Blog
Insights from the Charles James team
What Is An Annuity?
An annuity is a financial product that allows you to convert your pension savings into a guaranteed, fixed income for the rest of your life - often referred to as a secure income.
Choosing an annuity is a significant decision, as it is usually irreversible. That’s why it’s essential to fully understand how annuities work, the different types available, and the features they offer before making a commitment…
Why is an Emergency Fund a Good Idea?
Setting aside money for a rainy day can help tide you over in times of challenge and provide financial security when in need of it.
What are your emergency fund options?
Savings Accounts: Your Guide to Making the Right Choice
Choosing the right savings account can be a challenge. We’ve seen savings accounts going up to 5.25% interest on easy access and 6% on fixed rates.
Here, we provide a short, concise guide on how to select the ideal savings account and weigh the pros and cons of savings.
How To Save Money on Holiday
When you're away, whether you are ordering a meal or booking that excursion, you can be asked if you want to pay in pounds sterling or the local currency.
It can be tempting to accept the sum that is being offered to you in pounds (GBP), since it is the one that you are most familiar with. But you'll typically pay extra for it.
Here are a few ways to save money while you're away…
3 Ways to Trim Your Bills Quickly
Millions of households are feeling the brunt of the cost-of-living crisis. From our energy, broadband, and water bills to food and fuel, price rises are being felt across the board.
One method to combat this is to devote some time to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money on all of your home expenditures.
That's why we have 2 quick ways to cut your bills…
Despite Wage Rises, Savings Remain At Record Low
Wages are rising, borrowing is decreasing, however British savings as a percentage of income are at historic lows.
Tips For Selecting A Savings Account
Perhaps you have a New Year’s Resolution to open a new savings account this year. With so many products on the market, it can be quite confusing when looking for the right savings account. The Money Advice Service have some tips on how to narrow your search for the right savings product...
UK Government To Address Pension Tax Anomaly
The Treasury has confirmed that it is looking at ways to change some of the ways in which pensions tax relief is provided.
No-Deal Brexit: Pensions, Savings and Mortgages
Just seven months remain until the UK leaves the European Union, and with an ever increasing chance of a “No-Deal Brexit”, we take a look at what that means for you.
The UK Could Soon See A Basic Savings Rate
Banks may soon be forced to offer a minimum interest rate in an attempt to tackle poor returns on customers’ savings.
UK Household Savings Lowest Since 2005
A rise in consumer spending has seen savings levels drop to their lowest level in 13 years.
12% of Your Salary Should Be saved Into A Pension
According to a new report, workers should be saving at least 12% of their annual wage into a pension.
35 Year Olds Should Have Double Their Salary in Savings
According to a leading investments firm, workers should have double their annual salaries in savings by the time they reach their mid-30s.
Simple Steps To Start Saving
Most people would like to build up a healthy rainy day fund, but many struggle to get started and structure their saving. We take a look at some simple steps to kick starting your savings accounts.
Budget 2017: Housing, Tax, Savings & Pensions
The 2017 Budget was delivered on 22nd November by Chancellor Philip Hammond, and contained big changes, particularly for first time buyers.
Savings FAQs
Savings rates are at rock bottom, but that doesn’t mean that saving is a bad idea. Here are some of the commonly asked questions about how to save…
Most Britons Expect to Work Past the Age of 65
The majority of Britons expect to work past retirement age as worries about the size of pension pots surface.
Budget 2017 Breakdown: Taxes, Savings and Pensions
A break down of the key points regarding taxes, savings and pensions from the Spring Budget 2017.
Premium Bond Prize Pot Cut
After the odds of winning a prize were cut last year, NS&I have made further changes to their popular premium bonds scheme.
The Savings Protection Limit is Raised
Good news for savers as the limit of guaranteed savings protection is increased.