April 2012 Archive

Consumer confidence jumps in March but inflation may douse hopes

The Nationwide consumer confidence index for March was 53 points

The Nationwide consumer confidence index for March shows a nine point increase to 53 to reach a nine-month high but remain around 25% below the long-term average.

Government borrows more than expected – but hits target

Public sector net borrowing £18.2bn in March

Government borrowing went up to £18.2 billion last month, despite experts’ predictions that it would fall, official figures released today reveal.

MBNA unveils 20 month 0% balance transfer credit card

MBNA has launched a credit card offering zero per cent interest on balance transfers for 20 months. The card has a representative rate of 16.9% APR variable.

Investigation suggests security concerns over Barclaycard Pay Tag

PayTag can be stuck to phones or wallets

Shoppers will soon be able to pay for items using a tiny sticker that attaches to the back of their phone, wallet or keyring.

IMF uplifts UK growth forecast but warns on austerity

The IMF has issued new global economic growth forecasts

The IMF has published its latest World Economic Outlook and says prospects have improved globally but the euro debt crisis remains a threat to the world economy.

Consumers paying over the odds for credit card ‘pitfalls’

Brits rack up 'unnecessary' credit card charges

A worrying amount of UK consumers may be paying over the odds on credit card repayments simply due to poor credit card practice, MoneySupermarket is warning.

S&P confirms UK's AAA rating and says outlook "stable"

S&P has reaffirmed the UK's triple-A rating

Credit ratings agency Standard & Poor's has reaffirmed the UK's triple-A rating and kept the outlook for the UK "stable" in a move that backs the government's economic policies.