Posts by Stephen Womack

Payment on tap as new cards are prepared for launch

Monday, August 9th, 2010

Paying at shops, pubs and restaurants with a quick wave of a plastic card could finally be about to become part of everyday life. ‘Tap and go’ payments for up to £15 can be made by touching a credit or debit card against a reader.

Ask the Experts: Will I be better off as self-employed?

Monday, June 28th, 2010

I am treasurer of our village hall. Our cash reserves with National Savings now earn just 0.2 per cent. Surely there is something better out there?

How to cash in on slump in the euro

Tuesday, June 15th, 2010

A mini-slump in the value of the euro over the past fortnight means that savvy travellers have the option to lock into generous exchange rates in advance of their trip, increasing their holiday spending power.

A legal way for savers to pick up 14%

Tuesday, June 15th, 2010

Continuing low interest rates are forcing savers to consider new ways to generate the income they need. And returns of up to 14 per cent have put purchased life annuities (PLAs) firmly on some savers’ agenda.

The £1,000 billion bill we all will pay

Tuesday, June 1st, 2010

Reforming public sector pensions is one of the biggest challenges facing the new Government. These schemes are vast, with more than five million members building up pensions and a similar number either already receiving their pension or promised one. But many say these secure final salary schemes are now unaffordable.

Your guide to beating capital gains attack

Monday, May 24th, 2010

Controversial plans to raise capital gains tax in next month’s emergency Budget have left hundreds of thousands of savers wondering whether it is time to sell their investments.
Financial Mail answers the key questions on what is happening and how to beat any rise.

ELECTION 2010: Who will feel pain of coalition cuts?

Wednesday, May 19th, 2010

The new coalition Government is in Number 10 – and the clock has started ticking on its plans to revitalise the nation’s finances.

Thousands are hit by tax bombshell

Tuesday, May 18th, 2010

Big earners are in for a shock as they see the full impact of the new 50p income tax rate hit their salaries this month.