This is Money Podcast

They explain what ground rents are and how rising clauses can make them unaffordable for flat owners. The discussion covers the proposed £250 cap, its timing and why it may not solve all leasehold problems. Pension fund and corporate pushback over asset write-downs is examined. They also cover surging stamp duty investigations, precious metals rallies, cash ISA rate moves, and whether wood burners can be used responsibly.

They unpack the impact of a weaker US dollar on UK investors with large US exposure. They explain Vanguard’s decision to cut UK bias in its LifeStrategy range and what alternatives to consider. They debate higher mortgage multiples and what that means for affordability. They cover retirement saving targets by age and share money lessons from Joanna Page’s family.

Star fund managers face tough times as many investors consider ditching them for low-cost trackers. Terry Smith and Nick Train defend their recent underperformance, sparking a debate about the future of active management. The team discusses the implications of the Chancellor's cash ISA limit changes and the unexpected drop in London's property prices. They also explore whether cashback deals are worth the effort and handpick the best budget electric vehicles. Tune in for insights into investment strategies and market trends!

Dive into essential financial foundations to take control of your money, from budgeting to setting up a will. Discover practical tips for cutting costs and building a rainy day fund. The conversation shifts to the brewing crisis in the pub sector, where rising business rates spark anger and potential government U-turns. Plus, learn about the recent surge in bank shares, strategies for investing wisely, and innovative concepts like turning homes into zero-bills havens. It's a lively mix of finance and current events!

The property market is experiencing a mixed bag, with looser lending rules helping first-time buyers despite recent stagnation in house prices. A concerning trend of declining values in flats post-COVID due to lifestyle changes is discussed. Listeners also benefit from tips on retiring at 50, including practical financial planning. In more quirky news, the struggles of Costa amid rising coffee prices prompt a debate about consumer preferences for independent coffee shops. Finally, advice on appealing parking charges rounds out the episode.

This year has been a wild ride for finances, with a strong start followed by a shaky economy. Interest rates dropped, yet inflation spiked, causing confusion. There's been much debate over the government's budget and tax changes, facing backlash from businesses. Meanwhile, investors enjoyed a stellar year, spurred by AI gains. With mortgage costs rising, many households face financial pressure. The podcast also hints at a potential remortgage cliff on the horizon, while first-time buyers are making strides in the housing market.

Interest rates have dropped to a record low, sparking debate on how much lower they'll go. The team dives into what the new base rate means for borrowers and savers, and shares tips on navigating mortgages and savings. They also explore Gen Z's savviest savings hacks from social media. A warning about counterfeit goods this holiday season provides essential shopping advice, and a curious neighborly dispute raises legal questions worth considering. Tune in for financial insights and seasonal tips!

Mortgage lenders are slashing rates, leading to excitement for potential homebuyers and 1.9 million people facing remortgage. Experts suggest now is the best time in a decade to negotiate on new builds. The discussion also touches on the housing market's resilience despite regional differences and the potential impact of upcoming rate cuts. Furthermore, there's a fascinating look at the trend of Britons searching for homes abroad, with Spain topping the list, and clever tips on gifting shares to children for the holidays.

A guaranteed income for your retirement years, earned through your working life, with no need to worry about getting caught out by the vagaries of the stock market.  Sounds good, doesn't it? That's what a public sector pension delivers - and it's a far better deal than the retirement funds most people in the private sector save into. So, why do we want to make the good thing worse, rather than the bad thing better? Shouldn't we be doing things the other way round? And shouldn't the government be doing everything it can to improve private sector pensions rather than chip away at their already inferior benefits? On this episode of the This is Money Podcast, Georgie Frost, Helen Crane and Simon Lambert talk pensions - and the gulf between the public and private sector that is getting ever wider. Just how good is a public sector pension? Do many of those in line for them even realise how good they are? And how can we make the private sector catch up rather than trigger a race to the bottom? Plus, why the Budget was very bad news if you earn £52,000, can Argos be saved - and is reviving the catalogue the answer, why are food prices so high, and finally, have you got one of the names most likely to win the Premium Bonds?

Lisa Caplan, a financial planner at Charles Stanley Direct, shares insights into the public's pressing questions following the Budget. She clarifies the 25% tax-free cash limit on pensions and discusses concerns about pensions and inheritance tax. Caplan explains the implications of salary sacrifice changes and promotes using tax wrappers like ISAs for investments. She highlights a new cash ISA allowance structure aimed at encouraging investments and emphasizes the importance of starting early in wealth building. Tune in for expert tips on navigating these financial shifts!