http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/?service=Rss http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/julian-knight-be-careful-when-you-wish-for-free-banking-to-end-7791132.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/julian-knight-be-careful-when-you-wish-for-free-banking-to-end-7791132.html <p>'Free banking" is one of the most hackneyed phrases in the language.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 27 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/dangers-lurk-for-investors-in-the-old-safe-havens-7791133.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/dangers-lurk-for-investors-in-the-old-safe-havens-7791133.html ]]> <p>The financial world used to be a more straightforward place. With a little research investors and savers could sift out which products were safe. Money placed in a government bond for instance was a surefire way of protecting your capital while slowly accruing returns, while money in an emerging market fund was a seat-of-the-pants investment play: high risks but potentially high returns. But then came the financial crash in the West along with the developing euro crisis and the lines of what is safe and not so safe have become blurred at best, if not torn asunder.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 27 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/postcode-lottery-over-holiday-cash-rates-7791136.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/postcode-lottery-over-holiday-cash-rates-7791136.html <p>There is a "postcode lottery" over foreign exchange, according to consumer group Which?. </p> Spend & Save Sun, 27 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/wealth-check-debts-are-an-obstacle-to-my-business-ambitions-7791137.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/wealth-check-debts-are-an-obstacle-to-my-business-ambitions-7791137.html <p><b><u>The patient</u></b></p> Spend & Save Sun, 27 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/free-banking-no-youre-just-not-aware-of-the-cost-7789191.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/free-banking-no-youre-just-not-aware-of-the-cost-7789191.html ]]> <p>Are you one of the millions that think they benefit from free banking? Not so, according to banking chief Andrew Bailey. The Bank of England director – who is set to be named boss of the new Prudential Regulatory Authority later this year – warned this week that the notion of free banking is a "myth".</p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-discounts-in-the-bag-at-debenhams-7789192.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-discounts-in-the-bag-at-debenhams-7789192.html <p>Debenhams introduced a fantastic discount on Radley handbags and accessories this week, with 30 per cent off selected ranges online. </p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/cashback-no-longer-on-the-cards-at-barclaycard-7789193.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/cashback-no-longer-on-the-cards-at-barclaycard-7789193.html <p>Anyone who has been collecting Reward Money through Barclaycard's Freedom incentive programme has just two months to use their points. </p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/five-questions-about-the-courier-scam-7789194.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/five-questions-about-the-courier-scam-7789194.html <p><strong>What's that – a new daily paper?</strong></p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/mark-dampier-highflying-financier-is-one-to-watch-for-future-7789195.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/mark-dampier-highflying-financier-is-one-to-watch-for-future-7789195.html <p>I am always on the lookout for younger fund managers who might become the Nigel Thomas or Neil Woodford of tomorrow. Alex Savvides, manager of the JO Hambro UK Dynamic Fund, could be a contender. Few people will have of heard of him, yet he has been running this fund for four years with considerable success, returning around 27 per cent against about 7 per cent for the sector.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/money-insider-firsttime-buyers-need-the-help-of-95-mortgages-7789196.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/money-insider-firsttime-buyers-need-the-help-of-95-mortgages-7789196.html <p>The latest figures released by the Council of Mortgage Lenders made grim reading this week, as it reported new lending was at its lowest for 12 months. It was estimated that £10.2bn was lent in April, almost 20 per cent lower than the March figures which were inflated due to first-time buyers trying to complete their purchases before the stamp duty concession came to an end.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/donald-macinnes-being-moneyminded-isnt-childs-play--well-it-wasnt-for-me-7789197.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/donald-macinnes-being-moneyminded-isnt-childs-play--well-it-wasnt-for-me-7789197.html <p>I suppose few of us are particularly financially organised when we are children, for the simple reason that there is no need for us to be a slave to interest rates while we still talk to our teddies. Especially if they answer us back. Actually, mine still do. Anyway, displaying early monetary acumen is not natural. If we were meant to be fiscally competent at an early age, Pampers would come in pinstripes.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/more-turn-to-the-ombudsman-as-complaints-soar-7789198.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/more-turn-to-the-ombudsman-as-complaints-soar-7789198.html ]]> <p>The Financial Ombudsman Service is expecting aboom in complaints overthe next couple of years as more people, strapped for cash, examine their policies to find out whether they have been mis-sold.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-likely-prospects-in-beers-and-mears-if-plus-is-saved-by-icap-7789199.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-likely-prospects-in-beers-and-mears-if-plus-is-saved-by-icap-7789199.html <p>Many small shareholders and around 150 companies should be delighted that a saviour has materialised for the fringe Plus share market. Mind you, the rescue is not complete with a number of hurdles to be overcome.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-mobile-thief-dialled-up-1700-bill--and-ive-got-to-pay-half-7789200.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-mobile-thief-dialled-up-1700-bill--and-ive-got-to-pay-half-7789200.html <p><strong>Q. I lost my mobile phone on Sunday 11 March. I expected to find it, so only called Orange asking it to block calls on the Tuesday. I was then told the phone had been used by someone else to run up a bill of £1,700. Orange insists that I pay this because I had not reported the loss within 24 hours. </strong></p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/simon-read-we-must-continue-to-keep-a-close-eye-on-the-highcost-lenders-7789201.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/simon-read-we-must-continue-to-keep-a-close-eye-on-the-highcost-lenders-7789201.html <p>There was a small victory this week in our continuing campaign to control the actions of unscrupulous payday lenders.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/spotlight-on-nsis-investment-account-7789202.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/spotlight-on-nsis-investment-account-7789202.html <p><strong>The deal</strong></p> Spend & Save Sat, 26 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/call-to-end-free-bank-accounts-7784571.html http://www.independent.co.uk/news/business/news/call-to-end-free-bank-accounts-7784571.html <p>Banks must be told to stop offering free current accounts if Britain wants to stamp out mis-selling scandals, a senior regulator said today.</p> Business News Thu, 24 May 2012 16:30:12 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/supermarkets-accused-of-ripping-off-shoppers-with-misleading-offers-7782515.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/supermarkets-accused-of-ripping-off-shoppers-with-misleading-offers-7782515.html ]]> <p>Shoppers who think they save money by buying in bulk may actually be paying more, according to an investigation exposing a variety of "misleading" supermarket offers.</p> Spend & Save Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/energy-reforms-could-leave-hardup-consumers-with-higher-electricity-bills-7781511.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/energy-reforms-could-leave-hardup-consumers-with-higher-electricity-bills-7781511.html <p>Hard-up consumers could be hit by higher electricity bills if major government energy reforms are adopted, experts have warned.</p> Spend & Save Wed, 23 May 2012 10:10:21 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/cooperative-energy-votes-to-share-profits-with-customers-7777795.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/cooperative-energy-votes-to-share-profits-with-customers-7777795.html <p>While the Big Six energy firms face growing accusations of profiteering at the expense of vulnerable families, a 12-month-old ethical supplier is sharing profits with its customers.</p> Spend & Save Tue, 22 May 2012 09:53:33 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/technology-stocks-time-to-party-like-its-1999-7768513.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/technology-stocks-time-to-party-like-its-1999-7768513.html ]]> <p>Technology investment is back with a bang. Facebook's float is just the latest in what is a lengthening line of exciting companies coming to market at what seem huge valuations. Investors, it seems, are being asked to party like it's 1999 all over again, back when everything technology glittered.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 20 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/brits-in-stampede-to-snap-up-euros-as-pound-soars-7768514.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/brits-in-stampede-to-snap-up-euros-as-pound-soars-7768514.html <p>Currency exchanges have seen a surge in Brits buying euros as the pound rises to a three-and-a-half-year high against the single currency. Travelex for instance has seen online sales of the euro rise by 290 per cent year-on-year since the latest round of eurozone turmoil.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 20 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/investment-insider-beware-flotations-at-wonderful-prices-7768518.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/investment-insider-beware-flotations-at-wonderful-prices-7768518.html ]]> <p>A recent survey conducted among Motley Fool users ahead of the Facebook listing revealed that investors with less than one year's investing experience were twice as likely to invest in the flotation of Facebook as investors with more than 20 years of know-how under their belt.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 20 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-perversely-many-small-caps-are-still-left-out-in-the-cold-7766808.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-perversely-many-small-caps-are-still-left-out-in-the-cold-7766808.html <p>Earlier this year there were high hopes that the persecution of small caps was coming to an end. There was a sudden outbreak of enthusiasm and the stock market undercard looked more lively than it had for a long time.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:58 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/money-insider-personal-loans--to-pay-less-just-borrow-more-7766832.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/money-insider-personal-loans--to-pay-less-just-borrow-more-7766832.html ]]> <p>If you're seeking finance to help with the cost of your home improvements or perhaps to change thefamily car, a personal loan from your bank or building society is often the first port of call.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:51 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-wine-and-clothes-in-huge-ms-sale-7766847.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-wine-and-clothes-in-huge-ms-sale-7766847.html <p>Marks &amp; Spencer is in the midst of a huge in-store and online sale, with discounts available at over 450 stores, including 150 M&amp;S Simply Foods. </p> Spend & Save Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:49 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/simon-read-dont-panic-about-the-euro-crisis-but-do-take-stock-of-savings-7766882.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/simon-read-dont-panic-about-the-euro-crisis-but-do-take-stock-of-savings-7766882.html <p>Finances have hit the news headlines again this week as the continuing euro crisis sent shock waves across stock markets and served as a sharp reminder of the tough times of the disastrous banking collapses of 2008.</p> Money Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:44 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/donald-macinnes-there-are-worse-jobs-than-being-a-sportorientated-peacemaker-7766842.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/donald-macinnes-there-are-worse-jobs-than-being-a-sportorientated-peacemaker-7766842.html <p>Yes, I know I promised I would deliver an answer this week to the ongoing tension in the West Bank (in three easy steps including a cross-border badminton round robin), but events have conspired to render this unlikely. After my comments last week about the survival or otherwise of a certain football team in Glasgow, I received quite a few emails calling me bad names and questioning my personal development.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:26 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-left-in-tears-by-wrangle-over-medical-bills-7766829.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-left-in-tears-by-wrangle-over-medical-bills-7766829.html <p><strong>Q.</strong> I went to a medical centre in August last year with varicose veins. Although my vein was pumping blood the wrong way, I was told that an operation to treat it was no longer available through the NHS.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/mark-dampier-china-domestic-focus-has-not-reduced-the-potential-7766793.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/mark-dampier-china-domestic-focus-has-not-reduced-the-potential-7766793.html ]]> <p>I recently spent five days in China with the renowned fund manager Anthony Bolton. We went to three major cities, Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai, visiting 18 companies most of which he owns in his Fidelity China Special Situations Trust. It was a most insightful trip, which highlighted both the opportunities and the risks of investing in China.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 19 May 2012 00:00:00 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/energy-bills-140-per-cent-higher-than-in-2004-7763810.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/energy-bills-140-per-cent-higher-than-in-2004-7763810.html <p>The cost of energy is climbing five times faster than household incomes, figures show. Earnings have typically risen by 20 per cent since 2004, but average home energy bills soared by 140 per cent. </p> Spend & Save Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/government-accused-of-abandoning-poor-families-by-slashing-fuel-poverty-spending-7757980.html http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/government-accused-of-abandoning-poor-families-by-slashing-fuel-poverty-spending-7757980.html <p>The Government has been accused of turning its back on hard-up families by slashing spending on fuel poverty.</p> UK Politics Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:44 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/be-prepared-for-the-job-axe-to-fall-7742229.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/be-prepared-for-the-job-axe-to-fall-7742229.html <p>Whichever way you slice it, the outlook for employment is getting bleaker. Last week the Centre for Economics and Business Research said that the long-standing official prediction for joblessness was way short of the mark and that by 2016, we could see three million-plus out of work. A gloomy prospect indeed but if you have a financial safety net in place, you and your family can prepare for the worst.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:41 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/julian-knight-drop-in-storecard-use-proves-public-is-credit-savvy-7742108.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/julian-knight-drop-in-storecard-use-proves-public-is-credit-savvy-7742108.html <p>There is an attitude in this country that consumers are perennial victims, unable to make correct decisions and forever being hoodwinked by clever marketeers. Take the select committee discussions on payday lending, for instance, which possessed no understanding of the fundamental point that if there wasn't a demand for short-term lending it wouldn't exist.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/revolt-join-in-the-shareholder-spring-7742109.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/revolt-join-in-the-shareholder-spring-7742109.html ]]> <p>It may not be the storming of the Winter Palace but there is a whiff of revolution in the air. Boards of some of the UK's biggest companies, used to having their bumper bonuses and pay awards simply nodded through at their company's annual meetings, have been rocked by shareholder revolts. The bosses of failing companies, and even some seemingly well-run companies, are being called to task about the pay they award themselves.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/blackrock-launches-range-of-european-debt-funds-7742110.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/blackrock-launches-range-of-european-debt-funds-7742110.html <p>BlackRock has launched eight exchange-traded funds (ETFs) investing in the sovereign debt of single European countries, at a time when the future of the eurozone is in deep crisis. </p> Spend & Save Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/payday-lenders-failing-to-properly-record-borrowers-credit-history-7742111.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/payday-lenders-failing-to-properly-record-borrowers-credit-history-7742111.html <p>The payday lending industry has been accused of not making enough checks to ensure it is lending responsibly. Credit reference agency Equifax has issued an alert that some payday lenders are failing to record all their lending transactions. This means that when other lenders come to check the credit files of applicants they may not be seeing all clients' borrowings. </p> Spend & Save Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/brits-put-baby-plans-on-hold-as-confidence-dips-7742112.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/brits-put-baby-plans-on-hold-as-confidence-dips-7742112.html <p>Four in 10 couples have shelved plans to start a family because they can't afford it, according to research from the Skipton Building Society. </p> Spend & Save Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/wealth-check-how-can-we-put-a-bit-aside-to-enjoy-luxuries-7742113.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/wealth-check-how-can-we-put-a-bit-aside-to-enjoy-luxuries-7742113.html <p><strong>The patient</strong></p> Spend & Save Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/keep-cool-in-the-heat-of-an-auction-and-bag-a-bargain-7742114.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/keep-cool-in-the-heat-of-an-auction-and-bag-a-bargain-7742114.html <p>The auction rooms are again abuzz with activity, with the industry monitor the Essential Information Group reporting a 12 per cent year-on-year increase in the number of lots coming under the hammer. Normally busy auction rooms are a sign of ill times in the property market – desperate sellers and bargain-hungry cash buyers meeting. This time around, though, the story is more complex.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 13 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-natwest-ignored-me-over-old-account-7737779.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-natwest-ignored-me-over-old-account-7737779.html <p><strong>Q. Both my parents have passed away. While undertaking the house clearance I came across a National Provincial bank account book in my name. It was opened for me at the age of eight and clearly intended for me to benefit when older. The bank book shows over £800 and there is no record of any withdrawals. </strong></p> Spend & Save Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-small-shareholders-will-be-the-losers-in-rbs-consolidation-7737781.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-small-shareholders-will-be-the-losers-in-rbs-consolidation-7737781.html <p>Share consolidations have much to commend them – but sometimes they can be disastrous for small shareholders. The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) is the latest to indulge in a revamp that will transform its low-price shares – more or less in the penny-dreadful category – to rather more heavyweight components of the stock market.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/spotlight-on-close-brothers-premium-gold-7737783.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/spotlight-on-close-brothers-premium-gold-7737783.html <p><strong>The deal</strong></p> Spend & Save Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/tesco-bond-doesnt-offer-supermarket-savings-7737784.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/tesco-bond-doesnt-offer-supermarket-savings-7737784.html ]]> <p>Tesco Bank is offering a tempting, 5 per cent a year until 2020 in its latest offering.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/ben-yearsley-highrisk-but-blackrock-could-prove-a-gold-mine-7737785.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/ben-yearsley-highrisk-but-blackrock-could-prove-a-gold-mine-7737785.html <p>The reining-in of bank lending over the last few years has led to some interesting opportunities in unexpected areas. Prior to the global financial crisis banks happily leant to all and sundry at low interest rates, leveraging balance sheets to ridiculouslevels. However, intent on rebuilding capital, banks are now taking the opposite attitude, refusing to lend on anything other than stringent terms to extremely well-capitalised companies for low-risk projects. This has affected all kinds of sectors, and innovative fund managers could be well placed to capitalise.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/five-questions-about-foreign-currency-7737786.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/five-questions-about-foreign-currency-7737786.html <p><strong>What's happening with the exchange rate?</strong></p> Spend & Save Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/donald-macinnes-why-i-wouldnt-cry-if-my-former-team-rangers-went-under-7737788.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/donald-macinnes-why-i-wouldnt-cry-if-my-former-team-rangers-went-under-7737788.html <p>I don't understand the complex economic narrative unfolding in my home city, whereby Glasgow Rangers football club fights for its life after years of financial stewardship which can only be described as "Greek". As words like "broke", "soup kitchen" and "jail" get bandied around, with me being a former Rangers fan, you'd think I would spend my days crying at the kitchen table. But this will never happen. Why? Because we don't have a kitchen table. And as I allow that revelation to sink into your conscious minds, like a welly in a swamp, I should probably explain why I am a "former" fan.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/digital-can-pay-off-for-charity-7737800.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/digital-can-pay-off-for-charity-7737800.html ]]> <p>When Phil Szomszor decided to run the Hastings Half Marathon in memory of his beloved mum, Brenda, he used his knowledge of social media to maximise donations to St Michael's Hospice, a local charity that cared for her in the last weeks of her battle with cancer.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-cutprice-kitchens-with-television-deals-7737777.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-cutprice-kitchens-with-television-deals-7737777.html <p>If you're looking for a television to keep up-to-date with this summer's sporting and cultural events, look no further than Wren Kitchens. </p> Spend & Save Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/does-coop-deal-look-tempting-to-energy-switchers-7737778.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/does-coop-deal-look-tempting-to-energy-switchers-7737778.html ]]> <p>Co-operative Energy emerged yesterday as winner of the much-heralded Big Switch campaign launched by Which? and 38 Degrees.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 12 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/british-gas-owner-centrica-warns-of-rising-costs-7736599.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/british-gas-owner-centrica-warns-of-rising-costs-7736599.html <p>Households were facing the prospect of more price hikes today after British Gas owner Centrica warned its costs continued to mount.</p> Spend & Save Fri, 11 May 2012 09:00:48 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/inflation-higher-for-poor-families-7736603.html http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/inflation-higher-for-poor-families-7736603.html <p>The cost of living has been rising more quickly for the poorest households as a result of higher energy and food bills, according to new research. </p> Home News Fri, 11 May 2012 07:59:21 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/holidaymakers-benefit-from-eurozone-uncertainty-7723110.html http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/holidaymakers-benefit-from-eurozone-uncertainty-7723110.html <p>Holidaymakers travelling to eurozone countries are getting the best value for money in three-and-a-half years amid the continuing eurozone crisis.</p> Home News Tue, 08 May 2012 16:57:44 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/grab-holiday-cash-as-sun-shines-on-pound-7717281.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/grab-holiday-cash-as-sun-shines-on-pound-7717281.html ]]> <p>With the pound strengthening against the euro, now might be a good time for Brits to lock into a good rate ahead of their summer holiday.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 06 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/uk-funds-a-home-win-is-not-guaranteed-7717282.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/uk-funds-a-home-win-is-not-guaranteed-7717282.html ]]> <p>The adage "there's no place like home" is one used in many walks of life, but it can also be applied to lots of people when it comes to investing. Many of us feel more comfortable putting our cash to work in familiar UK companies rather than those based overseas, but with economic growth remaining sluggish, it is crucial to be selective over what you buy to gain the highest returns.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 06 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/be-quick-off-the-mark-to-land-best-isa-offers-7717283.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/be-quick-off-the-mark-to-land-best-isa-offers-7717283.html ]]> <p>We may be a month into the new tax year but if you haven't found a home for your savings the sooner you act, the better.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 06 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/investment-insider-dont-sell-in-may-if--you-want-to-reap-your-dividends-7717285.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/investment-insider-dont-sell-in-may-if--you-want-to-reap-your-dividends-7717285.html ]]> <p>According to an old stock market adage, May signals the time of year when we should sell our shares and go away. The rest of that old saying tells us not to return until St Leger Day (in September).</p> Spend & Save Sun, 06 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/believe-it-or-not-europe-could-be-a-winner-for-investors-7715703.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/believe-it-or-not-europe-could-be-a-winner-for-investors-7715703.html ]]> <p>Europe hasn't been popular with investors for some time. The reasons are obvious. The eurozone was in a precarious state long before the first European Central Bank bailout two years ago. Since then it has lurched from one crisis to the next, with Spain and Italy now creating the most financial concerns.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-early-payment-meant-extra-tax-on-annuity--and-im-out-of-pocket-7715704.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-early-payment-meant-extra-tax-on-annuity--and-im-out-of-pocket-7715704.html <p><strong>Q. I receive a small monthly annuity from Clerical Medical, paying £423.02 gross, £406.02 net. I received two payments in March, because my April payment date was a bank holiday. </strong></p> Spend & Save Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/money-insider-rates-may-be-low-but-dont-give-up-the-savings-habit-7715705.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/money-insider-rates-may-be-low-but-dont-give-up-the-savings-habit-7715705.html <p>It is more than three years since the Monetary Policy Committee slashed base rate to 0.50 per cent to try and get the UK economy moving again, but it appears we have made little headway in that time and now find ourselves back in recession.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/donald-macinnes-its-not-asking-for-the-moon-if-you-get-paid-in-old-newspapers-7715706.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/donald-macinnes-its-not-asking-for-the-moon-if-you-get-paid-in-old-newspapers-7715706.html <p>Excuse my beginning with such a personal question, but are you worth your salary? You certainly don't need to answer, but I only ask because of two things which happened this week. The first was that, due to a piece I wrote a few weeks ago bemoaning the lack of spending on the US space programme, I was offered the chance to interview an actual Apollo astronaut; someone who has walked on the Moon.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/simon-read-making-hundreds-of-pounds-in-a-couple-of-hours-is-childs-play-7715709.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/simon-read-making-hundreds-of-pounds-in-a-couple-of-hours-is-childs-play-7715709.html <p>I appeared on BBC1's consumer programme Watchdog last week talking about outrageously high admin charges on insurance policies and others.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/mark-dampier-let-lyons-trojan-fund-time-the-stock-market-for-you-7717257.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/mark-dampier-let-lyons-trojan-fund-time-the-stock-market-for-you-7717257.html <p>Stock markets are not currently rewarding a buy and hold approach to investing. It is not the first time this has been the case. Between 1967 and 1982 the Dow Jones Industrial Average went nowhere. </p> Spend & Save Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-whitbreads--new-shape-is-riding-out-recession-in-style-7717258.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-whitbreads--new-shape-is-riding-out-recession-in-style-7717258.html <p>Whitbread continues to defy the bears. In the nearly four years that the hospitality group has been a constituent of the No Pain, No Gain portfolio, detractors have never been far away. In the earlier days of its membership their great fear was that it would be unable to resist the gathering recessionary influences. More recently some have been unimpressed by the group's numbers.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-iphone-4s--plus-ms-vouchers-7715701.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-iphone-4s--plus-ms-vouchers-7715701.html <p>Three, the UK's fastest-growing mobile network, has teamed up with the mobile phone news and price comparison website Recombu to provide a fantastic offer on the iPhone 4S. </p> Spend & Save Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/ben-chu-what-went-wrong-in-the-eurozone-and-why-didnt-bailouts-fix-it-7715702.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/ben-chu-what-went-wrong-in-the-eurozone-and-why-didnt-bailouts-fix-it-7715702.html <p>Greece had to be bailed out by the European Union and the International Monetary Fund two years ago because it had lost the confidence of the private financial markets.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 05 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/mandelson-kicks-off-new-proeuro-campaign-7712259.html http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/mandelson-kicks-off-new-proeuro-campaign-7712259.html ]]> <p>Britain should eventually join the euro to avoid being frozen out in the "EU mark two" that will emerge, Lord Mandelson will argue today.</p> UK Politics Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-personal-finance-apps-7707377.html http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/features/the-10-best-personal-finance-apps-7707377.html ]]> <p><strong>1. UK Salary Calculator</strong></p> Features Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/dont-be-fooled-by-a-scammer-7687189.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/dont-be-fooled-by-a-scammer-7687189.html ]]> <p>Open a letter, an email from a stranger or pick up the phone and you are in a scammer's the line of fire. Conservative estimates suggest that hundreds of thousands of Britons fall prey each year to cons and the result is always the same: You lose, the criminal wins.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/taking-a-mobile-and-a-wallet-to-the-shops-7687191.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/taking-a-mobile-and-a-wallet-to-the-shops-7687191.html ]]> <p>Making payments on the move and at the touch of a button isn't the future of banking; it's already here. Mobile phone providers have been quick to focus on finding new ways for customers to access financial services and products from their phones.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/stockpickers-can-now-follow-the-star-managers-7687192.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/stockpickers-can-now-follow-the-star-managers-7687192.html ]]> <p>Remember playing follow-the-leader in the playground? Did you know you can do the same thing as a stockmarket investor? That's precisely what a new site, Stockopedia, launched this week promises to help you do. It looks at what some of the best investors would do in a given sceanrio and then follow them, hopefully to riches.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/wealth-check-can-we-prepare-for-an-income-fall-during-teacher-training-7687194.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/wealth-check-can-we-prepare-for-an-income-fall-during-teacher-training-7687194.html <p><b><u>The patient</u></b></p> Spend & Save Sun, 29 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/mark-dampier-smaller-companies-often-pay-off-especially-in-asia-7685297.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/mark-dampier-smaller-companies-often-pay-off-especially-in-asia-7685297.html <p>Investing in smaller companies can be an exciting, if a somewhat bumpy, ride. Yet it often leads to long-term outperformance. This has been the case not only for the UK, where there are some excellent smaller companies fund managers, but also around the globe.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-refund-runaround-after-air-passenger-fell-ill-7685298.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-refund-runaround-after-air-passenger-fell-ill-7685298.html <p><strong>Q. </strong>My brother-in-law had to cancel a trip to Canada when he was diagnosed with acute leukaemia last September – he is still seriously ill in hospital. He has asked me to obtain a refund on his air ticket.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/money-insider-play-your-cards-right-and-have-a-cheaper-holiday-7685299.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/money-insider-play-your-cards-right-and-have-a-cheaper-holiday-7685299.html <p>With the summer holiday season fast approaching, it's a good time to look at the charges you can incur when using your plastic abroad. Debit and credit cards may be a secure and convenient way to pay when you're away from the UK on holiday, but the associated fees and charges can vary considerably, so it's worth getting to grips with these before you head off for your summer break.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/donald-macinnes-im-almost-as-extravagant-as-an-eighties-pop-star-7685301.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/donald-macinnes-im-almost-as-extravagant-as-an-eighties-pop-star-7685301.html <p>Who's the stingiest person you know? I have no doubt that, as soon as you read those words, someone sprang to mind; someone who would rather crawl naked across the floor of the monkey enclosure at the zoo than pay one penny more than they absolutely had to.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/half-of-over50s-will-be-forced-to-work-until-age-77-7685302.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/half-of-over50s-will-be-forced-to-work-until-age-77-7685302.html ]]> <p>If you're over-50 and looking forward to a wealthy retirement, think again. Chances are you'll be forced to work for 11 years after reaching your state pension age if you want to keep up a decent standard of living.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-plus-markets-fans-have-fingers-crossed--for-a-new-beginning-7685303.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-plus-markets-fans-have-fingers-crossed--for-a-new-beginning-7685303.html <p>the destiny of Plus, the City's struggling fringe share market, should be resolved in the next few weeks. It looks as though the parent company, the AIM-traded Plus Markets Group (PMG), will succumb to a takeover bid or at least attract one or more investors to give it more firepower.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/watchdog-gives-last-rites-to-highrisk-death-bonds-7685307.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/watchdog-gives-last-rites-to-highrisk-death-bonds-7685307.html <p>Traded life policy investments should not be promoted to normal investors, the City Watchdog has ruled. </p> Spend & Save Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/dig-out-the-dirt-to-avoid-any-nasty-surprises-when-investing-in-a-company-7685326.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/dig-out-the-dirt-to-avoid-any-nasty-surprises-when-investing-in-a-company-7685326.html ]]> <p>Shareholders are in revolt. Not only are they angry about the salary packages of executives, but also with the level of bonuses being awarded and the general attitude being displayed.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-lovefilms-free-30day-dvd-trial-7685296.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-lovefilms-free-30day-dvd-trial-7685296.html <p>Rainy weekend? Why not spend it curled up in front of the latest DVD releases? Lovefilm is offering a free, 30-day trial, plus a £15 John Lewis voucher, to all new members. There are no late fees or long-term contracts with Lovefilm, which provides free, first-class post for Britain's largest range of DVDs, blu-rays and video games, as well as instant television, laptop, iPad, Playstation and Xbox downloads. Visit <a href="http://ind.pn/IGWfG1" target="_blank">http://ind.pn/IGWfG1</a> for details.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 28 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/fsa-to-contact-people-listed-in-fraudsters-phone-books-7675615.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/fsa-to-contact-people-listed-in-fraudsters-phone-books-7675615.html <p>Nearly 80,000 people who feature in fraudsters' "phone books" are to be contacted by the City watchdog in the biggest operation of its kind. </p> Spend & Save Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:25:57 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/dont-let-golds-glitter-fool-you-into-believing-its-infallible-7668102.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/dont-let-golds-glitter-fool-you-into-believing-its-infallible-7668102.html ]]> <p>If you think gold is one of the few places left to get decent returns, think again. Gold is often touted as a “safe-haven” and as one of the best ways to protect the value of your money against rising prices, but you could be in for a shock if you're betting the price of the precious metal will carry on rising.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:50 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/worlds-first-winmarket-launched-in-uk-7668110.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/worlds-first-winmarket-launched-in-uk-7668110.html <p>A new loyalty shopping website has launched today but instead of paying points to set against goods, Yipiii offers users the chance to win items they are interested in purchasing for free.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:42 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/seven-financial-ages-of-man-7668109.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/seven-financial-ages-of-man-7668109.html ]]> <p>We Britons are an ambitious lot, wanting to achieve all of our key life goals in just 20 years, from getting our first job at 18 to reaching the peak of our careers by age 39, according to a new Aviva report, Times of our Lives.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:28 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/why-pay-to-have-your-council-tax-band-checked-do-it-for-free-7668100.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/why-pay-to-have-your-council-tax-band-checked-do-it-for-free-7668100.html ]]> <p>No win, no fee claims management firms are increasingly targeting the council tax regime with the aim of gathering large fees. These firms, often posing as "consumer champions", are writing and cold-calling householders to try to persuade them to sign up to their council tax rebate services. But the services on offer aren't anything you can't take on alone ... or for free.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:17 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/as-the-bank-fiddles-with-qe-saversare-getting-burned-7668101.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/as-the-bank-fiddles-with-qe-saversare-getting-burned-7668101.html <p>Surprise, surprise: when you print about £325bn of new money you get higher inflation. Who'd have thunk it, eh? The Romans knew that too much money chasing too few goods means rising prices, but it's a lesson that the Bank of England, mad keen on its quantitative easing splurge, seems unwilling to accept. Last month prices again overshot forecasts and, as anyone who keeps an eye on their weekly shop knows, the real rate of inflation that impacts on our daily lives feels greater than three and a bit per cent.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:14 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/consumer-rights-qa-im-relieved-my-flat-may-be-repossessed-7668104.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/consumer-rights-qa-im-relieved-my-flat-may-be-repossessed-7668104.html ]]> <p> </p> Spend & Save Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:07 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/that-olympic-ideal-rental-is-far-from-home-and-dry-7668112.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/that-olympic-ideal-rental-is-far-from-home-and-dry-7668112.html ]]> <p>With fewer than 100 days to go to the Olympic opening ceremony there are real concerns that property owners in London and other host cities are pricing themselves out of rentals or have unrealistic ideas as to the prices to charge and the work that short-term letting entails.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:06 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/ignore-the-hubbub-tesco-can-still-be-a-major-income-play-7668103.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/ignore-the-hubbub-tesco-can-still-be-a-major-income-play-7668103.html <p>So Tesco's crown as the UK's most successful retailer has slipped. The past quarter brought the first fall in UK profits for decades and headlines this week cried out that the once mighty retail juggernaut has been stopped in its tracks.</p> Spend & Save Sun, 22 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-procrastination-can-sometimes-be-the-way-to-good-luck-7665984.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/derek-pain-procrastination-can-sometimes-be-the-way-to-good-luck-7665984.html <p>Investment and luck have an uncomfortably close relationship. Once again I have experienced good fortune by managing to avoid Healthcare Locums, the medical recruiter that is currently in the critical care ward. It was only a few years ago that I almost added the shares to the No Pain, No Gain portfolio. But while I dallied the price soared into the stratosphere, prompting a re-think. </p> Spend & Save Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/simon-read-silent-telephone-calls-fine-should-persuade-firms-to-cut-them-out-7665985.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/simon-read-silent-telephone-calls-fine-should-persuade-firms-to-cut-them-out-7665985.html <p>Silent calls are a real menace. They can frighten people, especially those who live on their own. But they are also really annoying. I can't be alone in having rushed to answer a ringing phone only to be left fuming when there's no one there.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/spotlight-on-np-nostrings-savings-account-7665986.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/spotlight-on-np-nostrings-savings-account-7665986.html <p><strong>The deal</strong></p> Spend & Save Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/does-sterling-rise-mean-its-time-to-get-currency-7665987.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/does-sterling-rise-mean-its-time-to-get-currency-7665987.html ]]> <p>The pound this week climbed to a 19-month high against the euro. By Thursday, you could get 1.22 euros for £1, a level not reached since August 2010.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/fsa-warning-share-scamsters-getting-busier-7665988.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/fsa-warning-share-scamsters-getting-busier-7665988.html <p>Boiler room fraudsters were busier than ever last year, reports Simon Read. According to new statistics from the Financial Services Authority, the number of reports the City watchdog received about the share fraud grew by a fifth last year.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/worrying-about-money-could-be-costing-you-dear-7665989.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/worrying-about-money-could-be-costing-you-dear-7665989.html <p>Are you spending too much time worrying about your finances, rather than doing anything about improving them? Three-quarters of people worry about their money at least once a year – at the cost of actually doing anything to improve their situation.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-debenhams-blue-cross-sale--seven-dials-shopping-evening--sosolo-sale--free-accounting-tool-from-crunchcouk-7665975.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/the-bargain-hunter-debenhams-blue-cross-sale--seven-dials-shopping-evening--sosolo-sale--free-accounting-tool-from-crunchcouk-7665975.html <p> </p> Spend & Save Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/mark-dampier-funds-should-benefit-as-us-looks-further-ahead-7665977.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/mark-dampier-funds-should-benefit-as-us-looks-further-ahead-7665977.html <p>The American sector seems to be a graveyard for fund managers in the UK. Given the size and dynamism of the American economy you might expect a decent number of good-quality funds to invest with.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/it-pays-to-keep-an-eye-on-fund-fees-7665978.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/it-pays-to-keep-an-eye-on-fund-fees-7665978.html ]]> <p>When you look at how an investment has performed, it's very easy to focus solely on how much it has generated – but equally important is keeping an eye on the associated costs because these can easily wipe out any profit that has been made.</p> Spend & Save Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100 http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-mistaken-diy-charge-has-cost-my-husband-499--not-499-7665979.html http://www.independent.co.uk/money/spend-save/questions-of-cash-mistaken-diy-charge-has-cost-my-husband-499--not-499-7665979.html <p><strong>Q. My husband checked his bank statement for January and February and found a debit for £499.99. He had no knowledge of this, so contacted his bank, Lloyds TSB. They confirmed that a transaction had been made with his PIN number and that it was to do with a DIY purchase. </strong></p> Spend & Save Sat, 21 Apr 2012 00:00:01 +0100