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Moneyfacts Pick of the Week - 14/11/2024

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Caitlyn Eastell, Apprentice Press & PR Assistant
Caitlyn Eastell, Apprentice Press & PR Assistant 01603 476169 Email Caitlyn
14/11/2024

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

DF Capital – 90 Day Notice Account (Issue 4)

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

“DF Capital has launched a new 90 Day Notice Account this week. The fourth issue pays 4.99% gross or 5.11% AER monthly at investments worth £1,000, the account takes the market-leading position in the monthly interest sector. Earlier access is not permitted, so 90 days’ notice will need to be given for savers to access their cash, additionally they will need to withdraw a minimum of £1,000. On a positive note, further additions are permitted at any time via a nominated account. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts Rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.99% gross / 5.11% AER, payable monthly
  • Notice / term: 90 days
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £250,000
  • Access: Permitted via a nominated account, subject to 90 days’ notice. Minimum withdrawal £1,000
  • Further additions: Permitted via nominated account. Minimum addition £1,000
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online and by phone
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Atom Bank – 1 Year Fixed Saver

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

“This week, Atom Bank has reduced the rates on its Fixed Savers, including its one-year fixed option. Despite the 0.10% cut, the account continues to offer an attractive rate when compared against its peers, paying 4.70% on the account’s anniversary. It can be opened with as little as £50, so this may appeal to many savers looking for a guaranteed return. There is also a monthly interest option for those looking to supplement their income. It is important investors are comfortable with locking up their cash as earlier access is not permitted; however, further additions can be made for a week from the account opening. On assessment, this account receives an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.70% gross / 4.70% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 4.60% gross / 4.70% AER also available
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £50
  • Maximum investment amount: £100,000
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for one week from account opening
  • Opening account: Via its mobile app
  • Managing account: Via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Hodge Bank – 2 Year Fixed Rate Bond

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

“This week, Hodge Bank has increased the rate on its 2 Year Fixed Rate Bond, paying a highly competitive rate for its term. The account now pays 4.60% gross/AER on anniversary or 4.51% gross / 4.60% AER monthly for savers wishing to boost their income. This may be a good option for investors looking for a guaranteed return on their deposits, however, they must be comfortable with locking away their investments as early access is not permitted. They may be glad to see that they can make further additions up to 14 days from the account opening. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.60% gross / 4.60% AER, payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 4.51% gross / 4.60% AER also available
  • Notice / term: Two years
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £1 million
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 14 days from account opening via nominated account
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Secure Trust Bank– 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA (24.Dec.25)

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

“This week, Secure Trust Bank has launched a new range of fixed rate cash ISAs, including a 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA. The account pays 4.47% and secures a competitive position within the market. Savers will need to invest a minimum of £1,000 but they may be glad to see that further additions can be made for 30 days. Investors should consider any early access carefully as it will be subject to 90 days’ loss of interest payment and closure of the account. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.47% gross / 4.47% AER payable yearly
  • Notice / term: 24.12.2025
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted on account closure and subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted via a nominated account, for 30 days from account opening. Minimum addition £1,000
  • Transfers in: Permitted. Accepts Cash ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by phone and via mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

United Trust Bank – Cash ISA 3 Year Bond

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

“This week, United Trust Bank has increased the rate on its Cash ISA 3 Year Bond. Now paying 4.32%, it takes the market-leading position when compared against Cash ISAs with similar terms. Savers must have a minimum investment of £5,000, however, it would be wise to note that earlier access is permitted but will be subject to 320 days’ loss of interest. Further additions are not permitted, so investors will need to be happy with their initial deposit. Overall, this deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.32% gross / 4.32% AER payable on its anniversary
  • Notice / term: Three years
  • Minimum opening amount: £5,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted. Subject to 320-day loss of interest. Interest can be withdrawn annually on anniversary
  • Further additions: Not permitted
  • Transfers in: Permitted. Accepts Cash ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted. Subject to 320-day loss of interest
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by phone, and by post
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Mortgages

Virgin Money – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 95% loan-to-value

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

“Virgin Money has increased most of its fixed rate offerings in its residential range this week, including its five-year fixed rate mortgage at 95% loan-to-value. It has seen a small rise of 0.11% and is now priced at 5.14% until 1 January 2030. Borrowers with limited deposits may find this an enticing deal as it does not charge any product fees and comes with an attractive incentive package which includes a free valuation and £300 cashback. Borrowers may also note that overpayments and payment holidays are permitted subject to arrangement, which may be a bonus. As such this enters the Moneyfacts 'Best Buys'. Overall, this deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 5.14% fixed rate to 1.1.30
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 95%
  • Available to: First-time buyers
  • Incentives: Free valuation and £300 cashback
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments and payment holidays
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Buy-to-Let

HSBC – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 65% loan-to-value

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

“This week HSBC has made amendments across many of its fixed rates for landlords. One of the options to receive a smaller rise is its five-year fixed rate deal at 65% loan-to-value, which now charges 4.09% until 31 December 2029. However, landlords must note that there is a large £3,999 fee attached, partially offset by a free valuation incentive. Overall, this product earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.09% fixed rate to 31.12.29
  • Product fee: £3,999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 65%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Cards

Barclaycard – Barclaycard Platinum All-Rounder Visa

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

“The latest update from Barclaycard sees a reduction to the introductory purchase term on its Platinum All-Rounder Visa. Despite this cut, the deal sits in the market-leading position when compared against its peers in the 0% Introductory Balance Transfer and Introductory Purchase sector. Adding to its appeal, borrowers are also able to transfer existing balances interest-free for 21 months; however, transfers must be made within the first 60 days. Furthermore, borrowers can expect to receive a range of lifestyle perks, including exclusive presale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices and up to 15% cashback from selected retailers with Barclaycard Cashback Rewards. On assessment, the card earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Introductory rate for purchases: 0% for 18 months
  • Introductory rate for balance transfers: 0% for 21 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.

 

Savings

DF Capital – 90 Day Notice Account (Issue 4)

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

“DF Capital has launched a new 90 Day Notice Account this week. The fourth issue pays 4.99% gross or 5.11% AER monthly at investments worth £1,000, the account takes the market-leading position in the monthly interest sector. Earlier access is not permitted, so 90 days’ notice will need to be given for savers to access their cash, additionally they will need to withdraw a minimum of £1,000. On a positive note, further additions are permitted at any time via a nominated account. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts Rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.99% gross / 5.11% AER, payable monthly
  • Notice / term: 90 days
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £250,000
  • Access: Permitted via a nominated account, subject to 90 days’ notice. Minimum withdrawal £1,000
  • Further additions: Permitted via nominated account. Minimum addition £1,000
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online and by phone
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Atom Bank – 1 Year Fixed Saver

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

“This week, Atom Bank has reduced the rates on its Fixed Savers, including its one-year fixed option. Despite the 0.10% cut, the account continues to offer an attractive rate when compared against its peers, paying 4.70% on the account’s anniversary. It can be opened with as little as £50, so this may appeal to many savers looking for a guaranteed return. There is also a monthly interest option for those looking to supplement their income. It is important investors are comfortable with locking up their cash as earlier access is not permitted; however, further additions can be made for a week from the account opening. On assessment, this account receives an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.70% gross / 4.70% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 4.60% gross / 4.70% AER also available
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £50
  • Maximum investment amount: £100,000
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for one week from account opening
  • Opening account: Via its mobile app
  • Managing account: Via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Hodge Bank – 2 Year Fixed Rate Bond

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

“This week, Hodge Bank has increased the rate on its 2 Year Fixed Rate Bond, paying a highly competitive rate for its term. The account now pays 4.60% gross/AER on anniversary or 4.51% gross / 4.60% AER monthly for savers wishing to boost their income. This may be a good option for investors looking for a guaranteed return on their deposits, however, they must be comfortable with locking away their investments as early access is not permitted. They may be glad to see that they can make further additions up to 14 days from the account opening. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.60% gross / 4.60% AER, payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 4.51% gross / 4.60% AER also available
  • Notice / term: Two years
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £1 million
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 14 days from account opening via nominated account
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Secure Trust Bank– 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA (24.Dec.25)

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

“This week, Secure Trust Bank has launched a new range of fixed rate cash ISAs, including a 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA. The account pays 4.47% and secures a competitive position within the market. Savers will need to invest a minimum of £1,000 but they may be glad to see that further additions can be made for 30 days. Investors should consider any early access carefully as it will be subject to 90 days’ loss of interest payment and closure of the account. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.47% gross / 4.47% AER payable yearly
  • Notice / term: 24.12.2025
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted on account closure and subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted via a nominated account, for 30 days from account opening. Minimum addition £1,000
  • Transfers in: Permitted. Accepts Cash ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to a 90-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by phone and via mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

United Trust Bank – Cash ISA 3 Year Bond

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

“This week, United Trust Bank has increased the rate on its Cash ISA 3 Year Bond. Now paying 4.32%, it takes the market-leading position when compared against Cash ISAs with similar terms. Savers must have a minimum investment of £5,000, however, it would be wise to note that earlier access is permitted but will be subject to 320 days’ loss of interest. Further additions are not permitted, so investors will need to be happy with their initial deposit. Overall, this deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.32% gross / 4.32% AER payable on its anniversary
  • Notice / term: Three years
  • Minimum opening amount: £5,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted. Subject to 320-day loss of interest. Interest can be withdrawn annually on anniversary
  • Further additions: Not permitted
  • Transfers in: Permitted. Accepts Cash ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted. Subject to 320-day loss of interest
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by phone, and by post
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Mortgages

Virgin Money – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 95% loan-to-value

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

“Virgin Money has increased most of its fixed rate offerings in its residential range this week, including its five-year fixed rate mortgage at 95% loan-to-value. It has seen a small rise of 0.11% and is now priced at 5.14% until 1 January 2030. Borrowers with limited deposits may find this an enticing deal as it does not charge any product fees and comes with an attractive incentive package which includes a free valuation and £300 cashback. Borrowers may also note that overpayments and payment holidays are permitted subject to arrangement, which may be a bonus. As such this enters the Moneyfacts 'Best Buys'. Overall, this deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 5.14% fixed rate to 1.1.30
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 95%
  • Available to: First-time buyers
  • Incentives: Free valuation and £300 cashback
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments and payment holidays
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Buy-to-Let

HSBC – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 65% loan-to-value

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

“This week HSBC has made amendments across many of its fixed rates for landlords. One of the options to receive a smaller rise is its five-year fixed rate deal at 65% loan-to-value, which now charges 4.09% until 31 December 2029. However, landlords must note that there is a large £3,999 fee attached, partially offset by a free valuation incentive. Overall, this product earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.09% fixed rate to 31.12.29
  • Product fee: £3,999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 65%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Cards

Barclaycard – Barclaycard Platinum All-Rounder Visa

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

“The latest update from Barclaycard sees a reduction to the introductory purchase term on its Platinum All-Rounder Visa. Despite this cut, the deal sits in the market-leading position when compared against its peers in the 0% Introductory Balance Transfer and Introductory Purchase sector. Adding to its appeal, borrowers are also able to transfer existing balances interest-free for 21 months; however, transfers must be made within the first 60 days. Furthermore, borrowers can expect to receive a range of lifestyle perks, including exclusive presale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices and up to 15% cashback from selected retailers with Barclaycard Cashback Rewards. On assessment, the card earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Introductory rate for purchases: 0% for 18 months
  • Introductory rate for balance transfers: 0% for 21 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.

 

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