The Halifax has so far reunited holders of accounts that have been forgotten about with over GBP16.5 million of their savings since starting its campaign earlier this year.
Over 7,200 people have had money paid to them by the Halifax since February this year, working out at an average of over GBP2,300 per person. The process began by looking at 25,000 dormant savings accounts, some of which had considerable sums in them. A spokesman from the Halifax said that over two thirds of the accounts that held more than GBP50,000 had been accounted for and the funds passed on to the owners.
The Halifax will continue with the remainder of the accounts but also introduce another 150,000 into the mix, worth another GBP30 million. Customers do not have to do anything, since the Halifax are searching for the owners. However it could speed up the process to get in touch with them should you have an account like this.
A new capital account has been launched by Zurich Insurance, called the Green Guaranteed Account. It offers returns based on stock market investments into green businesses.
The RBS Green Index lists only those organisations operating in the environmentally friendly categories, such as biotechnology, solar power, wind and water power etc. Investors in the Zurich Insurance account will have their capital protected whilst being in line for 100 percent of growth enjoyed within the sector.
A spokesman from Zurich Insurance felt this Green Guaranteed Account was ideal for investors who wanted to support the environment whilst earning a return on their investment.
Abbey National is about to introduce some new investment bonds, including ones specifically for children, the over 50s and also a fixed rate option.
The fixed rate bond pays interest at 6 percent per annum gross over a 12 month period while the over 50 year old only deal offers 6.1 percent for the 3 year term. The child bond also pays 6.1 percent, but over a four year period. An Abbey National spokesman said that these offers were excellent and highlighted the excellent value for money savers can currently get with their investments.
What is also important, said the representative of the Abbey National, is the security and peace of mind provided by an organisation the size of the Abbey, part of the giant Santander Group.