According to the latest survey by Lloyds TSB confidence in job prospects and safety of employment are way down compared with just a year ago.
Around 35 percent of those asked by Lloyds TSB felt that their job was less secure now than it was last year. One in ten thought their prospects were actually better now than in 2007, though this figure is 40 percent down on last year, reflecting the changing attitudes of the nation.
Added to this downbeat view was the fact that there is also an expectation of increased inflation, with costs already soaring. The people of Britain would really like to say things are looking better but they are thwarted at every turn by the look of this Lloyds TSB information.
HSBC is continuing its progress towards acquiring the sixth biggest lender in South Korea, KEB, as it signs an agreement with the labour union.
The bank has already offered USD6.3 billion to KEB for a controlling interest, with this offer set to expire at the end of July. The HSBC has promised to retain all the staff and identity of the Korean bank and is hopeful that this latest agreement with the union will enable them to move forwards.
HSBC has always been seen as a global bank and this latest position highlights that fact. The bank really understands the needs of different cultures, aided by the fact that they work with the existing staff.
It has been suggested by the Alliance and Leicester that small business owners can make their lives easier by carefully selecting the best bank to suit them, rather than just going for the nearest or most advertised.
The Alliance and Leicester head of Business Banking has said that choosing the right deal on a business bank account can make a real difference in the day to day running of the organisation. More money can be earned in interest, there can be easier access to funds and good communications can ease stress levels.
With these points in mind it may come as no surprise to hear that the Alliance and Leicester has been named as the current account provider of the year for business banking, an award it has now received for the last 6 years.