Category Archives: Financial Management

Financial Management

Business, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Money

Bigmouthmedia Finance Summit Warns That Change To Online Sales Is Urgently Needed

The founder and CEO of Money Dashboard is set to tell the bigmouthmedia Finance Summit that his sector urgently needs to address the way financial products are sold online.

According to Gavin Littlejohn, who launched the open beta phase of the company’s new offering at TechCrunch Edinburgh event this week, there is a widening gulf between the FSA’s requirements for providing consumers with straightforward information and the financial sector’s ability to provide it. He will tell an audience of finance sector executives at the 2nd annual bigmouthmedia Finance Summit that:

“In many ways the financial industry has been left trailing in the digital revolution’s wake. Despite the fact that online should be a channel ideally suited to selling products based on hard facts and reliable data, we have yet to see the sector develop a consistent, credible approach to selling financial services,” said Littlejohn.

“Set against a background where regulators have consistently pushed providers towards more professional practices, this situation is simply untenable.”

Money Dashboard’s personal finance software links consumers with their online banks and credit cards, showing all of their spending in one place, helping them understand where their money is going and making it much easier to manage their finances. Speaking in the wake of to the service’s open beta launch, Littlejohn will discuss the ethical, legal and practical issues arising from the move online in a session entitled “Moving from Face-to-face to Online Distribution”.

He will be joined by a panel of industry-leading online finance experts speaking on a range of themes including the development and history of online financial marketing and the issues surrounding best-practice in selling savings products via digital channels. Taking the podium at the bigmouthmedia Financial Summit will be Thisismoney.co.uk editor Andrew Oxlade and Colin Tomkinson, head of digital marketing at Barclaycard. Google senior head of Financial Services Ian Morgan will also lead a session.

Continuing the compliance theme, bigmouthmedia senior finance strategist Chris Cathcart will also unveil the findings of the company’s latest survey into buying financial services online.

“Despite the degree to which the digital channel has impacted upon every business sector, the world of finance has been lamentably slow in coming to terms with the online marketplace,” said Cathcart.

The bigmouthmedia Finance Summit takes place in London on May 26th and is a free event aimed at senior marketing and ecommerce executives. Places are limited, but those wishing to attend the bigmouthmedia event can register online for an invitation.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Business, Currency, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Software, Financial Solutions, Financial Statements, Forex, Investment, Money, Profits, Trading

OnlineFX Announce Relaunch Of Website

OnlineFX has announced the launch of its website which has recently been completely rebuilt and relaunched, offering customers even greater ease of use and more enhanced security features. The new site now features on a dot com domain which appeals to a wider market including the USA.

The OnlineFX website offers a convenient, secure and cost effective way to transfer money to bank accounts across 70 countries worldwide. The website now offers unique services to make ordering travel money even easier. Money transfers are carried out using the same systems as major banks, and OnlineFX dealers are committed to obtaining advantageous exchange rates for all transfers.

To celebrate the launch of the new site, OnlineFX, which was the first company to offer currency delivery online, is running special promotional offers including free international money transfers for all new customers and a free international money transfer for all existing customers who refer a friend.

The company has also just announced an exclusive new free same day travel moneydelivery service to all customers in Central London. This unique same day delivery service guarantees customers’ travel money will be delivered before 6.30pm if ordered for anywhere within the Zone 1 area of London. Orders for this new faster service must be between £3000 and £7000 – OnlineFX is the only UK company to offer this service.

OnlineFX has also introduced a more secure online Buyback Service, allowing customers wishing to sell leftover foreign currency to receive a buyback exchange rate upon receipt of foreign currency notes which is based on the very latest buy back rates.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Business, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Statements, Money

UK Pre-Election Budget – More Political Than Economic?

The 2010 budget has been met with minimal reaction and is very much regarded as a pre-election buffer budget designed not to rock the boat and consequently lose votes. The last budget before the general election has come and gone – a budget, which it must be said, has generally left businesses with more questions than answers.

UK Pre-Election Budget – More Political Than Economic?

The overarching aim seems to be to increase borrowing, provide small businesses the best possible platform to maintain business and reduce anti-social behaviour through alcohol/tobacco tax increases.

Unsurprisingly, the budget – as they tend to be just prior to an election – contained a great deal of political rhetoric and not a great deal of financial detail.

As a result, businesses are left wondering how exactly the government – should it be re-elected – will tackle the UK’s massive deficit. Businesses are left wanting greater clarity on what public sector spending cuts are to come.

A strong indication of stability was required from the budget, so businesses can make decisions without worrying whether the rules are going to change. Businesses would also have been looking for signs of fiscal competitiveness for the UK.

Industry commentator Alex Miller shares his views on how this budget will affect your UK businesses.

For more information on finance recruitment and jobs offered by Reed Specialist Recruitment, please visit their website reedglobal.com.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Banks, Checking & Savings, Credit Cards, Financial, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Money, Personal Finance

Barclaycard Figures Show Increase In Easter Credit And Debit Card Spending

The latest figures from Barclaycard Global Payment Acceptance, which enables 87,000 retailers to accept debit and credit card payments, shows spending was up 8.5% this year compared to last Easter. The figures which cover businesses traditionally associated with the Easter Weekend and who use Barclaycard to process their credit and debit card transactions, shows shoppers spent £205.5m in 2010 compared to £189.4m over the same weekend in 2009.

Barclaycard Figures Show Increase In Easter Credit And Debit Card Spending

Eating out was a popular choice with restaurants seeing a 13% increase in turnover on debit and credit cards compared to 2009. Other winners over the weekend included furniture and floor covering stores with spending up at 16.5% and 21.6% respectively. However DIY stores, a traditional beneficiary of the Easter weekend saw card spending staying flat with a slight increase of 1.5% on card spend compared to 2009.

Commenting on the data, Stuart Neal, UK Director of Barclaycard Global Payment Acceptance said: “The increase in overall spend is testament to customers wanting to get away or treat themselves over the four day weekend – with a significant increase in restaurants and holiday related activity. Unfortunately, it looks like garden centres were a victim of the weather with debit and credit card spending down 16.8% compared to 2009”.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Banks, Checking & Savings, College Finance, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Insurance, Insurance Services, Investment, ISAs, Loans, Money, Personal Finance, Taxes

Lloyds TSB Is Searching For The The Weather Photographer of the Year

A leading panel of award-winning photographers and acclaimed meteorologists launched a major amateur weather photography competition – with a top prize of £10,000.

Lloyds TSB Is Searching For The The Weather Photographer of the Year

The Lloyds TSB Insurance Weather Photographer of the Year will run for six months, culminating in a public exhibition in London where the finalists’ entries will be on show ahead of the winner being announced in November.

The winner will be chosen by an expert panel featuring acclaimed weather photographers Roger Coulam and Mark Humpage – who will be looking for images that capture our love of the weather, demonstrate originality and creativity, and chart the ever changing British climate.

In addition, the public will also have the opportunity to vote on their favourite pictures online, with £100 going to the most popular photo uploaded each week.

Entrants can upload their photos at http://www.lloydstsb.com/weathercompetition.

The Lloyds TSB Insurance Weather Photographer of the Year has been organised by the leading insurer, which is proud to sponsor the Channel 4 weather.

Paula Llewellyn, Head of Marketing Services at Lloyds TSB Insurance said: “As a proud sponsor of the Channel 4 weather, we’ve launched the Lloyds TSB Insurance Weather Photographer of the Year Competition so Brits can show us what they love about the climate, and what ‘British Weather’ means to them.”

Lloyds TSB Home Insurance provides cover for a range of weather related problems such as windstorm and lightning damage.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Checking & Savings, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Services, Insurance, Investment, Money, Personal Finance

Report: Child Trust Funds Receive Over £5 Million A Week

The Children’s Mutual, a leading Child Trust Fund (CTF) provider, has revealed that over £700,000 a day, or £5 million a week, is currently being invested in Child Trust Funds.

Report: Child Trust Funds Receive Over £5 Million A Week

As the UK’s first universal children’s savings product reached its fifth birthday in April 2010, these figures give a clear indication that over the last five years the actions of parents, families and friends have changed the savings habits in the UK, for the better.

Prior to April 2005 less than one in five parents were saving for their children’s future. However since the launch of the CTF this figure has rocketed to three in five.

David White, Chief Executive of The Children’s Mutual, said: “Given recent economic problems it is essential that the UK reignites its savings culture. In five short years there has been a 200% increase in the number of people saving for their children over the long term and the Child Trust Fund has been the catalyst. This is nothing short of phenomenal, given the uncertain financial backdrop many families have faced.”

Since April 2005 parents of five million children who now have a CTF have used them as a means to change their savings habits.

This commitment from parents and the Government towards saving for children’s futures may mean that an estimated £2.96 billion will be available to young adults each year as they turn 18 – a significant amount towards the increasing costs of adulthood such as buying a car, attending university and getting onto the property ladder.

April this year also marks the beginning of additional payments into CTFs for disabled children who are entitled to Disability Living Allowance. These additional yearly payments of £100 or (£200 for severely disabled children) could mean an extra£3,000 at age 18.

David White concludes: “The introduction of additional payments for disabled children is crucial as it reflects the additional costs that disabled young adults and their families may face. Along with Government we hope that the additional money will help to enable these children have a smooth journey into adulthood.”

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Business, Currency, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Software, Financial Solutions, Financial Statements, Forex, Investment, Money, Profits, Trading

Traders Advisory DMCC – A Specialize FX Firm Announces Its Opening

On April 18, 2010, Traders Advisory DMCC will start its business activities. Traders Advisory is based in Dubai, UAE and licensed and registered as a free zone company under the rules and regulation of Dubai Multi Commodities Center Authority; it centers its activities on the financial market specifically the FX market by providing alternative forecast and technical analysis of the currency market to traders. It will also offer FOREX training course in Dubai for starters who want to learn how to trade the currency market effectively.

Traders Advisory DMCC - A Specialize FX Firm Announces Its Opening

“Now a day, almost everyone is in to trading the financial market online, and almost all retail traders are in pursuit of finding the solution on how to make their trading easy and profitable. We are providing solutions; our specialized services will help FX traders”, said Mr. Monirul Quazi, Managing Director of the company.

As a trader, either full time or part time, doing all the hard work and research could be very exhausting. Traders Advisory DMCC can offer solution to make trading the currency market less stress and profitable. By simply acquiring to the company’s specialize technical analysis service, members are now leveraging with the company’s vast resources including its team of experts.

The list of services of Traders Advisory DMCC will be available in their website advisoryfx.com beginning on April 18, 2010. For the time being, you can visit advisoryfx.info to sign up for their Special Opening Promo of 30 days FREE access to their website.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Banks, Business, Currency, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Software, Financial Solutions, Financial Statements, Forex, Investment, Money, Profits, Trading

Saxo Bank On Track With Sound Results For 2009

Saxo Bank, the online trading and investment specialist, has announced that it has received sound and steady results for 2009 and achieved a positive emergence from the financial crisis.

Business picked up during the second half of 2009 after a relatively slow beginning to the year. Operating income for the year was DKK 2,228 million compared to DKK 2,518 million in 2008. Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation and Amortization (EBITDA) was DKK 441 million while net profit was DKK 201 million with 80% earned in the second half of the year.

As of 31 December 2009, the solvency ratio was 19%. The Bank’s Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment (ICAAP) process showed a minimum capital requirement of 8%.

The founders and CEOs of Saxo Bank, Kim Fournais and Lars Seier Christensen, said in a joint statement:

“Saxo Bank is a trading, investment and savings specialist not engaged in traditional lending activities and not dependant on traditional loan financing business. That has worked to our advantage in what was a very difficult year for everyone. Saxo Bank’s business model has shown some resilience to the financial crisis and we are satisfied with the results.

“2009 was a year of geographical expansion and establishing new business areas. We opened five new offices and our Asset Management business grew significantly. The new Saxo Equity Platform, which was launched in March 2010, sets the stage for a year, which will be characterised by new products and platform developments. Even though such investments have no or limited impact on income in the short run, we believe it is the right time to take advantage of the many opportunities available to take the Bank to the next level.”

The value of clients’ collateral deposits related to the trading business increased more than 70% to DKK 15 billion as of 31 December 2009. On 1 April 2010 it was more than DKK 17 billion.

In 2009, Saxo Asset Management was launched to cater for the top segment of High-Net-Worth Investors. The new business area is the combined concept of three asset management businesses acquired in 2009. The asset management activities of the Bank now include expertise within Danish bonds, Nordic Stocks, high-yield and emerging market bonds. The acquired companies, Sirius, Capital Four and the 51% stake in Global Evolution, grew assets under management organically from approximately DKK 10 DKK billion at the time of acquisition to more than DKK 20 billion as of 31 December 2009. On 1 April 2010 it had grown another 25% to DKK 25 billion.

Saxo Bank is a Forex, CFDs and Futures trading specialist and has no engagement in traditional lending activities. However, in response to the instability and lack of confidence in the financial markets, Saxo Bank chose to join the Danish state’s Guarantee Scheme (Private Contingency Association). On 24 March 2010, a majority in the Danish Parliament agreed on a new guarantee scheme, which would bring deposit guarantees into line with European Union rules. The new guarantee scheme is set to take effect from 1 October 2010. All Danish banks are covered by the scheme.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Credit Cards, Debts, Financial, Financial Management, Financial Services, Loans, Money, Personal Finance

Make Overpayments To Lower Cost Of Credit Card Debt

Financial solutions company Think Money has welcomed a report from Moneysupermarket.com advising that credit card borrowers could significantly reduce their overall repayment term and the amount they pay by making more than the minimum payment.

Make Overpayments To Lower Cost Of Credit Card Debt

Moneysupermarket claimed that the difference between the average interest earned on savings and the interest payable on an average credit card debt (currently £1,989) is £308 a year – meaning it may make good financial sense to use savings to pay off debt.

The price comparison site said with this level of credit card debt, making just the minimum payment could mean the balance takes 22 years and 10 months to pay off. By contrast, paying just £20 more each month would reduce this by 17 years, and would reduce the overall interest paid by a third.

A Think Money debt expert said:

“Making any payments above the minimum, even below Moneysupermarket’s suggested increase, can help the borrower to clear their balance more quickly and reduce the amount of interest they pay.

“Making only the minimum payment may be a tempting option for some people, as it frees up cash in the short term – but it is likely to cost the borrower much more in the long run. As such, we advise people with credit card balances to try and budget for higher repayments where possible.

“But of course, this is not an option for everyone. Some people may find they’ve got to the point where they simply can’t afford even the minimum repayments – and anyone in that situation should speak with a debt adviser about debt solutions that could help.

“Even if the borrower can’t see any way of repaying their debts in full, there is help available – in the form of an IVA [Individual Voluntary Arrangement] or bankruptcy, for example.”

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Banks, Checking & Savings, Credit Cards, Financial, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Money, Personal Finance

Barclaycard Reveals February Card Spending Trends

Data from Barclaycard Global Payment Acceptance shows payments made on credit and debit cards were up 7.1% in February compared to the same month last year. The increase follows on from figures that showed that credit and debit card spending was up 3.6% in January 2010 compared to January 2009.

Whilst February 2010 showed an increase over the previous year, on a month-by-month basis, spending on debit and credit cards declined slightly by 2.5% from January, in line with expectations.

The Barclaycard Retail Card Spending Index is based on spending on all credit and debit cards across a wide range of retail sectors, at retailers that use Barclaycard to process their credit and debit card transactions. Barclaycard Global Payment Acceptance processes payments for 87,000 businesses in the UK both physically and online – about a third of the market.

Commenting on the data, Stuart Neal, Head of UK Payment Acceptance said: “The numbers show that things are looking up for retailers this year. The small drop from last month is typical of what we see at this time of year and is caused by the residual effects of the January sales and households returning to a more regular spending pattern.”

With an overall market share of over 30%, Global Payment Acceptance captures a significant proportion of all retail transactions in the UK. The index is based on the analysis of the 12-month variation in volumes of card transactions month-on-month, and incorporates specific filters to ensure the data is not affected by changes to the customer base over time.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Financial, Financial Management, Financial Services, Insurance, Insurance Services, Money, Personal Finance

M&S Pet Insurance Warns Chocolate Treats Can Be A Doggy Danger This Easter

M&S Pet Insurance is warning dog owners of the dangers of chocolate poisoning in household pets ahead of the Easter weekend.

Chocolate eggs and other treats left around the house at Easter can be a big temptation to four legged friends, however unlike most people they can become extremely unwell if they eat large amounts of chocolate which is intended for humans.

The toxic chemical within chocolate is called Theobromine and the amount contained within chocolate varies according to the type and quality of chocolate. Dark chocolate usually contains high levels of the toxic chemical, compared with white chocolate which contains comparatively little. Even a small amount of high quality dark chocolate eaten by a dog can cause clinical signs such as hyperexcitability and restlessness, vomiting, tremors and convulsions.

While M&S Pet Insurance policyholders have access to a 24-hour advice line, 365 days a year, meaning that if the worst happens this Easter they know they have support at the end of the phone, as it is much better to avoid the problem in the first place.

Vetfone nurses provide concerned pet owners with immediate advice on an animal’s condition and can decide whether emergency medical treatment is required.

Vetfone Deputy Operations Manager, Clare Scantlebury, said: “Easter is a great excuse to indulge in all things chocolaty, but dog owners should think carefully about storing chocolate eggs in a safe place out of the reach of hungry dogs.

“The potential danger depends on the amount of chocolate eaten, the type of chocolate and the size of the dog. If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate and is showing signs of illness, seek medical advice immediately.”

David Wells, M&S Head of Insurance, said: “It’s not just the chocolate at Easter which can cause illness and injury in pets. We have seen claims when dogs have eaten small novelty toys from Easter eggs and shredded plastic used as packing material in Easter baskets.

“Small toys may cause internal damage or an intestinal blockage which can be life threatening. Ideally keep these objects well out of reach of your pets and supervise your dogs closely if children are playing with the toys.”

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Home Equity, Investment, Money, Mortgage, Personal Finance

Shopping Around More Important Than Ever As Housing Market Remains Fragile

House buyers must shop around if they want to secure the best mortgage deals in the current climate, according to a firm of UK mortgage experts. This is especially important for those who are looking for first time buyer mortgages.

Whole of market broker The Mortgage Point has stressed the need to check out finance deals from as many lenders as possible following the release of February’s figures from the Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML).

Gross mortgage lending in February grew to an estimated £9.2 billion, up from £8.7 billion in January. Analysts said an increase during the shortest month of the year was unusual, and the return of stamp duty at the start of the year on properties costing under £175,000 is likely to have distorted figures.

In their February report, the CML said while consumer confidence is expected to continue growing, the funding markets remain difficult, something which is due to impact on the supply of finance available in the coming months. And while last month saw an increase in lending, it was down 6 per cent on February 2009’s figure of £9.7 billion.

Stuart Codling, CEO of Salford-based The Mortgage Point, said “it is more important than ever for first-time buyers and homeowners looking to re-mortgage to shop around for the best deals.”

He said: “Confidence within the market is continuing to grow as the economic situation improves and we are seeing increasing numbers of people contacting us for mortgage advice and to arrange finance for properties. However, it remains imperative that people don’t limit themselves when it comes to choosing a new mortgage product.

“There are good deals to be had whether you’re looking for a fixed rate, capped rate or tracker mortgage. The important thing is understanding which product is most suited to your particular situation and then making sure you search a wide variety of lenders in order to secure the best option.”

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Business, Currency, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Software, Financial Solutions, Forex, Investment, Money, Profits, Trading

Knowledge To Action Stock Market Seminars Supply International Demand

Knowledge to Action, Europe’s largest trader coaching company, is expanding to offer its forex trading seminars in Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. This follows greatly increased demand for these events, at which attendees gain valuable insights into becoming successful private traders on the foreign exchange markets.

Knowledge To Action Stock Market Seminars Supply International Demand

Knowledge to Action originally started running stock market training in 2004 and launched its forex training courses in 2008. Knowledge to Action previously only held seminars in the UK, which houses its Trader Centre of Excellence and one of London’s most successful private trading floors.

After speaking to sell out Australian audiences in 2009, Knowledge to Action is officially launching an office in Australia this month. This offers more opportunities for private individuals to benefit from Knowledge to Action’s strategies and systems for gaining financial independence through stock market and forex trading. People living in Australasia can now benefit from these training events.

The company was set up by Greg Secker, who spent years working across foreign exchange trading floors in Europe and the US. He set up Knowledge to Action in 2003 in his home and soon expanded, offering stock market courses from 2004. The company has grown and developed explosively in the period since then, so that it is now the number one trader coaching company in Europe, and is on track to expand into the United States in the second half of 2010.

This growth over a period of just a few years is testimony to the effectiveness of Knowledge to Action’s award-winning forex training and stock market training courses, which are run from its London Headquarters. The success of this training was recognised recently by the company winning a place as a regional finalist in the 2009 National Business Awards.

About Knowledge to Action
Knowledge to Action, founded by Greg Secker, is the home of the award-winning Traders University® programme, and Europe’s number one trader coaching company.  Its stock market course has launched many private traders on the path to financial independence since 2004.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Assets, Business, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Home Equity, Investment, Money, Mortgage, Personal Finance, Taxes

New Online Inheritance Tax Planner

Principle First has announced the online launch of its unique Inheritance Tax Planner facility. Developed in close consultation with clients, the unique new online tool enables users to calculate their own personal liability for inheritance tax.

Levied at 40%, Inheritance Tax (IHT) is one of the most important taxes to HMRC (The Revenue Commissioners), and swells the taxman’s coffers by billions of pounds every year. The good news though, for many inheritors, is that a good financial adviser can radically cut a person’s IHT liability, in just a few simple steps.

The new Principle First online Inheritance Tax Planner alerts clients to their current Inheritance Tax liability and when used alongside Principle First’s financial planning advice it could enable them to vastly reduce or completely eliminate their exposure to what has been called ‘the most avoidable tax of all’.

The Principle First Inheritance Tax Calculator is an important tool as it helps with the crucial first step in avoiding this most expensive of taxes which is simply knowing how much could be owed.

IHT can apply to parts of a person’s wealth when they pass funds and assets on to their children. It is a relatively simple calculation based on the total assets in their ‘estate’, less debts and liabilities. Despite this, many people fail to take a few minutes to work out their IHT liability, and then take advice on how to reduce it.

The current tax-free allowance, or ‘nil rate band’ for IHT in 2010-11 is £325,000 (£650,000 for a married couple or civil partnership). This amount however covers a wide range of assets which are included as part of an estate. Calculations need to include the value of properties, cars, valuables, savings, investments, and insurances – less the value of any outstanding mortgage, loans and other debts.

By entering these values into the inheritance Tax Planner, in response to a series of simple questions, the user can calculate the value of their estate, and deduct their allowance to show how much of their wealth will be liable to Inheritance Tax. The calculator will then show how much of that they would have to pay in Inheritance Tax at this moment.

Principle First believes the new online tool will prove to be a simple but valuable asset for its clients which could easily help them save thousands of pounds which they would otherwise lose to HMRC.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Checking & Savings, Credit Cards, Financial, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Solutions, Money, Personal Finance

Barclaycard Freedom, One Of The Broadest Rewards Schemes In The UK, Has Been Launched

Barclaycard Freedom, one of the broadest rewards schemes in the UK, has been launched, with over eight million Barclaycard cardholders now able to earn Reward Money for simply using their Barclaycard to buy goods and services in participating outlets. As well as the launch of the scheme, Barclaycard is delighted to announce that Shell has joined Barclaycard Freedom, with over 900 petrol stations across the UK now offering rewards.

Reward Money can be earned at around 30,000 retail outlets across the UK, including big name retailers and brands such as npower and Pizza Express, as well as many small and medium retailers who are able to be part of a rewards scheme for the first time.

Barclaycard cardholders will earn 1% in most participating outlets (0.5% at Shell) alongside other special promotions and discounts in store. Reward Money is recorded in pounds and pence, with no vouchers or coupons to save and no points to calculate. Barclaycard cardholders will be rewarded for simply using their card to make a purchase, with no need to register or receive a new card.

Barclaycard customers making a purchase in most participating retailers will see the value of their Reward Money appear on the card machine before they enter their PIN to pay. They will then be able to redeem some or all of their Reward Money on that transaction, or continue to save up for a future purchase.

Cardholders can search for participating retailers online at barclaycardfreedom.co.uk, or they can text ‘Freedom’ to 67777 to access a list of retailers and offers whilst on the move. Shops that are taking part in the rewards scheme will be clearly visible, with point of sale materials promoting the scheme in store. Cardholders can view their Reward Money account by logging onto mybarclaycard. This will display their current Reward Money balance, list transactions where Reward Money has been earned or redeemed, and display relevant offers.

Melanie Lane, General Manager, Shell UK Retail, said: “At Shell we want our customers to get the most out of every drop of fuel they buy and we believe Barclaycard Freedom will help them to do just that. It is simple and easy to use, which is important for busy people on the move, and we are looking forward to many more Barclaycard customers experiencing our quality fuels whilst earning Reward Money at Shell.”

Sarah Newman, Managing Director of Barclaycard Freedom said: “We are delighted to welcome Shell to Barclaycard Freedom. The range of retailers in Barclaycard Freedom means that our customers can earn Reward Money when they are shopping on the high street, filling up the car, going out for a meal or shopping online. The simplicity of Barclaycard Freedom means that customers earn Reward Money without the need to do anything extra – they simply use their Barclaycard to make a purchase. The beauty of the scheme lies in the fact that Reward Money can then be redeemed on purchases in most retailers and with around 30,000 retail outlets participating from today, the options to redeem are endless.”

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Checking & Savings, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Services, Insurance, Investment, Money, Personal Finance

Report: Early Retirement Threatened Due To Costly Kids

The Children’s Mutual, a leading Child Trust Fund provider, has revealed that millions of parents in Britain are being forced to postpone their retirement to meet the rapidly rising financial burden of supporting their adult children.

Report: Early Retirement Threatened Due To Costly Kids

Research from the award winning Child Trust Fund provider has found 57% of parents of 18 to 30 year olds, say they have no choice but to retire later – with 43% expecting to work up to five years longer than they wanted because of the cost of their ‘adult’ children.

The news is worse for 9.3% of parents who believe they will now be forced to work over a decade longer with some abandoning the dream of retiring altogether.

Initially, 75% of parents planned to retire before they reached 65; now 40% have accepted the fact that they will not retire before the ‘official’ retirement age.

These stark figures show that 79% of parents claim their ability to save for their retirement has been impacted by the unplanned financial support being needed by their offspring – with a third of those (32%) suggesting it has been significant.

David White, Chief Executive at The Children’s Mutual said; “Worryingly, the number of parents getting caught in this middle age parent trap will almost certainly continue to rise – however parents of today’s youngsters can start to plan financially from the outset of having children and in so doing extricate themselves from this cycle.

“It’s clear that the concept of a retirement age will become increasingly fluid and for some it might even become totally irrelevant. It is imperative that we empower parents of today’s youngsters to ensure that their retirement dreams and the hopes for their offspring are not compromised. Investing in Child Trust Funds or other long term savings vehicle from the outset is one way to help ensure that the keel remains even.”

Child Trust Funds are designed to provide a tax efficient, long term savings vehicle for all eligible children. Each eligible newborn child (born on or after 1 September 2002) receives a £250 Child Trust Fund voucher (£500 for low income families) from the government when their parents register for Child Benefit. The government will make a second contribution of £250 (£500 for low income families) when the child reaches seven and is considering a third in the child’s teenage years. Parents, family and friends can all then add to this account up to a maximum value of £1,200 each year.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Banks, Business, Currency, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Software, Financial Solutions, Forex, Investment, Money, Profits, Trading

Saxo Bank Launches Property Investment Products

Saxo Bank, the online trading and investment specialist, will now offer property investment products for both private clients and institutional investors through a new company, Saxo Properties.

Saxo Bank Launches Property Investment Products

The newly formed investment firm Saxo Properties, fully owned by Saxo Bank, will launch closed-ended funds for both high net worth clients and institutional investors. Two of the Danish real estate industry’s most well-known individuals, Jesper Damborg and Claus Klostermann, will respectively become CEO and managing director of investments at Saxo Properties.

“Initially, Saxo Properties will focus on handpicked Copenhagen residential, office and retail properties. The first fund will close within the next three months, but we intend to establish a number of funds with a significant ownership capital of at least DKK 250 million,” said Jesper Damborg.

Saxo Bank’s business model is often described as a facilitator model where the bank through its trading platforms offers liquidity, products and services to clients as obtained from other financial institutions. Saxo Properties will use the same model. Saxo Bank has hired Flemming Schandorff, the former COO of ISS, one of the world’s largest commercial providers of facility services, to a similar position at Saxo Properties to facilitate administration of the estates.

“First and foremost, Saxo Properties will prioritize achieving attractive market returns, but we will also focus on how to capitalize on tight cost control and good management, such as rebuilding, mixed lease and general maintenance,” said Jesper Damborg.

Saxo Bank’s CEOs and founders, Kim Fournais and Lars Seier Christensen, said in a joint statement: “Saxo Bank holds asset under management of DKK 40 billion, and our focus on asset management has proved a great success. Many clients have asked for property investment products and there is also a clear synergy between Saxo Asset Management and Saxo Properties, which we can now utilize. Many properties are traded at a low price especially in Copenhagen, so the timing is right to expand our asset management to include property investment products.”

Last year, Saxo Bank bought Sirius Asset Management, Capital Four and 51 percent of Global Evolution. The three companies now form Saxo Asset Management, which has management expertise for Danish bonds, Danish equities, corporate bonds and emerging market bonds.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Banks, Business, Currency, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Management, Financial Services, Financial Software, Financial Solutions, Forex, Investment, Money, Profits, Trading

Agricote And Saxo Banque France Partner

Saxo Banque France, the online investment and trading specialist, has announced an exclusive partnership with Agricote, the agricultural broker, allowing farmers to manage their selling prices and negotiate agricultural or commodity futures and CFDS online using the award winning SaxoTrader platform.

The partnership with Agricote reflects the evolution of the agricultural industry, and the reality that a new generation of farmers want to control their production and sales, using futures to hedge their output and manage risk. Using SaxoTrader, the partnership enables both producers and buyers to manage market volatility and trade agricultural futures and CFDs online 24 hours a day, with access to 23 stock exchanges.

Commenting on the partnership, Pierre de Perthuis, co-founding partner of Agricote, said: “Our partnership with Saxo Banque will enable farmers to move forward and manage their own production and sales. Farmers no longer want to suffer from the pressures imposed by a volatile market, and seeing farmers taking positions on an online future trading platform is an innovative step forward for the industry. We are very proud to support these pioneers. Farmers are now able to control their destiny”.

Pierre-Antoine Dusoulier, CEO of Saxo Banque France added: “We are pleased to partner with Agricote and acknowledge that the agricultural industry is changing and needs strong support. Agricote was looking for a trusted partner and we met its requirements: Saxo Banque is a perennial French Bank and we have a highly efficient online trading platform and services for fast deployment.”

Main characteristics of the partnership:
– Privileged access to International Futures Markets
– Ability to adopt and implement own marketing strategy
– An appropriate account with user profile
– Trading account access via PC, website or cell phone
– Personalized assistance by Agricote
– A free demo account for 20 days

Farmers will be able to access their online trading platform via a dedicated page on the Agricote website.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases

Assets, Business, Financial, Financial Information, Financial Law, Financial Management, Financial Services, Funds, Investment, Money, Personal Finance

2009 SABEW Award For Mutualfundreform.com

The blog, www.mutualfundreform.com, has won the top award from the Society of American Business Editors and Writers (SABEW) in the best small blog category. The winning award was made as part of the 15th annual Best in Business Journalism competition, recognizing top publications,Web sites and the best business news reporting during 2009.

The blog,  mutualfundreform.com, won the award primarily for its original 7,000-word investigative series into how little-understood mutual fund fees, revenue sharing deals, high commissions paid to wholesalers and different share classes all benefit mutual fund salespeople and executives more than individual shareholders.

2009 SABEW Award For Mutualfundreform.com

The series, written by the site’s creator, Chuck Epstein, shows how these payments create conflicts of interest between shareholders and investment professionals which make it difficult for individual investors to obtain objective financial advice.

Other issues covered on the blog deal with the failure of SEC regulators, and the need for financial professionals to adopt the same fiduciary standards used by institutional investors and pension fund executives.

The site maintains that the need for mutual fund reform is essential since the load mutual fund industry currently has practices in place which essentially work against their own shareholders.

The creator of www.mutualfundreform.com is Chuck Epstein. He has been a senior writer for two large mutual fund companies and also won first place awards from the Mutual Fund Education Association (MFEA) in 2006, 2007, 2008 for writing and editing the best adviser and/or shareholder newsletters in the large-fund class category.

He also has held senior-level marketing positions with the New York Futures Exchange, Chicago Mercantile Exchange, and written by-lined articles for over 50 financial publications.

Via EPR Network
More Financial press releases