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Moneyfacts Pick of the Week - 24/10/2024

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Caitlyn Eastell, Apprentice Press & PR Assistant
Caitlyn Eastell, Apprentice Press & PR Assistant 01603 476169 Email Caitlyn
24/10/2024

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 spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk.

This week, our resident Spokesperson, Caitlyn Eastell, 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 spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk.

This week, our resident Spokesperson, Caitlyn Eastell, has analysed the following deals, along with their perks, of note:

Savings

Charter Savings Bank – 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Charter Savings Bank has reduced the rate on its 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA, however, it continues to place competitively within the top tables and pays a respectable 4.53% on its anniversary. Those looking to boost their income will find there is also a monthly interest option. Savers will need to make an initial £5,000 minimum investment, however, for those who wish to do so, further additions can be made for 30 days from the account opening. It would be sensible for investors to carefully consider earlier access as any withdrawals made before the one-year term ends are subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty. Savers can also choose to split their Cash ISA savings across multiple ISAs within Charter’s range. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.53% gross / 4.53% AER payable on anniversary, monthly interest option of 4.44% gross / 4.53% AER
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £5,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted, for 30 days from account opening via nominated account
  • Transfers in: Permitted, allows Cash and Stocks and Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Investors can choose to split their Cash ISA savings across multiple ISAs within Charter’s range.

 

Zenith Bank (UK) Ltd – Raisin UK – 3 Year Fixed Term Deposit

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“This week Zenith Bank (UK) Ltd has launched a handful of new Fixed Term Deposits with Raisin UK. The account which fares best is the 3 Year Fixed Term Deposit. The account now pays an appealing 4.35% and pays a top 10 rate. It may appeal to savers looking for a guaranteed return in the longer-term. The account requires a minimum £1,000 investment, with interest paid yearly. As is the case with many fixed term accounts, early access and further additions are not permitted with this account, so savers will need to plan carefully from the outset. Overall, the account receives an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.35% gross / 4.35% AER, payable yearly
  • Notice / term: Three years
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £85,000
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Not permitted
  • Opening account: Online and via mobile app
  • Managing account: Online and via mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Market Harborough Building Society – Fixed Term Bond 47 (30.11.2028)

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Market Harborough Building Society has launched a new three-year fixed term bond this week. The account takes a competitive position in the market when compared to its peers. It pays 4.28% yearly but does require a substantial £10,000 opening investment amount. As is the case with many fixed rate bonds, earlier access is not permitted, however, savers can make further additions for 10 days from the account opening. On assessment, this account receives an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.28% gross / 4.28% AER payable yearly
  • Notice / term: 30.11.28
  • Minimum opening amount: £10,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £500,000
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 10 days from account opening
  • Opening account: Online and in branch
  • Managing account: Online and in branch
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Joint account option available.

 

Mortgages

Furness Building Society – Two-year discounted-variable rate mortgage, 95% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“The latest update from Furness Building Society sees it reducing the rate on its two-year discounted variable rate deal. Available at 95% loan-to-value, it charges a competitive 5.39%, with a discount of 3.15%. Borrowers wishing to save on the upfront cost of their mortgage may find this an enticing deal as it does not charge any product fees. Adding to its appeal is an attractive incentive package which includes a free valuation and £250 cashback for all borrowers. Overall, this deal secures an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 5.39% discounted-variable rate (3.15% discount) for two years
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 95%
  • Available to: All borrowers
  • Incentives: Free valuation and £250 cashback
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain.

 

Buy-to-Let

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

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“This week Furness Building Society has refreshed the majority of its buy-to-let fixed rates. One deal to see a slightly smaller cut of 0.10% is the two-year fixed at 80% loan-to-value for second-time buyers and remortgage customers. Priced at 5.29% for two years, this product could be an enticing option for landlords to secure a competitive rate. The deal comes with an incentive package which enhances it appeal, including £250 cashback for all borrowers, and for those remortgaging also includes a free valuation. There is also a reasonable £995 product fee attached. Overall, this deal receives an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 5.29% fixed rate for two years
  • Product fee: £995
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 80%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers and remortgage customers
  • Incentives: £250 cashback for all, and for those remortgaging a free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain.

 

Cards

Barclaycard – Barclaycard Platinum 29 Month Balance Transfer Visa

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“The most recent update from Barclaycard sees it add an introductory 0% purchase term of three months to its Barclaycard Platinum 29 Month Balance Transfer Visa. The card continues to occupy the lead position when compared against its peers and will likely be an attractive option for borrowers looking to transfer existing balances interest-free over a longer period as well as benefit from an interest-free purchase term, which adds to its appeal. However, borrowers should note that in order to benefit from the 0% offer, transfers must be made within the first 60 days. Further perks of this card include exclusive presale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices and up to 15% cashback on selected retailers with Barclaycard Cashback Rewards. On assessment, the card earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Introductory rate for purchases: 0% for three months
  • Introductory rate for balance transfers: 0% for 29 months
  • Standard rate for purchases: 24.9% APR
  • Balance transfer fee: 3.45% as an introductory charge during the first two months from account opening. Standard fee quoted on application. Balance must be transferred within 60 days
  • Card fee: None
  • Opening method: Online, by phone and in branch
  • Card management: Online, by phone, by post, in branch and via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum age 21. Minimum income £20,000. Buy tickets for up to 3,500 selected live events through Barclaycard entertainment and get 5% off tickets per year and exclusive presale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices. Save 10% on food and drink at all UK 02 Academy venues. Earn up to 15% cashback on selected retailers with Barclaycard Cashback Rewards.

 

Tesco Bank – Clubcard Credit Card Balance Transfer Mastercard

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“The latest update from Tesco Bank sees an increase to the introductory balance transfer fee to 3.19%, as well as increasing the introductory balance transfer term to 28 months. This term increase gives borrowers more time to transfer existing balances interest-free. Despite a fee increase, it continues to charge less compared to other longer-term deals. Applicants can also earn Clubcard points when they spend. Overall, the card earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Introductory rate for purchases: None
  • Introductory rate for balance transfers: 0% for 28 months
  • Standard rate for purchases: 24.9% APR
  • Balance transfer fee: 3.19% as an introductory charge during the first three months from account opening, rising to 3.99% (no min) thereafter
  • Card fee: None
  • Opening method: Online and by phone
  • Card management: Online, by phone, by post and via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum age 18. Minimum income £5,000. Rates dependent on credit rating.

 

Banking

NatWest – Reward Current Account

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“For customers looking to switch their current account provider, NatWest has introduced a new switching incentive this week for those who switch to its Reward Current Account. Customers who switch using the CASS (Current Account Switch Service) will now receive £180 cashback following certain conditions. Adding to its appeal, customers can expect to receive £5 a month in rewards. However, the account does not pay any credit interest and has a monthly £2 fee, which should be considered. As is the case when switching to any account, customers will need to assess all the benefits and charges to ensure it’s the right choice for them. Overall, the account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Credit interest / reward: None
  • Cashback on debit card purchases: None
  • Account fee: £2
  • Arranged overdraft: 39.49% EAR
  • Opening account: Online, by phone or in branch
  • Managing account: Online, in branch, by phone, by post, via mobile app and at the Post Office
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Eligible for linked Savings Pots. £180 free cash offer, using the Current Account Switch Service, must deposit £1,250 and log in to mobile banking app within 60 days of switching. Customers can earn up to £5 a month in rewards. Terms & Conditions apply. Earn at least 1% Rewards on qualifying purchases at selected retailers which can be converted to cashback, trade up vouchers or donated to charity.  Earn 4 Rewards per month by making a minimum of 2 direct debit payments of at least £2 each. Earn an additional 1 Reward by logging into mobile banking app every month. Once 5 Rewards are available, they can be exchanged for a £5 current account credit, traded up for Reward vouchers at selected retailers or donated to a participating charity.

 

Savings

Charter Savings Bank – 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Charter Savings Bank has reduced the rate on its 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA, however, it continues to place competitively within the top tables and pays a respectable 4.53% on its anniversary. Those looking to boost their income will find there is also a monthly interest option. Savers will need to make an initial £5,000 minimum investment, however, for those who wish to do so, further additions can be made for 30 days from the account opening. It would be sensible for investors to carefully consider earlier access as any withdrawals made before the one-year term ends are subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty. Savers can also choose to split their Cash ISA savings across multiple ISAs within Charter’s range. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.53% gross / 4.53% AER payable on anniversary, monthly interest option of 4.44% gross / 4.53% AER
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £5,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted, for 30 days from account opening via nominated account
  • Transfers in: Permitted, allows Cash and Stocks and Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Investors can choose to split their Cash ISA savings across multiple ISAs within Charter’s range.

 

Zenith Bank (UK) Ltd – Raisin UK – 3 Year Fixed Term Deposit

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“This week Zenith Bank (UK) Ltd has launched a handful of new Fixed Term Deposits with Raisin UK. The account which fares best is the 3 Year Fixed Term Deposit. The account now pays an appealing 4.35% and pays a top 10 rate. It may appeal to savers looking for a guaranteed return in the longer-term. The account requires a minimum £1,000 investment, with interest paid yearly. As is the case with many fixed term accounts, early access and further additions are not permitted with this account, so savers will need to plan carefully from the outset. Overall, the account receives an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.35% gross / 4.35% AER, payable yearly
  • Notice / term: Three years
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £85,000
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Not permitted
  • Opening account: Online and via mobile app
  • Managing account: Online and via mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Market Harborough Building Society – Fixed Term Bond 47 (30.11.2028)

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Market Harborough Building Society has launched a new three-year fixed term bond this week. The account takes a competitive position in the market when compared to its peers. It pays 4.28% yearly but does require a substantial £10,000 opening investment amount. As is the case with many fixed rate bonds, earlier access is not permitted, however, savers can make further additions for 10 days from the account opening. On assessment, this account receives an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.28% gross / 4.28% AER payable yearly
  • Notice / term: 30.11.28
  • Minimum opening amount: £10,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £500,000
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 10 days from account opening
  • Opening account: Online and in branch
  • Managing account: Online and in branch
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Joint account option available.

 

Mortgages

Furness Building Society – Two-year discounted-variable rate mortgage, 95% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“The latest update from Furness Building Society sees it reducing the rate on its two-year discounted variable rate deal. Available at 95% loan-to-value, it charges a competitive 5.39%, with a discount of 3.15%. Borrowers wishing to save on the upfront cost of their mortgage may find this an enticing deal as it does not charge any product fees. Adding to its appeal is an attractive incentive package which includes a free valuation and £250 cashback for all borrowers. Overall, this deal secures an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 5.39% discounted-variable rate (3.15% discount) for two years
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 95%
  • Available to: All borrowers
  • Incentives: Free valuation and £250 cashback
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain.

 

Buy-to-Let

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

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“This week Furness Building Society has refreshed the majority of its buy-to-let fixed rates. One deal to see a slightly smaller cut of 0.10% is the two-year fixed at 80% loan-to-value for second-time buyers and remortgage customers. Priced at 5.29% for two years, this product could be an enticing option for landlords to secure a competitive rate. The deal comes with an incentive package which enhances it appeal, including £250 cashback for all borrowers, and for those remortgaging also includes a free valuation. There is also a reasonable £995 product fee attached. Overall, this deal receives an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 5.29% fixed rate for two years
  • Product fee: £995
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 80%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers and remortgage customers
  • Incentives: £250 cashback for all, and for those remortgaging a free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain.

 

Cards

Barclaycard – Barclaycard Platinum 29 Month Balance Transfer Visa

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“The most recent update from Barclaycard sees it add an introductory 0% purchase term of three months to its Barclaycard Platinum 29 Month Balance Transfer Visa. The card continues to occupy the lead position when compared against its peers and will likely be an attractive option for borrowers looking to transfer existing balances interest-free over a longer period as well as benefit from an interest-free purchase term, which adds to its appeal. However, borrowers should note that in order to benefit from the 0% offer, transfers must be made within the first 60 days. Further perks of this card include exclusive presale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices and up to 15% cashback on selected retailers with Barclaycard Cashback Rewards. On assessment, the card earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Introductory rate for purchases: 0% for three months
  • Introductory rate for balance transfers: 0% for 29 months
  • Standard rate for purchases: 24.9% APR
  • Balance transfer fee: 3.45% as an introductory charge during the first two months from account opening. Standard fee quoted on application. Balance must be transferred within 60 days
  • Card fee: None
  • Opening method: Online, by phone and in branch
  • Card management: Online, by phone, by post, in branch and via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum age 21. Minimum income £20,000. Buy tickets for up to 3,500 selected live events through Barclaycard entertainment and get 5% off tickets per year and exclusive presale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices. Save 10% on food and drink at all UK 02 Academy venues. Earn up to 15% cashback on selected retailers with Barclaycard Cashback Rewards.

 

Tesco Bank – Clubcard Credit Card Balance Transfer Mastercard

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“The latest update from Tesco Bank sees an increase to the introductory balance transfer fee to 3.19%, as well as increasing the introductory balance transfer term to 28 months. This term increase gives borrowers more time to transfer existing balances interest-free. Despite a fee increase, it continues to charge less compared to other longer-term deals. Applicants can also earn Clubcard points when they spend. Overall, the card earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Introductory rate for purchases: None
  • Introductory rate for balance transfers: 0% for 28 months
  • Standard rate for purchases: 24.9% APR
  • Balance transfer fee: 3.19% as an introductory charge during the first three months from account opening, rising to 3.99% (no min) thereafter
  • Card fee: None
  • Opening method: Online and by phone
  • Card management: Online, by phone, by post and via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum age 18. Minimum income £5,000. Rates dependent on credit rating.

 

Banking

NatWest – Reward Current Account

Commenting on the deal, Caitlyn Eastell, Spokesperson at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“For customers looking to switch their current account provider, NatWest has introduced a new switching incentive this week for those who switch to its Reward Current Account. Customers who switch using the CASS (Current Account Switch Service) will now receive £180 cashback following certain conditions. Adding to its appeal, customers can expect to receive £5 a month in rewards. However, the account does not pay any credit interest and has a monthly £2 fee, which should be considered. As is the case when switching to any account, customers will need to assess all the benefits and charges to ensure it’s the right choice for them. Overall, the account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Credit interest / reward: None
  • Cashback on debit card purchases: None
  • Account fee: £2
  • Arranged overdraft: 39.49% EAR
  • Opening account: Online, by phone or in branch
  • Managing account: Online, in branch, by phone, by post, via mobile app and at the Post Office
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Eligible for linked Savings Pots. £180 free cash offer, using the Current Account Switch Service, must deposit £1,250 and log in to mobile banking app within 60 days of switching. Customers can earn up to £5 a month in rewards. Terms & Conditions apply. Earn at least 1% Rewards on qualifying purchases at selected retailers which can be converted to cashback, trade up vouchers or donated to charity.  Earn 4 Rewards per month by making a minimum of 2 direct debit payments of at least £2 each. Earn an additional 1 Reward by logging into mobile banking app every month. Once 5 Rewards are available, they can be exchanged for a £5 current account credit, traded up for Reward vouchers at selected retailers or donated to a participating charity.

 

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