January 12th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Purchasing a car is one of the most important financial commitments most households make, yet simple strategic choices can save thousands of pounds without compromising on quality or reliability. With UK motorists facing persistent cost-of-living pressures, understanding where genuine savings exist, instead of chasing superficial discounts, makes the difference between a smart purchase and an expensive mistake.

1. Choosing the Right Type of Car for Your Budget

The smartest savings begin before you ever visit a showroom: matching your actual needs against aspirational wants. According to Zutobi’s 2024 depreciation analysis, UK cars experience an average 38.72% depreciation over three years, meaning a £30,000 new vehicle loses over £11,600 in value before you’ve finished paying it off. This loss makes used cars far more attractive, as someone else absorbs that initial depreciation hit whilst you acquire a perfectly reliable vehicle at substantially reduced cost. A three-year-old model typically gives you modern safety features, remaining manufacturer warranty coverage, and 40-60% lower pricing than showroom equivalents. Focus on practical considerations, such as daily mileage requirements, passenger capacity, and actual boot space needs, instead of lifestyle aspirations that cost thousands extra yet deliver minimal real-world benefit.

1. Timing Your Purchase to Maximise Savings

Seasonal patterns create predictable opportunities for savvy buyers. Registration plate changes in March and September generate intense pressure on dealers to meet quarterly targets, making these months prime negotiating periods. As those plates age into October and April, respectively, dealerships often offer improved incentives to clear remaining stock before newer plates dominate buyer interest. Additionally, December traditionally sees slower footfall as consumers focus on Christmas spending, prompting dealers to discount aggressively to achieve year-end targets. Current economic conditions amplify these patterns with higher interest rates that have softened demand throughout 2024-2025, giving buyers increased leverage when negotiating. Monitor manufacturer incentive schemes and dealer special offers, which frequently coincide with these natural sales lulls.

1. Cutting Finance and Ownership Costs

Finance arrangements are another area where substantial savings hide in plain sight. Average UK car finance payment reached £244 monthly in 2025, but shopping between lenders can reduce this considerably. Compare APRs meticulously because a seemingly modest 2% difference compounds over a four-year agreement. Understand product structures: Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) offers lower monthly payments but includes a substantial balloon payment, potentially trapping you in perpetual finance cycles. Hire Purchase costs more monthly but builds equity faster. If cash purchasing proves feasible, you eliminate interest entirely whilst gaining a stronger negotiating position on vehicle price.

1. Reducing Running Costs from Day One

Purchase price is just the beginning of ownership costs. Insurance group ratings, fuel efficiency, road tax bands, and predicted maintenance expenses all impact long-term affordability. Vehicles in lower insurance groups (1-20 rather than 30-50) can save £300-£500 annually on premiums. Fuel-efficient models delivering 50+ mpg versus 35 mpg save approximately £600 yearly for average mileage. Consider Clean Air Zone compliance since non-compliant vehicles face daily charges in cities like London, Birmingham, and Manchester, adding £12.50-£15 per entry.

Smart car buying is about directing spending toward value and not vanity, guaranteeing that your vehicle serves you economically for years instead of becoming a financial burden from day one.

January 9th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

• 23% will work extra hours
• 21% will use credit cards
• 18% will sell belongings
• 6% will ask family or friends for help
• 5% will take out emergency loans
• 5% will seek debt advice

January 8th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

As we enter a new year, many people are thinking about how to feel more in control of their money.

Financial New Year’s Resolutions can focus on small, manageable changes that can make a meaningful difference to financial confidence and stability in 2026.

Here, Sophie Graham, a Personal Finance Expert at Sunny, shares 10 money resolutions to try this year.

10 Money Resolutions For 2026

Sophie Graham, a Personal Finance Expert at Sunny, says: “January often brings a fresh focus on money, but meaningful change usually comes from simple habits rather than big overhauls. Setting realistic goals and making small adjustments can help build confidence, reduce stress and create healthier financial routines that last well beyond the new year.”

1. Start the year with a clear view of your finances

“Taking a moment to look over your income, spending and existing commitments can be surprisingly powerful. Knowing what comes in and what goes out each month helps highlight where small changes might be possible. It also makes it easier to avoid unwelcome surprises later on. Beginning the year with clarity sets the tone for calmer, more confident money decisions.”

2. Build a realistic monthly budget and keep it flexible

“A budget is far more useful when it reflects real life rather than perfection. Allowing for treats and occasional overspending makes it easier to stick to your budget. Checking in regularly helps ensure it still works as circumstances change. A flexible budget supports better habits without feeling restrictive.”

3. Strengthen an emergency fund, little by little

“Unexpected costs are part of life, whether it’s a household repair or an unplanned bill. Adding small, regular amounts to an emergency fund can soon build into something reassuring. This buffer reduces the need to rely on credit when things go wrong. Even little progress can bring a real sense of security.”

4. Tackle high-interest debt with a clear plan

“High-interest debt can quietly hold you back if it’s left on autopilot. Paying off the debts with the highest interest first means more of your money goes towards reducing what you owe. Even small extra payments can make a noticeable difference over time. Having a clear plan in place makes progress feel more achievable and motivating.”

5. Review subscriptions and recurring payments

“It’s easy for subscriptions and memberships to fade into the background, even when they’re no longer being used. A regular review can free up money without affecting day-to-day life. Cancelling just one or two unused services can reduce monthly outgoings instantly. These small savings often add up over the year.”

6. Plan ahead for upcoming plans and events

“If you know you’d like to go on holiday this year, or have events such as a wedding or big birthday coming up, planning ahead can make a real difference. Setting aside money in advance helps spread the cost and avoids last-minute stress. Even small, regular amounts can make larger expenses feel far more manageable. Thinking ahead allows you to enjoy these moments without worrying about the impact on your finances.”

7. Be more intentional with everyday spending

“Small, frequent purchases such as takeaways, coffees or impulse buys can quietly add up. Taking a moment to decide which of these genuinely adds value makes spending feel more deliberate. Planning ahead for meals or setting simple limits can help reduce waste without feeling restrictive. Being intentional with spending supports better habits and frees up money for what matters most.”

8. Automate savings where possible

“Setting up automatic transfers to savings can remove the need to remember each month. Saving becomes part of your routine rather than a decision you have to revisit. Even small automated amounts can build steadily over time. Automation helps turn good intentions into consistent progress.”

9. Set a clear savings goal for the year

“Saving feels more motivating when there’s a clear reason behind it. Whether it’s a holiday, home improvements or longer-term security, a defined goal gives direction. Tracking progress helps keep momentum going. Purposeful saving turns good intentions into visible results.”

10. Check in on progress before the year ends

“Money goals don’t have to wait until December to be reviewed. A mid-year or autumn check-in allows time to adjust plans if circumstances change. Recognising progress, even small wins, helps reinforce positive habits. Regular reflection keeps financial resolutions realistic and relevant throughout 2026.”

January 8th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

January 5th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Running a successful business demands more than simply tracking income and expenses, and it often requires strategic financial planning, regulatory compliance and proactive risk management that many owner-managers lack the time or expertise to handle effectively. Professional accountancy services change financial operations from administrative burdens into strategic advantages, providing insights that drive growth whilst guaranteeing compliance with complex UK regulations.

Local expertise that understands your business landscape

Regional knowledge significantly impacts financial strategy and tax efficiency. Accountants familiar with local business ecosystems understand sector-specific challenges, regional economic trends and networking opportunities that national firms may overlook. Manchester’s diverse economy spanning digital technology, advanced manufacturing, financial services and creative industries creates distinct opportunities and regulatory considerations. Local accountants maintain relationships with regional HMRC offices, banks and business support organisations that facilitate smoother interactions when issues arise. They understand property market dynamics affecting business premises decisions, local authority business rate structures and regional grant programmes supporting expansion or innovation initiatives.

Comprehensive services beyond basic accounting

Modern accountancy practices go beyond year-end accounts and tax returns. Tax planning identifies legitimate opportunities to minimise liabilities through capital allowances, R&D tax credits and efficient profit extraction strategies. Management accounts provide monthly financial insights, allowing for proactive decision-making instead of reactive responses to year-end surprises. Payroll services guarantee accurate wage calculations, pension auto-enrolment compliance and timely PAYE submissions. According to the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, advisory services, including business valuations, succession planning and financial modelling support strategic objectives that basic compliance work cannot address. Experienced accountants in Manchester, for instance, deliver integrated solutions where tax strategy informs business structure decisions, compliance obligations shape operational planning and financial forecasting guides expansion timing, which creates cohesive approaches rather than siloed functions.

1. Compliance and risk management made simple

UK businesses go through complex obligations, including corporation tax, VAT, PAYE, Making Tax Digital requirements and Companies House filings. According to HMRC’s business tax guidance, penalties for late submissions or errors can reach thousands of pounds whilst triggering investigations that consume valuable management time. Professional accountants make sure that deadlines never slip, submissions contain accurate information and businesses claim all entitled reliefs. They interpret regulatory changes affecting operations, implement systems meeting Making Tax Digital requirements and maintain audit trails satisfying HMRC scrutiny. Risk management is more than just compliance and includes fraud prevention, internal control recommendations and insurance adequacy assessments.

1. Strategic insights for growth and expansion

Financial forecasting changes vague growth ambitions into actionable plans supported by realistic projections. Budgeting processes allocate resources efficiently whilst establishing performance benchmarks against which actual results can be measured. Cash flow modelling identifies funding requirements before crises emerge, enabling proactive banking relationships rather than desperate last-minute financing searches. According to the Federation of Small Businesses, access to professional financial advice correlates strongly with business survival rates and growth trajectories.

1. Building a partnership that adds value

Effective accountant relationships transcend transactional service delivery, becoming ongoing partnerships where professionals understand business goals, industry challenges and owner priorities. Proactive communication means accountants suggest opportunities instead of simply responding to queries, whilst tailored advice reflects specific circumstances rather than generic recommendations.

Professional accountancy support is an investment and not an expense, delivering returns through tax savings, compliance confidence and strategic clarity that owner-managers cannot achieve whilst simultaneously running operations.

January 5th, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Santander UK is today launching its latest ‘Santander Quarterly Scamtracker’, which shows that a total of £15.5 million was stolen from customers between October and December 2025. Throughout 2025, the bank saw more than £66.5 million stolen from customers in APP (Authorised Push Payment) scams.

The Scamtracker results for October to December 2025 show the biggest amounts were stolen from customers via investment scams, with more than £8 million taken in the three-month period. Customers aged 45+ were particularly at risk from these types of scams, accounting for more than £7 million – nearly £9 in every £10 stolen in an investment scam between October and December. Across the year investment scams have accounted for more than £30 million stolen – almost half the total amount stolen from Santander customers in 2025.

Purchase scams also remained prevalent, with criminals stealing a further £3 million in the last three months of the year. Customers looking to purchase vehicles or pay for building work were particularly targeted this quarter – with scammers using this to steal more than £2 million. Throughout the year, Santander has highlighted the risk of purchase scams with criminals selling items from fake gig tickets through to beauty products and weight loss jobs. In total, more than £15.5 million has been stolen in 2025 via purchase scams.

Chris Ainsley, Head of Fraud Risk Management at Santander UK said:

“£66.5 million is a shocking amount to see disappear from accounts and fall into the hands of the criminals who carry out these scams. Throughout the year we have focused on empowering our customers with the knowledge they need to stop the scammers in their tracks – a focus that will continue into 2026.

“Our latest warning as we head into January is around online job ads and promises of money for watching or “liking” Tik Tok videos, often with the need to pay an upfront fee to get started. The job doesn’t exist and rather than making money, customers will find they’ve lost out to a scammer.”

One to watch

Data from Santander has highlighted cases where customers have been approached by scammers offering money for “liking” and watching videos, often on TikTok. The scammers will ask customers for an “advance fee” to secure the job, before disappearing with their money. In Q4 2025, more than £95,000 was stolen by criminals offering jobs online, with a third of this (£31,000) originating on TikTok.

The bank is urging consumer to be wary in January as many of us take the time to re-evaluate our finances and look for ways to make extra money to cover the cost of Christmas. Customers are urged to be on the look-out for any requests for upfront payments to start a new “job” – a sure sign of a scam.

January 3rd, 2026 | Andrew Hagger | News

Go.Compare is urging Brits to review their home insurance this week as its latest research revealed that more than two-thirds (67%) do not plan to update their policy after buying their Christmas presents, potentially leaving expensive items unprotected.

The findings follow one of the year’s biggest gifting periods, with many households receiving high-value presents such as jewellery, gadgets and designer accessories. Without checking policy limits, these items may not be fully insured, particularly if their value exceeds the policy’s single article limit.

What is a single article limit and why does it matter?

A single article limit is the maximum amount your insurer will pay out for any one item, unless that item has been individually listed on your policy. For example, if someone has a £2,000 camera stolen but their policy only has a £1,000 single article limit, they would only be able to claim up to £1,000 unless the camera was declared as a named high-value item.

Despite this, Go.Compare’s research shows that nearly one in four Brits (24%) say that won’t be updating their policy after purchasing their Christmas presents, as it isn’t worth the hassle. This oversight could turn an exciting Christmas present into a costly financial loss if something goes wrong.

Nathan Blackler, home insurance expert at Go.Compare, said: “Many people assume their contents insurance will automatically cover new Christmas gifts, but that is not always the case. If you have received or bought anything valuable this year – such as jewellery, a smartwatch, a new phone or an expensive camera – it is important to check your single article limit.

“This reminder is particularly timely. December and January are peak months for high-value purchases, and the darker winter months often see a rise in burglaries. Yet many people only discover their policy limits when it’s too late, at the point of making a claim.”

A full explanation of single article limits and how to check them is available here:
https://www.gocompare.com/home-insurance/contents-insurance/single-article-limit/

December 29th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

From 1st January 2026, the energy price cap is set to rise from £1,755 to £1,758 per year for a typical household paying by direct debit. Before this comes into effect, Go.Compare is encouraging households to take a meter reading, even if they have a smart meter, to make sure they are billed accurately.*

A recent survey also revealed that one in six (16%) of British bill payers say they can’t afford any more price increases on their energy bills, and a further 29% say they are worried about the cost of their energy bills.

Gareth Kloet, energy expert at Go.Compare explains: “As we move towards the new year, it’s really important for bill payers to log a meter reading as close to the end of December as possible. Doing this helps make sure the energy you’ve used in 2025 is charged under the outgoing rates, rather than being rolled over into the higher January cap.”

While the latest price cap was only a rise of 0.2%, Gareth notes that winter usage naturally climbs as homes rely more heavily on heating and lighting – so every penny counts. He said, “Even slight shifts in prices can feel significant when consumption is at its peak, so submitting an accurate reading before midnight on 31 December helps protect you from being overcharged – especially if your account relies on estimated readings. Smart meters don’t always communicate in real time, so taking a snapshot of your readings and sending these to your supplier gives you peace of mind.”

It’s also a good time, if you haven’t already, to reassess your tariff. And with 12% of those in charge of their energy supplier saying they are nervous about switching, Gareth explains what it means and how to go about it:

“With the cap adjusting in January, it’s worth reviewing whether your current deal is still right for you. If you’re on a variable tariff, now could be a good time to compare fixed-rate options.

“The important thing to remember is that every household’s usage profile is different, so what works for one home may not suit another. Take a look at your current energy contract – the standing charges, unit rates and any early-exit fees. Then take this information and shop around for a deal that works for you and your energy needs, using a comparison website.

“As always, if you’re finding it difficult to manage your energy bills, get in touch with your supplier sooner rather than later. Providers are required to support customers in financial difficulty and can help you set up a payment plan.”

To learn more about how to switch energy providers, visit the guide here.

December 26th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

More than six in ten (62%) parents believe a traditional Christmas is under threat due to the cost of living, with four in ten (40%) having to prioritise essential bills over festive spending, new research from Nationwide reveals.

The poll of over 1,000 parents, done in partnership with charity Action for Children, also reveals that 42 per cent say Christmas negatively affects their mental health due to financial stress, rising to 54 per cent among households earning £15k and under.

Action for Children forms part of Nationwide’s Fairer Futures social impact strategy. Britain’s biggest building society is supporting the charity’s ‘Secret Santa’ campaign, helping vulnerable children across the UK feel the magic of Christmas. By becoming a Secret Santa and donating to Action for Children, you could give the essentials of warm clothes, a hot meal, or a Christmas present for a child who wouldn’t otherwise get one.

Despite the squeeze, households still plan to spend an average of £673 on Christmas including gifts, food and travel. But when looking at different household income levels, there is a clear divide. Parents with an income of £15,000 or less expect to spend an average of £350, with 17 per cent of them keeping costs at £100 or below. By contrast, households earning over £75,000 plan to spend £1,086 on average, with 16 per cent spending between £1,751-£2,000.

For many families, borrowing could be the only option to cover Christmas expenditure, as more than one in ten (12%) parents say they will go into debt, rising to 16 per cent of those with a household income of £15,000 or less. Among those that will go into debt over Christmas, 53 per cent will rely on using a credit card, 35 per cent will turn to ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ whilst 30 per cent will go into their overdraft.

To help cut costs, parents are making tough sacrifices to afford Christmas:

• 23% will cut eating out, with 20% ditching takeaways

• 16% will work extra hours; 14% will reduce their weekly food shop

• 10% say they’re already on the breadline with nothing left to cut
• 28% said they will “worry about the costs later”

Despite the pressure of festive spending, one thing remains constant – Christmas is still about family. Across all family groups surveyed, 66 per cent said family togetherness is the most important part of the season way ahead of food and drink (46%), gifts (42%) and decorating the home (34%).

Charlotte Kensett, Director of Social Impact and Customer Experience for Nationwide, said: “It’s simply unacceptable that 4.5 million children in the UK are living in poverty. Through our partnership with Action for Children and its Secret Santa campaign, we’re working to ensure that those most in need have support not just for Christmas, but throughout the year ahead.”

Support is available

• Between June 2024 and September 2025, Action for Children distributed over £800,000 in crisis grants to parents, children and young people in poverty. They are receiving an average of 300 applications a month for crisis help.

• Action for Children provide Family Clubs which are in up to 30 locations across the UK – they create welcoming and safe spaces where families can come to eat, get warm and feel comfortable, while also building supportive relationships with other families.

December 15th, 2025 | Andrew Hagger | News

Winter sports cover is designed to pay for the extra medical expenses you might need if you injure yourself on the slopes or fall ill while abroad, which a standard travel insurance policy might not offer. Some winter sports policies could even help fund rehabilitation physiotherapy when you return home.

Go.Compare’s research also shows that many Brits aren’t checking whether they are covered before they take to the slopes. The comparison site of those who have been on a winter sports holiday just 13% bought a specialist winter sports insurance policy, while 11% relied on an annual policy they thought covered them, but hadn’t checked.**

The analysis also revealed that over a third of travel insurance policies don’t replace hired ski equipment if it’s lost or damaged (41% of single-trip and 38% of annual policies).

Cover for piste closures also varies widely – 4% of single trip policies provide no compensation if ski areas close, while four in 10 (39%) cover £400 or more.

Rhys Jones, spokesperson at Go.Compare Travel Insurance said: “It’s easy to assume your travel insurance will protect you on a ski trip, and if you’ve got an annual policy in place, you might forget to check the conditions before you go. But as our analysis shows, this could be costly.

“It isn’t just about whether you’re covered if the piste is closed due to too little or too much snow, or if you lose your ski pass, having a specialist insurance policy in place means you’ll be protected if you injure yourself on the slopes. While standard travel insurance does cover some medical expenses, getting medical aid to someone injured on a mountain and recovering them is a more complex situation, often involving mountain rescue, and therefore costing more.

Rhys adds though, that there are limits: “Extreme winter sports like heli-skiing or competitive sports won’t be covered, though, and if you take to the piste after some pints at apres-ski or stray from the piste and get injured, your insurer could refuse your claim. So, remember to be responsible and stay sober on the slopes!”