This is Money Podcast

How do you decide to become an adventurer? For Alastair Humphreys, the decision in his twenties stemmed from his love of a challenge, the outdoors and curiosity about the world.The decision led to a life of adventure, in which Alastair has spent four years cycling round the world, run six Sahara Desert marathons, been on an Arctic expedition, busked his way round Spain, spending only money he could earn, and has written 13 books.But Alastair’s adventure philosophy isn’t about big expensive trips, he would rather do things on a shoestring - and wrote a book encouraging others to have their own cheap ‘microadventures’ close to home.Alastair joins Andi Peters and Simon Lambert on the third episode of the Making the Money Work podcast to tell us about funding the life of an adventurer and building a career out of his exploits.He also explains why he wants to help people live more adventurously – even if that’s just heading out of town and sleeping under the stars on a hillside.As well as talking microadventures - and encouraging Andi to try out sleeping in his garden - Alastair reveals how he comes up with ideas and money for his feats, whether it is walking a desert or rowing the Atlantic.He tells Andi and Simon about how he once headed for Spain without a euro in his pocket and no bank or credit cards, with the aim of busking his way round and only spending the money that he could earn from playing the violin.Alastair also reveals how he manages his money and saves, shares his thoughts on writing books and why self-publishing can pay off, and explains why being told he was an idiot for not having a pension - after a talk to a pensions firm - spurred him into saving for retirement. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s Brexit Day – and whether you voted leave or remain, are celebrating, or commiserating, we wish you a happy one.After 11pm on Friday 31 January 2019, Britain is officially no longer a member of the European Union. The big question is, what happens next?On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert, Lee Boyce and Georgie Frost discuss both what Brexit means immediately for consumers and travellers, and how things may pan out for the economy and our finances over the year ahead.Where do we stand on Ehic medical cover in Europe, driving on the continent, mobile phone roaming, flight compensation and expat pensions?And what will the trade discussions on our future relationship with Europe and the rest of the world mean for the nation’s finances, businesses, inflation, the pound and interest rates?Also on this week’s podcast, the team dive much deeper into house prices than the usual survey, with a look at 174 years of property affordability and whether we can learn anything from a 70 year period when they got cheaper.They discuss Neil Woodford’s investors getting some money back and finding out how much they have lost so far and the curious case of the Lloyds customer of years who won a surprise bumper PPI payout that proved to be the ultimate loyalty penalty for being ripped off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are tax returns too taxing, why did new overdraft rules backfire, are challenger banks biting and what are the cars that hold their value best? We answer these questions on this week’s This is Money podcast. It’s tax return time. The organised will have safely filed their tax returns long ago, but there are still plenty of people who don’t yet feel the last minute has arrived.But what if you are meant to fill in a tax return and don’t realise?On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert, Lee Boyce and Georgie Frost discuss the ten reasons that people may have to fill a tax return in, even though they are employees paid through PAYE.The team also discuss whether much of the tax return is really needed, or whether people are needlessly spending time filling in an over complicated form for an overly complex system.Also on this week’s podcast is the overdraft row that’s blown up on the back of the FCA’s attempt to improve borrowing and bank’s deciding that 39.9 per cent rates sounded about right.The team discuss whether the challenger banks are starting to bite and why people are attracted to them.The ten cars that should hold their value best are also revealed, from a Dacia to a Bentley.But remember that even the best of these will lose you 35 per cent.And finally, Simon tells us about the new episode of the Making the Money Work podcast with London 2012 Olympic-medal winning boxer Anthony Ogogo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this second Making the Money Work episode, Andi Peters and Simon Lambert talk to Olympic bronze medal winner and former professional boxer Anthony Ogogo about how people fund a boxing career and whether an Olympian makes much money. Anthony tells us about building his boxing career and how an amateur boxer has to support themselves on a shoestring – even when they are heading for the Olympics. He discusses his subsequent professional career and how after injury forced his retirement, he is swapping the boxing ring for the wrestling ring. The 30-year-old was one of the sportsmen and women celebrated by Britain as the nation enjoyed the thrill of the London 2012 Olympics and a slew of medals. Then aged 23, the middle-weight boxed his way to a bronze medal to add to the gold that he had won in the Junior Olympics in 2004. Anthony, who was also a promising footballer who played for Norwich City’s youth team, had taken up boxing at the age of 12 and by the time he arrived at the London Olympics he had also won a silver medal at the 2010 Commonwealth Games. He turned professional after the 2012 Olympics and had a short but successful career in which he challenged to be world champion. He suffered a number of injuries before a fractured eye socket forced his retirement from the sport in 2019, with 11 wins and just one loss in his professional career. In a statement on his retirement, Anthony said: ‘I’ve been through a lot in my career. I’ve had 17 operations and suffered every pain imaginable. I’ve won, lost, cried and hurt. But if you were to ask me would I do it again? In a heartbeat. I love this game’ He signed off with the words ‘Never give up’. Anthony discusses how he got through hard financial times when he was injured, why he’s been careful with money and tried to save, and what it’s like being a cash-strapped up-and-coming fighter in the boxing world where those at the top are making millions. Unable to box anymore due to his eye problems, Anthony is now on the path to a new career as a professional wrestler with All Elite Wrestling and he tells us how he intends to build that and what his financial resolutions for the future are.About Making the Money WorkIn our new podcast series Making the Money Work, in partnership with the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, we talk earnings, budgeting and savings with those whose lives and finances roam far from the norm. The five podcasts are hosted by Andi Peters, alongside This is Money’s Simon Lambert, and every fortnight over the next ten weeks you can listen to a new interview with a different special guest about their financial lives.This is Money’s Podcast will continue to appear each Friday as usual, and the Making the Money Work podcasts will be published fortnightly as a bonus episode in the feed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Santander is to cut the rate of interest customers can earn with its 123 current account.It will mean one of Britain's most popular accounts will have dropped from a top tier 3 per cent when it launched in 2012 to 1 per cent.Why has the high street banking giant done this and could it result in an exodus of people moving? Does it signal the end of current accounts with benefits?It is also capping the level of cashback customers can earn while putting a blanket 39.9 per cent overdraft rate in place – following a similar move from its banking rivals.Simon Lambert, Lee Boyce and Georgie Frost take a look at what it means for the current account market, whether there are other – better – accounts to switch to and how it managed to become so popular.Also on this week's podcast, we look at the rise of the buy now, pay later form of credit and whether it is another debt trap to watch out for.Why have nearly 40,000 people put in retrospective planning applications? And can you really hide a castle behind a haystack…Lastly, the love affair with car buyers and SUVs shows no signs of abating – sales continue to grow at a faster rate than any other group.We list the five reasons, allegedly, not to snap one up and whether you should consider an alternative. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Savers had a resoundingly duff deal over the decade that just ended, as they paid the price for the borrowing binge that proceeded it.Understandably, many feel somewhat aggrieved – like a moderate drinker who got the hangover that should have gone to the party animal.But it’s not just ‘emergency’ low interest rates that turned permanent that delivered the pain, banks and building societies paying little respect to loyal customers and undermining them with rock bottom rates on legacy accounts has also played a major part.Now, the financial watchdog has a plan to deal with the so-called loyalty penalty. A standard savings rate across all easy access accounts and Isas, with the ability to offer better rates over limited periods, for example, 12 months.When bonus time was up, that standard rate would act a floor to protect savers against the 0.01 per cent-paying accounts of this world.Is this a solution to the problem, or just some tinkering that all but mandates bonus accounts and does nothing to tackle saver inertia?Simon Lambert, Sarah Davidson and Georgie Frost tackle the plan to improve the savings market on this week’s podcast – and discuss whether this is a wise idea for a new decade or a recipe for more of the same.Also, on this week’s podcast, as a decade ends and one begins, we look at the property market: what happened to house prices in the 2010s and how did it compare to the 2000s, 1990s and 1980s, and also what will happen this year and in years to come?The team also look ahead to the 11 March Budget and what may crop up for our personal finances, along with the growing population of over-90s and how we look after our nonagenarians properly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This bonus podcast episode is from This is Money's new special series Making the Money Work, in partnership with the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. Andi Peters and Simon Lambert talk to record-breaking Atlantic solo rower Kiko Matthews.How do you fund a life less ordinary?For most of us financial life means paydays, bills, mortgages and attempts to save or invest, but for others it is very different.If you decide to row the Atlantic, are an Olympic boxer, or have made a career out of having adventures or doing comedy, what on earth do you do with your finances?In our new special podcast series Making the Money Work, in partnership with the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, we talk earnings, budgeting and savings with those whose lives and finances roam far from the norm.The five podcasts are hosted by Andi Peters, alongside This is Money’s Simon Lambert, and every fortnight over the next ten weeks you can listen to a new interview with a different special guest about their financial lives.This is Money’s Podcast will continue to appear each Friday as usual, and the Making the Money Work podcasts will be published fortnightly as a bonus episode in the feed.The first episode features Kiko Matthews, who on 22 March 2018, became the fastest woman to row the Atlantic, solo and unsupported, over 49 days, 7 hours and 15 minutes. Through sponsorship of her world record attempt she raised more than £105,000 for King's College Hospital by the end of that year.But that isn’t even half the story, because in 2009 Kiko had been diagnosed with Cushings Disease, a rare and life-threatening condition, which causes tumours on the pituitary gland that controls the body’s hormones.That life-changing discovery led her to quit her job as a science teacher, qualify as a paddle-boarding instructor and set up her own business, before deciding to row the Atlantic, despite not being a rower.Midway through her training in 2017, her Cushings Disease returned and although she had to undergo neurosurgery, Kiko pushed on with her Atlantic rowing attempt.Since then, Kiko has focussed on environmental campaigning and recently cycled round the coasts of Britain and Ireland completing beach cleans.On this podcast, Kiko tells us her fascinating story, discusses her finances - and reveals just how you go about funding rowing the Atlantic. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Does Woodford trump Brexit and the election, were you more concerned about the wealth gap, or do all those pale into insignificance next to the challenges of climate change?On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert, Georgie Frost and Tanya Jefferies discuss the money stories that shaped the final year of a tumultuous decade.Fallen star fund manager Neil Woodford dominated the financial headlines after his fund was frozen at the start of June, with investors still waiting to find out how much they will get back as it is wound down.That saga was enough to push Brexit and politics out of the main headlines for a while, but they loomed large over the whole year. January triggered a period of fretting over no deal, March saw the Brexit deadline come and pass, summer saw Theresa May out the door of Number 10 Downing Street and Boris Johnson in, only for the new Prime Minister to miss his own Brexit deadline and gamble on an election that he won handsomely.Where does that take us next – and will the set of negotiations we are about to enter into with the EU, after Brexit finally happens on 31 January 2020, prove even tougher.The election also brought campaigning on wealth and inequality – and this topic has also never been far from the agenda in 2019, whether it’s the gap between rich and poor or young and old. Should we worry more about it? What is triggering the problem? How much do high house prices have to do with it?The team discuss that and the defining global issue of the year: climate change. How will countries stepping up their attempts to reduce carbon emissions shape the next decade – and does it present an investment opportunity?We hope you enjoy this final podcast of 2019, thanks for listening, and have a very merry Christmas. We’ll be back in the next decade. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The stock market and the pound bounced as Boris Johnson claimed his 80 seat majority in a better-than-expected election win.But will the honeymoon period last into the New Year, beyond Brexit on 31 January, through a Budget in early February and past the negotiations about how exactly our future relationship with the EU will pan out?The Conservative manifesto was thin on detail, but on this podcast we discuss what was in there, what else we know Boris might do and what we think he could do with the big majority this general election delivered him.And we ask whether the man who wants to be a great Prime Minister, can deliver the goods on the NHS, reshape the economy and get stuff done? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The combined wealth of British households is up 13 per cent between 2016 and 2018 - with the average standing at £286,600.But it's not all about house prices. In fact, the bulk of the rise is thanks to private pensions rather than property inflation, according to the Office for National Statistics.And it says that despite plenty of election claims to the contrary the rich aren't getting richer - but does that claim stack up? On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert, Lee Boyce and Georgie Frost delve into the figures and ask: is financial inequality growing?We look at whether a reader can retire at 58 with a £6,000 pension – but £420,000 in a savings account.Meanwhile, as Vanguard reveals details of its new self-invested personal pension is this now the best home for cheap and easy retirement savings outside of the workplace?On the not so bright side for investors, M&G has suspended trading on its commercial property fund as savers dash for their cash.And finally, away from the serious stuff, we ask do you have to pay inheritance tax on a stamp collection - and just how much do you need to hold in Premium Bonds to have a strong chance of winning a £1million jackpot prize. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will this election really prove to be about Brexit? That issue was predicted to define the vote, but while each party’s Brexit stance will be at the forefront of people’s minds there are many other factors that now seem to be heavily influencing how the 12 December general election is shaping up.One of the biggest is the battle over the economy and our personal finances. There’s a sizeable difference between Labour’s tax and spending plans and those of the Tories.Meanwhile, the Liberal Democrats propose their own sizeable tax and spending rises but at less than half the Labour increase.So what do all these promises and plans mean for you? On this week’s podcast, Georgie Frost, Simon Lambert and Lee Boyce dig into the Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democrat manifestos to find out.The Conservatives have already said they will spend an extra £34billion a year by 2024 and added a further £3billion to that in their manifesto.But Labour plan an extra £82.9billion of spending – with a further £58billion bill for compensating so-called Waspi women hit by the rising state pension age.Both parties claim they can fund their plans through tax – the Tories by halting corporation tax cuts and Labour by radically overhauling the tax system, including 45p tax for many more people and a new 50p ‘super rich rate’.The Lib Dems have their own proposals to add a bit to income tax and hike capital gains tax.What is the chance of any of these plans working? Will the tax rises pull in the money expected – and can the spending be used wisely?And what of the other things Britain needs to achieve? Is more housebuilding compatible with combatting climate change, protecting the environment and looking after the countryside – and what have beavers got to do with it?Listen to this week’s podcast to find out. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Labour's election manifesto has been revealed and it involves a huge £82.9billion spending spree – to be funded by a similar tax rise.It outlined a 45p income tax rate above £80,000 and to leave no one in any doubt about its intentions opted to call its new 50p level above £125,000 the Super-Rich Rate.On this podcast, Simon Lambert, Georgie Frost and Lee Boyce run through the main financial points of Labour's manifesto, with a look at all the parties' plans due at a later date after the Tory manifesto lands.They look at the other Labour moves, including for capital gains will be taxed at the same level as income – with the annual allowance axed - sending the current 10 and 20 per cent CGT rate for investors in shares and funds – and 18 and 28 per cent for property investors - up to 20, 40, 45 or even 50 per cent.Entrepreneurs would lose their special 10 per cent capital gains tax rate that rewards them for building businesses. Dividends would also be taxed the same as income, with the dividend allowance removed.Inheritance tax reforms would be reversed, taking the amount a married home-owning couple can potentially leave tax-free down from almost £1million to £650,000.Elsewhere, corporation tax will rise to 26 per cent, VAT will be added to private school fees, second home council tax will treble, 10 per cent of company shares will be put into employer funds with workers and the state sharing dividends, and a transaction tax would be brought in for the financial sector.On the other side of the coin, Labour has promised billions for the NHS, infrastructure, public sector pay rises, free broadband for all, a rent cap for tenants and to nationalise the energy, water and rail industries.The team also discuss the Conservative's bid to fend off an NHS winter crisis caused by pension taper rules that are forcing older doctors to avoid doing work so that they do not get hit with big tax bills.Also on the agenda, how buy-to-let repossessions are rising as landlords feel the squeeze and why falling house prices in London and South East mean some families are managing to reclaim inheritance tax after homes sell for less than originally thought.And finally, we discuss the reg plate lotto, where drivers can try to win an entire lifetime's worth of free petrol or diesel, worth almost £280,000. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It could be you. It probably won't, of course, but maybe, just maybe, it could be. That's the attraction of Britain's lottery for its millions of players and this week it reached its 25th birthday. For self-proclaimed Lottery mug, Simon Lambert, that's two-and-a-half decades of spending money on the draw week-in, week-out because foolishly he has six numbers committed to memory.For some lucky people though, it's meant winning a life-changing sum of money, albeit for a handful it probably didn't change life for the better.On this week's podcast, Simon, Georgie Frost and George Nixon look at 25 years of the lottery and the story of a couple, Elaine and Derek, from Newcastle who won £2.7million shortly after the game started.So what did they do with the money - and what would our podcast team do?Also, this week we discuss the 100 per cent mortgages for students who want to try their hand at becoming buy-to-let landlords.Meanwhile, providers that know your new card details before you hand them over and Black Friday scams are also on the agenda. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What’s the best new or used electric car on the market, would buying your insurance on the day you need it drive up the price, and does London’s diesel-crunching ULEZ make sense?Those are the questions and more on this motoring special edition of the This is Money Podcast. On it, Georgie Frost and Simon Lambert are joined by deputy motoring editor Rob Hull to talk cars and money.First up, is our exclusive on how insurers are sneakily pushing up prices for those who buy cover close to when they need it - bad news if you want to choose and buy a car and then drive it away.The team also look at attempts to crack down on older petrol and diesel cars, such as London’s ULEZ – soon to be extended all the way out to the North and South Circular – and ask whether the crop of electric car alternatives available now are enough to tempt people en-masse.Simon argues that one of the key problems is not how good new electric cars are (albeit they are now pretty good) but the issue of buying second hand and the limited choice and consumer concerns.Meanwhile, Rob says that although a brand new electric car may be tempting to those committed to greener motoring, many buyers are likely to sit on their hands expecting a better choice of longer range vehicles to arrive soon.One of those won’t carry a Golf badge, as VW is ditching its trusty model name for its new ID range of electric cars.But before they arrive a new Golf will. The Golf is a car that has long set the benchmark for family hatchbacks, so with the wraps coming off the next eighth generation one what can we expect inside, outside, and - all importantly nowadays - in terms of tech? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Insurance claims for burglary rise by a third in the winter months and sometimes it can be down to households not doing basic checks. This week, editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost take a look what you can do to protect your home.Elsewhere, can you use Section 75 when booking a holiday on a credit through a third party?We take a look at what common myths many have when it comes to consumer rights, including: if a shop prices an item up wrong, is it obliged to sell it for the lower amount?We tackle a question that could be on the minds of parents – should you pay off your child's student loan, or help them buy a home? And just how bonkers is the current student finance system?Savers aged over 50 are being sent newly-revamped and shortened 'wake-up packs' about their pensions – a good idea?And finally, could you have an old comic book gathering dust worth a pretty penny? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What's the difference between loyalty and inertia? Do we get too little reward for the former and show too much of the latter when it comes to shopping and banking?That's the question Simon Lambert, Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost tackle in the podcast this week.It comes as Tesco – one of the original loyalty scheme pioneers – revealed its new paid-for Clubcard Plus, costing £7.99 per month.Meanwhile, Nationwide Building Society has also announced it is scrapping its hugely popular loyalty savings accounts held by 1.6million people.Which are the firms and organisations the team feel some loyalty too - and what are the ones they stick with out of sheer laziness? And with another small energy firm going bust, should we in fact be staying 'loyal' to some of the established giants for peace of mind?Elsewhere, we look at a study comparing the costs of buying and renting a home claiming the former could leave you £350,000 better off: do we finally have conclusive evidence?Also, when you buy shares in a company, do you need to check what bosses of the business are up to? Are they themselves buying into their own company – and if not… why not?We also run the rule over statistics showing how many cars there are with more than 250,000 miles on clock with a full MOT. The team reveal the best workhorse cars, the high-milers they've owned and ask listeners to tell us below: what is the biggest mileage you've racked up on a car? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Neil Woodford's Equity Income Fund, which has locked in investors' money since June, will never reopen – the star fund manager has seen his empire toppled.Editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost, ask: what is next for investors and what lessons will be learnt?We also talk about where it went wrong and what it could mean for the investment industry.Elsewhere, we reveal what makes a 'comfortable' retirement – and what changes you can make to ensure that you are doing enough to secure one.We reveal whether you can find rare quarters from the US in your change while visiting.Meanwhile, a reader asks whether they need to come clean to their car insurer as they're about to tick over the mileage they quoted when they started their annual policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you want a good deal, an undervalued gem, or a fixer-upper to make money on - buy a home at auction.That's the common theory, but does it actually work in practice?There's a chance you might find an underrated home, but there's also the risk that you may get caught up in competition with another buyer and overpay - as many who end up in a bidding war do.On this week's podcast, we switch off Homes Under the Hammer and go watch some real life homes go under the hammer at a property auction.Reporter Grace Gausden tells us about the auction room atmosphere, and Simon Lambert, Georgie Frost and George Nixon discuss tips to make sure you stay on the right side of a bargain hunt.Also on this week's podcast, the team discuss whether those owed money from before Thomas Cook went bust can get flight compensation and why Barclays is stopping customers taking out cash at the post office.Plus, Simon explains the circular economy and why it's important to get capitalism on side to stop trashing the planet.And finally, buying a brand new car isn't very green, but you could save a lot of money on them at the moment as dealers are pre-registering them to meet sales targets and then selling them at up to 40 per cent off. The team explain why. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s crunch time for Brexit and things could go one of three ways.Theoretically, a no-deal Brexit shouldn’t be able to happen and the Prime Minister has to ask for an extension instead, but we are faced with the bizarre prospect of the Government saying it might be able to dodge the law… and so maybe no-deal could still happen.And then, of course, there is the possibility that instead of no-deal or an extension, we actually get a deal.Amid all this, we’ve had news that the UK economy slowed earlier this year and fresh fears over recession, global trade war worries have stepped up a bit, an election’s on the cards, the stock market’s been tumbling and interest rates are going to head down not up.So, is it time to batten down the hatches, or should you be optimistic and aim to be greedy while others are fearful?On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert, Tanya Jefferies and Georgie Frost look at what the latest episode in the Brexit soap opera means for our money, from savings and investments, to mortgages and holiday money.They also discuss the question of whether it is too late to protect your finances against no-deal?Also on this week’s show, the women’s state pension age case defeat and what it means, the almost certain 4 per cent rise for the state pension next year, and what Drastic Dave’s departure from Tesco means for the UK’s biggest supermarket.And finally, you might fancy a classic car but think you can’t afford one – but the team have got ten bargain cars tipped for future classic status that put one in reach (and Simon explains how man maths means they’re almost free). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are regularly told that we aren’t saving enough into a pension, but how much is enough? A recent report suggested that while auto enrolment has dragged more people into saving for retirement, it has also lulled them into a false sense of security. Currently, the system means 8 per cent of a worker’s salary must be going into a pension – unless they opt out – but that includes their contribution, basic rate tax relief and what their employer puts in. Experts suggest that depending on when you start that number needs to be more like a minimum of 12 per cent or even 15 per cent.So how can you make sure you are salting away enough to live in the style you’d like in retirement? On this week’s podcast Simon Lambert and Georgie Frost dive into the world of pension saving and the tricks you can use to get more going into your retirement pot. Also this week, they talk Brexit-proofing your pension, wills – and how to get one if you don’t have one, and what you need to think about if you are moving house to try to get your kids into school. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The best time to get a good deal on buying something is when other people don’t want to.That should theoretically make now a decent time to try to buy a property, but will that work in practice?The property market has run out of steam and house prices are rising at a far more moderate rate than in recent years While the headline figures mask regional differences – London and the South East have seen prices fall, while cheaper areas are still seeing gains – even drilling down into the numbers shows most places are slowing.Rightmove reported this week that the traditional back to school bounce was cancelled, as asking prices failed to rise for the first time in September since 2010 this month.Meanwhile, the ONS, Nationwide and Halifax reports have all pointed to a period of much slower house price inflation.The problem is that often to buy a house you need to sell one and- even if you can do that - estate agents and analysts point to a distinct lack of properties being put up for sale.On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert, Georgie Frost and Grace Gausden dive into the reports on what is going on in the property market, to try to answer the question of whether now is a good time to buy.Also on this week’s show, the team discuss energy vampires and what’s true and what’s false in energy saving claims. The delay to the smart meter rollout is on the agenda too.As the Climate Strike arrives, they debate whether buying carbon credits to make up for flying is wise - or whether we should just be flying less instead.And finally, if you fancy doing the complete opposite, the podcast finishes with a look at why now is the best time to book Christmas flights… or do your bit and get the train instead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Entrepreneurs and investors pay less tax on their profits to reflect the risk they take. That’s the principle that lies behind capital gains tax being lower than the rates charged on employment income. But the influential think-tank, the Institute for Public Policy Research, wants to rip up that system and charge the same rate on gains from selling shares or property as income tax – and hack back the annual capital gains tax allowance to just £1,000. It even wants to remove the special low entrepreneur rate given to those who have sold a business that they built up. Is this the kind of For the many not the few move that Britain needs to level the playing field between those with plenty of capital and the ability to make investments and those who don’t? Or is it just another planned tax raid on those putting their money to productive use and growing our collective wealth? On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert and Georgie Frost dig into the IPPR’s proposals and look at whether this is the kind of thing that could become Labour party policy? They also look at long-term investments that have paid off, risky investments to be wary of and the one thing plenty of people are happy to sink thousands of pounds into knowing that they will lose a big chunk of their money – a brand new car. The good news is that due to a perfect storm of a deadline on new regulation and crashing sales, there are some astonishing deals on pre-registered ‘new’ cars with as much as 40% off. The bad news is that you’ll still almost certainly lose money. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Savers have been dealt a series of blows over the summer and the latest came this week with an NS&I cut, so was that as good as it gets this time round? On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert, Sarah Davidson and Georgie Frost look at why savings rates have started to slip again, and how the mortgage price war, stuttering UK property market and even Donald Trump’s trade spat with China fit in with that. Meanwhile, after one of the most tumultuous weeks in British politics in a decade – at the end of which we are still unsure whether a no-deal Brexit or General Election are on the cards or out of the question – the team look at how to protect yourself against the fallout. Should you act to bolster your savings, mortgage, pension and investments against potential risks? Is that just good financial planning anyway? Does stock piling food ever make sense? The trio look at the expert advice and share their opinions on those topics. Away from the Brexit row, a domestic political hot potato was being thrown around at the beginning of this week too, Labour Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell’s idea for right to buy for tenants to purchase their landlord’s buy-to-let property a discount. The team look at what the concept is, whether this could ever work and who would foot the bill? And finally, are electric cars greener once you factor in the build and the battery? A new survey says it has the answer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, This is Money takes a look at a raft of inter-generation financial divide stories that have popped up in August.This includes why those born in the 1980s have less disposable income than those born in the 1970s according to the Office for National Statistics and why the Bank of Mum and Dad is creaking.Assistant editor Lee Boyce, reporter George Nixon and host Georgie Frost run the rule over these statistics, along with proposals to raise the state pension age to 75.This was from a right-wing think tank The Centre for Social Justice and has left many industry experts irate.We also discuss data showing that two thirds of older people say they feel hurt by the inter-generational financial criticism that they are lording it up at the expense of younger generations.Elsewhere, why easy-access savings account rates could be a better bet than fixed-rate offers and why you should act if you have a Marcus Bank savings account.We also talk metal bank cards – why on earth would you want one and who is offering them? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's fair to say environmental issues have moved to the forefront of the agenda in recent times – a large chunk of households in Britain are becoming more eco-conscious.This week, editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost take a look at potential changes you can make to help the pound in your pocket turn a little greener.Simon explains his rallying cry for us to be his acronym 'Layby' rather than being labelled 'Nimbys'. Layby – or look after your back yard – is a movement to look after the country we live in.When it comes to investing, there is a growing movement where savers who want to combat climate change invest a small amount of money in the very companies eco-activists traditionally rally against, such as fossil fuel giants Shell and BP – so why?You don't have to do a Greta Thunberg, the young Swedish activist, and sail for two weeks to your holiday destination to lower your travel carbon footprint... what can you do to be a more eco-friendly tourist?And finally… it's hard enough trying to predict how rapidly a normal car will depreciate, but estimating the loss of value of an electric vehicle is a whole other ball game. We reveal all. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The pound has been battered and bruised of late and it took another blow last week with gloomy news about the UK economy.With a no-deal potentially in the offing, how much more of a pounding will sterling take?Editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost look at what lies behind the decline, why it's fallen so much when jobs, wages and inflation aren't doing badly and what it could mean for interest rates.We also ask: is a recession coming? And as the cost of living nudged higher, with inflation recorded at 2.1 per cent, what was behind the surprise increase?Elsewhere, should you fix your mortgage for 10 years? Banks and building societies are increasingly catering to the rising demand.One of the biggest last minute holiday hassles is sorting out money and something we often leave to the last minute.But you could avoid all that and sign up for a credit or debit card that comes with no extra fees spending abroad and doesn't load currency conversions in the bank's favour. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you think you're too savvy to fall victim to a pension scam - or any scam for that matter - you might want to think again. Almost half of 45-65 year olds would potentially fall victim to six common tactics used by fraudsters, Financial Conduct Authority research claims.Editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost take a look, as it's revealed the average victim loses £82,000.A psychologist also reveals five common tricks used by scammers to get you to part with your cash, whether it is pension-related or not.Elsewhere, we reveal how one reader was facing his house sale falling through thanks to a little known Cifas fraud marker being attached to his name via telecoms giant Sky.We teach you how to complain properly, as we aim to arm listeners with the knowledge they need to take on big firms when they do something wrong.The RAC launches a new insurance that could beat the car rental rip-off and the AA warns about keeping on the right side of the French driving law. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Changes in tax rules that will be introduced next year could hit the income of anyone who's self-employed - such as IT experts and business consultants.Editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost look at why it is being called a 'ticking timebomb' for contractors.Elsewhere, as the PPI deadline fast approaches, what will it mean for banks and consumers – and why you should DIY a claim before it's too late.Things go from bad to worse for Neil Woodford investors, as money will be locked in now until December at the earliest.The Financial Conduct comes in for criticism after failing to warn savers about a scam they knew about for nearly a month resulting in huge financial losses for three of our readers.And John Lewis gives advice on where to stash valuables before heading away with help from six ex-burglars. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Out go Theresa May and Philip Hammond, in come Boris Johnson and Sajid David – will it result in your finances falling out of top gear, or going on a grand tour?That's the question editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost tackle this week, as we have a new Prime Minister at the helm, and a new Chancellor as his sidekick.Boris has hinted at a stamp duty cut, an income tax cut, a fix for the social care crisis and promised more police officers and better infrastructure. Can he deliver on all that?And, more pertinently, will Mr Johnson manage to succeed when it comes to Brexit by Halloween? We discuss all this and what other tricks may he have up his sleeve to help your finances?Meanwhile, we reveal why you may want to think twice before logging into public wifi at coffee shops and hotels.And there are top tips on how you can fight the financial fear of the school holidays.And we also discuss why going for a classic car maybe a better investment when it comes to convertibles and celebrate the mundane vehicles that used to be a common sight on our roads, but no longer are. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The threat of no deal is looming larger – just a few months after people had decided a softer Brexit was on the cards. This week we had the Office of Budget Responsibility’s verdict on what a ‘benign’ no-deal Brexit scenario might look like for the economy. It would cost us £30billion, unemployment would rise to 5%, the pound would fall 10% and house prices would go down by the same amount. And that’s not based on the IMF’s worst case scenario. The Chancellor said things could actually be more painful, Jacob Rees-Mogg suggested it was the wrong way round and we could be £80billion richer. So could no deal really happen? What would it mean for your money? Are the OBR’s forecasts just more Project Fear? Or is ignoring experts measured forecasts Project Daft? On this week’s podcast Simon Lambert and Georgie Frost dive into Britain’s unpredictable short-term future. Also on the show, we look at what we can learn from a trip back to This is Money a decade ago, consider why Lloyds is getting back into the investment advice business with Schroders Personal Wealth, and answer a couple of reader questions on faking a break-up and staging a divorce to dodge pension tax and whether if you break off an engagement you get to keep the ring. Who said love is dead?Enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's official: IHT is the country's most hated tax. That's according to the Office of Tax Simplification, who have been looking into the quirks of the system at the request of the Chancellor.What needs to change – and could a Labour plan, bubbling away in the background, really be the answer? Editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost take a look.Whatever happens with IHT, most want to leave as much of their wealth as possible to loved ones when they pass away – so just how do you do it and how many bend the rules?Elsewhere, we update on what's going on at Deutsche Bank as thousands of jobs across the globe are axed.Eon goes green and says millions of its customers will now receive 100 per cent renewable electricity – but what does that mean?And on the topic of green, we have details of the first all-electric Mini – how much will it cost, what is its range and most importantly... is it any good? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

t’s been more than a month since Britain’s most high profile fund manager Neil Woodford was embarrassingly forced to close the doors to his flagship fund.Since then, investors have been unable to sell out and this week - after the first 28 days of closure rolled round - Woodford Equity Income locked savers in for another four weeks.Over the past month, Woodford, his business, its associates and the entire fund management industry have been thrown under the spotlight, but ultimately, will all this fuss and fiasco make any difference?On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert, Georgie Frost and Alex Sebastian look at what next for the investment world, what has changed and whether once the noise dies down it will simply be back to business as usual.Can we learn anything from the Woodford mess?Are there other investments we should be looking at?Is this just another reason to ditch active management for passive funds?Will we still continue to love our star managers?All this and more comes under the microscope, as the team look to Woodford and beyond and consider the business of making money from making other people’s money. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The bumper fees we pay to estate agents to sell our homes are a common gripe, so what’s not to like about one that offers to do it for free?Yes, free. Online agent Housesimple says that it will sell your home at no charge, rather than the 1.5 per cent you might pay a traditional High Street agent, or even the £900 or thereabouts that rival fixed fee agents charge.So, what’s the catch and would taking up this kind of offer be a good idea?On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert, Georgie Frost and Will Kirkman dive into the murky world of selling houses and whether estate agents are worth their fees.They also look at how much it costs to get on the property ladder around the UK and why it’s got more affordable in London, with one major caveat.On the agenda this week, in addition to that, is the help or lack of for mortgage prisoners and how to get your pension to last to 100.The team also take a trip back to the 1970s, to find out why a decade famed for being economically rubbish for the UK also managed to deliver the last time unemployment was this low.And finally, Simon has some tips on how to do well in our £20,000 Fantasy Share Picking Game, which include not copying him thanks to his lowly 1,400th place in the practice league. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two-thirds of savers are being told to abandon final salary pensions - and this is despite the Financial Conduct Authority saying that advisers should start with the standpoint this is not a suitable option. That revelation arrived this week as the FCA said too much advice on valuable pensions is 'still not of an acceptable standard.' Are people getting the right advice about their gold-plated pensions, or are they right to jump ship? That's the question tackled by editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost this week. Meanwhile, a reader discovers an old Post Office Savings Bank book from the 1960s – but what is it worth now and can you even take the money out. Premium bonds – how do you really find out you've won the jackpot? Britain has a net zero emissions target for 2050, but what are the best electric cars to buy now? And forget fantasy football, we reveal the details of our fantasy share picking game where the winner will scoop a giant £20,000 grand prize. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Much is made of the difficulties faced by first-time buyers to get onto the property ladder, but less talked about is the problem facing second steppers and those looking to downsize.As growing families struggle to afford to move up the property ladder could intergenerational house-swaps be the answer? That's the question editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost tackle this week.What are the potential stamp duty and inheritance tax traps to look out for, and is it a good idea?Simon debunks the different ways businesses report profits and what to look out for, and updates on Neil Woodford.Lee runs the rule over the top easy-access savings deals as a number now match Marcus Bank's 1.5 per cent rate.Meanwhile, we talk about the plans to protect physical cash, as usage continues to dwindle – that, despite a launch of a new set of Peter Pan 50p capturing the public imagination. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It's been a rocky week to say the least for Britain's most recognisable fund manager Neil Woodford – he suspended trading in his flagship fund, leaving savers unable to access their cash.And we still don't know the future of Sir Philip Green and his Arcadia empire, after a crucial rescue vote was suspended.This is Money assistant editor Lee Boyce, retail reporter Emily Hardy and host Georgie Frost discuss how it has gone wrong for the pair.What has led Woodford to this point, could there be a Financial Conduct Authority investigation, are savers trapped in the fund safe – and can he recover?Arcadia – with brands like Burton and Topshop – could be set to close 50 stores with the loss of 1,000 staff. What is a CVA and why hasn't Sir Philip managed to get a deal approved this week?We also discuss the High Street in general and a worrying set of figures – what can be done to help stop the decline?Elsewhere, we run the rule over a 'bonkers' plan for first-time buyers to raid pension pots for deposits and Lee urges savers to engage with their retirement savings.And we finally manage to get the Pensions Minister to give us a precise figure on how many people may have received incorrect state pension forecasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We often talk about good retirement planning being key to more secure and happier future – but what happens if the figures you were working on were completely wrong – and it's not your maths to blame…Editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost discuss a string of incorrect state pension forecasts sent out that will result in many facing a poorer retirement than expected.The Government only admits to making occasional errors but a former Pensions Minister reckons the latest cases could just be the tip of the iceberg.Elsewhere, we talk about a new code which will be give better protection against authorised push payment scams, which costs people millions of pounds each year.We update on Tesco Bank and its stops mortgage lending and explores the sale of its loan book.Simon gives an overview of Buffettology – how can you can potentially channel your inner Warren Buffett to become a better investor.Could you be rich from the Premium Bonds and not even know it? And which firms offer the best salaries in Britain? It's all crammed inside this week's podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The mortgage price war claimed a high profile victim this week as Tesco Bank scrapped lending. A great adventure into the world of banking - billed as a major challenge to the High Street banking giants with mortgages promoted in the aisles – has come to an end. Tesco Bank will continue with its other products, but why has it ditched mortgages, why have a string of other smaller players shut their doors in recent months, and why did building society behemoth Nationwide issue its own caution on home loans this week? On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert, Sarah Davidson and Georgie Frost dive into what is currently a weird world of mortgages: where a greater supply of money to lend than demand to borrow it means there are some very cheap deals on offer. They also look at whether this may end up causing problems further down the line and ask how long it will be before more risky lending edges back in. Also on this week’s show, the team look at a reader’s problem with a neighbour upstairs, who has stripped the floor back to floorboards and is creating noise issues, despite a lease that says there must be carpets. How do you enforce that? Thomas Cook’s troubles and what they mean for holidaymakers are under the spotlight too. And finally, ever wondered why sometimes drivers get a ticket but at others escape with just a warning, or what really drives police officers mad behind the wheel? You need to listen to the segment on the secrets of a traffic cop revealed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There’s an old saying that money doesn’t buy happiness, which is often swiftly countered with the suggestion that while this may be the case, having enough not to worry about it definitely helps.There are no shortage of cautionary tales that tell us it is better to be happy than rich, but does it matter if some people have an awful lot more money than others?And does it matter to both them and society how they got it - and whether it was earned by hard work?An in-depth five-year study was launched this week that aims to look into inequality in Britain; and not just at earnings and wealth, but also inequality in education, opportunity, gender, race, geography, class and generation.It arrived with a snapshot of Britain today and on this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert, Tanya Jefferies and Georgie Frost dive into the picture that paints and discuss whether we need to worry about inequality or not.They also look at how to work out how wealthy you are – and why that matters even if you subscribe to the money doesn’t buy happiness mantra.This week’s podcast also reveals the perks that you can get if you are over-60, after Jeff Prestridge wrote about those he discovered that he can now pick up now he’s had a big birthday. More seriously, the team flag the vital help that over-65s can get if they are struggling.And finally, if you’ve ever thought you’d like to live in a certain part of town, on an exact street, or even ‘in that house there’, we look at the new service Knock for Sale that will send owners a card for you for £5 to tell them you are interested and maybe tempt them to sell. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Many people say they would like to have a crack at a Grand Design of their own – or even a more modest one – but finding somewhere to build it is a problem.That’s why despite self-builders typically turning an immediate paper profit of 15 to 30%, according to specialist BuildStore, not many of us take the plunge. Things could be about to change for the better, however, as keen to encourage more people to self-build the Government has told councils to launch Right toBuild registers and make land available.On this week’s podcast, Simon Lambert and Georgie Frost dive into the world of building your own home and look at whether the plan to raise self-build’s profile will work or fizzle out.From finding a plot, to using an architect, and getting involved yourself or employing someone to build it for you, they discuss how to do – and the barriers that may stand in your way.Plus Simon reveals how both his parents and his uncle - on separate occasions - went down the self-build route.Also on this week’s podcast, the team look at whether pensioners should get a stamp duty break and if you can sell your home for less than it’s worth to avoid equity release and care costs.Neil Woodford’s claim that his strategy will come good is in the spotlight and Simon reflects on whether sticking with his Woodford investments was a wise move.And finally, Britain’s car buyers may love an SUV but we reveal why choosing one will hit your pocket harder than a good old fashioned estate car. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Social care is a mounting problem for Britain but the issue is a can that has been kicked down the road repeatedly.Rather than tackle the fact that the state can't afford to care for today's elderly - let alone those that our ageing population will deliver in future - politicians have dodged and fudged. This week a new suggestion emerged involving a hike in National Insurance contributions for over-50s. Editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost take a look and ask: is it a good idea? Elsewhere, we take a look the MPG figures given by manufacturers for cars and how to tell if that local shop or restaurant has really closed down for good. Simon talks about a new flight tax concept and we reveal how to fightback against the those irritating customer service chatbots. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We haven't glued ourselves to train carriages, politician fences or the London Stock Exchange.No, this week's This is Money podcast opts for a less confrontational approach to the environment, with useful tips and tricks that are good for the planet as well as your wallet. Simon Lambert, Lee Boyce and Georgie Frost look at the green movement and what it means for the financial industry and businesses. Are they doing enough? Alongside that, we look at what we - the consumer - can do to help the environment and save money along the way.Simon has three places you can make a big difference by adding pressure or changing behaviour, from picking green energy deals, to what to do about flying. Meanwhile, the hybrid car of choice, the Toyota Prius, isn't just for Uber drivers and eco-conscious celebrities as it tops a survey of most satisfying motors to drive. Elsewhere, outside of the green bubble – we look at where a pair of 40something business owners with no pension should invest. We continue to puzzle over the baffling state pension top-up system and ask: just how far over the limit could you potentially drive in your area before being issued with a ticket? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TSB says defrauded customers will now always get their cash back, which has piled pressure on other banks to do the same.But will they – and should they have to? That's the question assistant editor Lee Boyce, reporter George Nixon and host Georgie Frost tackle in this week's podcast.In all, £354million was stolen last year authorised push-payment frauds and until now, banks had refused to pay compensation, claiming the victims should have been more careful.Elsewhere, we take a look at some of the new breed of smartphone apps could help you build a savings habit without even trying, as a report shows that many bury their head in the sand when it comes to financial decision making.Private landlords may no longer be able to evict tenants at short notice and without good reason under a major shake-up of the rental sector.The rate of annual house price growth in Britain has fallen to its lowest level for nearly seven years – with London and the South East seeing value drops.And finally, an investigation has found Amazon is flooded with fake reviews which could be misleading us into wasting our money – should we trust the five stars and how can you spot the duds? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There are three certainties in life. You know the drill. You’re born, you will die and you will listen to this podcast about tax. As another new tax year is upon us, editor Simon Lambert and host Georgie Frost explain the tax changes that will affect you. There is a nice pay rise for more than 20 million people as the personal allowance is raised. And Simon answers some of the questions on everyone’s lips:What is the lifetime allowance?What is inheritance tax?Why do married couples get a tax break?Should families be rewarded when both parents work?How does national insurance work?And why do the cost of stamps and all your bills all go up on the same day?You'll learn an awful lot about things you need to know about tax without having to read about it. Enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As we fast approach one fifth of the way through the 21st century, the world of finance is modernising in ways that would have been unimaginable a few years ago. And not always in a good way. The language of ‘savings’ has evolved to the point of dishonesty and even fraud.On this week’s podcast editor Simon Lambert and reporter George Nixon join host Georgie Frost to look at fancy new Innovative Finance Isas, at savings products that claim to offer 8% returns and to be protected by the official savings watchdog but are in fact risky investments – and the fraud investigation at London Capital and Finance, where thousands of ‘savers’ lost millions of pounds.Simon guides listeners through the dark side of mini bonds and the complex web of companies that savers’ money was poured into at LC and F before it collapsed owing £236m. The City watchdog supposedly overseeing the company is also now being investigated .On a cheerier note, George explains how teenagers are able to invest on the stock market and how easy it can be to get started, plus a couple of new free share dealing services, an old-fashioned holiday trap and whether insurance companies would pay out if your flash car crash is on video and on social media.Enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The end of the financial year is looming - April 5 - and it means the clock is ticking if you haven't sorted your Isa or pension. Editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost have an Isa special for your ears this week.When it comes to cash Isas, you may already be too late as some banks and building societies have already pulled their best buys.Lee reveals his top cash picks for 2019, why there has been a move to cash tax-free accounts and why they are still worth having, even with rates still low.Simon reveals all you need to know about getting started on investing in an Isa – and why it could be worth looking at greener options. The team call in the experts to give their last minute fund ideas and reveal why our Prudent Investor is nervous about what Brexit could do to his cash. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Government wants to scrap gas boilers in new homes by 2025 – but what are the viable alternatives? And how much will they cost?This week, This is Money editor Simon Lambert, reporter Grace Gausden and host Georgie Frost explore the options.And on the energy theme, you can now ask Alexa: when will my electricity bills be cheapest?Energy company Octopus has teamed up with Amazon, the creator of Alexa, and will pay customers to use electricity at off-peak periods. Sound too good to be true?We also talk 'dumb' smart meters and reveal which energy firm we're leaving en masse...Plus the team teach you the tips of the successful haggle as it emerges which telecoms giants are easiest to bargain with.Enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With all the shenanigans in Westminster this week you could be forgiven for failing to register we had a Spring Statement at all – let alone clocked its finer points.Editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost fill you in on what you may have missed. It includes forecasts from the Office for Budgetary Responsibility on the UK economy, along with income growth, interest rates, the pound and house prices.We also have the true scale of the tax burden on families and businesses, with the overall tax take equivalent to 34.6% of Britain's economy, a level not seen since Harold Wilson was Prime Minister.Income tax receipts will rise nearly £54billion in the next five years, with steep rises forecast for National Insurance, VAT and Corporation Tax.A hike in probate 'fees' was waved through without a vote or debate in parliament by classifying it as a fee not a tax – but the ONS is now calling it a tax.The OBR also reveals that two flagship savings schemes have not been anywhere near as popular as planned, while boilers are out – as are feed-in tariffs from solar panels.Enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Put on your party hats, it's Isa season! After years in the doldrums could we have a proper Isa battle on our hands in 2019?Santander and Coventry Building Society have launched two best-buy easy-access tax-free deals, and that appears to have put some wind in the sails of This is Money assistant editor Lee Boyce.Editor Simon Lambert and host Georgie Frost – along with Lee – talk all things Isas: whether they are worth it, the options and importantly, are the new top rates a potential catalyst for more competition?Elsewhere, we take a look at new fintech firm Dozens, offering a five per cent return spotted after a recent London Transport advertising blitz.There is a victory for This is Money readers, as Virgin Money refunds credit card customers stung by charges after unwittingly setting minimum payments rather than paying the full balance when changing card.Simon runs the rule over a 95% interest-only mortgage launched by Newbury Building Society.Finally, we talk about our latest Freedom of Information request to find out just how many motorists actually get fined for idling engines to defrost windscreens.Enjoy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

National Savings and Investments has launched Ernie 5.0 – its fifth generation machine that draws the Premium Bond numbers.It now takes just 12 minutes for numbers to be generated by the Electronic Random Number Indicator Equipment compared to 10 days back in the early 1970s.This week, editor Simon Lambert, assistant editor Lee Boyce and host Georgie Frost answer the question – what would you do if you gained a windfall, big or small, either from the Premium Bonds or by other means?What does it mean to win big and what are the first things you need to think about if you’re lucky enough to come into some cash?And when it comes to gifting some of your windfall to children, should it go towards their student loan, help with a house deposit, put in a pension or help them get involved in investing?We also discuss a 57-year-old reader who was the latest star in our regular Money Pit Stop series, who wants to make sure his own investment portfolio can withstand downturns and provide him with a good income at retirement.Additionally, after we launched our This is Money Diaries this week, we reveal the concerns our 28-year-old first Guinea Pig has – and why we want the younger generation to get involved. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.