Category Archives: Banks

Banks

Experian Reveals Mid-Life Makeover Trend

Experian CreditExpert, the UK’s most trusted credit monitoring service, has revealed that men and woman in their 40s and 50s are taking ownership of their existential questions and seizing the opportunity to take real life-changing and self-affirming steps in their life.*

The mid-life crisis is often perceived as a ‘curse’ of middle age, associated with men of a certain age attempting to relive their youth through extravagant purchases like sports cars and designer clothing. But as average life expectancy, and with it the age of retirement, creeps ever upward, this is all changing for men and women in their 40s and 50s.

85% of 40-59 year-olds surveyed by Experian CreditExpert had felt the need to change their life situation in the last five years, with responses demonstrating that, far from the expected plans to splash out on cosmetic surgery or fast cars, mid-lifers are making decisions that directly impact their work and life happiness, giving themselves a second chance at achieving their ambitions and desires – from changing career or learning new skills to seeing the world.

70% gave ‘travelling the world’ as one of their goals in later life, with the next most popular options being ‘spending time learning new things’ (46%) and ‘dedicating my life to a favourite hobby’ (29%). By comparison, only 13% (and only 3% of men) would have a cosmetic makeover, and purchasing a sporty new run-around did not feature at all.

The most clear gender divide was over what middle-aged men and women were most hoping to achieve by making life changes. Among men, gaining a better work/life balance was the most popular answer which was given by 32% of males (compared with just 20% of females). By comparison, women’s priorities were focused on adventure and gaining new life experiences with 36% giving this answer, compared with 30% of males.

Simple life changes were shown to have the biggest effect on most people’s happiness, as ‘making a career change’ and ‘making new friends’ were both expressed as having had a significant positive impact on their lives in recent years by 51% of those polled.

Money was predictably shown to play a big part in achieving one’s life goals. 69% said that a sudden change in their financial situation, such as an unexpected windfall or pay rise, would be the factor that was likely to kick-start their own ‘mid-life makeover’. 74% felt that their financial situation was the only thing still holding them back from making significant changes.

“People entering their late 40s in 2011 are still only halfway through their working lives”, said Pete Turner, managing director of Experian Interactive. “These results show that, far from throwing money at new toys in a ‘quick fix’, many are channelling their energy towards making positive, fulfilling changes. Preparing for the ‘mid-life makeover’ by cleaning up your credit rating can, for many, be the first step towards achieving those dreams.”

Via EPR Network
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Northern Rock Introduces New Online Reward Instant Access Account For Savers

Northern Rock has launched a new competitive Online Reward account, adding further options to its flexible savings range.

For those who prefer the convenience of the internet with which to manage their savings, Online Reward, which is available to open with a minimum deposit of £5,000, pays a competitive interest rate of 3.11% gross* pa/AER** variable on balances over £5,000, which includes a bonus rate of 1.61% gross* for the first 12 months from account opening. (Balances falling below this rate will receive Northern Rock’s prevailing rate of interest which is 0.10% gross* pa/AER** variable).

Those who prefer a monthly interest option can choose to receive 3.07% gross* variable (3.11% AER**), and additional deposits can be made up to the maximum balance of £100,000. Only one account per customer per issue is allowed.

Interest can be paid annually on 11 March. Alternatively, interest can be paid monthly on the 10th day of the month (available next business day or three days following this if the funds are sent via BACS to an external account).

Withdrawals from Online Reward can be made via a nominated bank or building society account without notice or charge (there is a £35 fee if customers choose to transfer via CHAPS). The minimum withdrawal amount is £1.

To apply for Online Reward, interested parties can visit www.northernrock.co.uk, or for more information regarding Northern Rock’s other savings products, call 0845 631 5151 (calls are charged at the service provider’s prevailing rate and may be monitored and recorded).

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Northern Rock Partners with moneysupermarket.com to Offer Exclusive Online ISA

Northern Rock is offering a top-paying online cash ISA to complement its competitive portfolio of branch, postal and online savings accounts. This ISA is exclusively available through moneysupermarket.com and pays 3.05% tax-free* pa/AER** variable, with no bonus rate attached.

The exclusive Online ISA offers those who prefer to operate their accounts via the internet an instant access option for their tax-free* savings, and can be opened with no minimum initial deposit.

Kevin Mountford, head of banking at moneysupermarket.com, said: “If you’re a UK taxpayer then it is important to make full use of your annual tax free allowance so you can make the most of your money.

“Not only is it important to make sure you find the best deal for your current savings needs, but you should always remember existing savings invested in ISAs elsewhere, which could be languishing on a poor rate.

“Moving existing savings into an account, such as Northern Rock’s Online ISA which allows transfers of existing funds, can be beneficial but make sure you follow the proper ISA transfer procedures otherwise you will lose the tax free status on your savings.”

Interest, which can be added to the account or paid into another account, is paid annually on 11 March on minimum balances of £1 (balances which fall below this amount will earn Northern Rock’s prevailing rate of interest, 0.10% tax free* pa /AER**).

Strictly a limited issue, the variable rate Online ISA allows transfers in from other providers and additional deposits can be made to the cash ISA, within HM Revenue and Customs limits (£5,340 pa from 6 April 2011) up to 30 days after the product is withdrawn.

After this time, no further deposits will be accepted and this issue may be withdrawn without notice once fully subscribed.

Minimum withdrawals of £1 by BACS and £250 by CHAPS can be made from the account; however the customer will lose the tax free status on the amount withdrawn. There is a £35 fee for transfers out via CHAPS.

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Confused.com Finds UK Drivers Are Divided On Government’s New Roadworks Idea

Confused.com has polled 2000 drivers, asking their opinions on a new idea from the UK government which could help tackle the problem of roadworks and the resulting traffic jams. The proposal suggests that utility companies could pay a ‘lane rental’ fee to the council if they choose to dig up the road during busy times*.

UK motorists are divided on the proposal with almost half(49%) saying it’s a good plan and that they can’t wait to see it happen and the other half (48%) feeling that it’s not a good idea because utility companies who choose to pay the bills will pass these costs onto the consumer. The remainder were undecided.

Gareth Kloet, Head of Car Insurance at Confused.com said: “If these proposals reduce traffic jams then car owners will have something to smile about. Financially it’s been a tough few years for drivers. Consumers are paying an average of £858 for annual comprehensive cover, having seen an increase of £22 in just three months and £170 over 12 months**. Car owners really deserve a break and roads that run freely will be welcomed by anyone regularly blighted by queues.

“The ‘lane rental’ fees could be a good incentive for companies to complete jobs more quickly reducing the potentially dangerous and infuriating situations that roadworks can create.”

Lisa Greenfield, Energy expert at Confused.com added: “With UK energy companies having recently hiked up their prices, the last thing that customers want is any sort of extra ‘tax’ which may end up being paid by the customer. If this proposal goes ahead then UK households will be hoping that utility companies choose to work outside of peak hours and not pay the charges because any further hikes in utility costs would be unpleasant.”.

Regionally, Londoners are most in favour of the plans with more than 52% agreeing that they are a good idea.

Via EPR Network
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Saxo Bank Announces New Shareholder

Saxo Bank is pleased to announce that TPG Capital, one of the world’s leading investment firms, will become a major shareholder in Saxo Bank. Following the signing of a purchase agreement, a TPG Capital affiliate will acquire a 30% stake in the Company (along with an option to increase its stake to 40%) from existing investors, including General Atlantic, a global growth investor and Banco Espirito Santo, a leading Portuguese bank, amongst others. The founders, Kim Fournais and Lars Seier Christensen will retain majority ownership and continue in their roles as CEOs, also in the event that TPG Capital exercises its option to acquire 40%. TPG Capital’s investment is subject to customary regulatory and competition authority approvals.

General Atlantic invested in Saxo Bank in 2005 and both Espirito Santo Financial Group and Banco Espirito Santo invested in Saxo Bank in 2008. Banco Espirito Santo will continue to build the commercial cooperation that the bank has had with Saxo Bank since 2008, namely through Banco BEST that is owned by both entities.

Kim Fournais and Lars Seier Christensen, founders, CEOs and majority shareholders in Saxo Bank said in a joint statement: “We are delighted to welcome one of the world’s leading investment firms as a major shareholder and business partner. This new phase in Saxo Bank’s growth stems from the strong foundation built with the support from our selling shareholders, who have shared in our success to date. We remain enthusiastic about Saxo Bank’s future and look forward to working with TPG Capital to capitalise on the many opportunities ahead.”

Asiff Hirji, Partner at TPG Capital said: “Saxo Bank has achieved impressive growth and we look forward to supporting the future diversification strategy. TPG Capital has a strong track record of investing in and growing financial services businesses, particularly those seeking further expansion in emerging markets, where we see tremendous opportunities for Saxo Bank. We look forward to working with its two founders and CEOs.”

Bill Ford, CEO of General Atlantic and Ricardo Salgado, CEO of Banco Espirito said in a joint statement: “We have been pleased with our partnership with Saxo Bank over the last several years and consider this a very successful investment.”

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Northern Rock Adopts QR Technology As It Adds Three New Accounts

Northern Rock has launched three new competitive instant access savings accounts, adding further options to its flexible savings range. To make it easier to navigate to the relevant product pages on its award-winning website, Quick Response (QR) codes have also been introduced on selected new product adverts.

For those who are looking for a straightforward, instant-access savings account which can be operated in branch, by post or by phone, Everyday Access offers the interest rate of 2.05% gross* pa/AER** variable on balances over £1, with no bonus rate attached. (Balances falling below this rate will receive Northern Rock’s prevailing rate of interest which is 0.10% gross* pa/AER** variable). Alternatively, customers may wish to opt for the monthly interest rate of 2.03% gross* variable (2.05% AER**).

The account can be opened and operated with a minimum balance of £1. Additional deposits can be made up to the maximum balance of £250,000. Only one account per customer per issue is allowed.

For those who prefer the convenience of the internet with which to manage their instant-access savings, Everyday Access Online, which is also available to open with a minimum deposit of £1 (or £250 by cheque) and pays a competitive interest rate of 2.75% gross* pa/AER** variable on balances over £1. (Balances falling below this rate will receive Northern Rock’s prevailing rate of interest which is 0.10% gross* pa/AER** variable).

Those who prefer a monthly interest option can choose to receive 2.72% gross* variable (2.75% AER**), and additional deposits can be made up to the maximum balance of £100,000. Only one account per customer per issue is allowed.

Finally, for those looking for an instant access account which they can manage by post from the comfort of their own home, Saver Reward offers a market-leading rate and can be opened with a minimum deposit of £1,000. The account can be opened by post or by telephone (a nil balance is permitted if opening by telephone prior to an electronic transfer) but once opened the account must be operated via the postal channel.

As part of the launch of Saver Reward, Northern Rock will also be introducing Quick Response (QR) codes to its advertising. These codes will allow consumers to navigate straight to the relevant product page of the Northern Rock website using their smartphone.

Via EPR Network
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TradingFloor.com Releases Video on Meeting of Global Central Bankers

TradingFloor.com, the home of Saxo Bank’s trading commentary, financial research and analysis, has released a video discussing the important meeting of a number of global central bankers at Jackson Hole in the U.S.

The state of the economy and the more active role of central banks to help rectify this means that investors are keenly interested in the fact that a number of global central bankers are meeting in Jackson Hole. There is also a lot of interest in what Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke will or won’t say when he addresses the meeting in a press conference.

Steen Jakobsen, chief economist, Saxo Bank, discusses his views on the market expectations and what the likely outcome of this meeting will be in TradingFloor.com’s latest video ‘Constructive Jackson Hole solution or more of the same?’

Last year, during the same meeting in a mountainside retreat, Ben Bernanke surprised everyone by announcing a second round of Quantitative Easing. With concerns about a double dip recession rising, people are expecting a big announcement this time around too. Steen Jakobsen believes that the main objective of Bernanke’s press conference will be to avoid “Japanisation”, which is a deflationary environment with low growth and low interest rates through more of the same monetary policy.

Recent data also suggests that the U.S. economy is going to need some sort of help in the form on intervention in the fourth quarter. Steen believes that even though quarter two was a failure, Bernanke will continue to defend the easing concept, despite his reputation is on the line. Bernanke is expected to claim that without the easing concept, the situation would have probably ended up being much worse.

A press conference by Jean-Claude Trichet the European Central Bank President, will follow that of Bernanke. He is also expected to defend the bank’s previous actions in raising rates, despite receiving heavy criticism that this was out of sync with the rest of Europe.

Steen states that the hope is that Trichet will now come up with some real solutions for the Eurozone’s economic problems. This should hopefully mean the Eurozone will lean more towards solidarity and consolidation, thus getting rid of the pointless political battles which have been making the problems worse.

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Confused.com Finds 1 In 3 Young People Are More Likely To Date A Car Owner

Confused.com has revealed the results of a new survey that shows many young adults feel that owning a car helps to get a date. More than 1 in 3 young adults (34%) feel that young people who can drive and have a car are sexier than non-drivers, and more likely to get a boyfriend/girlfriend.

More than 1 in 3 (35%) told Confused.com that having a car and being able to drive will improve the chances of getting a date. It doesn’t matter too much what kind of car it is though; only 12% of young adults admit to dating someone because of the car they drive with the majority (65%) say that it’s ‘really shallow’ to date someone because of the car they drive.

Well over 1 in 3 young adults (40%) told Confused.com that they felt getting a boyfriend or girlfriend is more likely for those who have a car and can drive, while 12% think that the better the car, the better love life you have. Women are more likely than men to look for a partner who can drive, with 39% of 17-25 year olds saying they are more likely to date a driver than a non-driver, compared to just 24% of young men. 1 in 2 young men (51%) think that they are more likely to get a girlfriend or boyfriend if they have a car, compared to just 36% of young women.

When it comes to making love, 18% of young men think that the better car you drive, the better love life you have, while only 9% of women surveyed think this is true.

The cost of driving and insurance costs are the highest barriers among young people wanting to get behind the wheel; higher even than the cost of buying the car. Other common barriers, as rated by 17-25 year olds in the UK include passing the driving test, the cost of petrol and fees associated with learning to drive.

Gareth Kloet, Head of Car Insurance at Confused.com said: “Getting a car is a sign of growing up and becoming an adult for many people in their late teens and early twenties. The cost of insurance shouldn’t stand in the way of that process. 50% of under 25s could save up to £571 on car insurance by shopping around on Confused.com, leaving them more money to wine and dine a partner.”

Via EPR Network
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Northern Rock Reduces Mortgage Rates by Up to 0.90%

Northern Rock has reduced rates across its mortgage range by up to 0.90% and extended its £500 cash back incentive to include all Buy to Let (BTL) products with percentage fees.

Northern Rock’s 2-Year Everyday fixed rates with a £995 product fee now start from 2.67% for purchase and re-mortgage customers with a 30% deposit (70% LTV), a reduction of 0.32%. For those who wish to keep their costs as low as possible however, 2-year Everyday fixed rates with no product fees, start from 3.19% at 70% LTV.

Northern Rock remains committed to assisting those with smaller deposits, including First Time Buyers. It has therefore reduced selected mortgage rates across its products at 80% LTV (20% deposit required), 85% LTV (15% deposit required) and 90% LTV (10% deposit required). A 2-Year Everyday fixed rate mortgage at 90% LTV exclusively for purchase customers, is now available from just 5.25% with a £995 product fee. Customers will also qualify for £500 cash back. Or for those who choose our Fee Saver Option, the same term is available at just 5.45%.

Following demand from BTL customers who welcomed Northern Rock’s recent limited period offer of £750 cash back across the BTL range, the lender has also extended its £500 cash back incentive on selected residential products, to include all BTL products with a percentage fee.

Selected fixed rates in the Intermediary Exclusive range of mortgage products have also been reduced by up to 0.30%.

Everyday mortgages offer customers simple, straightforward mortgage deals with competitive rates and the ability to make overpayments of up to 10% each year, as well as the option to apply for payment holidays. Northern Rock continues to operate its mortgage product range within the constraints of the competitive measures agreed with the European Commission.

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Northern Rock launches new fixed rate e-ISAs

Northern Rock has launched three new online issues of its fixed rate cash e-ISA to complement its competitive portfolio of internet-based savings accounts.

e-ISA offers those who prefer to operate their accounts via the internet an online option for their tax-free* savings. e-ISA is a cash ISA set at a competitive fixed rate of interest over a choice of one, two or three years and can be opened with no minimum initial deposit.

Interest, which can be added to the account or paid into another account, is paid annually on the first business day following 5th August on minimum balances of £500 (balances which fall below this amount will earn Northern Rock’s prevailing rate of interest, 0.10% tax free* pa /AER**).

Strictly limited issues, the fixed rate cash e-ISAs (issues 19, 20 and 21) allow transfers in from other providers and additional deposits can be made to the cash ISAs, within HM Revenue and Customs limits (£5,340 per tax-year from 6 April 2011) up to 30 days after the product is withdrawn (excepting postal applications to transfer in from other banks and building society ISA accounts, which must be received while the product remains on sale).

To guarantee funds are accepted into a new account, Northern Rock advises all funds to be deposited within 30 days from the account opening date. Any deposits received after 30 days may be returned to customers. This includes any funds transferred in from an existing cash ISA, therefore customers should ensure that they initiate any Cash ISA transfers in as soon as they receive their new Cash ISA details. Subscriptions are not allowed to any other Cash ISAs in the same tax year(s) that customers subscribe to this Cash ISA, even if they have not used your full annual allowances(s).

30 days following the products withdrawal, no further deposits will be accepted and all three issues may be withdrawn without notice once fully subscribed.

Minimum withdrawals of £1 by BACS and £250 by CHAPS can be made from the account, subject to a charge equivalent to 60 days’ loss of interest on the amount withdrawn (Issue 19), 90 days’ loss of interest on the amount withdrawn (Issue 20), or 120 days’ loss of interest on the amount withdrawn (Issue 21). There is a £35 fee for transfers out via CHAPS.

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TradingFloor.com Releases Video On The Swiss Franc Dilemma

TradingFloor.com, the home of Saxo Bank’s trading commentary, financial research and analysis, has released a video discussing the current dilemma involving the Swiss Franc.

The Swiss Franc has appreciated of late, and therefore so has the focus of what the Swiss Bank and the Swiss government will do to curb this strength, as it is hurting businesses and therefore the Swiss economy.

One of the steps which have been discussed the most is a peg to the Euro; however this is yet to happen, despite much speculation. With the attempts to weaken the currency’s strength possibly only providing temporary relief, it is seen as only a matter of time before more extreme measures, such as a peg to the Euro, are taken.

Ken Veksler, senior manager, Trading Advisory at Saxo Bank discusses his opinions on the likelihood of a peg to the Euro and the effect the Swiss Franc dilemma is having on the Swiss economy.

Veksler believes that a peg to the Euro is an extreme measure, and the likelihood of that happening is fairly minimal. There was a successful attempt made in 1978, where the Swiss Franc was pegged to the German Deutschmark for around 18 months, however, Veksler thinks it will be unlikely that this extreme measure will be taken again, even though the scare in the market in recent days and weeks has made it more of a serious topic than previously thought.

The Swiss government would be unhappy to put a peg to the Euro in place because it would mean a loss of its position as an independent state within a wider UN zone, which they have prided themselves on for quite some time.

Veksler believes that if the peg did come into place the Swiss Bank would have to revert to printing money to allow themselves adequate reserves to put this sort of action into place. However, this is more of a band aid for the problem rather than a full term solution.

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Saxo Bank Announces Half Year Results

Saxo Bank reported a net profit of DKK 346 million for the first six months of 2011. The result which is in line with expectations represents an increase of 375% over the second half of 2010, and a decrease of 37% compared with the first six months of 2010, where market activity and volatility were unusually high.

– Operating income DKK 1,772 million (DKK 1,992 million)
– Profit before tax DKK 474 million (DKK 729 million)
– Net profit DKK 346 million (DKK 551 million)
– Solvency ratio 12.3% (19.2%)
– Clients’ collateral deposits DKK 32,855 million (DKK 26,590 million)
– Assets under management DKK 32,357 million (DKK 24,606 million)

Saxo Bank saw a significant increase in average monthly volumes traded in CFD stock indices, single stocks and commodities, cash stocks, FX options and futures compared to the same period last year. Monthly FX volumes averaged approximately DKK 1.2 trillion in the first half of 2011, with lower trading volumes in the first quarter and a pick up in the second.

While the overall trader and investor activity level was moderate in the first half of 2011, the Bank saw continued growth in clients’ collateral deposits and assets under management, which are the foundation for future business and profits. Total assets under management in Saxo Bank’s trading business increased from DKK 31.2 billion as of 31 December 2010 to DKK 32.4 billion as of 30 June 2011. Clients’ collateral deposits in Saxo Bank’s asset management business increased from DKK 31.3 billion as of 31 December 2010 to DKK 32.9 billion as of 30 June 2011.

Operating income for the first six months of 2011 reached DKK 1,772 million for the Group. This is lower compared to the same period in 2010, but represents an increase in trading-related income following on from the second half of 2010.

Kim Fournais and Lars Seier Christensen, co-founders and CEOs of Saxo Bank, said in a joint statement: “Saxo Bank achieved a satisfactory half-year net profit fully in line with expectations, despite general market conditions which reduced risk appetite in the economy and dampened capital market activities. While keeping a close eye on overall cost developments, Saxo Bank will keep its focus on expanding our products and services as well as optimising the efficiency and profitability of our operations. Overall, we believe the Group has a solid foundation for current and future operations and we expect to continue to create value for our stakeholders.”

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Saxo Properties and Resolution Property Form a €250 Million Joint Venture

Saxo Properties, the property investment arm of Saxo Bank, the Copenhagen-based trading and investment specialist, has entered into a joint venture with Resolution Real Estate Advisers LLP “Resolution Property”, the pan European real estate fund, whose investors include some of the major US universities such as Harvard and Yale and foundations, currently has €1.5 billion of assets under management.

The Joint Venture will focus on co-investing up to approximately €250 million in the central business district of Copenhagen, targeting residential and mixed use, residential and commercial buildings which will benefit from the application of intensive asset management, including refurbishment and the repositioning of occupiers. With an in-house team of 15 highly skilled property professionals and a facilities management arm, Saxo Properties is well positioned to identify off market opportunities, and implement an asset management programme of improvements resulting in significantly enhanced returns for investors.

The new venture, which is already targeting its first purchases, will have a life of three to five years with the emphasis on income growth and capital gains.

Jesper Damborg, Chief Executive of Saxo Properties said: “We are delighted to have teamed up with Resolution Property, one of the leading pan European real estate investors, with assets across Continental Europe. The Joint Venture will seek to take advantage of carefully selected opportunities which have the potential to produce above average returns in the medium term.”

Robert Laurence, Chief Executive of Resolution Property said: “The stability of the underlying economy in Copenhagen, coupled with the opportunity to acquire good quality assets at levels representing a significant discount to their peak values, is of great appeal to us. Our Joint Venture with Saxo Properties provides a highly experienced property team at local level with an established track record of achieving good returns and an exciting opportunity for us to develop our value add real estate strategy in a new market place.”

Saxo Properties is a wholly owned subsidiary of Saxo Bank and was launched in March 2010 to provide closed end funds for both high net worth clients and institutional investors, focusing on residential, office and retail property in Central Copenhagen.

Originally founded in 1998, Resolution Property, backed by a shareholder base including international private equity investors, pension funds and major US universities and foundations, is invested across continental Europe including France, Poland, Germany, United Kingdom and Switzerland. With a €808 million capital raising completed in 2007, Resolution Property is targeting a portfolio size over €2.6 billion.

de Morgan & Company of London, acted on behalf of Saxo Properties in the negotiations and Resolution Property was represented by Whitmarsh Holt Young along with local advisers including Plesner and Sadolin & Albæk.

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Experian Reports Rich Getting Poorer

Experian has reported a massive 100% increase in the level of borrowing amongst high income families in their 30s and 40s over the past three years, with many citing the rising cost of living as the main cause.

Over a third (33%) of high income families are now reliant on overdrafts of over£1,000 to keep the family finances ticking over between pay-days, compared to just 15% in 2008. This is according to the results of a three-year survey commissioned by Experian, the global information services company and the largest credit reference agency in the UK.

The report reveals a high proportion of these families (52%) are regularly borrowing money against their overdrafts resulting in expensive repayments because of the high rates of interest charged on overdrafts compared to other credit products.

47% of UK adults have applied for additional credit in the past two years, with some borrowing from sources which charge relatively high interest rates, potentially adding to their financial pressures and risking missed repayments and a chequered credit history.

Despite this, nearly two-thirds of high income families are actually optimistic about their financial future, with 61% believing their financial situation will improve in the next 12 months, despite dipping in to their savings and relying on their overdrafts to make ends meet.

When many are borrowing to make ends meet, Experian highlights that many people are missing out on the best rates because they’re unaware of the benefits of managing theircredit report with a service such as Credit Expert.

Brits are getting better at accessing and managing their personal information that lenders see which is inevitably resulting in them securing better borrowing rates.

Making the right decisions where borrowing is concerned is vital, and getting a goodcredit rating is one of the ways you can give yourself the best chance of finding the deals you want.

Peter Turner, Managing Director at Experian Interactive said: “UK families often rely on their overdraft to get by, but that is not always the best option. Many of us choose to borrow, but it’s where you borrow from that makes all the difference. The current financial climate is tougher than ever and seeing your credit report could help families manage their credit better, as well as helping them plan for their financial futures.”

Credit Expert from Experian shows customers what a lender sees in their name. Every time someone applies for credit or a loan, that request is recorded. Multiple requests on borrower’s credit history can look as if you are over-extending yourself or a fraud is being committed. For those looking for a good credit deal or mortgage, Credit Expert allows them to check their report instantly online to ensure that it accurately reflects their position, and then as often as they want after that. Credit Expert members can also match their credit report to credit offers they are more likely to be accepted for using Experian’s Lower My Bills service.

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Northern Rock Launches Second Annual Branch Contest For Kids

Northern Rock is helping to keep kids entertained this summer holidays by holding a nationwide competition.

The contest, which started on the first day of the school break, focuses on the theme of superheroes in an effort to spark kids’ imaginations, and all of Northern Rock’s 74 branches are taking part.

For a chance at winning £100 in High Street vouchers, children have the option to draw their own superhero, colour in a template design supplied by Northern Rock, or dress up as a superhero and send a photograph of themselves in costume to their local branch.

The competition is split into three age categories – up to four years, five to nine years and ten to 16 years of age. An independent representative at each branch will choose a winner from each age group, each of whom will win a High Street voucher worth £25. All branch winners will then progress to the national judging and their chance to win a High Street voucher worth £100.

To enter, interested parties can visit any of Northern Rock’s branches and pick up an entry form, which can either be completed in branch or taken away and returned no later than 3rd September 2011. All winners will be notified by 24 October 2011. Full terms and conditions are available in branches.

Launched in April last year, the Little Rock’s top-paying access account at 3.00% gross* pa/AER**, is available through Northern Rock’s branch network, and by post, to customers aged under 16. It must be opened with an appropriate adult named on the account as a trustee.

Little Rock can be opened by cash, cheque or by transfer from an existing Northern Rock account. There is a maximum balance limit of £10,000, and all trustees are required to sign for any withdrawals. All withdrawals are notice free.

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Confused.com Poll Reveals UK Drivers Want a Crackdown on Drug Driving

A new poll from Confused.com reveals that ‘Crack down on drug driving’ is the message from drivers to the UK government. 70% of drivers say they don’t think enough is being done about this problem and 71% want to see the government do more to combat drug driving.

25-34 year olds are most likely to drive while on drugs (8% admit to having done it), according to the Confused.com poll, while drink driving is most likely among 45-54 year-olds (34% admit to having done it).

The ‘drug and drink driving’ poll of 2,000 drivers in the UK reveals 37% of drivers think drug drivers are less likely to get caught than drink drivers (8% say more likely and 55% see no difference). Meanwhile, 25% of men and 18% of women believe drug driving is more widespread than drink driving on UK roads despite figures showing 5% of drivers admit to drug driving and 28% of drivers admit to drink driving. Moreover, more men admit to drink driving than women (38% as opposed to 19%). Most notably, the poll reveals 77% of women want to see the government do more about drug driving, compared to 65% of men.

The Department for Transport reported a fall in alcohol-related accidents last week. Mike Hoban, Chief Marketing Officer for Confused.com, thinks that drug driving might be a hidden menace on our roads. He said: “The Government has been boasting about cutting public service advertising but it’s clear that people are concerned about the potential dangers of drug-driving. The Government has a responsibility to let drivers know that the penalties are severe and that drug-drivers are a danger to themselves and a danger to others.”

The penalties for drug driving are the same as for drink driving: a drug driver will receive a minimum 12-month driving ban, a criminal record and a fine of up to £5000.

The conviction for driving (or attempting to) when unfit through drugs is DR80 and this stays on the driver’s license for 11 years (attracting up to 11 points). DR90 is the conviction for being in charge of a vehicle when unfit through drugs. This stays on licenses for 4 years and can attract 10 points.

Notes to Editors:
The poll of 2000 drivers in the UK was carried out by Onepoll on behalf of Confused.com and all figures have been rounded up to the nearest 1%

Information on penalties and laws around drink driving and drug driving sourced from direct.gov.uk.

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Confused.com Finds £4,000 Average Annual Car Insurance Cost For Young Drivers

Confused.com has revealed that car insurance costs for 17-20 year olds have crashed through the £4,000 barrier, with the average 17-20 year old male now paying a staggering £4,006 per year for comprehensive cover.

This is the first time since the Confused.com/Towers Watson Car Insurance Price Index began in 2006 that average annual car insurance costs for young men have exceeded £4,000.

Bizarrely, young driver car insurance costs for males were around £1,000 lower if the driver is married and adds their partner to the policy.”

In order to afford a £4,000 a year premium and cover the cost of running a car, the average single male would need to spend £6,500 a year – almost half of the average salary of full-time employees at this age. This effectively prices them out of the market.

Gareth Kloet, Head of Car Insurance for Confused.com commented: “For young male drivers it has never been more important to shop around for the best price. Our consumer research shows that 50% of under 25s could save up to £556 on car insurance* by using Confused.com. This is one way to help combat these rises.”

The news isn’t only bad for young drivers though. The average cost of a comprehensive car insurance policy across the UK stands at £858 (as of the end of June 2011), marking a year on year rise of £170.

Despite the huge increase in the last twelve months, prices are still continuing to rise. In Q2 of 2011, prices inflated by an average of 25% compared to Q2 2010.

For more information on car insurance rises for young drivers, or to see the interactive car insurance infographic, interested parties can visit Confused.com for more details.

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Confused.com Reveals Over A Quarter Of UK Motorists Have A Pet Name For Their Car

Confused.com has revealed new research that shows 33% of car owners initiate a daily car-versation with their motors, talking to them not only about day-to-day matters and their frustrations on the road, but also about relationships and personal problems.

The average UK motorist considers their car to be female, with a personality that is sensible (25%), cute (8%) or playful (7%). Findings also confirm that 16% of men see their cars as women, choosing words such as sexy (6%) and mischievous (5%) to describe the personality of their vehicles.

Peter Collett, Psychologist and author of ‘Driving Passion – The Psychology of The Car’ suggests that naming your car can reduce the risk of incidents on the road.

“A majority of car owners feel the need to give their car a distinctive name, usually an affectionate title that expresses how they feel about their car and how they regard it as being different from everyone else’s. The drive to individualise one’s car in this way is very widespread and it also lays the foundation for how people treat their cars. By giving their car a special name, drivers are treating their car as something that deserves to be cared for – a friend, a pet, a companion, sometimes even a lover.”

So, to encourage the nation to care for its cars, Confused.com has developed an online car name generator, which automatically generates a name for the user’s car. Customers simply answer a few questions about their motor such as colour, personality, number of years of ownership to generate a name. User’s will also be able to print out a certificate, which can be kept with vehicle documents or passed on to the next owner.

Gareth Kloet, Head of Car Insurance: at Confused.com said: “Nearly one fifth of motorists who name their cars believe it encourages them to be more careful on the roads. We have nicknames for our friends, partners and even pets so why not our cars. Drivers with an emotional attachment to their vehicles are more likely to take better care of it on and off the road. We’re calling for all motorists to use the car name generator, and start caring for your car.”

Additional findings from the survey also uncovered a variety of unusual pet names for cars including Albie the great, Baldrick, Claris, Elektra, Lemmy, Michaelangelo, Snoop, Talulah, Florence (the machine) Horatio, Fadgehammer and Yannis.

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Northern Rock Launches New Cashback Incentives And Cuts Selected Rates

Northern Rock has launched a new range of mortgages which offer cashback on completion in order to help customers cover the costs associated with moving home or taking a new mortgage.

The range has been designed to appeal to a wide variety of customers and whether they are setting up home for the first time, moving up the property ladder or even becoming a landlord, a cash incentive is likely to be appreciated. With up to £750 Cashback on completion*, the new incentive is available on selected residential and Buy to Let mortgages.

Northern Rock is committed to helping people buy their first or next home. The Company understands that it is an expensive time and wants to help as much as possible. That is why it is offering £500 Cashback on selected residential Everyday fixed rates at 80% LTV, 85% LTV and 90% LTV. The lender has also reduced interest rates on some of these deals by up to 0.30%.

For a limited time only, £750 Cashback is available on all Northern Rock Buy to Let mortgages. The range includes two, three and five year products up to 70% LTV with flat fees, percentage fees and fee free options available.

Northern Rock has also made improvements to its mortgage porting policy following feedback from customers and intermediaries. All new customers completing a mortgage from 25th July 2011 will be able to port their existing mortgage balance or a reduced balance (subject to any applicable ERC if a customer chooses to reduce their balance), and if they need additional borrowing to purchase their next property they will be able to apply for a new product for the additional amount on the terms of the purchase product range available at that time.

Northern Rock has also reduced rates on its 2-Year Everyday Tracker with a £995 product fee, now available at 2.38% up to 70% LTV, or at 2.48% up to 75% LTV. Both of these deals are available to purchase and remortgage customers.

The recent changes are part of a raft of improvements Northern Rock has made to its mortgage proposition over the course of 2011 to simplify its processes and increase consumer choice.

Lloyd Cochrane, Northern Rock’s Head of Lending Products, said: “We are delighted to add our new cashback incentive to Northern Rock’s mortgage proposition, increasing choice and flexibility within the mortgage market, and providing a further helping hand to customers looking to buy their first or next home.

“We continue to listen to what our customers and our intermediary partners tell us. The addition of cashback products to our range and the changes we are making to our porting policy are more evidence of us delivering what our customers and partners want. You can expect to see further improvements from Northern Rock as we continue to build our business and respond to customers and brokers.”

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Saxo Bank Acquires 25% Stake In Broker Solutions Provider Leverate

Saxo Bank and Leverate announced that they have entered into a strategic partnership in which Saxo Bank has acquired 25% of Leverate. The broker solutions provider offers a full turn-key solution for brokerage companies looking to offer trading capabilities based on the online automated trading application MetaTrader or to complement their existing trading solutions.

Through this acquisition, Saxo Bank and Leverate will continue to enhance their offerings towards institutional segments and retail brokers by adding new trading functionalities. Leverate’s complete solution provides brokers with the services needed to increase their conversions, trading volume and risk management capabilities by offering products integrated to the MT4 and other proprietary platforms. Since its release in 2005, MetaTrader has established itself as one of the most popular non-proprietary Forextrading platforms. Offering advanced functionality, the system is regarded as one of the preferred auto-dealing systems on the market and it is widely used by FX traders.

Stig Pastwa, Chief Commercial Officer of Saxo Bank, commented on the acquisition: “We have seen an increased demand among our institutional and retail clients for automated trading solutions, including MetaTrader. Leverate’s track record and ability to deliver a comprehensive and reliable trading environment has made them an obvious choice as a provider of technology supporting the MT4 universe, which lives up to Saxo Bank’s award winning standard of execution. As an extension to our important business for white-label and institutional clients, we wish to support Leverate with technology and liquidity. While keeping their independence, we hope to assist Leverate in their already impressive growth from which their customers will further benefit.”

In a joint statement, the co-CEOs of Leverate, Ran Strauss and Doron Cohen commented: “Leverate had been approached on multiple occasions by other private equity funds eager to enter into a business relationship, but when we met Saxo Bank, we felt we had encountered the perfect partner. Leverate will continue to provide innovative and comprehensive proprietary solutions for the FX market, and we are proud to be working together with Saxo Bank. Time and time again, Saxo Bank has been recognised as a leading force in the FX industry, and together we plan to continue Leverate’s R&D efforts in the area of technology solutions and related services for brokers and financial institutions. This mutually beneficial partnership will allow our clients to benefit from enhanced top-tier liquidity sources, while Saxo Bank’s clients can have access to our Complete Broker Solution: MT4, Live Feed, Web & Mobile Traders, CRM and Risk Management, powered by Leverate, and fully integrated with Saxo Bank’s core liquidity and execution engine. This partnership will in no way change the management or operations of Leverate and our clients can only benefit from it.”

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