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Moneyfacts Pick of the Week - 12/12/2024

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Rachel Springall, Press Officer
Rachel Springall, Press Officer / Finance Expert 01603 476210 Email Rachel
12/12/2024

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 expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk.

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

Savings

Sidekick Money – Sidekick High Yield Cash Reserve 4

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Sidekick Money has increased the rate on its High Yield Cash Reserve this week, which improves its position in the market. Paying a daily rate of 4.64% gross / 4.75% AER, savers who have the required £1,000 upfront to deposit and are searching for a competitive return may find this an enticing account. The account does include an introductory bonus rate of 0.45% which runs for a year, so a review of the account before this expires would be wise. It is also worth noting that a lower rate of 4.21% gross will be paid on balances of £35,000 or more. The deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.64% gross / 4.75% AER payable daily or 4.21% gross / 4.30% AER from deposits of £35,000, rate includes a bonus of 0.45% for 12 months which is paid monthly. The bonus is only applied on funds up to £35,000.
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £250,000
  • Access: Permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted
  • Opening account: Mobile app
  • Managing account: Mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Operated by OakNorth Bank. Interest is paid on working days only. During non-working days interest is accrued and paid on the next working day. Bonus rate is paid to customer's e-wallet monthly by Sidekick Money.

 

Chase – Chase Saver With Boosted Rate

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Chase has revamped its easy access account this week by adding an introductory bonus to increase the overall rate. Now paying 4.65% gross / 4.75% AER monthly, the account grabs a prominent position in the top rate tables. Savers may wish to review the account in six months’ time, as this is when the bonus rate of 1.20% will expire. Those enticed by this deal will need to open a Chase current account to take advantage. Overall, the account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.65% gross / 4.75% AER payable monthly, includes 1.20% bonus for six months. The underlying AER is guaranteed to be 1.25% below bank base rate.
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £0
  • Maximum investment amount: £3 million
  • Access: Permitted, £25,000 daily external transfer limit
  • Further additions: Permitted
  • Opening account: Via its mobile app
  • Managing account: Via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Maximum investment £1 million across all Chase Saver Accounts (can hold up to 10).

 

West Brom Building Society – Four Access Saver (Issue 2)

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“West Brom Building Society has added a new Four Access Saver (Issue 2) to its range this week, which grabs a prominent position in the top rate tables. The deal pays 4.65% gross/AER yearly which may attract savers who are able to limit their withdrawals to four per year, otherwise the rate will drop to 2.40% gross/AER. Savers will also find a monthly interest option is available, which may appeal if they are looking to supplement their income. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.65% gross / 4.65% AER payable yearly / monthly interest option of 4.55% gross / 4.65% AER also available
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: £1 million
  • Access: Permitted, lower rate of 2.40% gross/AER yearly or 2.37% gross / 2.40% AER monthly paid for the remainder of the year if more than four withdrawals are made
  • Further additions: Permitted
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 16. Joint account option available. Matures on 31.5.26 into a Limited Access Saver account.

 

Paragon Bank – Double Access Cash ISA – Issue 7

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Paragon Bank has launched a new Double Access Cash ISA – Issue 7 this week, which pays a competitive rate of 4.80% gross/AER on its anniversary. The deal also offers a monthly interest option, which may appeal to those savers who want to supplement their income. As the name of the account may suggest, savers are permitted to make two withdrawals in any 12-month period, but any more will result in the rate paid dropping to 1.25% gross/AER, so careful planning is a must. This Cash ISA also accepts transfers in from other Cash ISAs or Stocks and Shares ISAs. Overall, the account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.80% gross/ 4.80% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 4.70% gross / 4.80% AER also available
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Two withdrawals permitted in a 12-month period, any more will result in lower rate of 1.25% AER being paid
  • Further additions: Permitted via nominated account
  • Transfers in: Cash ISAs and Stocks and Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Flexible ISA rules apply. ISA funds allowed across multiple accounts.

 

Secure Trust Bank – 2 Year Fixed Rate Bond (11.Jan.27)

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Secure Trust Bank has increased the rate on its two-year fixed rate bond this week. Now paying 4.61% gross/AER, the deal has improved its position within its sector against its peers and may be an attractive choice for savers looking to lock their money away for a guaranteed return. Those who invest must have £1,000 to deposit upfront and can make further additions for 30 days thereafter from a minimum of £1,000. However, as is typical of fixed accounts, savers will not be permitted to access their funds early. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.61% gross / 4.61% AER payable yearly
  • Notice / term: 11.1.27
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £1 million
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 30 days from account opening via a nominated account and from a minimum of £1,000 per deposit
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by phone and mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Mortgages

Barclays Mortgage – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 75% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Barclays Mortgage has reduced selected fixed rates in its range this week, including its five-year fixed offer at 75% loan-to-value. The deal is now priced at 4.30% and may appeal to borrowers looking to save on the upfront cost of their deal and secure a competitive rate. A free valuation incentive is included, and the deal does not charge a product fee. Overall, this product earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.30% fixed rate to 31.3.30
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 75%
  • Available to: House purchase customers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Yorkshire Building Society – Two-year fixed rate mortgage, 75% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Remortgage customers seeking a competitive mortgage rate with a low upfront cost may find this latest fixed rate deal from Yorkshire Building Society an attractive choice. After a rate reduction, the two-year fixed rate mortgage is now priced at 4.66%. The deal offers a free valuation and free legal fees incentive, alongside £250 cashback, and borrowers can also add the £495 product fee to the advance of the mortgage. Overall, this product earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.66% fixed rate to 31.3.27
  • Product fee: £495
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 75%
  • Available to: Remortgage customers
  • Incentives: £250 cashback, free legal fees and a free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments. Underpayments and payment holidays considered, not to exceed level of overpayments previously made
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Skipton Building Society – Two-year variable tracker rate mortgage, 90% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“This week, Skipton Building Society increased the rate on its two-year variable tracker deal. Now priced at 5.67% for two years, the deal is available for borrowers at 90% loan-to-value. Borrowers will find a free valuation incentive is included and, for remortgage customers, free legal fees. The product fee of £745 can also be added to the advance of the mortgage, which may attract those looking to save on the upfront cost. Overall, the deal earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • 5.67% variable tracker rate (collared at 3.00%) for two years
  • Product fee: £745
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 90%
  • Available to: All borrower types
  • Incentives: Free valuation, and for those remortgaging free legal fees
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments. Payment holidays considered after six months
  • Lending area: Great Britain.

 

Savings

Sidekick Money – Sidekick High Yield Cash Reserve 4

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Sidekick Money has increased the rate on its High Yield Cash Reserve this week, which improves its position in the market. Paying a daily rate of 4.64% gross / 4.75% AER, savers who have the required £1,000 upfront to deposit and are searching for a competitive return may find this an enticing account. The account does include an introductory bonus rate of 0.45% which runs for a year, so a review of the account before this expires would be wise. It is also worth noting that a lower rate of 4.21% gross will be paid on balances of £35,000 or more. The deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.64% gross / 4.75% AER payable daily or 4.21% gross / 4.30% AER from deposits of £35,000, rate includes a bonus of 0.45% for 12 months which is paid monthly. The bonus is only applied on funds up to £35,000.
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £250,000
  • Access: Permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted
  • Opening account: Mobile app
  • Managing account: Mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Operated by OakNorth Bank. Interest is paid on working days only. During non-working days interest is accrued and paid on the next working day. Bonus rate is paid to customer's e-wallet monthly by Sidekick Money.

 

Chase – Chase Saver With Boosted Rate

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Chase has revamped its easy access account this week by adding an introductory bonus to increase the overall rate. Now paying 4.65% gross / 4.75% AER monthly, the account grabs a prominent position in the top rate tables. Savers may wish to review the account in six months’ time, as this is when the bonus rate of 1.20% will expire. Those enticed by this deal will need to open a Chase current account to take advantage. Overall, the account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.65% gross / 4.75% AER payable monthly, includes 1.20% bonus for six months. The underlying AER is guaranteed to be 1.25% below bank base rate.
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £0
  • Maximum investment amount: £3 million
  • Access: Permitted, £25,000 daily external transfer limit
  • Further additions: Permitted
  • Opening account: Via its mobile app
  • Managing account: Via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Maximum investment £1 million across all Chase Saver Accounts (can hold up to 10).

 

West Brom Building Society – Four Access Saver (Issue 2)

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“West Brom Building Society has added a new Four Access Saver (Issue 2) to its range this week, which grabs a prominent position in the top rate tables. The deal pays 4.65% gross/AER yearly which may attract savers who are able to limit their withdrawals to four per year, otherwise the rate will drop to 2.40% gross/AER. Savers will also find a monthly interest option is available, which may appeal if they are looking to supplement their income. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.65% gross / 4.65% AER payable yearly / monthly interest option of 4.55% gross / 4.65% AER also available
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1
  • Maximum investment amount: £1 million
  • Access: Permitted, lower rate of 2.40% gross/AER yearly or 2.37% gross / 2.40% AER monthly paid for the remainder of the year if more than four withdrawals are made
  • Further additions: Permitted
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 16. Joint account option available. Matures on 31.5.26 into a Limited Access Saver account.

 

Paragon Bank – Double Access Cash ISA – Issue 7

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Paragon Bank has launched a new Double Access Cash ISA – Issue 7 this week, which pays a competitive rate of 4.80% gross/AER on its anniversary. The deal also offers a monthly interest option, which may appeal to those savers who want to supplement their income. As the name of the account may suggest, savers are permitted to make two withdrawals in any 12-month period, but any more will result in the rate paid dropping to 1.25% gross/AER, so careful planning is a must. This Cash ISA also accepts transfers in from other Cash ISAs or Stocks and Shares ISAs. Overall, the account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.80% gross/ 4.80% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 4.70% gross / 4.80% AER also available
  • Notice / term: None
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Two withdrawals permitted in a 12-month period, any more will result in lower rate of 1.25% AER being paid
  • Further additions: Permitted via nominated account
  • Transfers in: Cash ISAs and Stocks and Shares ISAs
  • Transfers out: Permitted
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Flexible ISA rules apply. ISA funds allowed across multiple accounts.

 

Secure Trust Bank – 2 Year Fixed Rate Bond (11.Jan.27)

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Secure Trust Bank has increased the rate on its two-year fixed rate bond this week. Now paying 4.61% gross/AER, the deal has improved its position within its sector against its peers and may be an attractive choice for savers looking to lock their money away for a guaranteed return. Those who invest must have £1,000 to deposit upfront and can make further additions for 30 days thereafter from a minimum of £1,000. However, as is typical of fixed accounts, savers will not be permitted to access their funds early. Overall, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.61% gross / 4.61% AER payable yearly
  • Notice / term: 11.1.27
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £1 million
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 30 days from account opening via a nominated account and from a minimum of £1,000 per deposit
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by phone and mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Mortgages

Barclays Mortgage – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 75% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Barclays Mortgage has reduced selected fixed rates in its range this week, including its five-year fixed offer at 75% loan-to-value. The deal is now priced at 4.30% and may appeal to borrowers looking to save on the upfront cost of their deal and secure a competitive rate. A free valuation incentive is included, and the deal does not charge a product fee. Overall, this product earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.30% fixed rate to 31.3.30
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 75%
  • Available to: House purchase customers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Yorkshire Building Society – Two-year fixed rate mortgage, 75% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“Remortgage customers seeking a competitive mortgage rate with a low upfront cost may find this latest fixed rate deal from Yorkshire Building Society an attractive choice. After a rate reduction, the two-year fixed rate mortgage is now priced at 4.66%. The deal offers a free valuation and free legal fees incentive, alongside £250 cashback, and borrowers can also add the £495 product fee to the advance of the mortgage. Overall, this product earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.66% fixed rate to 31.3.27
  • Product fee: £495
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 75%
  • Available to: Remortgage customers
  • Incentives: £250 cashback, free legal fees and a free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments. Underpayments and payment holidays considered, not to exceed level of overpayments previously made
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Skipton Building Society – Two-year variable tracker rate mortgage, 90% loan-to-value

Commenting on the deal, Rachel Springall, Finance Expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said:

“This week, Skipton Building Society increased the rate on its two-year variable tracker deal. Now priced at 5.67% for two years, the deal is available for borrowers at 90% loan-to-value. Borrowers will find a free valuation incentive is included and, for remortgage customers, free legal fees. The product fee of £745 can also be added to the advance of the mortgage, which may attract those looking to save on the upfront cost. Overall, the deal earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • 5.67% variable tracker rate (collared at 3.00%) for two years
  • Product fee: £745
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 90%
  • Available to: All borrower types
  • Incentives: Free valuation, and for those remortgaging free legal fees
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments. Payment holidays considered after six months
  • Lending area: Great Britain.

 

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