The trend for parents to help their children onto the property market is well established, but according to Lloyds bank, that generosity is extending to cars, weddings, household bills and day-to-day expenses. Property accounts for £11.3billion in handouts each year, but a further £4.4billion a year goes on buying cars, while weddings clock up an annual cost of £4.3billion.
The group will promote its parcels business in a prime-time slot during the X-Factor, and then again during Downton Abbey.
The government is to set out plans to tackle the cost of water next week after Labour leader Ed Miliband called for the industry to be ‘scrutinised’ to ensure it is not ripping off customers.
The engineer disconnected all the other phone lines in the house - including the one used by the house alarm. He didn't tell me or ask permission. When I complained, the manager at BT said it was 'standard procedure'. My home had been left without an alarm for weeks because of BT - and it is only by chance I found out about it.
RBS has agreed to recommendations to wind down its toxic assets more quickly, spooking the markets amid fears it will force the bank to rack up bigger losses.
Shares soared after reports of a brewing £157bn deal that could see American telecoms goliath AT&T; buy Vodafone to create the world’s largest telecoms firm.
A report has found that, despite the constant claims that RBS is ‘open for business’, sclerotic handling of loan applications has meant lending targets have been missed
Marc Bolland is under pressure to show the management team he parachuted in to turn around fortunes in clothing has breathed new life into its women’s ranges.
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| Prize value | Winning bond No. | Area |
|---|---|---|
| £1,000,000 | 110NM465374 | Tyne and Wear |
| £100,000 | 187EE207065 | Manchester |
| £100,000 | 176RS978106 | Lincolnshire |
| £100,000 | 159QT036890 | Norwich |
| £50,000 | 63RH553428 | West Midlands |
| £50,000 | 191DH809832 | Greater Manchester |
| £50,000 | 43MJ093284 | Croydon |
| £50,000 | 49BK161200 | Norfolk |
| £50,000 | 211QN594328 | Hampshire and Isle of Wight |
| £50,000 | 37PC596428 | Norwich |
Tesco launches competitive savings rates of up to 2.75% - but is it worth locking in?
Fixed-rate savings back on the up.
As a UK taxpayer living outside Britain can I still open and pay in to an Isa each tax year?
I still fill in a UK tax return.
Insure and Go won't pay out for stolen holiday cash even though I left it locked in my room.
So do I have to carry it with me at all times?
Goodbye npower, I'm ditching you for a small energy firm
But where should I go? asks Simon Lambert
Osborne 'to tax foreign property owners' on profits they make from UK homes
Chancellor 'looking to deflate the south-east property bubble'.
Six top funds and trusts to invest in technology
Find the tweet-spot!
How to complain about your train journey and win money back for delays
Get revenge on the train companies.
House prices: Bubble, or no bubble?
Prices soar but many areas remain stuck in the doldrums. What next?
It's the best time to be looking for a mortgage for six years
So should you fix? We take a look
I inherited a quarter of a house worth £600,000 - do I pay any IHT?
My share is under the threshold, but is £600,000 the taxable figure?
City traders are linking this recovery in growth stocks to the Chancellor’s decision to allow AIM-quoted equities to be included in tax friendly stocks and shares ISAs. AIM has a reputation for being a casino market where wild swings in valuations can create big winners and abject losers. But this blanket assertion ignores the fact it has spawned some terrific companies.
The £8.8million investment is half funded by Visit Britain with travel site Expedia putting up the remainder.
Any hopes investors may have had of a flotation bounce, in the manner of Lloyds or the Royal Mail, have been buried until at least after the 2015 election.
Shares fell by 11 per cent, wiping more than £500million off the company’s value. It blamed timings of contracts, problems with its supply of raw materials and US production setbacks.
A conference taking place next week will see ‘therapists’ meet to discuss techniques that the American Psychological Association says have ‘serious potential to harm young people’.
Britain’s biggest motor insurer, whose brands include Churchill, Privilege and Green Flag, said pre-tax profits rose by more than half to £124.2million in the three months to the end of September.
BALANCE TRANSFERS
FIVE FAVOURITE ISAS
BEST BANK ACCOUNTS
TOP CREDIT CARDS
CUT ENERGY BILLS
CHEAP MORTGAGES
CAR INSURANCE
HOLIDAY SPENDING
BALANCE TRANSFERS
FIVE FAVOURITE ISAS
The move pushes Tesco Bank to the top of the best buy tables for an 18-month fix, with a headline rates of 2.05 per cent. The bank also nudged up its one-year, two-year, three-year and four-year fixed rates to 1.90 per cent, 2.25 per cent, 2.55 per cent and 2.75 per cent respectively, placing them firmly back in the competition as one of the top few deals.
I inherited a straightforward 25% share in a property in 1995. The property is now worth £600,000 so my share is £150,000. Will I avoid paying inheritance tax because my share is under the IHT threshold, or will the whole estate value be taxed - meaning IHT will be levied on the £600,000 and each beneficiary has to pay a share?
I am hoping to move to France this year and currently have a UK Isa. As a UK taxpayer living outside Britain can I still open and pay in to an Isa each tax year?
Social network Twitter is following Facebook with a £1billion listing due in the coming weeks, but this is not the only way to invest in the technology boom.There may be too many risks in putting money into one firm's shares, but you could take advantage of the revolution with a tech fund or investment trust.
Some 53 per cent of couples said they had not made pension, will, or life insurance arrangements to ensure one of them will still get an income after the other dies.
Record levels of households are waving goodbye to the big six energy suppliers - and switching to the likes of Ovo, Ecotricity and First Utility.
The star of the energy boss roasting show was Stephen Fitzpatrick of Ovo Energy. This challenger to the energy establishment sent more stinging blows the way of the Big Six than the MPs supposedly delivering the grilling. I later bumped into him in a TV discussion and have now decided to do my bit to help the gas and electricity Davids take on Goliath.
The winner, who bought the winning bond in May 2006, has a holding of £15,000 and has become Ernie's 286th Premium Bond millionaire.
As many as two-fifths of those surveyed said they were already worrying about how they will cope with the costs this year, the Money Advice Service found.
We all dread standing on a train platform and hearing the dreaded tannoy announcing delays. Dealing with a delayed or cancelled train can be a nightmare. Unfortunately claiming for compensation is not necessarily much easier. We reveal how to complain about delays and your train company.
The Chancellor of the Exchequer is considering imposing capital gains tax on non-resident property sellers for the first time, it was reported today.
With the base rate at a record low the only direction rates are likely to go in is up, but at least one of Coventry's new variable rates may be worth a look.
The holiday confidence poll suggests that 40 per cent of those intending to go on holiday over the next few months have made a booking.
The money that was stolen had been locked securely in a dresser in the bedroom and the house was locked and secure when we went out. But Insure and Go say they won't pay out because it wasn't in a safe. I don't know many normal working class people who have safety deposit boxes in their home.
As soon as you book your trip and long before you head up into the mountains this winter it is important to find a good insurance policy, otherwise you risk being snowed under by medical and rescue bills. With many policies containing strict restrictions as to when and where you are covered and how much you can claim, we explain how to get the best (and cheapest) insurance.
The average UK house price rose to £173,678 after the strongest yearly increase since July 2010, the building society giant said in its monthly report.
The FCA is concerned that savers do not respond to information urging them to shop around for better returns, leaving them to languish on negligible rates.
The rising number of mortgage applications is leading to an increase in people being turned down by lenders because they have previously taken out a payday loan.
In ten short months the property market has swung from stagnation to fears of a new house price bubble emerging. But while London and the commuter belt boom, much of the country remains stuck in the doldrums. So what now for house prices?
Mortgage lenders have some astonishingly low rates on offer and this is the best time to be looking for a home loan in six years. We analyse what next for interest rates, highlight the best deals and deliver some tips on how to pick the mortgage for you.
When Roy Monksfield (pictured with his wife) was diagnosed with a life-threatening illness, he was determined Rita would want for nothing after he had gone. However, Mrs Monksfield has been reduced to living on benefits - and all because her husband unknowingly signed up to the wrong type of pension.
MPs have heard evidence that scammers have a list of people who are most susceptible to responding to cold callers.
Confirming what cash-strapped families already know,the ONS said that 'disposable income has changed little since 2009, despite GDP growth of 4.2 per cent'.
I did work for a friend and he owes me £300. There was no contract and he didn't sign anything but I have a massive conversation thread on 'Facebook messenger' that shows the whole project and discussing finance agreements. Would I be able to claim against him or am I wasting my time?
Sainsbury's Bank has bumped up its Nectar Credit Card to now offer 15 months interest-free on both purchases and balance transfers. But, what are the catches and can you find a better deal elsewhere? This is Money investigates how the deal stacks up and looks at the other best reward cards
Vast numbers of the 700,000 who hoped to snap up shares in Royal Mail are thought to have had thousands of pounds stranded in Isa accounts. Government rules mean it is impossible to move this money into an ordinary cash Isa account. And many more have unwittingly used up much of their annual tax-free amount of £11,520 by withdrawing cash that was not used to buy shares.
The government has launched a consultation on capping charges on pensions schemes, we asked three financial advisers for their view
Fund houses are making investors fork out for services such as 'corporate access' - speaking to managers of firms where they want to invest.
While there has been growing anxiety about the plight facing future retirees and their struggle to save for retirement, the majority of the 2,000 over-45s surveyed by Partnership appear to be bullish about their later life plans. Nine in ten of them said that of the assets they hold, they estimate that their property will be worth less than 50 per cent of the total.
The minister unveiled a package of reforms in the energy market to put consumers ‘in control’, amid continuing controversy over rising bills.
An index of consumer confidence rose eight points to 87 in the July to September quarter, according to a survey by consultancy Nielsen.
Firms claim new rules being brought in by the regulator Ofgem mean that from next year they will no longer be allowed to offer these discounts.
The government is aiming to provide 15 per cent of energy from renewable sources in 2020 and that spells solid returns from subsidies for those providing it. If the thought of solar panels on your roof seems too expensive or a wind farm in the garden too noisy, you could benefit from a new breed of funds and trusts.
Data from the ONS shows that even if you receive an inheritance, the chances are it will be of £10,000 or less - and this amount is set to shrink.
Tiny societies are coming up with lower-cost loans that undercut the large firms taking part in the Government's high-profile initiative.
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I involved in an accident on the M25 and my vehicle was written off. The lorry driver and his employer, insured by RSA, admitted responsibility. Most of the claim has been dealt with but RSA refuses to pay for the fuel in the car. They have been given a photo of the fuel gauge taken at the scrap yard and a receipt showing I had filled up with £60 that morning. But RSA says the photo could show any fuel gauge and that the receipt does not prove the fuel bought went into that car.
Another round of reductions has once again pushed the NS&I; Direct Isa to the top of the Best Buy table. The last time it found itself in pole position in June, it announced a cut from 2.25 per cent to 1.75 per cent.
Isas have been the first port of call for regular savers. But now rates can be as high as 4.8 per cent on a regular savings account - against 1.8 per cent in an Isa.
It was parked in intensive care after slumping £25m in the red in 2011 with City analysts then fearful that it could possibly crash under the weight of £152m debt. But Born soon put his foot down and got to work selling the group’s loss-making European businesses and restructuring its UK operations. Shares have more-than-doubled over the past 12 months.
While defence cuts may have threatened the special relationship, the co-operation with the US on an industrial level is likely to continue for many years.
Sir Dominic Cadbury is the last person you would expect to give a ringing endorsement to Kraft's controversial takeover of his firm.
America's state-backed mortgage giant Fannie Mae is suing nine of the world largest banks, including Barclays and Royal Bank of Scotland, for rigging Libor.
Some energy companies are charging their customers up to 100 per cent more than their rivals for customer service costs, a This is Money investigation has found. Charges for customer services vary from around £87 per household to £178 – even though the Big Six energy suppliers provide an almost identical service.
The case of Roy Monksfield, whose payouts ended when he died, leaving his widow penniless, highlights how important it is to make the right provisions.
I have spent 14 months trying to get them to trace my lost £550, but they just demand the £1,200. I have paid £650 but have recently received a court order.
Cofunds isn’t giving us growth or income. I'm worried that if we cash them in to reinvest, we will lose the Isa status. What advice would you give?
The extent of a commission clawback by fund providers is laid bare by a breakdown of 'clean' fees and the equivalent 'dirty' ones from a leading fund supermarket. Alliance Trust reveals up to 15 per cent of clean funds on its platform either don't have a clean equivalent yet or offer worse terms than before. See below for full details.
This is Money has identified the best credit card deals out there that will help you spread the cost of Christmas and give you the best chance of paying off your debts afterwards.
The card that’s right for you will depend on where you like to shop, but it's worth comparing rewards schemes to make sure you are getting the most from your weekly food spend
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A new tax year means a fresh Isa allowance to save. We pick our five favourite cash Isas for savers, don't miss this essential Isa reading that is kept up-to-date throughout the year.
The Association of Investment Companies has analysed all investment trusts to find the 20 strongest and most consistent performers of the last decade.
Royal Mail investors were attracted by the lure of a bumper dividend of 6 per cent or higher. But there are lots of household names with a good dividend yield.
Neil Woodford is stepping down from his funds where he is Britain's favourite manager. We pick five alternative income funds and trusts worth a look.
The bank rate is at a rock bottom 0.5%, and one day it must rise. The big question is when? We explain the factors that will decide when interest rates rise and how quickly, including the latest forecasts from markets and economists. Some economists say improvements mean an earlier interest rate rise is on the cards than the late 2016 date that Bank's forward guidance suggests.
For many buy-to-let looks an attractive income investment in a time of low rates and stock market volatility. Read our top ten buy-to-let tips
Mortgage lenders have some astonishingly low rates on offer and this is the best time to be looking for a home loan in six years. So should you fix now?
In ten short months the property market has swung from stagnation to fears of a new house price bubble emerging. So what now for house prices?
Midwives in the UK get paid on average £29,248: so where does your salary fit into the national league table, and how does it compare to the average in your profession? Our table lists hundreds of Britain's jobs from company executives and doctors to van drivers, waiters and textile machine operators.
Earn a 6% return from the sun:
Five ways to invest in green energy without the hassle of solar panels
House prices jump £2,500 in a month
But with sales still stuck at a low level is a new bubble really being blown?
Are the middle-aged a 'lost generation'?
Childcare costs mean older parents face retirement poverty
'Wildly optimistic' over-45s think they'll be worth £500k come retirement
And only half of that will be down to owning a house
Why do some homes pay £90 more on energy bills for 'customer services'?
Huge differences in suppliers' charges revealed
Is drive to make fund charges cheaper and clearer working?
Top investment firms hiking fees on commission-free 'clean funds'
Savers will get £500k in bank deposits protected under EU changes
But only in special circumstances
Sellers bag near record percentage of asking price as lack of decent homes for sale drives house prices up
Low mortgage rates and a recovering housing market have encouraged more people to buy property, driving growth, Hometrack said.
Government's plan to crack down on 'rip-off' pension charges
But what does it mean and will you benefit?
STOP! Don't clear up the storm damage yet!
How to make a successful insurance claim if your home has been hit
Are Royal Mail shares still a 'buy'?
Investing experts on whether getting aboard now is a good move
Stick bubblewrap on your windows
Your thrifty (and slightly mad) ways to cut energy bills
'I paid for a ticket and still got a £110 fine'
Why you should fight a parking ticket and four steps to winning
| Prize value | Winning bond No. | Area |
|---|---|---|
| £1,000,000 | 110NM465374 | Tyne and Wear |
| £100,000 | 187EE207065 | Manchester |
| £100,000 | 176RS978106 | Lincolnshire |
| £100,000 | 159QT036890 | Norwich |
| £50,000 | 63RH553428 | West Midlands |
| £50,000 | 191DH809832 | Greater Manchester |
| £50,000 | 43MJ093284 | Croydon |
| £50,000 | 49BK161200 | Norfolk |
| £50,000 | 211QN594328 | Hampshire and Isle of Wight |
| £50,000 | 37PC596428 | Norwich |
| Currency | Rate | Buy now |
|---|---|---|
| Updated 02 Nov 2013. | ||
| Euro | 1.1587 | Buy Now |
| US Dollar | 1.573 | Buy Now |
| Australian Dollar | 1.6357 | Buy Now |
| Canadian Dollar | 1.6268 | Buy Now |
| Chinese Yuan | 9.3785 | Buy Now |
| Croatian Kuna | 8.6836 | Buy Now |
| Czech Koruna | 29.367 | Buy Now |
| Danish Kroner | 8.5146 | Buy Now |
| Egyptian Pound | 10.427 | Buy Now |
| Euro | 1.1587 | Buy Now |
| Hong Kong Dollar | 12.062 | Buy Now |
| Hungarian Forint | 333.25 | Buy Now |
| Japanese Yen | 153.29 | Buy Now |
| Malaysian Ringgit | 4.8693 | Buy Now |
| New Turkish Lire | 3.0876 | Buy Now |
| New Zealand Dollar | 1.8888 | Buy Now |
| Norwegian Kroner | 9.2199 | Buy Now |
| Polish Zloty | 4.7273 | Buy Now |
| Singapore Dollar | 1.9311 | Buy Now |
| South African Rand | 15.53 | Buy Now |
| Sterling | 1.0 | Buy Now |
| Swedish Kroner | 10.033 | Buy Now |
| Swiss Franc | 1.4189 | Buy Now |
| Thai Baht | 47.973 | Buy Now |
| UAE Dirham | 5.7226 | Buy Now |
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Easy switching has arrived
Tony Hetherington
Tony Hazell