The Abbey National has announced a reduction in the interest rates offered on several of its savings accounts, with cuts of 0.25 percent to match the recent base rate cut by the Bank of England.
Commencing on 1 May all Abbey National savings accounts with the exception of the eSaver Direct, Super 50 Plus and 50 Plus Saver will have the 0.25 percent cut on their rates. These ones mentioned will keep their rates as they were.
The Abbey National savings and investments director said that although the rates had been reduced on their accounts it was important to have a savings plan in place, especially in the current economic climate. It is a very competitive market and Abbey are committed to doing the best for their customers.
The Abbey National has just issued a new range of investment bonds, catering for children, the over fiftys and those seeking a safe, fixed rate home for their money.
The Abbey National childrens savings bond is valid for those under 18 and offers a guaranteed 5.3 percent interest rate gross per annum, with an investment period of four years. Meanwhile, at the other end of the age scale, the over 50s will pay interest either annually or monthly to best suit investor circumstances, at a rate of 5.3 percent annual or 5.18 percent monthly.
Finally, the fixed rate bond from the Abbey National is available as a one, two or three year product. Assuming an investment amount of less than GBP50,000 the gross returns are 5.7, 5.2 and 5.1 percent respectively. For the one year bond an investment of GBP50,000 or more would provide a 6 percent return.
The Nationwide Building Society, in its latest results for July, has found that 20 percent of the adult population are not putting any savings aside.
They also found that the number of people saving on a regular basis also fell, down to 46 percent from 54 percent just three months ago. Two thirds of people believe they should be saving according to the Nationwide Building Society, though the key, as with most things, is to do something about it.
A spokesman from the Nationwide Building Society said that consumers appeared to be feeling the pressure being put on them by rising prices but also asked them to at least look at savings vehicles such as ISAs and Childrens Trust Funds. These are tax efficient and so can make a big difference.
