Late last week Citibank warned the markets that more big writedowns were expected in quarter 2. They are also looking at more credit losses in the face of what they called unprecedented conditions in the market.
Following the announcement shares on the NYSE fell by over 4 percent, recovering by the end of trading though still down 1 percent. The markets have already seen disappointing results from other major financial players, leading many to feel that the credit crunch is going to hurt companies for some time to come. Citibank made a lot of their money in the sub-prime lending market so have been hit hard by the meltdown in this area.
As well as the mortgage difficulties they experienced Citibank are now seeing the credit crunch hitting their credit card arm too, with business really slowing down as consumers feel the need to rein in their spending.
According to a recent study on current account holders in the UK, it has been revealed that people who have switched to a new bank account have had problems.It was found that a large majority of bank account holders had difficulties when switching and that the bank also did not offer any help with the issue.This recent study backs up the main reason why many people do not switch current accounts for many years or perhaps years, as the process is seen to be too difficult or more trouble than its worth. The problem lies for consumers that by not switching bank accounts, consumers are then missing out on cheaper banking with another bank.See our current accounts comparison table for the latest offers. Plus, reading our guides and tips pages can offer consumers more detailed information and money saving hints.
According to a Natwest Bank survey the people of Manchester are the biggest spenders in the UK, with the typical household spending GBP26,000 each year.
This spending figure is a full GBP2,000 more than the capital city, London, which will come as a big surprise to many. What may come as an even bigger surprise is that Manchester is also a great city for saving according to the Natwest Bank survey, with a higher than the national average 53 percent of Manchester residents putting money aside.
A spokesman from the Natwest Bank was pleased to see Manchester setting such a good example with their levels of savings, especially considering their spending habits. They should be seen as a shining example to others said the spokesman.
