This is Money Podcast

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!

The recent Budget unveiled a chaotic mix of financial measures. Hosts debate whether it truly supports the economy or lacks direction. Tax tweaks include stealth taxes and a new surcharge on high-value properties. Investors are reacting to changes to cash ISAs, while higher taxes on savings and rents may impact landlords and tenants. An intriguing proposal for a per-mile charge on electric vehicles raises concerns about privacy. Plus, expert tips on how to budget-proof your finances are shared.

Nvidia's impressive earnings spark discussions about the AI market's stability and the potential for an investment bubble. The podcast dives into the rising FSCS protection limit and how young savers often focus too much on short-term goals instead of long-term planning. Budget expectations are examined just before the announcement, while there's a call for stricter regulations on ticket touting to protect fans. Lastly, former football star David Seaman shares his thoughts on a costly mistake involving an Aston Martin.

Worrying unemployment figures and disappointing GDP growth signal challenges for the economy. The FTSE 100 is nearing 10,000 but faces fluctuations. Nationwide Building Society's commitment to keep branches open until 2030 sparks debate. Gold is making headlines with a new launch and rising demand due to market uncertainty, while silver's price is gaining traction amid industrial demand. A family's travel nightmare unfolds after a last-minute flight cancellation, revealing frustrations with dynamic airline pricing and customer rights.

The hosts delve into interest rates, discussing the Bank of England's recent hold and predictions for future cuts. House prices take the spotlight as they analyze Savills' bold forecast and the complexities behind it. A curious debate unfolds about the impact of artificial grass on property value. In lighter moments, they explore the controversial Speed-on-Green traffic cameras and the potential increase in FSCS protection for savers. Throughout, they cleverly skirt the Budget conversation, sticking to their self-imposed limits.

The discussion heats up around the potential income tax hike that Rachel Reeves is considering, scrutinizing its political and financial ramifications. Mansion tax speculation surfaces again, raising questions about feasibility and valuation challenges. Good news follows as Goldman Sachs hints at possible interest rate cuts, influenced by sluggish growth. Energy standing charges have skyrocketed, with the team delving into their surprising escalation. They also tackle shrinkflation, revealing how beloved chocolate biscuits are losing their cocoa content.

Discover the inspiring journey of Ollie Perry, who became an ISA millionaire at just 36. Learn how he achieved this milestone through high-risk investments like bitcoin and stocks, and understand the importance of studying investment fundamentals. Explore the balance between diversification and concentrated stock picks, and hear about trends in savings rates and the housing market. Plus, delve into the quirky rise of retro tech collectibles and why so many people are sitting on record amounts of cash.

Rachel Reeves faces a daunting £30 billion budget shortfall. The discussion revolves around whether to break tax promises or find alternatives without raising major taxes. Insights from the Institute for Fiscal Studies highlight potential policies that could plug the gap. The conversation also touches on millennials becoming landlords and the practicality of doom-prepping finances amid market uncertainties. Lastly, the race for driverless taxis in London reveals exciting tech advancements and future possibilities.