Category Archives: Business

Business

Bankruptcy, Banks, Business, Checking & Savings, Financial, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Loans, Money, Personal Finance

ThinkMoney.com advised people with large debts to seek expert debt advice

Commenting on a recent survey by R3 (a leading professional association for insolvency) suggesting that seven out of 10 insolvency practitioners expect the number of people unable to keep up with their debts to rise during the coming year, a spokesperson for ThinkMoney.com advised people in debt to take early action and seek expert debt advice.

The ThinkMoney.com spokesperson said: “The ongoing credit crunch, and the possibility of a recession, would indeed indicate that people with large debts may struggle more than most in the coming months.”

She echoed the survey’s findings that debt has “become a way of life” for many, and urged people to avoid unnecessary debts, including consumer finance on goods such as electronics, and where possible, credit cards.

She continued: “It’s more important than ever to do what you can to stop your debts growing. The larger your debts, the longer it will take (and the more difficult it will be) to get rid of them.

“If you think your debts are becoming unmanageable, it’s essential you seek professional debt advice from an expert. They will be able to discuss your situation and help decide which debt solution is most suitable for you.”

She added: “There are a number of debt solutions for people with unmanageable debts – and each are better suited to different situations. Speaking to an expert debt advisor will help you make the right decision and make the process as straightforward as possible.”

About Think Money
Think Money are a financial solutions company based in Salford Quays, Manchester. The company specialises in a range of financial services, including mortgages, loans, debt help and advice (including debt management plans, IVAs, and debt consolidation).

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Bankruptcy, Banks, Business, Checking & Savings, Financial, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, IVA, Loans, Money, Personal Finance

ThinkMoney.com anticipates the rise in insolvencies as the slowing economy begins to affect more consumers.

Financial solutions company ThinkMoney.com anticipates a rise in the number of people experiencing debt problems in the coming months, despite a year-on-year fall in individual insolvencies.

A recent report from the Insolvency Service suggested that the number of people entering into IVAs in the second quarter of 2008 had fallen to 9,256, down from 10,561 a year previously – a drop of 12.4%.

At the same time, bankruptcies had fallen from 16,214 in the second quarter of 2007 to 15,297 in the second quarter of 2008 – a fall of 5.7%.

Given the onset of the credit crunch in recent months, the statistics may come as a surprise to many. But Melanie Taylor, Head of Corporate Relations at ThinkMoney.com, said that the falls in both IVAs and bankruptcies should not be taken as a sign of long-term recovery. “Most economists are predicting an economic downturn,” he says, “which certainly doesn’t raise hopes of the number of people in debt decreasing anytime soon.”

Other indicators, such as the Financial Services Authority’s report that repossessions rose 40% in the first quarter of 2008 compared with the same time last year, do indicate a sharp rise in the number of people facing financial difficulties.

Ms Taylor suggested that this could be an early sign of things to come. “As things stand, we would expect the number of people experiencing debt problems to increase fairly significantly, due to a combination of the credit crunch, rapidly growing costs of living and rising unemployment.

“These things take a while to ‘filter through’ to the wider economy. Typically, lower-income families will be hit first, since they have less money to spend – but that then hits the companies where they usually spend money, so their staff are affected too. Eventually, most people are affected financially in some way.

“This in turn could lead to increasing numbers of people who can no longer manage their debts – and it’s essential that these people get expert help as early as possible.”

But Ms Taylor was keen to emphasise that both IVAs and bankruptcy are valid ways of getting out of unmanageable debt. “An IVA can be a great help to people with over £15,000 of debt,” he said. “It allows a significant portion of their debts to be repaid in convenient monthly payments, usually for five years – after which the remaining debt is written off.”

He continued: “There is something of a stigma surrounding bankruptcy, but in the right circumstances it may be the best possible way of making a fresh start.

“People who go through bankruptcy are subject to some restrictions – for example, they are highly unlikely to be able to borrow any more money for a number of years, and they will most probably be forced to sell any valuable assets they own. But once the bankruptcy process is complete, they will be legally debt free, and able to get on with their lives.”

Think Money are a financial solutions company based in Salford Quays, Manchester. The company specialises in a range of financial services, including mortgages, loans, debt help and advice (including debt management plans, IVAs, and debt consolidation).

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Banks, Business, Checking & Savings, Financial, Financial Education, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Money, Online Banking, Personal Finance, Retirement

Pioneer Services Offers Simple Online Banking Tips for Retirees

Consumer use of online banking and financial services has exploded in recent years. While technology has made life more convenient, some Americans are still low-tech when it comes to banking, despite the advantages online financial services can provide. The same is true in the military, where older service members who have likely relied on cutting edge technology to accomplish various missions may not apply this technology to their daily lives, especially after they retire.

As a result, Pioneer Services, a leader in financial services for the military, has created a new article highlighting the benefits of the online banking experience, along with some common sense tips for a safe and secure transaction. The article, Military retirees and online banking – securely saving time and money, is intended to educate both retired and active-duty military consumers.

“New technology and security advancements have torn down the walls between what used to be done kneecap-to-kneecap and what can now be done online”, said Doug Allen, chief information officer for Pioneer Services and author of the article. “Today, online financial services can save time, offer more options, afford privacy, and provide greater flexibility and control over your finances.

“There are millions of online financial transactions every day,” he added. “And just like when using an ATM or walking into a bank, a little common sense while online will ensure a quick and easy transaction while protecting your privacy and security.”

To read other financial education articles for military families, visit the Learning Center at PioneerMilitaryLoans.com. For more information about Pioneer Services, visit PioneerServices.com.

Pioneer Services, the military banking division of MidCountry Bank, offers responsible financial services and education to members of the Armed Forces that enhance their quality of life and financial independence. For more than 20 years, Pioneer Services has been a leader in military lending. They offer the protection and security of a personal loan with the speed and flexibility service members need. Through a network of offices and on the Internet, Pioneer Services offers loans, financial education programs, and supports military families and communities through a variety of partnerships, programs, and sponsorships.

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Bankruptcy, Business, Financial, Financial Law, Financial Services, Money

Dionne & Dionne Law today announced an expanded service area to include Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and all surrounding areas

Birmingham Bankruptcy Attorney and law firm Dionne and Dionne Law expand service are to include Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, and all surrounding areas. The firm hopes to put its more than 40 years of combined experience to use for Birmingham area residents.

The firm also has expanded its recently launched information portal, BankruptcyLawyerInAlabama.com. The portal serves as a comprehensive source for Birmingham area consumers to find information about bankruptcy solutions and bankruptcy protection. It also offers consumers a way to speak directly with an attorney at the firm to discuss their case without obligation.

As previously announced, the portal includes bankruptcy FAQs on Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. Consumers can also download a free financial analysis form to use in determining the need for bankruptcy.

The web site will be an invaluable resource to Birmingham consumers in finding accessible information to address their bankruptcy questions and gain access to Birmingham bankruptcy lawyers for one-on-one advice.

Melinda Dionne of Dionne & Dionne stated, “By expanding into the Birmingham area we’re able to help more Alabama consumers who are in financial distress. Our goal is to put our nearly 40 years of combined experience to work for them. We specifically designed the resources at www.BankruptcyLawyerInAlabama.com to be simple, concise and to offer every consumer something of value.”

About Dionne & Dionne Law – Dionne and Dionne Law was founded in 1996 by husband/wife team Don and Melinda Dionne. Don and Melinda tout nearly 40 years of combined experience serving and advising consumers. The firm specializes in bankruptcy, family law, and estate planning services. The firm has offices in Birmingham and Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

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Business, Financial, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Loans, Money, Personal Finance

Cash advances or pay day loans have become increasingly popular in these times of financial turmoil

Payday Power launched recently out of a growing demand for a safe and easy instant cash advance service that is regulated by government bodies that people in the UK can trust.

There is no arguing with the facts, the credit crunch and rising levels of inflation are hitting the British public’s pockets hard with banks becoming stricter making the availability of loans for people with bad credit ratings lower.

Many things such as an unexpected outgoing from a school fee to a car repair bill to even replacing a broken down washing machine can throw a household’s finances off course leaving people seriously struggling financially to cover mortgage and bill payments until their next pay cheque arrives.

It doesn’t have to be this way though, with Payday Power’s pay day loans, people can receive an instant cash advance boost the very same day they apply for it. A pay day (or cash advance) loan is a short-term financial fix designed to tide over the borrower until their next pay packet, whereupon they can clear the debt.

Payday Power’s easy-to-use and hassle-free service is completely online so there is no need to worry about faxing documents over and a decision is made to your application instantly online.

In addition, Payday Power is a completely ‘transparent’ service so that unlike many of their competitors, their pay day loans come complete with advice on the risks involved in taking out a loan so that effectively these risks are minimised compared to their competitors.

Emily Davidson of credit.com observes, “Pay day loans can be a good tool for quickly and easily borrowing cash during an emergency if you don’t have other financial options.”

For more information or to apply online for an instant cash advance payday loan please go to paydaypower.co.uk.

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Business, Financial, Financial Education, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Insurance

Quest CE has announced that they have expanded their Online library of Property/Casualty Courses

Quest CE, the leading provider of Single Source Compliance Education Solutions for the financial services industry, has announced that they have expanded their Online library of Property/Casualty Courses.

“Our clients have been asking for a more extensive offering of online Property/Casualty courses,” said Alan Krenke CEO of Quest CE. “We understand the importance of increasing our library of courses to better service our clients.” “Quest CE is committed to meeting the ever-growing CE needs of professionals and we believe our expanded Property/Casualty library will meet that need. “Quest CE is dedicated to providing agents with a user-friendly system with high quality course content at affordable prices.”

Quest’s expanded library offers Property/Casualty course credits ranging from 1 credit hour to 15 credit hours. Also available are complete Property/Casualty CE Packages. Courses start as low as $5 a course, with package deals starting at $29.95.

Additionally, Quest CE is offering a 10% discount on all Property/Casualty courses ordered through August 31, 2008. Agents will be able to go to www.questce.com to take advantage of this offer by entering the code in the “Select Courses” tab.

The following promotional code may be used: promo1

About Quest CE
Over the past 20-plus years, Quest CE has built a reputation of being the premier provider of Single Source Compliance Education Solutions to the financial services industry. In addition to offering CE for professionals holding insurance licenses and professional designations like the CFP, CIMA, CLU/ChFC, CLE, and CPA designations, Quest CE also provides a complete spectrum of compliance training solutions. Each year Quest CE delivers over 150,000 continuing education courses either over the Internet or through live CE training. More information is available at the company’s web site at www.questce.com or by calling 877-593-3366.

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Business, Costs, Financial, Financial Statements, Investment, Money, Profits, Revenues

Despite soaring oil prices Emirates Group posts record profits

The Emirates Group has reported its 20th consecutive year of net profit, notching a new profit record despite soaring oil prices and challenging business conditions in the second half of its 2007-08 fiscal year.

The Emirates Group net profits increased 54.1% to AED 5.3 billion (US$ 1.45 billion) for the financial year ended 31st March 2008, on revenues of AED 41.2 billion ($ 11.2 billion) compared to the previous year’s AED 31.1 billion ($ 8.5 billion). The Group’s net margin improved to 13.2% from 11.4% in the previous year.

The 2007-08 Annual Report of the Emirates Group – comprising Emirates Airline, Dnata and subsidiary companies – was released in Dubai at a news conference hosted by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al-Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group.

The Group’s latest record performance reflects its success in growing customer demand through the strategic expansion of its business operations across six continents, supported by ongoing investments in the latest technology, products and customer service while keeping a tight rein on costs. This is illustrated by the 21.2 million passengers who flew with Emirates in the latest financial year, 3.7 million more than in the previous year; as well as the expansion of Dnata’s international ground handling operations to 17 airports in seven countries.

Sheikh Ahmed said: “It was another record year for the Group in spite of a challenging business climate, particularly in the second six months where the soaring cost of jet fuel made a big dent, although the impact was partly offset by other operating gains.”

He continued, “Despite the long-term forecast of a decrease in the number of passengers traveling in First and Business class, I am happy to report that Emirates once again bucked the trend and boosted our seat factor in the forward cabins. Emirates is fortunate to be located in Dubai at the centre of the new Silk Road between East and West. I believe the threat of an economic downturn will be offset for Emirates by the boom in the Middle East, especially the thriving travel industry of tourism and commerce.”

Sheikh Ahmed concluded: “The Group’s excellent performance this year is very satisfactory. As with previous years, we do not intend to rest on our laurels. We plan to secure our future growth by investing in the latest technology and products, so that we can continue to provide our customers with the high quality experience that they have come to expect from us.”

Another area of expansion for the group over the past 12 months was the growth of the Emirates Hotels & Resorts from its original Al Maha property into a multi-property hotel operation with International Central Reservations, a Corporate Sales and Business Development unit, global online distribution systems and support services for the design and development of its growing resort portfolio.

In all, the Emirates Group’s Facilities/Projects Management department commissioned and opened AED 2.12 billion ($578 million) worth of new buildings during 2007-08, including the impressive new Emirates Group Headquarters, the Engineering Centre, Dnata Cargo’s Free Zone Logistics Centre, The Harbour Hotel & Residence, and a new crew training college. Projects currently in progress total AED 3.9 billion ($1.1 billion), including new buildings in Dubai such as the Destination & Leisure Management Annexe, Emirates Call Centre and staff accommodation at Ras Al Khor, Al Majan and Media City.

As of 31st March 2008, the Group employed 35,286 staff, representing 145 different nationalities. During the year, the Group hired more than 7,000 people including 2,000 cabin crew and 400 new flight deck crew.

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Business, Financial, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Loans, Money, Personal Finance, Taxes

Raising road tax could mean more hardship for families already under severe financial pressure

Government plans to raise road tax for millions of motorists could mean more hardship for families already under severe financial pressure, says debt management company Gregory Pennington.

Commenting on proposed changes to vehicle excise duty, debt management company Gregory Pennington highlighted the negative impact the changes could have on millions of motorists already struggling to cope with escalating costs of living. The plans will mean higher road taxes for an estimated nine million motorists.

“Naturally, we applaud government efforts to protect the environment,” a spokesperson for the debt management company stated, “but these are tough times for families throughout the UK. The credit crunch, housing market uncertainty, record levels of personal debt and rising food costs – the cumulative impact can be overwhelming, and many motorists will struggle to cope with any extra burden on their finances, especially in the face of today’s unprecedented fuel prices.

“Particularly worrying, we note that many so-called ‘gas guzzlers’ are family cars. Many families would love to save on petrol and insurance by switching to a smaller vehicle, but for space reasons that’s simply not an option, as anyone with three children (and two prams) could tell you.”

An example: according to the Vehicle Certification Agency, a 1.6 litre Renault Scénic (petrol; 6 speeds) emits 182g of CO2 per km. Under current rules, this would fall in the E band and cost £170 for 2008/09, but under the new rules, it would fall in the J band and cost £260 in 2009/10. “With so many households already struggling to manage their debt payments, £90 could make the difference between climbing out of debt and sliding further into it – and many drivers will find themselves facing much larger increases, paying hundreds of pounds more.”

There are, however, debt solutions that can reduce monthly outgoings, such as Gregory Pennington’s debt management plan. “Our debt management plan was designed with flexibility in mind: when our customers’ expenses go up (or their income goes down), we talk to their unsecured creditors about making the necessary adjustments to their repayment plans. By freeing up funds that would have gone towards their non-priority debts, we help our customers stay on top of their priority commitments – the kind of debts that, if neglected, can rapidly land them in serious trouble.

“Even under normal conditions, a debt management plan offers a realistic, affordable path out of debt – but at a time like this, when people find themselves facing so many financial challenges simultaneously, borrowers have even more reason to select a flexible debt solution that can renegotiate their payments in line with changes to their disposable income.”

At the same time, debt management offers creditors a proven way of recovering the money they’re owed without resorting to any ‘extreme’ measures. “In the 15 years since Gregory Pennington was founded,” the spokesperson concluded, “we’ve found that most lenders would rather negotiate with a debt management company than resort to court action – accepting lower payments might mean the debt is repaid more slowly, but the majority of creditors will accept this, as long as the individual demonstrates they can make those payments reliably.”

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Business, Financial, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Insurance, Investment, Money, Mortgage

When it comes to car insurance Brits are bargain hunters

New research from Fairinvestment.co.uk has found that price is everything for its users when it comes to shopping for car insurance. The research involved asking users what the most important aspect is when shopping for car insurance.

57 per cent of the Fairinvestment.co.uk users who were questioned said that Car Insuranceprice was most important to them, and the level of cover was considered less important with only 19 per cent of the vote. The research also found that a courtesy car is paramount to 5 per cent of those who voted.

Of equal value to voters in the poll, with 2 per cent each, was breakdown cover, a discounted rate for partners, a low excess and a protected no claims bonus.

The study also found that some aspects of car insurance are of no interest at all to Fairinvestment.co.uk users. For example, cover for driving other cars received no votes whatsoever and, surprisingly, none of those questioned were bothered about a no claims discount, despite the fact that a maximum no claims bonus could save drivers a considerable amount.

An important aspect for one participant was a lack of overseas call centres, a feature that has caused controversy in the past. Another user appears to have missed the point, stating having a car as the most important aspect of shopping for car insurance.

Commenting on the findings, director of Fairinvestment.co.uk, James Caldwell, said: “Motorists should be careful choosing their car insurance by price alone, the cheapest car insurance is not always the best and there are other aspects to be taken into consideration.

“I would advise anybody shopping for car insurance to compare deals not just on price but also policy features, some of which may be outlined in the small print.” Mr Caldwell advised.

About Fair Investment
fairinvestment.co.uk, is an independent online finance portal, providing financial comparison tools, news, reviews and information on a wide range of financial products and services, including insurance, credit cards, mortgages, loans, savings and investments.

Fair Investment Company is a leading internet player that sees 400,000 unique users per month, sells over £5 billion worth of mortgage enquiries and is a Hitwise 100 Banks and Financial Institutions site.

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Business, Checking & Savings, Escrow, Financial, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Investment, IRA, Money, Retirement

Sunwest Trust introduced a new portal dedicated on Self Directed IRA And Escrow Clients

Sunwest Trust, Inc. added another dimension in its profile in order to provide better services for prospective customers as well as existing client base in New Mexico. Albuquerque based Sunwest Trust Inc. re-launches sunwesttrust.com along with Best Online Results jointly. The new website has been introduced to strengthen the web presence of Sunwest Trust Inc. It is destined to suite the purpose in the role of a destination or a hub.

Sunwest Trust Inc. is known for its diversified business interests. These include self-directed IRAs that allow clients to invest their IRA in anything that the IRS will allow such as Real Estate, Mortgages, Limited Liability Companies and Private Stock. In addition, Sunwest Trust will act as escrow agent for most any transaction involving the exchange of money.

Sunwest Trust, Inc. is known in the pertinent industry for its excellence in providing an alternate option for IRA investors, especially those who are in search of an apposite process to make their retirement portfolio with a self directed IRA more diverse. The alternative procedure is such that it enables the IRA holders to make investments in affluent sectors of real estate, oil and gas, discounted notes and other alternative assets.

Speaking on this and terming the entire approach as an exceptional move for the Sunwest Trust Joshua Geary, Managing Member, Best Online Results, LLC and Senior Marketing Consultant for Sunwest Trust, Inc. says, “It is our sincere hope to see Sunwest Trust transition beyond the traditional Dot Com barrier held my most sites in this market space and become what they are capable of becoming, which is a Dot Community for their great brands and a resource for investors and for their thousands of satisfied clients who need Self Directed IRA and Escrow services. We feel this is an important step to making this vision a reality.”

Simultaneously, Terry White, Chief Executive Officer, Sunwest Trust, Inc. terms it as an exemplary approach that will make it easier for the clientele to cope with transitioning from a traditional “in the box approach” to growing a retirement account to a self directed IRA mentality. He said while commenting on this, “In the next few short years many baby boomers will be looking for alternative means to stretch and grow their retirement dollars as they recognize their need to truly diversify and view their retirement beyond just a safety net, but as a living breathing asset, which if used smartly can be used as a wealth builder. We needed a hub or new platform to do so.”

“Our new platform will not only allow our clients to check their accounts in close to real time, but also will have a new blog chalked full of resources for those who are curious and are looking at transitioning their investment portfolio into alternative assets like real estate. We are in the process of revamping our blog system to the latest technology so we may interact with our clients and put out information pertinent to account holders who need quick access to administrative tips as well,” he added.

Sunwest Trust offers neutral third-party accounting services to ensure accuracy and reliability for a nominal service fee. It also offers customer friendly services that are available by phone that helps customers get answers of their questions about payments, payoffs, disbursements, and other contract details.

About Best Online Results
Best Online Results is a renowned company that specializes in web optimization and Internet PR and as a result excels in its respective sphere of operation. The company was commenced with the intention of witnessing the growth of businesses on the Internet. From the very beginning, therefore, the company has been proceeding with poise to care the businesses of others and also to observe their successes.

Best Online Results located at BestOnlineResults.com, truly excels in receiving the traffic of any particular website that helps the website owner immensely. The association with Sunwest Trust, Inc. is destined to achieve new heights in industry.

About Sunwest Trust
Sunwest Trust, Inc. was formed under the auspices of the owners of Sunwest Escrow, LC for the sake of providing more extensive range of financial products. For this reason, Sunwest Trust, Inc., apart from providing its conventional concept of escrow service to the customers, nowadays is also active in the role of custodian for self-directed retirement plans that includes IRAs, SEPs and Simples.

From a small escrow company operating within the confines of the local Albuquerque market, Sunwest Trust grew through means of integrity and transparency to become a nationwide Trust company, which specializes in facilitating investors who wish to diversify their retirement through self-directed IRAs.

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Business, Checking & Savings, Financial, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Insurance, Investment, Money, Retirement

Research conducted for Prudential reveals UK pensioners are failing to budget for life in retirement

According to new research conducted for Prudential, UK pensioners are failing to budget for life in retirement, with many spending considerably more in year one than in subsequent years, only to regret their splurge as the reality of living on a pension bites.

The study found more than one in four (29%) pensioners admit to spending more in their first year of retirement, on average splashing out £8,000 more than in subsequent years.

The research also found that 19% of those who had spent more in the first year of their retirement regretted doing so and only around a third (32%) of retired UK adults said they set a retirement budget. More than a third (34%) said they just played it by ear and a mere 17% saw a financial adviser for advice on living
on their pension savings.

Despite this, the study conducted among retired UK adults, found that 63% said they felt they had planned their finances adequately before retiring.

Gary Shaughnessy, Prudential Managing Director Retail Life & Pensions, said: “It is quite worrying to see the lack of planning people undertake as they approach retirement and it’s particularly surprising to see how few of today’s pensioners sought financial advice. Seeing a financial adviser should be a baseline activity for everyone planning their retirement so that they structure their finances to maximise retirement income from all available sources, including pensions, savings and investments and equity in their homes, if necessary.”

About Prudential:
Established in 1848, today Prudential plc is an international financial services company with a product range which extends from personal banking, insurance, pensions and retail investments, to institutional fund management and property investments.

In the UK Prudential is a leading life and pensions provider with around seven million customers.

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Banks, Business, Credit Cards, Debit Cards, Financial, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Loans, Money

Prepaid Debit Cards for everyone by Sterling Card

Sterling Card have been officially accredited by MasterCard as issuers of their prepaid credit cards and are definitely a brand within the personal finance industry to keep an eye out for and their new website illustrates just this with its stunning graphics and flash animation along with simple interfaces making signing up for prepaid credit cards easier than ever.

Prepaid cards (other known as pay as you go debit cards) are a relatively new product to the UK market and are the perfect solution to the mounting debt crisis that the country faces as unlike traditional credit cards they do not carry hefty interest charges or the risk of getting into debt.

A prepaid MasterCard means that like a pay as you go mobile phone, holders need to put money on their account before they can use it. It is not a debit card that is linked to a bank account or credit card where holders pay for their transactions at a later date allowing its users to easily control their spending. Similarly to pre pay mobile phones, Sterling pay as you go debit cards can easily be “topped up” for free in UK Post Office branches or alternatively can be recharged online, via standing order, or direct by paying in wages onto the card. Alternatively, top-ups can be loaded onto the card in one of 500 retailers nationwide.

Michael Valentine, operations director of Sterling Card comments: “Getting a Sterling Prepaid Debit Card is the best way to enjoy the freedom and security of a MasterCard credit card without the risk of running up debts as there are NO interest fees. Also no bank account is required to get a Sterling Card and customers still get the same fraud protection as a conventional credit card. It is also ideal for travelling abroad because regular banks may charge exorbitant cash withdrawal, exchange rate and transaction charges.”

The Sterling Prepaid MasterCard is accepted globally in stores and online in approximately 25 million locations and 1 million ATMs wherever the MasterCard acceptance mark is displayed. Also the chip and pin facility means that having a Sterling Card is far safer and more secure than carrying cash around with the same protections against fraud that a normal credit card offers.

This makes owning such a card not only ideal for everyday use, but also a particularly useful tool for travelling and shopping online. Another increasingly popular use for pre pay debit cards is for parents to have added peace of mind by giving an additional card to their children whilst at University. This is because they can feel safe in the knowledge that their children are not creating more debts for themselves while at University than necessary with a secure MasterCard that encourages them to manage their finances sensibly.

Unlike many other Prepaid Credit Card providers, Sterling Card’s new website is uncomplicated with everything explained in plain English. The new website lists the core benefits of applying for prepaid debit cards as follows:

• Top-up at a Post Office(R) branch or online for free
• 100% acceptance guaranteed*
• No credit history required
• No bank account required
• No hidden charges
• Stylish MasterCard design
• Accepted wherever the MasterCard acceptance mark is displayed (internationally)
• Great security for all Internet usage
• Easy online application
• Same protection against fraud that card holders would expect from a normal credit card

For more information or to apply online for a sterling card please go to www.sterlingcard.co.uk

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Business, Financial, Home Equity, Investment, Mortgage

Sixty per cent of homeowners not interested in environmental issues

Only one in six home movers believe that the introduction of HIPs (Home Information Packs) will speed up the buying process and just one third believe they are a good idea, according to a new survey by thinkproperty.com, a major new, independent consumer property portal which offers estate agents an online sales and marketing channel to deliver better value, improved lead generation and excellence in customer service.

The survey, which had over 3,100 respondents, revealed that more than one third of home movers are confused about Home Information Packs and one third of home owners were not aware of their introduction in June. A third of respondents believe HIPs will slow down the property market, twenty per cent commented that HIPs will increase property prices (http://www.thinkproperty.com/soldhouseprices.htm), seventeen per cent believe HIPs will lower property prices and thirty per cent believe that the introduction of HIPs will not change how they buy property (http://www.thinkproperty.com/findanagent.htm).

In spite of home movers’ lack of support for HIPs, the vast majority would modify their property to make it ‘green’ if the Government incentivised this with offers of green mortgages and lower council tax. Over two thirds of home movers do not believe the Government is doing enough to build greener homes, and sixty per cent say the same of new home developers.

One hundred per cent of respondents agreed that the Government should help home owners to fund fuel efficient boilers to improve energy efficiency, followed by roof insulation (eighty per cent), double glazing (seventy per cent), solar panels (sixty one per cent) and wall insulation (forty seven per cent). Just seventeen per cent felt that the Government should financially help home owners with energy improving devices.

However, the results highlighted a general lack of interest in green properties, with sixty per cent claiming that they didn’t want more information on green property issues. In fact, less than two thirds of home movers claimed to be interested in the environment, with nearly sixty per cent commenting that ‘there are more important things to be worrying about’. The view from one in five respondents was that it is too expensive to switch to environmentally friendly products, with over one quarter of home movers commenting that ‘the only people that are interested in the environment are sandal-wearing hippies’.

Already, seventy per cent of home movers claim to have double glazing, sixty per cent have roof insulation, fifty seven per cent use low energy light bulbs and forty per cent run a fuel efficient boiler. Over two thirds of home movers claim to recycle and three quarters say they switch off all unused lights.

Low energy lighting should be compulsory for all new home builds according to over seventy per cent of respondents, followed by solar panels (fifty five per cent) and grey water systems (forty two per cent).

Mark Goddard, Managing Director of the property portal (http://www.thinkproperty.com/) comments: “Clearly the introduction of HIPs is not popular with home movers and many think that the Government should be doing more to help home owners improve the energy efficiency of their homes.”

About ThinkProperty
ThinkProperty.com (http://www.thinkproperty.com/) provides an accountable marketing channel to today’s modern property professional and already averages 400,000 property details available from around the UK every day.

ThinkProperty.com is owned by Trader Media Group which has an unrivalled reputation for bringing buyers and sellers together in huge numbers through its dealer software products and market leading consumer websites and magazines.

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Banks, Business, Financial, Financial Services, Loans, Money, SME

Barclays Local Business reveals small business owners are in it for the long haul and plan to stay in business longer

It may not always be a match made in heaven, but UK bosses are in it for the long haul when it comes to running their own company, according to a survey of small business owners conducted by Barclays Local Business* research reveals that over a quarter (28%) expect to run their business for more than 25 years (longer than the average marriage in the UK at 24 years, or 11.6 years if it ends in divorce**) and one in five said they plan to keep working well into their seventies.

As well as being wedded to the job, UK small business bosses are forming long-term and loyal relationships with their staff. Despite the popular belief that a ‘job for life’ is a thing of the past, nearly a third (29%) of those questioned have an employee on the books who has worked for them for at least ten years and two thirds of respondents still employ their first ever recruit.

John Davis, marketing director for Barclays Local Business said: “Starting your own business is a serious commitment and for most people it really is about a life long relationship that needs constant nurturing and attention. For every over night success there are thousands of business people who have spent years developing a successful business – but there are few things as satisfying as making it a success after all that effort.”

Given this propensity for long term commitment, it is no surprise that bosses are quite literally ‘married to the job’. Two fifths admit feeling personally connected to their business, and said its failure would cause emotions akin to a relationship ending.

Although women were more likely to be affected by ‘business bereavement’ when a company fails, the survey showed that when it comes to their staff, male entrepreneurs are more sentimental than their female counterparts. On average, male bosses employed their first recruit for approximately a year longer than female bosses, while their longest serving employees typically clocked up a year longer on the payroll.

The survey also revealed that entrepreneurs who value stability in their personal life are more likely to replicate it in the workplace. Respondents who had been in relationships for more than twenty years tended to employ their first recruits for nearly eight years – two and a half years longer than the national average. Their longest standing employees also remained employed for more than nine years – 50% longer that the national average of six and a half years.

Despite growing concern about an economic downturn, confidence among the small business community remains strong, as three quarters (74%) say they are keen to grow their business this year. Of those that felt growth was not an option, a quarter cited the risks currently posed by the economic climate while nearly one in five (19%) said they simply had no interest in making more money.

* Taken from online research carried out between 1 and 16 June 2008 by Ciao Surveys on behalf of Barclays Local Business Banking. Total sample size was 503 Small to Medium Enterprise (SME) owner-managers from across the UK, where an SME is defined as having up to 250 employees.
** National Statistics and the National Family and Parenting Institute.

About Barclays Local Business
Barclays supports businesses with:

– 1600 local business managers in 600 locations.
– Start-ups get standard banking transactions free for up to 12 months.
– Flexibility to bank when and how they want – online and telephone banking and a full counter service at 1600 branches nationwide.
– In the longer term businesses can choose various banking packages which give a choice of free automated payments or in credit interest. These packages also include different levels of further support from online training to credit management facilities.

Via EPR Network
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Banks, Business, Financial, Financial Services, Financial Software, Financial Solutions, Money, Mortgage

Mortgage Application Xpress by Woolwich

Woolwich has announced the launch of a new mortgage sales tool ‘Mortgage Application Xpress’ (MAX) which gives a faster, simpler and more efficient way to do business online. The new tool allows brokers to be able to confirm mortgage decisions at point of sale, certify ID and proof of address online, leading to speedier mortgage offers.

The new MAX tool from Woolwich will save mortgage brokers time as it’s a one stop mortgage application process, it is also intuitive so helps removes duplication and the potential for errors as well as telling the broker exactly which documents are needed to submitted with the application.

David Finlay, Woolwich intermediary business director said: “This strengthens our promise to the intermediary market to build on our service. The latest online sales tool is a result of feedback from intermediaries to provide them with a single platform for all mortgage sales related activities.”

Key features of MAX:

  • Mortgage decision at point of sale – an instant decision to give brokers confidence we can meet their clients mortgage requirements
  • ID and proof of address can be certified online
  • Application Credit Check (ACC)
  • Intelligent fields (so you can look up things like post and sort codes)
  • Notification of all documentation requirements at ACC stage meaning you save time
  • Intelligent, pre-population of data across multiple forms such as declarations, direct debits, cover sheet etc.
  • Intuitive, simple to use application forms
  • Slicker documentation and tools for example documentation that can be e-mailed to the customer, ability to save and file online, new quick calculations
  • Quick quote, Offset Calculator, BTL Illustrator

MAX is available on woolwichintermediaries.co.uk, brokers can find out more by contacting their IBM, calling 0845 070 1567 or visiting the Woolwich website to try the online demo. Brokers who are already registered for Woolwich’s online application systems will automatically have access to MAX.

The new site has recently been piloted by Contractor Financials, Mortgage Find and Concordia.

Via EPR Network

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Welcome to EPR Financial News.

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