Experts warn savings rates could fall as the Bank of England is meeting this week
Rates have already declined since the last 0.25% reduction in August(Image: sturti via Getty Images)
Savers are being encouraged to act swiftly and secure higher-paying cash ISA and savings deals, as interest rates are predicted to decrease in the coming days. The Bank of England is widely expected to reduce the base rate from 4% to 3.75% this week, a move that experts caution will quickly result in lower savings rates.
Rates have already declined since the last 0.25% reduction in August, putting pressure on savers to act promptly if they wish to safeguard the return on their hard-earned money. While a base rate cut is beneficial for mortgage holders and the broader economy, it often spells bad news for savers – especially those who have left money in low-interest accounts.
Rachel Springall, finance expert at Moneyfactscompare.co.uk, said: “Savers pay the price of cuts to the base rate, and the reduction in August has been no exception. Variable rates tend to be most affected by base rate cuts, but fixed rates also decrease as providers adjust to their competitors. It’s crucial to take time to shop around for the best rates and switch if necessary to make your cash work harder.”
(Image: Moyo Studio via Getty Images)
Millions are also suffering from the so-called loyalty penalty – sticking with the same savings account for years due to inertia – and losing out as a result. With inflation currently at 3.6%, many savers are watching their money diminish in real terms as rising prices devalue the cash in their bank accounts.
However, there are still a number of accounts paying above inflation, with top rates as high as 5% – though experts warn these deals may not be around for long.
Best savings rates on the market
Best variable cash ISA deals
Teachers Building Society – 4.30%
Plum – 4.28%
Atom Bank – 4.25%
Vanquis Bank – 4.25%
Principality Building Society – 4.2%
Best fixed one-year cash ISA deals
Tembo Money – 4.3%
Investec Save – 4.3%
Charter Savings Bank – 4.3%
UBL UK – 4.28%
Kent Reliance – 4.25%
Best easy-access deals
Cahoot – 5%
Snoop – 4.25%
Manchester Building Society – 4.25%
Vanquis Bank – 4.25%
Dudley Building Society – 4.25%
Best one-year fixed-rate deals
Kent Reliance – 4.51%
Investec Save – 4.5%
LHV Bank – 4.46%
DF Capital – 4.45%
Habib Bank Zurich plc – 4.44%
What type of savings account is best for you?
The right choice depends on your personal circumstances. Easy-access accounts suit those who may need to dip into their savings at short notice, while fixed deals are better for people who can afford to lock money away in return for a higher guaranteed rate.
Ms Springall told The i Paper: “Easy-access accounts remain a haven for savers, as they are a great choice for an emergency fund. Those who use these for convenience do need to compare rates regularly, as they get hit when the base rate gets cut.”
She also warned that some top deals rely on temporary bonuses, saying: “A few of the best deals carry bonus rates, so the responsibility is on the saver to be vigilant and switch before these expire. Savers may well prefer to open a savings account with a brand they trust, but such loyalty doesn’t always pay.
“A convenient way for consumers to save their money is to stash it in a current account, or a simple saver with their bank, but that’s not the best choice.
“These simple savers can pay shockingly low rates, so in real terms, the cash is eroded by inflation. Despite that, loads of cash continues to be put aside this way. While you can’t blame savers for wanting a ‘risk-free’ safety net to fall back on, it’s still important to compare rates.”
Cash ISAs also remain attractive – even though the annual allowance has been cut from £20,000 to £12,000.