This is Money Podcast

President Trump is back. The US election finally came to a head this week and rather than the knife-edge result many expected, Donald Trump secured a decisive win over Kamala Harris.This podcast episode is a special double header: the team discuss that US election result and interest rate cuts in the first half and then celebrate the tenth anniversary of the This is Money podcast in the second.First up it’s President Trump. In a sense, he is more of a known quantity this time round – having already racked up four years in the White House before. But that’s only in so much that Donald Trump can ever really be a known quantity and the financial world is preparing to strap itself in for another rollercoaster ride.But why does Trump claiming a second run at US president matter to our finances in the UK? What could his policies and pronouncements mean for small investors in Britain? And will the President-elect really drive mortgage costs up on British homes?Georgie Frost, Lee Boyce and Simon Lambert discuss the potential impact of the new Trump presidency on the show this week.Plus, the Bank of England has cut base rate again to 4.75 per cent but cautioned that it sees higher inflation and slower rate cuts in future. The team discuss what that means for our mortgages and savings.The menace of out-of-control bamboo in people’s gardens and what you can do if a neighbour has some is also up for debate.And finally, podcast fans should listen to the end for the tenth birthday chat – and an announcement on some celebrations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special bonus episode of the This is Money Podcast, Rob Morgan, chief analyst at Charles Stanley Direct, joins Simon Lambert to answer the big questions that have emerged from last week's Budget.On this podcast, Simon and Rob cover among other things.Pensions and inheritance tax: Who will be caught outWhat can investors do – should they spend their pensions before other savings?What has happened with capital gains tax - and who will it catch?What are the best ways to keep a CGT bill down?How can savers and investors beat the frozen threshold stealth tax?What are the financial planning basics people should make sure they get right? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rachel Reeves' maiden Budget this week saw the first-ever female chancellor make £40billion of sweeping tax rises to plug funding gaps, everywhere from the NHS and schools. While it left many of us with something to be miserable about when it comes to our money, there were also some important dodged bullets, as Simon Lambert, Georgie Frost and Helen Crane discuss on this week's podcast. Among the losers were landlords, investors and those who have stashed wealth in their pension, as stamp duty, capital gains tax and inheritance tax all came under the spotlight. The attack on the middle classes was perhaps to be expected from a Government which has told us those with the broadest shoulders must bear a bigger burden. But aside from a rise in the minimum wage and 1p off a pint, did the Budget give enough of a boost to 'working people' - and will changes to employers' National Insurance Contributions indirectly hit them in the pocket anyway?Given growth was the buzzword of the Labour election campaign, did Reeves miss an opportunity to get people excited about British industry and entrepreneurship? We also dig into what wasn't announced in the speech, including a not-so-fond farewell to the short-lived British Isa, and a child benefit change that could have helped parents but found itself on the scrapheap. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whether you voted Labour or not, with any new government, there is a sense of optimism. Things can only get better… apparently.But within days, Rachel Reeves and co poured cold water over all that - and the gloom and doom about the economy and what then could be (and crucially not be) in the Budget hasn’t stopped.Well Simon Lambert is fed up. So he has put forward an alternative budget with less than two weeks to go. Do you agree with him? And what would you do?Alongside Georgie Frost and Lee Boyce, the trio talk about budget pessimism. Did it need to be this way?There has been plenty of speculation that NI paid by employers will rise and they may even have to pay NI on pension contributions. What does that mean?This week, CPI fell below the Bank of England's 2 per cent target in September, reaching its lowest point in three years. What does that mean for interest rates?More major lenders have put mortgage rates up - where next for home loan deals... and just what is Sonia, if not an Eastenders character or 80s pop star?And lastly, there has been plenty of pre-budget speculation about inheritance tax. But what about the here and now... can you really get caught out by taking your extended family on an annual holiday? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How well do you manage your money? Where would you rate your budgeting, saving, investing and pension efforts out of ten?It's not often that we think about these things but mulling them over and making improvements where needed and patting yourself on the back when deserved, is a major step on the road to financial success.On this week's podcast, Georgie Frost and Simon Lambert dial down the noise of the news and dive into how we can manage our money better instead.They discuss tips on how to budget, how to boost your savings and returns, how easy or complicated investing should be, and why a pension is the best and easiest way to get rich.The podcast duo also share an honest look at their own money management and finances, revealing what they do well, what they just about get by at - and the mistakes they make.Plus, when should you decide to get the professionals in and seek financial advice or financial planning? Simon and Georgie discuss that and the costs.And financial planner Dan Beecroft, of Charles Stanley, joins the show to talk about why people seek financial advice and the questions they ask. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The This is Money podcast recently welcomed Sir Steve Webb for a special episode where he answered listeners' questions on everything you need to know about pensions.In this excerpt, Steve and Simon Lambert discuss whether you should invest in a work pension or Sipp - and how to make the most of them.> Listen back to the full Steve Webb pensions episode Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sir Steve Webb has been This is Money's pensions agony uncle for the past eight years - and this week he celebrated an astonishing 400 columns.Every week, Steve, in partnership with This is Money's pensions and investing editor Tanya Jefferies, answers readers' questions about retirement.On this special episode of the This is Money podcast, Steve joins Georgie Frost and Simon Lambert to answer your questions about pensions.From how to invest for retirement, to the state pension and tax , this show highlights what you need to know about pensions.Plus, with the Budget on the way and speculation at fever pitch, Steve, Simon and Georgie debate what might happen - and share their views on what should happen.Don't miss this essential podcast that could set you up for a richer retirement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you keep savings in your current account? It’s an easy trap to fall into, with a third of people admitting they do it in a recent poll.If you do keep a savings pot in a bank account you are likely to be missing out on a big chunk of interest you could otherwise earn.But even if they don’t do this, there’s two more mistakes people make – using convenient ‘insult’ accounts with their existing bank that pay pitiful interest and not using a cash Isa and losing out to tax.On this podcast, Georgie Frost, Lee Boyce and Simon Lambert look at how to make more of your savings and avoid handing over returns to the bank or taxman.Plus, are you playing into the hands of shoulder surfing fraudsters or phone snatchers, why are more larger detached homes hitting the market and how can you get Steve Webb to answer your pension question on next week’s podcast? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inheritance tax- punches above it s weight. It is paid by only a small minority of estates, yet manages to be Britain's most hated tax and its most controversial.Some believe it's immoral double taxation and should be axed altogether, others say crank it up - and somewhere in the middle there are many people who feel that taking 40 per cent is just too much.But it's also a tax that even those with an expensive home and plenty of savings can generally avoid if they choose, by spending more and giving more away in their lifetime.The problem is that they need to survive seven years or they may get caught by some very outdated gifting allowances.Yet, there is a little-known loophole that allows people to give away considerably more without worrying about the seven-year rule.On this podcast, Georgie Frost, Lee Boyce, Simon Lambert look at inheritance tax and the surplus income rule.They discuss this trick to beat death duties and the catches it comes with and all the other rules surrounding IHT.Also on this week's show: noisy heat pumps, the British Isa meets its maker and our failure to support the high streets that we moan about dying. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A bad news Budget looks to be on the cards after Labour continued to pour cold water on optimism its own election victory this week.Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivered a gloomy speech saying the Budget was going to be painful, hot on the heels of Chancellor Rachel Reeves' own gloom-mongering.But having made a promise not to raise the rates of income tax, national insurance, VAT and corporation tax, where will the goverenment try to raise cash.Starmer said tax rises would target those with the 'broadest shoulders' but who are they - and are there really enough of the very wealthy to target or will the burden be more likely to fall once again on those in the rich middle.On this podcast, we look at what taxes could rise and what a capital gains tax, pension, inheritance or other raid could mean for people.Plus, Britain's biggest mortgage lender Halifax is upping what it will lend first-time buyers, Crane goes on the case of an Evri bungle and asks shouldn't you be within your rights to expect a parcel to arrive?And finally, with the Oasis ticket scramble in full effect and ticket prices sky high, can you protect against a potential Gallagher brother blow up or anything else that would stop you going? (If that is you can get tickets in the first place, of course). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gold has hit record highs this week and has rocketed so far this year. What’s driving the price and how do you invest?This week, Tanya Jefferies, Georgie Frost and Lee Boyce turn their attention to the precious metal – a notoriously volatile investment, but yet seen as a safe haven.Energy bills will be back on the up, with the new Ofgem price cap announced for October. Is it worth fixing before the hike comes in?And one in four are expected to struggle this winter with their energy bills – just as the new Winter Fuel Payment is taken away for millions of households.We bust some myths on inherited state pension and ask how DWP can be dishing out incorrect information and also question whether annuity deals have peaked.Plus we run the rule over two juicy reader questions. Firstly, what are your rights if you drunkenly lend money to a friend?Secondly, what can you do about a property next door being converted into an HMO with six students? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, the consumer prices index measure of inflation nudged higher to 2.2 per cent.But what does this mean for future base rate decisions - and then in turn, mortgage rates and savings rates.This week, Lee Boyce and Georgie Frost discuss the latest inflation figures and what the rest of the year has in store for the economy.Meanwhile, experts predict a busier housing market this autumn - but what makes them so sure?And watch out if you plan on taking your kids out of school during term time - you could face big fines, with the first change to the system since 2013.Is it fair that parents get fined for taking children on holidays and should there be a better system devised?We look at the supermarket winners and losers over the last decade - just how bad have things been for Asda.And our reporter Angharad Carrick takes a visit to west London Tesco to test its new anti-shoplifting measures. Is it any good? We also run the rule over Aliexpress... and the bargain items that are almost too good to be true... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Stock markets around the world saw huge falls this week, but is it a sign of more trouble ahead or just a storm in a teacup? Simon takes a look at what’s behind it all, and why investors should avoid the temptation to start tinkering with their portfolios once the horse has already bolted. His advice is to ignore the voice in your head that says you should get out now to stave off disaster - but also pay attention to its existence.Good news for motorists, as car insurance premiums have started to fall for the first time in two years. Or is it? They still remain at near-record highs, and are up a whopping 48 per cent since 2022.This is Money's Sam Barker discusses why premiums went so high, who has been worst affected, and how to keep costs down. Staying on the topic of insurance, the UK has been gripped by riots in the past week and This is Money has been looking at what your compensation rights are if your home or car gets damaged.Elsewhere, Sam explains the latest tactic broadband firms are using to squeeze cash out of their customers - and asks why the regulator Ofcom appears to be looking the other way. Mortgage rates have been shifting fast this week, and Simon rounds up the latest deals. We also answer a question from a reader who wants to know what to do with his £80,000 redundancy pay-off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Building up a savings pot and then investing to growing your wealth and provide a decent pension for retirement is the key to long-term financial success.But there's lots to consider at each step - and most people will want to buy a home along the way.So what do you need to think about when sketching out your lifetime finances and then trying to achieve your goals?On this podcast, Georgie Frost and Simon Lambert take it step by step and look at each element of saving, investing, buying a home and building a pension.How much should you have in an emergency savings pot? How do you move from saving to investing? How can first-time buyers get ahead in tricky times? How much do you need to save for retirement?They look at all of these things and more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's official - we're complaining about our neighbours more, new data shows.When it comes to noise, many appear sick of barking dogs, squeaky trampolines and loud music ruining the enjoyment of our homes.This week, Simon Lambert, Lee Boyce and Georgie Frost talk about neighbour wars - and what we can do about it.And sticking to the property front, does it matter if you're a 'super' nimby? And if you do want to fight back against developments in your area, what's the sensible way to do it?We also look at the danger of pricing your home too high - and the Rightmove data that shows just how risky it can be.Grandparents and parents are digging depper than ever to send children to university. What do young adults need to know before they take out a student loan?Lee goes back to school to talk to kids about money and the working world - but what did HE learn from the experience?And from festivals to sporting events, why has having fun become so expensive? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Do you feel financially confident? When it comes to budgeting, saving, investing, and building your pension, are you clueless, comfortable, or cracking on?A piece of research this week by Moneybox claimed that being financially confident could add £67,000 to your lifetime wealth – on average those with confidence were worth £145,000 on average, compared to £78,000 for the unconfident.But what does being financially confident actually mean and how can you get there?On this week’s podcast, Georgie Frost, Tanya Jefferies and Simon Lambert look at how to boost your financial confidence and whether the tips to do so could work.Plus, a week into a new government and with a planned pensions review looming, the team look at what Labour could mean for our retirement savings.Meanwhile, investors seem to be cheering Labour taking charge and this week investment giant BlackRock flagged Britain’s ‘relative political stability’ and cheap stock market, so does that mean good future returns?Investing a large sum was on the mind of a reader who asked This is Money an unusual question: I’m inheriting £10million, should I set up an investment trust? So, what is the answer to that?And finally, a new report has revealed Britain’s best places for customer service – did your favourite make the list? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

All change, please. In a radical reshaping of the political landscape, Britain has elected a Labour government for the first time in 14 years.New prime minister Keir Starmer and Chancellor Rachel Reeves have made bold promises of revival, growth and wealth creation.But many fear that Britain’s troubled public finances will also mean that promises not to raise taxes will prove empty.So, what has Labour said it will do, what important things have been left unsaid, what will it mean for the economy and your finances and is there a path to prosperity that doesn’t involve more tax pain?On this special election podcast, Georgie Frost, Helen Crane, Lee Boyce and Simon Lambert look at what Labour’s election victory could mean for our money.The team discuss the manifesto promises on the economy and growth and at how robust the no tax rise pledges are.Can Labour’s housebuilding plans and planning shake up deliver more homes? What are its other plans to get growth going?Plus, the team look at the Tories’ 14 years in charge of the economy and the positives that can be drawn amongst the turbulence.And finally, what have we got to be optimistic about as we move into the next chapter of British life? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You find a decent paying savings account, diligently squirrel away your money, watch it grow… only for the taxman to come along and swipe a chunk.And since savings rates have been much better in recent years, the amount HMRC is taking in in savings tax revenue has gone up significantlyIt's only going to increase according to estimates, to the tune of £10.37billion in 2024/25, up from £6.6billiion in 2023/24 - and £1.2billion in 2021/22.So, how can you dodge the trap? This week, Georgie Frost, Helen Crane and Lee Boyce look at this growing revenue spinner.It also means taking advantage of Isas is key - and we're very keen on one tax-free account in particular.And sticking with savings, this week Helen explains the case of a Barclays customer who had a stroke - recovered better than expected - but was then locked out of his account with £100,000 in it for nearly a year. There is a mobile phone swiping epidemic in the country - but what is it the criminals are really after? Is it the handset, or something else?We explain all, alongside businessman and This is Money columnist Dave Fishwick, who interviewed one of the gang leaders.And sticking with Dave... he gives his views on what needs to the happen after the general election on 4 July for the North.It's not just our phones being stolen… motor theft too is on the rise. A former police interceptor gives his tips on how to keep your vehicle safe. Lastly, what is the magic number of salary to make you feel rich? Recruiter Indeed believes it has found the answer... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Inflation is back on target at 2 per cent. After the spike into double-digits that triggered talk of a cost of living crisis and sent interest rates spiralling, we are now back at the Bank of England's target level.So, is the great inflation panic over and is life about get easier?Or will we be feeling the after effects of high inflation for years to come?And what's going to happen to interest rates?On this episode of the This is Money podcast, Georgie Frost, Helen Crane and Simon Lambert look at why inflation as come down and what happens next.Plus, the couple who didn't get a Natiowide fairer share payout despite having £100,000 saved.And finally, would you let your parents pay for you to go on holiday as an adult - or pay for your own adult kids to go with you? The team look into the family time vs freeloading debate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s manifesto week and Labour, the Conservatives and the Lib Dems have laid out their vision for the country – along with the Green Party, Reform and others.The economy, tax and people’s finances are a cornerstone of the all the manifestos, but what are the main parties proposing and what could it mean for you?On this week’s podcast, Georgie Frost, Angharad Carrick and Simon Lambert take a deep dive into the manifestos to see what’s there.If the country votes for a change and we do get the widely predicted Labour government, what will it mean for your money – and does talking about growth mean there’s an actual plan to deliver it?After 14 years in charge, were the Tories bold enough in their manifesto to derail Labour’s run at power?And do the Lib Dems have the policies that could shake things up, including a plan to substantially overhaul capital gains tax?Plus, what did Reform say?All this and more go under the microscope, along with a look at what has really happened to our taxes in a decade-and-a-half under the Conservatives.And finally, away from the election, how much did the most desirable new King Charles £5 note go for at a special auction this week? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How much do you need in Premium Bonds to win the jackpot?And if you haven’t maxed them out to the full £50,000, is it even worth bothering?This is Money has run some in-depth analysis on all the £1million prizes over the past four years and this week revealed how much those lucky people held.On this week’s podcast episode, Georgie Frost, Lee Boyce and Simon Lambert look at what it takes to win the Premium Bonds.Simon gives us his tax manifesto to get us out of the mess Britain’s tax system is in.Plus, one of our readers is in their mid-40s, would like to semi-retire to work on their own terms, travel and enjoy life in a decade, and wants to know if their £180,000 investments can grow enough to achieve that. What does someone with those ambitions need to consider? The team take a look.Should you consider buying a cheap electric car? Prospective buyers are worried about batteries but get over that and Simon says it could prove even cheaper to run than you think.And finally, the new King Charles notes are out but what are the serial numbers to check your wallet for that could make them worth big money? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is Money's consumer champion Helen Crane celebrated the 100th edition of her Crane on the Case column this week.Helen has won back more than £1.2million for readers over the course of all those columns and learnt a thing or two along the way about how to battle consumer problems and bad customer service.On this podcast, she discusses the big wins, the satisfying victories, the worst cases of bad customer service - and gives her tips on how to get what you want.Also on the show, Georgie Frost, Lee Boyce and Simon Lambert discuss whether working parents could be missing our by not claiming child benefit now that the rules have changed and more can get it.Plus, if you owe tax on savings interest but don't have to do a tax return how will HMRC find out?Is Scottish Mortgage worth backing as shares rebound but remain considerably down on their peak?And finally, Charles Stanley's Dan Beecroft jons the show to explain 50-30-20 budgeting and why people love this rule of thumb for spending and saving. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Prime Minister put an end to all the speculation this week by giving us the date for the general election: July 4.That comes as the latest inflation reading was 2.3 per cent, a little above forecasts making a base rate cut next month now unlikely.Simon Lambert, Georgie Frost and Lee Boyce delve into the economic state of affairs and what the upcoming election could mean for your money, when it comes to tax, pensions, property and everything in-between.Nationwide Building Society posted pre-tax profits of £1.77bn this week and as a result, it is dishing out another year of 'Fairer Share' loyalty payouts of £100 – will you qualify?And not only that, it is now offering £200 to switchers and an exclusive 5.5 per cent loyalty savings rate.How does early retirement sound to you? It seems it appeals to a lot of us because searches on Google for 'retire early' have increased threefold in the last decade.But how much would you be willing to sacrifice to achieve it? At the extreme end, we have the FIRE movement, advocating saving 70 per cent of your income.Special guest, former This is Money editor Andrew Oxlade had had enough – he explains why.Lastly, This is Money has a new regular series called Modern Treasures with valuation expert Dan Hatfield – Lee reveals all about the first one, all about first edition books, and gives details on how to get YOUR items valued for free. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Supermarket loyalty schemes have become even more of a big thing in recent years as the two giants Tesco and Sainsbury's have rolled out Clubcard and Nectar Prices.But while cards bring lower prices, the points collected still mean prizes for some loyalty scheme fans.So, what happens if a fraudster steals your points? This is Money's Angharad Carrick recently went on the trail of some stolen Nectar points and uncovered a story that delivered as many questions as it did answers.On this podcast, Ang, Georgie Frost and Simon Lambert discuss the mystery of the stolen Nectar Points and how our reader got short shrift from Sainsbury's, Action Fraud and the police when they had £230 nicked.Plus, are these loyalty cards any good and worth having anyway and why is the competition watchdog investigating them?Also on this week's show:Many more people are taking mortgages than run past state pension age but with work and retirement blurring and changing does this matter? Simon explains why he thinks it does but for another reason.Would you buy fake cash for a knockdown price off social media? It sounds daft, but this is a genuine thing - we look at how it is happening.And should a reader who is still working at age 77, worth £2.6million and doesn't want a big inheritance tax bill start giving money away - and splashing out on themselves and their family? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Bank of England decided to hold the base rate for the sixth time in a row this week – but was it the right decision?Should the MPC have been bold and made a cut? What does it mean for our mortgages and savings? And when will a move come - and in what direction?This week, Georgie Frost, Simon Lambert and Lee Boyce talk about the base rate decision and what happens next.In the world of property, the number of homes being devalued is on the rise. So, what's going on? And what can you do if it happens to you.Bungalows are having a moment. They're not just for the elderly and downsizers, young families and first time buyers are also increasingly interested - pushing the price of them higher since the pandemic. .Energy firms have been trying to push smart meters on us for years. Have they uncovered a new trick to get us to make the swap?And finally, it's been good news for JD Wetherspoon - the no frills pub chain said it expects annual profits to come in towards the 'top end' of forecasts.Where do you stand on Spoons? Lee and Simon face-off with different pints of view on the pub giant. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With not one but two mortgage spikes fresh in our minds, a flurry of rate rises have got home owners and potential buyers worried again.A bunch of major mortgage lenders raised their rates this week - and Santander did it twice.So, are we about to see another mortgage spike or is this just what brokers and lenders like to optimistically call a mere 'repricing'?And what does this all mean if you need to remortgage soon or want to buy a home?On this podcast, Georgie Frost, Helen Crane and Simon Lambert take a look at what's happening in the mortgage market, why rates are rising and whether the Federal Reserve flapping its wings on the other side of the world pushes up our homeowning costs.Plus, Simon explains why you may not want to put all of your savings into your pension as it might dent early retirement chances.The team look at how at the other end of the scale someone with a bigger pension than they need could pass it to their grandchildren.Helen details a worrying Crane on the Case theft and how to protect yourself - and finally we discuss whether a passkey is the answer to our fraud fears. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You can wait a long time for a FTSE 100 record high but for peak-starved British investors this week delivered a bonanza.Four record highs were racked up by the FTSE 100, with only Wednesday's slight dip spoiling what would have been a perfect run over a week.The return to new highs on Thursday came as a mega-mining merger bid arrive from BHP for Anglo American - and that was followed swiftly by one of the UK's few tech stars Darktrace announcing it had accepted a bid on Friday.Are these the catalysts that fund manager Nick Train was talking about when he said it could take a big takeover to shake UK stocks out of their slumber and get the world investing in Footsie companies again?On this week's podcast, Georgie Frost, Tanya Jefferies and Simon Lambert look and what's moving the UK market, why it is judged to be cheap and whether you should invest.Plus, the top investment trusts for retirement investing and the latest twist in the state pension top-ups saga.Should we cut inheritance tax - or at least sort out the mess - as the take soars?And finally, are you a backseat driver? See if you can pass the test. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Older people received another boost to the state pension this week taking the full rate to over £11,000 a year.This year's increase of 8.5 per cent was thanks to the triple lock commitment - a guarantee the state pension will rise each year by the higher of CPI, wages or 2.5 per cent.What does the future hold? While there is plenty of speculation the state pension may become means tested, in reality it could be incredibly hard to implement.This week, Tanya Jefferies, Georgie Frost, Helen Crane and Lee Boyce talk state pensions – and how they compare to other countries.And sticking on the theme, there is another delay for the Government’s new online state pension top-up service. When will it launch?NS&I has a four day IT meltdown that makes it a struggle for customers to log-in – and it suggests to one that she may have a ‘time drift.’ What does this bizarre explanation mean?Crane is on the Case once more, this time Eon is in the firing line after it insisted a part-time dance teacher used £95,000 worth of energy… in a month.And who on earth would hold an American Express card in their wallet with an APR 704.6 per cent? Lee has the answer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There's a warning for savers who's fixed term deals are coming to an end - don't take your eye off the ball now or risk having your returns wiped out in a matter of months.A year ago, there was a flurry of savers choosing fixed-rate bonds as they improved drastically. But if you don't act, the chances are it'll rollover into an awful rate.On this week's This is Money podcast, Helen Crane, Lee Boyce and Georgie Frost talk savings, just as we head into a new financial year.Also on the savings front, NS&I reveals the rate of the new British Savings Bond - is it worth it? And an Isa millionaire reveals all to This is Money on how he built up a seven-figure pot.Helen tackles another reader problem – this time, it's a case of the unwanted and unneeded Sim card costing a pensioner couple hundreds of pounds.And on the utilities front, Lee reveals how Ofcom saved him from a 75 per cent rise in his monthly broadband costs, and why you should check if you're out of contract with your mobile phone.Mortgage approvals are up - but house prices nudge lower. What's going on? Meanwhile, research shows a record third of all homes are being bought by first time buyers – and they make up 89 per cent of buyers in one Berkshire town.Lastly, entrepreneur Tim Armoo runs the rule over five money-making fads doing the rounds on social media – are any of them worth your time? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The row over small deposit mortgage is the gift that keeps on giving.Hot on the heels of the Budget plan that never appeared arrives Yorkshire Building Society's new deal, that's been dubbed a 99 per cent mortgage.But is it really one of those and does it have any redeeming features?And if it's cheaper than you rent, is there anything wrong with taking a 99 per cent mortgage?On this week's This is Money podcast, Georgie Frost and Simon Lambert talk tiny deposit mortgages, negative equity and buying vs renting.Plus, gift card draining scammers, can your pension last retirement, and finally, where are the experts investing their Isa and how can you easily sort yours? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is less than a fortnight to go before the end of the tax year and that means it's time to sort your Isa, pension and finances before it's too late.With another tax raid on the way for investors on capital gains and dividends, this is one of the most important tax year ends in years.On this special bonus episode of the This is Money podcast, Simon Lambert talks to Rob Morgan, of Charles Stanley Direct, to find out what investors need to do and why sorting your pension and Isa can save you a substantial amount in tax. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Bank of England held interest rates again this week as inflation dropped once more. So, are we out of the woods yet?Will inflation keep coming back down towards target and the Bank of England soon seamlessly switch back to cutting rates?Or will central bankers be keen to hold onto higher rates, even if we get hit by a bout of disinflation?On this week’s podcast, Georgie Frost, Lee Boyce and Simon Lambert look at what next for inflation and interest rates and what it means for your money.Also on the episode, should the Waspi women who saw their state pension age rise rapidly be compensated for the poor communication and how much of a victory was this week’s Parliamentary Ombudsman Waspi report a victory for them?As that happened, more news emerged on underpaid state pensions – as exposed by our Tanya Jefferies and pension columnist Sir Steve Webb, and the team update us on that.Plus, what’s going on with the chaos at HMRC and who is to blame for the failure to keep up with our increasingly tricky tax system.And finally, meet the Scambaiters – we find out what they do and why. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Jeremy Hunt bounced around delivering his Budget on Wednesday, proudly declaring his commitment to tax cuts and supporting working families.Another 2p was chopped off National Insurance and the threshold at which child benefit is removed was raised from £50,000 to £60,000.But you don’t need to be a financial expert to know that the Chancellor’s version of events isn’t quite the whole story.Because Mr Hunt is also presiding over a long-term stealth tax freeze to thresholds that is costing workers dear and his child benefit move merely kicked sky-high marginal tax rates down the road, rather than getting rid of them altogether.Nonetheless, a tax cut and an extra £5,000 Isa allowance – even if it’s a slightly iffy, limited one – is not to be sniffed at.So, was this an escape velocity Budget that puts Britain back on the path to growth?Or was it too little, too late, from a Tory party that has sported successive Chancellors who have been keener to raise our taxes by hook or by crook rather than cut them – or even just keep thresholds in line with inflation.On this week’s Budget special This is Money podcast, Georgie Frost, Lee Boyce and Simon Lambert look at the winners and losers and go searching for the devils in the detail.What is the NI cut worth to you? Will you get some child benefit back? Did pensioners deserve a tax cut too? With a failure to reverse his capital gains and dividend tax raid, what has the Chancellor got against small investors?And will the British Isa be any good?All that and more – plus a look at why Nationwide is buying Virgin Money and whether that’s good or bad for us all. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this bonus episode of the This is Money Podcast, Simon Lambert is joined by Charles Stanley Direct’s Lisa Caplan and Garry White for a quick run through what was in the Budget.Investment experts Lisa and Garry talk us through the main Budget points and what they mean for people.Join us on Friday for the full Budget episode where the This is Money Podcast team will dissect Jeremy Hunt's plan and reveal the devils uncovered in the details. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The debacle over widespread errors in the state pension that This is Money and Sir Steve Webb uncovered, continues.As of the end of October last year, DWP had paid out just under half a billion pounds to more than 80,000 people who’ve been underpaid.But what about those who have died? This week, Tanya Jefferies, Lee Boyce, Angharad Carrick and Georgie Frost reveal the case where a letter was sent to the daughter of an 100 year-old man three years after he passed away, stating he had been unpaid state pension for two decades.Yet, despite the letter – months later, she was left hanging on what the DWP was actually going to do about it. And still on the state pension front, people continue to complain of top-ups chaos as the Government gets ready to launch a new online service next month.Sir Steve is calling on DWP and HMRC to get in more staff. You don’t need HMRC to have more staff to answer your call, oh no! You just need to be a VIP.Apparently there is a helpline, also known as Public Department 1 (PD1) which answers calls nine times quicker. We explain more. On the savings front, the FCA is launching a campaign to encourage savers to shop around – and if you rushed to sign up for a one-year fixed-rate cash Isa this time in 2023, Lee explains why you must act.Optional and mandatory service charges at hospitality venues – Georgie, Ang and Lee give their verdict. And finally the price of bitcoin jumped beyond $60,000 this week. What’s behind the latest cryptocurrency surge? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With the Budget tipped to be the Chancellor’s last roll of the dice before a General Election, expectations over tax cuts are growing.But what taxes could Jeremy Hunt choose to cut and why – and is there hope that he will sort out the tax mess that Britain has got stuck in.The higher income child benefit charge creates marginal tax rates above 50 per cent, meanwhile the removal of the personal allowance bakes in a 60 per cent income tax rate between £100,000 and £125,140.Should these tax traps and painfully high stamp duty be removed? On this week’s podcast Simon Lambert argues that Mr Hunt needs to have a clear out, chuck a load of stuff in the stupid tax box and bin it.Simon, Georgie Frost and Lee Boyce look ahead to what could be in the Budget and what it would mean for you.Also, on this week’s episode, energy bills are due to fall as the price cap is cut but how much will this save you?It’s not just tax catching people out, student loans are also proving difficult to shift as interest mounts up due to high inflation. Does the student finance system need a sort out too? And what is Simon’s triple lock for student loans plan?And finally, don’t get spear phished or tap jacked, Lee talks us through the new scams you need to know about. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's finally happened. After months of will-we, won't-we speculation, the UK economy has finally succumbed to recession.The ONS revealed this week that a drop in GDP in the final three months of 2023 meant that Britain had racked up two consecutive of negative growth - and thus the dreaded R word is here.But is this a bad one, why does the term 'technical recession' keep being bandied about and do these backward-looking figures mask things already getting better?On this week's podcast, Georgie Frost, Helen Crane and Simon Lambert look at what recession means for the UK and you.Plus, who are the villains among big banks and building societies when it comes to sky-high standard variable rates for mortgage borrowers and is it them or the customers themselves to blame if somone ends up paying almost 10 per cent interest?Also on the show, the customer turned down for a switching bonus by HSBC because they had a Midland account 21 years ago.And finally, electric car sales aren't growing as fast as the government or car makers want. Does that mean it's time to drive a bargain? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special bonus This is Money podcast episode, Simon Lambert speaks to easyJet founder Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou.Sir Stelios tells the story of how he launched easyJet his easyGroup of companies - and how allowing others to build companies using the easy brand works.He also explains why he is backing entrepreneurs under the age of 35 with his Stelios Philanthropic Foundation awards and giving away £150,000 to the successful winner. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The cost of a comfortable retirement has jumped over the past year - but what do you need to get one and will you get there?As the Pension and Lifetime Savings Association updates its annual look at how much income people need for a basic, moderate or comfortable retirement, Georgie Frost, Lee Boyce and Simon Lambert take a look at what this all means for you.If a comfortable retirement costs a couple £59,000 a year and a moderate one £43,000, which one do you have a chance of achieving - and are there any important bits being left out of the costs?The team look at the cost of retiring, why it might not be as expensive as it first looks, how to invest for retirement and what sort of back up the state pension will provide.Plus, why our real top rate of income tax is 60 per cent - and it's not the highest earners hit by it on their next pay rise - and is there any hope that Jeremy Hunt will be the Chancellor who finally does something about it.The case for not just cutting stamp duty but getting rid of it altogether.And an interview with a modern-day business legend. Simon speaks to easyJet and easyGroup founder Sir Stelios Haji-Ionnou about how he started the airline and built it up and his Young Entrepreneur awards. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Bank of England held base rate once again at 5.25 per cent, the fourth hold in succession – but this time, it was a genuine split by MPC members.So, when will we start seeing rates fall – and will inflation really be at the target 2 per cent by April?This week, Simon Lambert, Lee Boyce and Georgie Frost discuss what another interest rate pause means for you – and what that means for savings and mortgage rates, along with investors.Where do you stand on the smart meter debate? With This is Money readers getting in touch to say they’re stuck with faulty devices, are they worth having?Lee says he still has no plans to get one of the marmite devices while Simon believes they can be worth it, especially for those who are rubbish at submitting meter readings.We also go back to school and have a maths lesson from Mr Lambert to reveal the six real world calculations you should have in your arsenal to improve your financial health.And we get on the money therapist’s couch to discuss the pitfalls of getting - and over-using - a joint bank account… should a partner ever be made to feel guilty for spending? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Britain's disposable income has dropped substantially over the past 14 years compared to where it should be, according to a new report this week.The Centre for Cities said that the average household's disposable income has fallen £10,000 behind where it would have been if pre-2010 growth rates had been maintained.On average we have got better off, but we are well below what would have been expected.On this episode of the This is Money podcast, Georgie Frost, Lee Boyce and Simon Lambert look at what the problems could be, why aren't we getting richer quicker, why are we falling behind our international peers and what can be done.Plus, while our living standards arent rapidly accelerating, house prices have and the average seller made more than £100,000 last year - is property inflation and the slowing in disposable income growth linked? Simon, thinks it's part of the problem.Savings rates have started to slip, so do dividend-paying investment trusts yielding 5 per cent or more look like an attractive move.And finally, some tips on how to make the most of Avios points - but who on the team is the Avios winner and who is the self-described Avios loser. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Government wants us to get heat pumps fitted in our homes and it's offering up to £7,500 for us to do so.Now Worcester Bosch is bumping that up by an extra £2,500 - if you pick one of theirs of course.But with the devices cost between £8,000 to £30,000 to buy and fit, would it tempt you? Georgie Frost, Helen Crane and Lee Boyce reveal all... and talk the 'boiler tax'.Is inflation back on the rise? How worried should we be by the latest figures? And where next for interest rates?And millions face a big price hike for their mobile and broadband from March. Isn't it time these inflation-busting mid-contract increases were banned?Also today…following campaigning by This is Money for years for fair treatment for parents who do not qualify for child benefit, parents denied state pension credits WILL get them. Tanya Jefferies explains all you need to know.Tanya also talks about a bungled handover to a new administrator that has left BAE Systems retirees suffering drastic cuts of up to 50 per cent in their pensions.And Crane is on the Case, this time over a robot vacuum cleaner... Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a good year for Premium Bonds when the only way was up for the prize fund rate, savers got a blow this week as a cut arrived.The prize fund rate is being cut to 4.4 per cent from 4.65 per cent. That edges the average return - which you may or may not get - from Premium Bonds further below the best savings deals, so should you save instead?Or would many Premium Bond holders be better off investing?On this podcast episode, Georgie Frost, Lee Boyce and Simon Lambert discuss whether Premium Bonds stack up.Plus, as the US securities regulator aproves bitcoin ETFs, is the price now headed for $200,000 as some suggest, or could this be enticing more naive investors into the volatile world of crypto that's been dogged by fraud?Later, Lee reveals his car insurance woes - and shares tips on how to deal with your own renewal quite pain.And finally, find out who on the podcast team is not drinking for January, who is taking an extremely haphazard approach to it, and who is planning to go all the way to Easter, as we discuss the no and low-alcohol beer boom and the ones we rate the best. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever sold anything on Ebay, Vinted or Facebook Marketplace to make a bit of extra cash?Those who do may have been worried this week, as news that the websites will now be required to report sellers' activities to the taxman caused panic online. So what are the rules - and is HMRC really going after people who sell the odd frock or mobile phone? In this week's episode, Lee Boyce, Helen Crane and Georgie Frost explain what's really happening, how to tell if you are a 'trader' - and why most people having a clear-out of their old clothes won't need to worry. Mortgage lenders have started 2024 with a bang, with the likes of HSBC, NatWest and TSB announcing rate cuts left, right and centre. There is now a five-year fix with a rate of 3.94 per cent - so what does that tell us about how low the base right might go this year, and will these cheaper home loans start to drive up house prices again? As we get back to reality after the festive break, we are also approaching Divorce Day. The first working Monday of the year is supposedly when unhappy couples are most likely to call it quits. If that is you, we are on hand to explain what you need to know about splitting your property, pension and more with an ex. Finally, Lee, Helen and Georgie discuss what they learned about their finances in 2023 - and the mistakes they won't be making again this year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.