by this, as may those looking to boost their regular income due to the monthly interest rate. Savers do need to be aware that they need to hold a Chip subscription (for which both free and paid options are available). Overall, this earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating and prominent positions across a couple of our top tables.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 3.35% gross / 3.40% AER payable monthly
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: £250,000
  • Access: Permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted
  • Opening account: Via its mobile app
  • Managing account: Via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Open banking connection to current account is required. Investors have the choice between holding a fee-free Chip subscription or paying a £4.99 fee per 28-days subscription.

 

Shawbrook Bank – 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA Bond Issue 68

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

“Savers who are yet to use their tax-free savings allowance might be tempted by the 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA Bond from Shawbrook Bank. Following a rate increase this week, this now pays 4.06% on anniversary, which sees it take a notable spot in the top 10 when compared to other ISAs currently on offer with similar terms. This ISA also offers a monthly interest option, which might be a benefit for those looking to supplement their regular income. There is some further flexibility for savers to be able to access their ISA pot, though this is subject to a loss of interest penalty, and this ISA also provides the option to make further additions while the issue remains open, which may also add to its appeal. Overall, this earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating and a prominent place in our top tables.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.06% gross / 4.06% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 3.99% gross / 4.06% AER also available
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted while issue remains open
  • Transfers in: Permitted. Accepts Cash and Stocks and Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online and by phone
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18

 

SmartSave – 1 Year Fixed Rate Saver

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

“SmartSave has launched a new 1 Year Fixed Rate Saver this week. Paying a rate of 4.31%, this takes a place in our top 10 when compared to other bonds with similar terms currently available. Savers with the minimum £10,000 needed to invest may be tempted by the competitive rate of return alone. As is often the case in the fixed rate bond sector, earlier access to funds is not an option, so it’s important that investors are happy to secure their cash away for the term of the account. However, there is a little flexibility for savers to make further additions for 14 days from account opening, which could be a plus for some. Overall, this account receives an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.31% gross / 4.31% 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.

 

Hampshire Trust Bank – 3 Year Bond (Issue 57)

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

“This week sees Hampshire Trust Bank launch a new 3 Year Bond to market. Paying a rate of 4.35% on anniversary, this account secures a place in our top 10 when compared to other fixed rate bonds currently available with a similar term and can be opened by those with minimum investment amounts of just £1. This account might tempt savers who are happy to secure their cash away for the short-term as earlier access to funds is not permitted, however, further additions can be made for 14 days from account opening, which may be another advantage for some investors. On assessment, the account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.35% gross / 4.35% AER payable on anniversary
  • Notice / term: Three years
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: £250,000
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 14 days from account opening
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by phone and by post
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Joint account option available.

 

Mortgages

Digital Mortgages by Atom Bank – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 90% loan-to-value

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

“Digital Mortgages by Atom Bank has made various rate reductions across its residential mortgage range this week. One deal which may be of particular interest for those thinking of purchasing a home is the five-year fixed rate at 90% loan-to-value. Now priced at 4.59% until 31 July 2028, this could be an attractive product for those looking to secure the stability of a mid-term fixed rate. Available via intermediaries, this deal carries no fee and borrowers can also take advantage of a free valuation incentive as well, features which may boost the appeal of this product even further especially for those with limited cash available to pay mortgage set-up costs. Following the rate cut and when considered as a whole, this deal enters our top tables for intermediaries and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.59% fixed rate to 31.7.28
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 90%
  • 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.

 

Furness Building Society – Three-year fixed rate mortgage, 80% loan-to-value

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

“This week Furness Building Society has reduced rates across the majority of the fixed offerings in its residential mortgage range, as well as introducing a handful of new products. One deal which may be tempting for borrowers with either 20% deposit or equity in their home is a three-year fixed rate deal at 80% loan-to-value. Priced at a competitive 4.58% for three years, this product could be an enticing option for those looking to secure the stability and ability to budget which comes with a fixed rate deal. The appeal of this product is further boosted for prospective borrowers who are trying to keep any outgoings associated with taking on a new mortgage as low as possible as there is a generous incentive package on offer. Assessed overall, this option secures places in our top tables and receives an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.58% fixed rate for three years
  • Product fee: £999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 80%
  • Available to: All borrower types
  • Incentives: Free valuation and £250 cashback
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments.
  • Lending area: Great Britain.

 

Buy-to-let

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

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

“Platform returned buy-to-let products to market this week, including a deal which is available to those purchasing a rental property or those remortgaging an existing one and who have either 40% equity or deposit available. Priced at 4.50% and fixed until 31 July 2028, this is one of the initial rates available within its sector and could tempt landlords who are looking to secure a stable fixed rate deal for the medium-term. The fee can be added to the mortgage, and there is also a generous incentive package on offer which could enhance the appeal of this deal further. On assessment, this option enters our top tables for intermediaries and receives an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.” 

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.50% fixed rate to 31.7.28
  • Product fee: £1,999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers and remortgage borrowers
  • Incentives: £500 cashback and, for those remortgaging, a free valuation and free legal fees
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain. Available via Intermediaries.

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