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Banks competing for ex-pat money

Skipton International has launched an 18-month fixed-rate bond just a few weeks after Permanent Bank International produced its 18-month deal. The Skipton deal just beats Permanent on the interest rate, plus the minimum deposit required is smaller.  The new Skipton International deal is 1.75pc on a minimum of £10,000.  Permanent International’s 18-month version is 1.69pc on a minimum £20,000.

The interest rate from Skipton International also beats the Permanent Bank International three-year rate and comes close to the Nationwide International three-year deal of 1.85pc.  It makes the current crop of one-year fixed-rate deals look less attractive. You can get 1.45pc from Nationwide International or 1.4pc from Permanent International fixed for one year; the former on a minimum investment of £50,000, the latter on £20,000. Santander also offers monthly income on its fixed-rate bonds.

These rates can easily be beaten, and coming to Blacktower for advice could save you losing a small fortune, as independent advisers we can tailor our recommendation to suit you, we would be looking to gain between 4 and 10% depending on your circumstances.  Monthly income can be received to boost your spending power and your capital can grow at the same time.

Given how confusing this can all be we are urging people to take advice before deciding what to do from a reputable regulated adviser.

This communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute, and should not be construed as, investment advice, investment recommendations or investment research. You should seek advice from a professional adviser before embarking on any financial planning activity. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the information contained in this communication is correct, we are not responsible for any errors or omissions.

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Custodial Sentence for Pensions Fraudster

PrisonAn investigation by The Pensions Regulator has for the first time resulted in an immediate custodial sentence for the perpetrator of professional pensions fraud, after William Bessent, an accountant who used his position as the trustee and administrator of a pension scheme to steal his clients’ savings, was sentenced to 40 months in prison. He pleaded guilty to multiple fraud charges, making prohibited employer-related investments, and separate charges of acting as a director while disqualified.

The landmark case, being heard at Preston Crown Court* will also hopefully result in the return of stolen funds. On July 5 the courts will seek to obtain a confiscation order in order to make Bessent repay the remainder of the money he owes; he has so far repaid £80,000 but owes a further £200,000.

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