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Moneyfacts Pick of the Week - 13/02/2025

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Caitlyn Eastell, Apprentice Press & PR Assistant
Caitlyn Eastell, Apprentice Press & PR Assistant 01603 476169 Email Caitlyn
13/02/2025

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

Close Brothers Savings – 1 Year Fixed Rate Bond

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

“Close Brothers Savings has launched a handful of fixed bonds and cash ISAs this week. Its new 1 Year Fixed Rate Bond takes a competitive place in the market when compared against its peers, paying 4.58%. Savers will need to invest a substantial minimum amount of £10,000 and further additions can be made for 10 days from the account opening, which may be a bonus; however, much like other bonds, earlier access is not permitted. Overall, this deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.58% gross/ 4.58% AER paid yearly
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £10,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £2 million
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 10 days from account opening
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by post and by phone
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Joint account option available.

 

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 launched a new 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA this week. It grabs a prominent place within the top tables and pays 4.42% on its anniversary. Those looking to boost their income will find there is also a monthly interest option. An initial £5,000 minimum investment is required and savers may be pleased to note that 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: 4.42% gross / 4.42% AER payable on anniversary, monthly interest option of 4.33% gross / 4.42% 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.

 

Hodge Bank – 2 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA

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

“This week, Hodge Bank has reduced the rate on its 2 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA. Despite the cut, the account maintains its position as market-leader, paying 4.41% on its anniversary. This may be an attractive option for savers wishing to utilise their full ISA allowance and receive a guaranteed return. There is also a monthly interest option available. Investors should note that earlier access is subject to 180 days’ loss of interest so any withdrawals should be considered carefully. Further additions can also be made for 14 days from the account opening via a nominated account. On assessment, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.41% gross / 4.41% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 4.32% gross / 4.41% AER also available
  • Notice / term: Two years
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 180-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted, for 14 days from account opening via nominated account
  • Transfers in: Not permitted
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to 180-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Mortgages

Santander – Two-year variable tracker rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

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

“Santander has reduced the rate on its two-year variable tracker rate deal this week. Now priced at 4.64%, the deal is available for house purchase customers with a 40% deposit. Borrowers will find a free valuation incentive is included and there is a reasonable £999 fee attached, so the deal may attract those looking to save on the upfront cost of their mortgage. Overall, the deal earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • 4.64% variable tracker rate for two years
  • Product fee: £999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: House purchase customers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Buy-to-Let

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

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

“Alongside extending end dates, Santander has reduced most of its fixed rate mortgages by up to 0.31%, alongside launching some new options at 65% loan-to-value. One new eye-catching deal is the two-year fixed rate at 60% loan-to-value, which is priced at 4.30%, solidifying itself as the lowest rate available in its sector. Landlords will be charged a large £1,749 arrangement fee which is offset by a free valuation incentive. The combination of these changes earns this product an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.30% fixed rate to 2.6.27
  • Product fee: £1,749
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Lloyds Bank – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 70% loan-to-value

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

“This week Lloyds Bank has reduced selected rates across by up to 0.33%. Its five-year fixed rate mortgage at 70% loan-to-value saw a slightly smaller cut of 0.30% and is now priced at 4.79% until 31 May 2030. The deal does not carry any arrangement fee and comes with an attractive incentive package of a free valuation, which could entice landlords looking to save on the upfront cost of their mortgage. Overall, this deal earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.79% fixed rate to 31.5.30
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 70%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Cards

MBNA Limited – Long 0% Balance Transfer Credit Card Mastercard

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

“The latest update from MBNA Limited sees an increase to the 0% introductory term on its Long 0% Balance Transfer card to 32 months, as well as reducing the balance transfer fee to 3.20%. The credit card now offers one of the longest terms for borrowers to transfer balances interest-free. Adding to its appeal it also offers interest-free money transfers for the first 12 months. As always, it is sensible for borrowers to ensure that this deal is suitable for their circumstances. On assessment, the card earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Introductory rate for purchases: None
  • Introductory rate for balance transfers: 0% for 32 months
  • Standard rate for purchases: 24.9% APR
  • Balance transfer fee: 3.20% as an introductory charge during the first two months from account opening, rising to 5.00% (no min) thereafter
  • Card fee: None
  • Opening method: Online and by phone
  • Card management: Online, by phone and via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum age 18. Minimum income £14,000. Must hold a UK bank/building society account. Must hold permanent UK address for three years. Rates dependent on credit rating. Earn up to 15% cashback on purchases through Smart Rewards at popular retailers.

 

HSBC – Balance Transfer Credit Card Visa

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

“The latest update from HSBC sees an increase to the 0% introductory balance transfer term on its balance transfer card to 32 months, giving borrowers some of the longest time available to pay off existing balances interest-free. Although lower balance transfer fees are available elsewhere the 0% on purchases for three months may make this deal more enticing for some borrowers. The deal offers 24.9% as a standard rate for purchases. Borrowers should be wary of any additional requirements before agreeing to all its terms. 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 32 months
  • Standard rate for purchases: 24.9% APR
  • Balance transfer fee: 3.49%, £5 min, as an introductory charge during the first two months from account opening. Standard fee quoted on application.
  • 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 18. Minimum income £6,800. Discounts and exclusive offers for dining experiences, leisure activities and shopping available through HSBC Home and Away.

 

Loans

Santander – Unsecured Personal Loan

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

“The latest update from Santander sees rate reductions to its Unsecured Personal Loan across a selection of its tiers. New and existing customers looking to borrow between £7,500 and £25,000 saw a cut to 6.0% APR, making it a competitive option for borrowers. Adding to its appeal, the loan allows overpayments to be made without an early repayment charge. Overall, the product earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Representative APR: 6.0%
  • Loan period: Rate shown is based on a term of 60 months for a £7,500 borrowing
  • Application available: Online, by telephone and in branch
  • Other information: Minimum age 21. Minimum Applicant Income £10,500+ per year when borrowing £1,000-£19,999 or minimum £20,000+ income when borrowing £20,000-£25,000. You may be offered an alternative APR dependent on credit rating.

Savings

Close Brothers Savings – 1 Year Fixed Rate Bond

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

“Close Brothers Savings has launched a handful of fixed bonds and cash ISAs this week. Its new 1 Year Fixed Rate Bond takes a competitive place in the market when compared against its peers, paying 4.58%. Savers will need to invest a substantial minimum amount of £10,000 and further additions can be made for 10 days from the account opening, which may be a bonus; however, much like other bonds, earlier access is not permitted. Overall, this deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.58% gross/ 4.58% AER paid yearly
  • Notice / term: One year
  • Minimum opening amount: £10,000
  • Maximum investment amount: £2 million
  • Access: Not permitted
  • Further additions: Permitted for 10 days from account opening
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online, by post and by phone
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Joint account option available.

 

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 launched a new 1 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA this week. It grabs a prominent place within the top tables and pays 4.42% on its anniversary. Those looking to boost their income will find there is also a monthly interest option. An initial £5,000 minimum investment is required and savers may be pleased to note that 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: 4.42% gross / 4.42% AER payable on anniversary, monthly interest option of 4.33% gross / 4.42% 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.

 

Hodge Bank – 2 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA

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

“This week, Hodge Bank has reduced the rate on its 2 Year Fixed Rate Cash ISA. Despite the cut, the account maintains its position as market-leader, paying 4.41% on its anniversary. This may be an attractive option for savers wishing to utilise their full ISA allowance and receive a guaranteed return. There is also a monthly interest option available. Investors should note that earlier access is subject to 180 days’ loss of interest so any withdrawals should be considered carefully. Further additions can also be made for 14 days from the account opening via a nominated account. On assessment, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.41% gross / 4.41% AER payable on anniversary / monthly interest option of 4.32% gross / 4.41% AER also available
  • Notice / term: Two years
  • Minimum opening amount: £1,000
  • Maximum investment amount: ISA allowance
  • Access: Permitted, subject to 180-day loss of interest penalty
  • Further additions: Permitted, for 14 days from account opening via nominated account
  • Transfers in: Not permitted
  • Transfers out: Permitted, subject to 180-day loss of interest penalty
  • Opening account: Online
  • Managing account: Online
  • Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

 

Mortgages

Santander – Two-year variable tracker rate mortgage, 60% loan-to-value

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

“Santander has reduced the rate on its two-year variable tracker rate deal this week. Now priced at 4.64%, the deal is available for house purchase customers with a 40% deposit. Borrowers will find a free valuation incentive is included and there is a reasonable £999 fee attached, so the deal may attract those looking to save on the upfront cost of their mortgage. Overall, the deal earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • 4.64% variable tracker rate for two years
  • Product fee: £999
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: House purchase customers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Buy-to-Let

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

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

“Alongside extending end dates, Santander has reduced most of its fixed rate mortgages by up to 0.31%, alongside launching some new options at 65% loan-to-value. One new eye-catching deal is the two-year fixed rate at 60% loan-to-value, which is priced at 4.30%, solidifying itself as the lowest rate available in its sector. Landlords will be charged a large £1,749 arrangement fee which is offset by a free valuation incentive. The combination of these changes earns this product an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.30% fixed rate to 2.6.27
  • Product fee: £1,749
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 60%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Lloyds Bank – Five-year fixed rate mortgage, 70% loan-to-value

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

“This week Lloyds Bank has reduced selected rates across by up to 0.33%. Its five-year fixed rate mortgage at 70% loan-to-value saw a slightly smaller cut of 0.30% and is now priced at 4.79% until 31 May 2030. The deal does not carry any arrangement fee and comes with an attractive incentive package of a free valuation, which could entice landlords looking to save on the upfront cost of their mortgage. Overall, this deal earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Rate: 4.79% fixed rate to 31.5.30
  • Product fee: None
  • Maximum loan-to-value: 70%
  • Available to: Second-time buyers
  • Incentives: Free valuation
  • Flexible features: Allows overpayments
  • Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

Cards

MBNA Limited – Long 0% Balance Transfer Credit Card Mastercard

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

“The latest update from MBNA Limited sees an increase to the 0% introductory term on its Long 0% Balance Transfer card to 32 months, as well as reducing the balance transfer fee to 3.20%. The credit card now offers one of the longest terms for borrowers to transfer balances interest-free. Adding to its appeal it also offers interest-free money transfers for the first 12 months. As always, it is sensible for borrowers to ensure that this deal is suitable for their circumstances. On assessment, the card earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Introductory rate for purchases: None
  • Introductory rate for balance transfers: 0% for 32 months
  • Standard rate for purchases: 24.9% APR
  • Balance transfer fee: 3.20% as an introductory charge during the first two months from account opening, rising to 5.00% (no min) thereafter
  • Card fee: None
  • Opening method: Online and by phone
  • Card management: Online, by phone and via its mobile app
  • Other information: Minimum age 18. Minimum income £14,000. Must hold a UK bank/building society account. Must hold permanent UK address for three years. Rates dependent on credit rating. Earn up to 15% cashback on purchases through Smart Rewards at popular retailers.

 

HSBC – Balance Transfer Credit Card Visa

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

“The latest update from HSBC sees an increase to the 0% introductory balance transfer term on its balance transfer card to 32 months, giving borrowers some of the longest time available to pay off existing balances interest-free. Although lower balance transfer fees are available elsewhere the 0% on purchases for three months may make this deal more enticing for some borrowers. The deal offers 24.9% as a standard rate for purchases. Borrowers should be wary of any additional requirements before agreeing to all its terms. 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 32 months
  • Standard rate for purchases: 24.9% APR
  • Balance transfer fee: 3.49%, £5 min, as an introductory charge during the first two months from account opening. Standard fee quoted on application.
  • 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 18. Minimum income £6,800. Discounts and exclusive offers for dining experiences, leisure activities and shopping available through HSBC Home and Away.

 

Loans

Santander – Unsecured Personal Loan

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

“The latest update from Santander sees rate reductions to its Unsecured Personal Loan across a selection of its tiers. New and existing customers looking to borrow between £7,500 and £25,000 saw a cut to 6.0% APR, making it a competitive option for borrowers. Adding to its appeal, the loan allows overpayments to be made without an early repayment charge. Overall, the product earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

  • Representative APR: 6.0%
  • Loan period: Rate shown is based on a term of 60 months for a £7,500 borrowing
  • Application available: Online, by telephone and in branch
  • Other information: Minimum age 21. Minimum Applicant Income £10,500+ per year when borrowing £1,000-£19,999 or minimum £20,000+ income when borrowing £20,000-£25,000. You may be offered an alternative APR dependent on credit rating.

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