Check out this week’s best new financial deals

Savings

Yorkshire Building Society has increased the rate on its 18-month fixed-rate bond, which now pays 1.8% a year. Savers can invest between £1,000 and £2m. Early access to funds is not permitted, but further additions are permitted whilst the issue remains open. This deal can be operated in branch, by post and online.

It’s good because: This is ideal for savers who are looking to maximise their interest in the shorter term. However, with no early access to funds, savers must ensure that they are happy with the length of the term.

 

Virgin Money has increased its one-year fixed-rate Isa, which now pays interest of 1.65% a year. The minimum investment is £1. Additions are permitted within 30 days of the account opening, and early access to funds is allowed subject to a 60-day loss-of-interest penalty. Transfers in from cash and stocks & shares Isas are accepted. This deal is for savers aged 16 and over and can be operated in branch, by post and online.

It’s good because: This Isa sits comfortably within the top five of its sector. This could prove to be a popular option for savers who are uncertain about what funds they can commit as it has the added flexibility of withdrawals, albeit subject to a penalty.

 

Mortgages

Hinckley & Rugby Building Society has reduced its five-year fixed rate, which is now priced at 3.89%. This deal is for customers who borrow from £50,000 at 90% loan-to-value. There is a fee of £999, of which £800 can be added to the loan advance. An incentives package of free valuation and free legal fees for remortgage customers is available, and overpayments are allowed.

It’s good because: With a great incentives package that will help to minimise upfront costs, this could be attractive for many borrowers.

 

Credit cards

Sainsbury’s Bank has increased the term of its fee-free 0% balance-transfer deal on its Nectar credit card to 13 months. Purchases are charged at 18.9%, but the first 13 months’ of purchases are interest-free. Use of the card is rewarded with Nectar points.

It’s good because: This is one of just a few cards that offer an interest-free balance-transfer deal with no fee.