Savings

LHV Bank – 1 Year Fixed Rate Bond

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

“LHV Bank has increased the rate on its 1 Year Fixed Rate Bond this week by 0.20%. Now paying 4.40% AER on its maturity, the rise improves its position within its sector. The deal may appeal to savers searching for a guaranteed return, but as is common with a fixed rate bond, earlier access and further additions are not permitted. On assessment, the deal earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

• Rate: 4.40% gross / 4.40% AER payable on maturity
• Notice / term: One year
• Minimum opening amount: £1,000
• Maximum investment amount: £1 million
• Access: Not permitted
• Further additions: Not permitted
• Opening account: Via its mobile app
• Managing account: Via its mobile app
• Other information: Minimum applicant age 18.

Mortgages

Virgin Money – Two-year fixed rate mortgage, 95% loan-to-value

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

“Virgin Money has reduced several of its fixed rate offerings within its ‘everyday’ range, including the two-year fixed rate option at 95% loan-to-value. The deal has seen a 0.10% drop and is now priced at 4.99% until December 2027. First-time buyers with a limited deposit may find this an enticing deal as it does not charge any product fees and comes with an attractive incentive package which includes a free valuation and £300 cashback. Borrowers may also note that overpayments and payment holidays are permitted subject to arrangement, which may be a bonus. As such, this strengthens the deal’s position as a Moneyfacts 'Best Buy', and earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

• Rate: 4.99% fixed rate to 1.12.27
• Product fee: None
• Maximum loan-to-value: 95%
• Available to: First-time buyers
• Incentives: Free valuation and £300 cashback
• Flexible features: Allows overpayments and payment holidays
• Lending area: Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

Cards

Barclaycard – Platinum 35 Month Balance Transfer Visa

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

“The latest update from Barclaycard sees it increase the 0% introductory balance transfer term to 35 months on its newly named Platinum 35 Month Balance Transfer Visa card. The increase makes it one of the best cards on the market for customers looking to transfer debt over a longer period. The introductory balance transfer fee remains at 3.45%, and while lower rates are available elsewhere, borrowers can also benefit from 0% on purchases for three months. However, it is worth noting that transfers must be made within the first 60 days. Furthermore, borrowers can expect to receive a range of lifestyle perks, including exclusive presale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices and up to 15% cashback from selected retailers with Barclaycard Cashback Rewards. On assessment, the card earns an Outstanding Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

• Introductory rate for purchases: 0% for three months
• Introductory rate for balance transfers: 0% for 35 months
• Standard rate for purchases: 24.9% APR
• Balance transfer fee: 3.45% as an introductory charge during the first two months from account opening. Standard fee quoted on application. Balance must be transferred within 60 days
• Card fee: None
• Opening method: Online, by phone and in branch
• Card management: Online, by phone, by post, in branch and via its mobile app
• Other information: Minimum age 21. Minimum income £20,000pa. Buy tickets for up to 3,500 selected live events through Barclaycard entertainment and get 5% off tickets per year and exclusive presale tickets on selected festivals with 10% off ticket prices. Save 10% on food and drink at all UK O2 Academy venues. Earn up to 15% cashback at selected retailers with Barclaycard Cashback Rewards.

Banking

Santander – Edge Explorer current account

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

“This week Santander has launched its brand new Edge Explorer current account. Customers can get a range of benefits for £17 a month, including worldwide travel insurance, breakdown cover, mobile phone insurance and up to £10 in cashback on selected household bills. This may be an appealing option for customers who travel frequently. Adding to its appeal, customers who switch to the account can receive four months interest-free on their arranged overdraft. This may be an appealing option for customers who travel frequently. As the account has a large monthly fee, it is crucial that consumers are sure that they will make the most of all its features. Overall, the account earns an Excellent Moneyfacts product rating.”

Key product details:

• Credit interest / reward: None
• Cashback on debit card purchases: Cashback of 1% on debit card spend at transport and grocery merchants, capped at £10 per month.
• Account fee: £17
• Arranged overdraft: 39.94% EAR. Interest-free for four months on switched current accounts
• Opening account: Online, by phone, or via its mobile app
• Managing account: Online, by phone, in branch, mobile app, by post, at the Post Office and via its mobile app
• Other information: Minimum applicant age 18. Eligible for linked Savings Pots. Sign up for Santander Boosts to receive cashback, vouchers, offers and prize draws from selected retailers. Customer must be signed up to online and mobile banking to qualify.