Mozo savings account news and advice

Nearly half of all couples argue over money

Sun, 07 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Almost half of all couples argue over money - and finance feuds are on the rise, new research shows.

Australian banks hit back at fee criticisms

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Representatives from Australia's major banks have hit back at claims they are profiting from unfair fees on customer accounts.

Banks cut savings account fees

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

A number of major Australian banks have recently chosen to cut the fees on their flagship accounts, a commentator has noted.

Families set to pay an extra $14.50 a month in health cover

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

The new health insurance premium rise means that families will have to pay about $14.50 a month extra for health fund cover from April 1st.

Health insurance costs on the rise

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Health premiums are set to increase by as much as seven per cent this year, it has been revealed.

Women 'have worse personal finances'

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Almost a third of Aussie women have been classed as "financially unfit" during the second annual Bankwest Financial Fitness Index.

Women 'should ask for pay rises'

Sun, 14 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australian women need to stand up for themselves and demand pay rises, an expert has said.

Savers win big as banks compete for deposits

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Competition for deposits among the major banks has meant that interest rates on some savings accounts are already greater than mortgage rates.

Homeowners risk "cost-blowouts" when renovating

Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Careful planning and research is required to avoid unexpected home renovation costs, experts have warned.

Homeowners could be hit with $1,500 energy assessment charge

Sun, 07 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

All Aussie residences will soon be forced to undergo an energy-efficiency assessment which could cost up to $1,500 per property.

Aussie finances hit by takeaway spending

Thu, 04 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Personal finances are taking a serious hit because of the Australian fondness for takeaway meals.

Transport fares 'are overpriced'

Tue, 02 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australia's independent pricing regulator has said that the government's new public transport fare structure features some ticket price increases that exceed the authorised maximum prices.

Savers benefit from high interest rates

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Savers are benefiting from high interest rates on their accounts, many of which are over and above the Reserve Bank of Australia cash rate.

NSW's low-paid workers face wage cuts

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Low-paid workers in New South Wales (NSW) face losing wages as part of a massive government shake-up of workplace award systems.

New Year is 'the best time to kick-start saving'

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

As the New Year gets underway, Australians are being urged to start saving for their future.

Higher bankruptcy threshold rejected by banks

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Banks want the government to reconsider the proposed changes to bankruptcy rules in Australia, it has been reported.

Tax breaks 'may help savers'

Sun, 24 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Australians may be encouraged to save more if new tax regulations come into force, an expert has said.

Low-paid workers set to lose tax breaks

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Some of the lowest paid workers in Australia face losing salary perks worth up to $30,000 as part of an extensive tax overhaul.

NAB abolishes savings accounts fees

Thu, 14 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

National Australia Bank (NAB) has abolished a range of bank fees on its customer accounts.

Rate fears cause borrowing slowdown

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

A growing number of Aussies are reluctant to borrow money for 'life improving' purchases because of fears about rising interest rates.

Predicted rent rise could mean spending power falls further

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Rents on Australian homes are likely to rise in the coming months, an expert has said.

Aussies 'lose track of spending'

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies are not sure where a third of their cash goes each week, a survey has found.

NSW workers 'losing out'

Sun, 10 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

New South Wales (NSW) has been declared the worst performing economy of all the states and territories.

Bankruptcy rate experiences slowdown

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Bankruptcy affected fewer Aussies in the run up to Christmas as borrowers made deals with their creditors.

Health costs set to rise

Wed, 06 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies will have to pay for a greater proportion of health costs from their own pockets this year to make up for an insurance shortfall.

Living costs set to soar in 2010

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Households will have to pay up to $76 a week extra this year as living costs soar, a new study has found.

Fees encourage bank account switching

Mon, 04 Jan 2010 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies who feel they are paying too much in account fees could consider changing their banking behaviour, a commentator has said.

Welfare repayment crunch boosts savings demand

Wed, 30 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

People forced to repay overpaid welfare benefits will be worse off after the government raised the repayment rate.

New year plans push health spending higher

Tue, 29 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies will spend more than $200 million on weight-loss programmes and gyms in the New Year, a study has found.

Careful savers achieve rising personal wealth

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Personal wealth is growing at a record speed, with careful savers during the economic slump now reaping rewards.

New Year pessimism increases savings demand

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies are increasingly pessimistic about the rising cost of living, a study has found.

Aussies target savings in Christmas shopping

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Rising interest rates have forced shoppers to be more conservative in their Christmas spending this year, a business analyst has said.

Young Australians target savings

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

A third of 18-24-year-old Aussies - also known as "Gen Y" - are worried about their job security, new research has found.

Rising power bills encourage people to compare savings accounts

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Electricity bills in New South Wales are set to rise by as much as 62 per cent over the next three years, a report has found.

Banks offer high interest savings rates

Sun, 13 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Banks are competing for customer deposits by offering high interest savings rates and high term deposit interest rates.

Special savings accounts needed to cover high wedding costs

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

An undercover investigation has found that reception venues, photographers and car hire companies charge more for their services when they know it is for a wedding.

Mozo launches search for Australia's first Vice President

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Financial comparison website Mozo.com.au today announced the campaign launch of Mozo's Race for Vice President, a ground-breaking election campaign designed to expose Australia's top vices – booze, gadgets, takeaway food, clothes and shoes, coffee and others – and find the country's best candidates to vie for the inaugural Vice President title.

Kids cost $1m: Parents to be may want to compare savings accounts

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

People hoping to have a family in the future may want to compare savings accounts in preparation for the cost, if one report is to be believed.

Rural Aussies may get savings account boost

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

People living in rural Australia may soon have better access to their savings accounts.

Savings accounts may take hit through ETS

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Households' savings accounts may be set to take a hit following the establishment of the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS).

Young unemployed to get help managing money

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Young people on state benefits are to receive help managing their finances, according to a government official.

NAB receives more custom after dropping fees

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

National Australia Bank (NAB) is reportedly reaping the rewards of dropping its penalty fees on products, in news that may be of interest to those looking to compare savings accounts.

Banks 'quick to pass on interest rate rises'

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie banks have been quick off the mark to increase interest rates on their online savings accounts, some pundits have noted.

DIY superannuation savings accounts 'gaining popularity'

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

More people are opting to have a DIY superannuation savings account, according to a new report.

Aussies dipping into their savings accounts more than last year

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies are dipping into their savings accounts more than they were this time last year, according to a new report.

'Emotional driver' leads people to put more in savings accounts, bank says

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

ANZ has launched a research project looking into the way in which people with low incomes interact with their savings accounts.

Aussie kids to get savings accounts tips

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie kids are to get lessons in how to make the most out of savings accounts and other financial advice as part of a new banking initiative.

It is 'fashionable to be practical' this Christmas

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies think it is fashionable to be practical when it comes to buying Christmas presents this year so their savings accounts do not take too much of a hit.

Scammers 'offering refunds on bank accounts'

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Scammers are targeting New South Wales (NSW) accountholders by offering them apparent refunds on charges incurred on their bank accounts, it has been revealed.

ANZ savings accounts scheme extended

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

ANZ has announced an extension to its scheme to match very low income earners' deposits into its savings accounts.

Pension savings interest rates 'better with risk'

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Pension savings interest rates can be hampered by adopting too careful an investment strategy, it has been warned.

Aussies 'may not be dipping into savings accounts for Christmas'

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies are planning to refrain from dipping into their savings accounts as the festive season approaches, it has been found.

Aussies boosting savings accounts with home brands

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies are taking to buying more supermarket-branded goods in a bid to cut down on spending and boosting savings accounts.

Fast-rising food prices could make dent in savings accounts

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie savings accounts may be feeling the strain as the country has some of the fastest-rising food prices in the world, according to a new report.

Aussies 'have more cash' to put in savings accounts

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Australians have more cash than ever before, which could be good news for the savings accounts sector.

Households' savings accounts could be hit by rising energy costs

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie households' savings accounts may take a dint in the coming months as energy costs increase.

What could make more people compare savings accounts?

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

People who want to compare savings accounts might be interested in a recent discussion in the press lately.

Taxes on savings accounts 'should be cut'

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The government should encourage people to put more money into their savings accounts by cutting taxes, it has been suggested.

Energy price hikes could impact on savings accounts

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Increases in energy prices have been recorded in a recent report, which could potentially impact on people's savings accounts.

Aussies encouraged to put more into savings accounts

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Australians have been encouraged to put more into their savings accounts by one senior economist.

Two-thirds of people 'satisfied' with banking services

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

A new survey has revealed that 71.7 per cent of Australians are satisfied with their bank's services, including savings accounts and low interest home loans.

ANZ announces elimination of fees on some savings accounts

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

ANZ has announced that it is to eliminate fees on some of its savings accounts.

Savings accounts info confidentiality 'is at the core of banking'

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The confidentiality of customer information - such as their savings accounts details - is central to good banking practices, it has been claimed.

ETS could impact on savings accounts

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The emissions trading scheme (ETS) could impact on people's high interest savings, if one report is to be believed.

Parents-to-be should prepare by boosting savings accounts

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The cost of being parents is such that they should prepare by giving their savings accounts a boost, it has been suggested.

Aussie superannuation savings accounts 'some of best in world'

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Australian superannuation savings accounts and retirement income provision are among some of the best in the world, according to a new study.

New proposals 'could allow banks to view savings accounts records'

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

New proposals could allow banks to view people's savings accounts and other financial information when they open a new account, reports suggest.

NAB 'lays down the gauntlet' over savings accounts

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

National Australia Bank (NAB) has announced that it is to scrap monthly service fees on some of its savings accounts, which has been welcomed by one official, AAP reports indicate.

Increasing input in savings accounts can help avoid debt

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Putting away a little extra every month into a savings account could potentially help people avoid debt.

Aussies turning to loved ones for financial support

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Australian families are seeking help from family and friends to boost their savings accounts, according to reports.

Australia one of world's most financially-developed nations

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies looking to compare credit cards may be interested to learn that the country has emerged in the top two of an international finance ranking.

Scam sees $400k stolen from bank accounts

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

A scam undertaken in Perth has seen some $400,000 stolen from bank accounts.

Millions of Aussies checking savings accounts online

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Millions of Australians have been checking their savings accounts via online banking services, new research suggests.

Kids do chores to increase cash in savings accounts

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussie youngsters have to work for money to put in their savings accounts, according to new research.

Name and shame petrol plans could help savings accounts

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Drivers in Sydney were advised to name and shame petrol companies if prices were too high over the weekend, which could have impacted on their savings accounts.

Savings accounts 'could be made tax-free'

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Savings accounts may become free of tax following a recent consultation.

Growing own food 'good way to add money to savings accounts'

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

People looking to add more to their savings accounts each month could find they have more cash spare if they grow their own vegetables, it has been claimed.

Recession hits kids' bank accounts

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Youngsters have not been unscathed by the economic downturn, with cuts to their pocket money affecting their savings accounts, it has been revealed.

Aussie households weathering financial storm

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The situation for many Australian households is improving, it has been reported.

Boys' bank accounts could get $100,000 boost

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Two boys thought they had hit the jackpot for their savings accounts when they discovered $100,000 while out fishing.

Businesses trying to boost bank accounts fooled in money scam

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A trio of businesses in Victoria were fooled into trying to boost their savings accounts through a very literal money-making scam.

Aussies dipping into savings accounts for mobiles, not petrol

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australian savings accounts may be being dipped into to provide money for more homely items, if a new report is anything to go by.

Bank accounts threatened by online criminals

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australian savings accounts have been targeted in a recent hacker attack, it has been reported.

Superannuation savings account funds see sixth monthly increase

Sun, 20 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Superannuation savings accounts funds experienced a month-on-month increase for the sixth consecutive month, recent figures have revealed.

Pensioners' savings accounts to get a boost

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Pensioners, including those with high interest savings, will be pleased to hear they are to receive a rise in the state pension.

Crisis prompted savings account withdrawals

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The financial crisis prompted many people to withdraw cash from their savings accounts, it has been discovered.

Positive signs: More Australians using savings accounts

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australia's households are increasingly able to use their savings accounts to store away extra cash, according to new research.

Growth predictions could be good for savings accounts

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

New research has indicated that the Australian economy is set for growth next year, which could be good news for people's savings accounts.

Women get less money for their super savings accounts than men

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Women receive less money for their superannuation savings accounts than men, according to new research.

Budgeting 'can help boost savings accounts'

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Budgeting has been advocated by one expert, who advised people to start cutting back in order to boost their savings accounts.

Spring clean could boost savings accounts

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians have thousands of dollars-worth of unused items in their homes, it has been suggested.

Boost long-term savings accounts with investments

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Consumers with long-term savings accounts should consider investing any spare cash in order to give them a boost, it has been advised.

'Important' to teach children about savings accounts

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The importance of teaching children about finances, including savings accounts, has been highlighted by industry experts.

Aussies putting more in savings accounts

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australian people are putting more and more money in their savings accounts, it has been found.

Savings accounts 'sexier than spending'

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australian consumers are taking care not to put too much strain on their savings accounts by cutting down on spending.

Consumers' savings accounts helped by new food coupons

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

People with savings accounts, among other consumers, may be pleased to hear that the Australian government plans to subsidise healthy eating.

Motorists may have to dip into savings accounts

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Motorists may have to use money from their savings accounts now that petrol prices have increased.

Those hoping to compare savings accounts 'may not understand superannuation'

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians have been advised to 'get to grips' with their superannuation savings accounts.

Couple boost savings account through home gardening

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A couple have spoken of how getting back to basics and growing their own food has helped them bolster their savings account.

Lottery winner avoids putting winnings in savings account for six months

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A lottery winner missed out on six months of interest by not putting his cash in a savings account.

Couples given finance advice

Sun, 23 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australian couples have been given advice when it comes to sorting out their finances.

Workers get savings account boost

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Some of the lowest paid workers in Queensland may see a boost to their savings accounts, thanks to a new development.

Discount store opens to delight of shoppers

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Bargain hunters took their credit cards and showed up en masse when a new discount store was opened in Melbourne.

Australian tourism confidence 'still high'

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Tourism in Australia has not suffered much compared to other countries across the globe, one industry expert has asserted.

'More payments needed' into superannuation savings accounts

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Those looking to compare savings interest rates with a view to putting something away for their retirement may be interested in a recent article to appear on news.com.au.

Savings account customers 'need to work for millions'

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians looking to make their fortune have been told that hard work is often the key.

Savings account customers told how to make millions

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A recent article in Courier Mail has explored how those looking to compare savings accounts can make their first million.

ING 'puts pressure on competitors' with new savings account

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians looking to compare savings accounts could see banks put under more pressure to take action on fees due to the introduction of a new product, it has been claimed.

NAB launches new savings account

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

National Australia Bank (NAB) has launched another option for those looking to compare bank accounts.

CBA to reduce charges on bank accounts

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Those wishing to compare bank accounts may be interested in a recent statement from the Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA).

Lotto winner living off savings account interest

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A lucky Kiwi has revealed his plans for a dream career - a job in a fast food restaurant.

Research finds Australians 'dealing with financial blow'

Sun, 02 Aug 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians who keep an eye on savings interest rates may be intrigued by the latest findings from ING Direct.

Savings accounts back in vogue

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians will be able to take advantage of rising interest rates offered on savings accounts in the coming months as the Reserve Bank brings the cash rate higher, one financial expert has enthused.

Tax-free savings 'should be extended'

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

There should be more tax breaks attached to saving accounts, it has been claimed.

Banks 'look to follow NAB fee moves'

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

After National Australia Bank (NAB) revealed it is to scrap overdrawn fees on its transaction and saving accounts, a number of its competitors look set to follow suit, it has been revealed.

Savings accounts helpful in redundancy

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

With a raft of new reports showing that unemployment is the biggest concern for Aussies in the current economic climate, experts have recommended signing up for a savings account to help out should the worst happen.

Savings accounts hold little appeal to risk-hungry Aussies

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Although many people have flocked from stocks and shares in the wake of the financial crisis, a new study has shown that many Australians have still got a keen attitude to risk.

Aussies' savings would not last a month

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

More than a third of Aussies would be unable to survive on money stored in their savings account for more than a month if they lost their jobs, Dun and Bradsheet has warned.

Deposit wage slice straight into savings account

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Consumers looking to shore up their personal finances have been advised that putting a slice of each monthly paypacket into a savings account could help to get things back on track.

Greater snaps up Seinfeld for ad campaign

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Newcastle-based Greater Building Society has signed comedy legend Jerry Seinfeld as the new face of its new advertising campaign.

Banks offer lack-of-interest rates

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Although consumers are constantly told that the Big Four are offering more low-interest home loans and high-interest savings accounts, it is time we began evaluating them on their 'lack-of-interest' rates.

Concerns grow about NetBank bugs

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Serious questions are being asked of Commonwealth Bank's IT infrastructure after the bank conceded that it cannot say how long its NetBank customers will experience difficulty accessing their accounts.

Older generations missing out on internet savings accounts

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Many older Australians are missing out on high-interest savings accounts because they prefer not to bank online.

Aussies should 'compare savings accounts online'

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Older Aussies could be missing out on the best savings interest rates by staying loyal to their bank and ignoring the internet, a report has suggested.

Banking on bad attitudes with the Big Four

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Aussies can always trust the Big Four to offer poor customer service, according to The Daily contributor Ashley Robinson.

Big Four 'safest banks in the world'

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Commonwealth Bank, National Australia Bank, ANZ and Westpac are among only eight financial institutions in the world to achieve AA financial stability ratings.

Teaching kids how to manage cash

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A child can be taught to understand money as soon as they learn to talk, one financial adviser has claimed.

NAB telephone banking goes biometric

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

National Australia Bank (NAB) has proudly announced that it is the first financial institution to offer biometric security for telephone banking customers.

Citibank to help Virgin return to home loans

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Virgin Group is set to re-establish its place in the non-bank home loan market with financial backing from Citibank.

Westpac comes out on top in Money awards

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Westpac has come away from this year's Money magazine awards clutching the coveted Bank of the Year gong.

Financial Planning Week: were you enlightened?

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Were you inspired to give your mortgage a makeover or to do damage to your credit card debt during Financial Planning Week?

Aussies unprepared for a crisis

Sun, 31 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians lack the financial safety net to provide support during difficult circumstances, new research from Aviva reveals.

Aussies saving more despite interest rate cuts

Wed, 27 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians are putting more money into savings accounts than they were six months ago, Mozo can reveal.

Online savings accounts great for debt management

Thu, 21 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Signing up for an online savings account or cash management account is a great way to get debts under control, Credit Union Australia's chief exec Rob Nicholls has claimed.

Young people 'need to get saving'

Wed, 20 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

While retirement may be the last thing on young people's minds, putting cash away into savings accounts and pensions early will save a whole deal of strife in later years, the Australian reports.

Aussies 'need to get savings buffer in place'

Tue, 19 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

A lack of savings could be placing a significant number of Aussies at risk of severe financial hardship.

Homebuyer savings accounts attract little interest

Mon, 18 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Despite the government's eagerness for people to sign up to its homebuyer savings account scheme, fewer than 4,000 Aussies have got involved, a new poll from the Daily Telegraph reveals.

CBA rolls out new NetBank homepage

Mon, 18 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia has this week launched a new-look website to give its customers more choice when managing their bank accounts online.

Spending 'more fun' than saving

Sun, 17 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Spending 'more fun' than saving

'Even split' for saving and spending stimulus cash

Wed, 06 May 2009 14:00:00 GMT

People are planning on putting the cash received as a part of the government's financial stimulus package to a variety of purposes.

Compare savings account 'to make cash work harder'

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

With savings interest rates plummeting following months of interest rate cuts from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), it is important that consumers compare savings accounts to get the most out of their money, The Daily's Paul Clitheroe recommends.

Big Four savings accounts 'a big letdown'

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Although home loan customers may have been jumping for joy as the Reserve Bank cut away at the base interest rate, those ploughing money into bank savings accounts with the Big Four may have had a lot to complain about, the Advertiser reports.

Cash handout ends up in bank accounts

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The majority of people who are set to receive Kevin Rudd's cash handout will put it straight in their bank account, a new poll shows.

Banks set to wage home loan price war

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Consumers will soon find themselves in the middle of a home loan price war, National Australia Bank has claimed.

'More important than ever' to compare savings accounts

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

With the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) enacting yet another interest rate cut this month, it is more important than ever for consumers to compare interest rates, the Sydney Morning Herald's John Kavanagh reports.

RBA interest rate cut 'curious'

Mon, 06 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) interest rate cut of 25 basis points is rather a curious decision that suggests it is trying to compromise between staying put and keeping homeowners happy.

Home loan ratios wither during downturn

Sun, 05 Apr 2009 14:00:00 GMT

Australians who are eager to buy their own home may have to continue stashing cash in savings accounts for a few more years as banks shy away from big home loans.

Cheaper insurance with NAB bank accounts

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Consumers with NAB bank accounts are being offered discounted insurance through a new partnership.

Stimulus cash 'will come one way or another'

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies are still likely to find they will receive a cash handout from the government as part of its financial stimulus package.

'Use the one-third rule' for cash handout

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

With the cash bonuses hitting bank accounts and being popped in the mail, the Australian's money expert Tim Blue reckons that consumers should adopt the one-third rule when considering what to do with it.

Share dealing 'can easily be linked to bank accounts'

Sun, 15 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Although investing in shares while the stock market is taking such a beating is a brave strategy, a growing number of experts think that's exactly what Aussies should be doing.

Households ploughing cash into savings account

Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Australians have been reaping the rewards of consecutive interest rate cuts, free cash handouts and swathing tax cuts and have been ploughing the money saved straight into savings accounts, term deposits and other investments.

AMP in major savings account drive

Tue, 03 Mar 2009 13:00:00 GMT

With data showing that the country is heading into a recession, AMP has launched a major rebranding strategy in the hope of signing more people up to its bank term deposits and savings accounts.

Compare home loans and accounts to save cash

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

As the nation continues to search for ways to tighten their belts, the Advertiser points out that consolidating all credit cards, savings accounts and loans with one bank can bring big bonuses.

RBA in interest rate limbo

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) could end up breaking the back of the country's economy as it limbos towards zero per cent interest rates.

Keeping an eye on high-interest savings

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Following the warning that Aussies need to keep a keen eye on introductory offers on high-interest savings accounts, RaboBank has called for new regulatory standards to be imposed.

SmartyPig comes to Australia

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

After a successful launch in the US last year, the world's first web 2.0 savings account has touched down in Australia.

ASIC warns over high-interest savings accounts

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

While depositors across Australia are searching high and low for high interest savings accounts as the base rate continues to plummet, the investment regulator is urging customers to read the small print when looking for online deals.

Term deposits soar at Commonwealth

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The number of Australians ploughing their cash into term deposits and savings accounts from Commonwealth is soaring, the Sydney Morning Herald reports.

Australia ploughs cash into savings accounts

Mon, 09 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

As the global economic misery continues, many Australians have started ploughing their cash into savings accounts in a bid to prepare for a grim future.

Web virus preys on ANZ bank accounts

Thu, 05 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

A new sophisticated computer virus is working its way around Australian computers, trying to target ANZ customers and dupe them into handing over bank account information.

Rate cuts to 3.25 per cent

Mon, 02 Feb 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has not failed to disappoint eager first-home buyers and other mortgage holders at its latest interest rate meeting today (January 3rd).

Lump sums reduce school fee misery

Tue, 27 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Saving up cash and paying off school fees in one lump sum can leave finances on altogether firmer footing in the long run, one money expert reckons.

Macquarie: Reserve will continue rate cutting spree

Sun, 25 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The Reserve Bank will continue to hack away at interest rates as the new year gets underway, Macquarie's chief rates strategist has claimed.

Six-month deposits 'the safest option'

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

In the financial firestorm of recent months and the rate chopping bonanza that followed, savers are faced with some tough options when deciding where to park their cash.

Juggling money in middle age

Mon, 19 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

For most Australians, the burden on their finances will be at its biggest when they are in their 30s and 40s, The Advertiser has commented.

'Saving the key' for Generation Y

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

While Generation Y looked fairly adept at dodging the downturn during 2008 due to their lack of savings or supers, the Advertise has conceded that this year may prove a lot more challenging.

Smaller banks flourish after guarantee

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

The government's decision to guarantee all cash held in Australian bank accounts has allowed smaller institutions to flourish, NineMSN has reported.

Bendigo snaps up Macloans

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 13:00:00 GMT

Bendigo has positioned itself as a major player in the margin loans market after buying up Macquarie's marginal operations for $52 million.

Get clued up to save big bucks

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The trick to making savings grow is to make sure that you've done your research before diving into a lengthy contract or making a big purchase, the Advertiser has advised.

Mums and dads warned: Keep calm!

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

While millions of parent investors may be chewing their nails to the quick as the economy nosedives, a host of experts have urged them to keep calm while the storm rages.

Small banks all SMILES

Sun, 14 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Small banks have outshined their bigger competitors in the Smart Investor League of Exceptional Service (SMILES) tables for this year.

Rich families bag the nation's wealth

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The richest 20 per cent of Australian families own 60 times more cash and assets than the poorest 20 per cent, a new study has claimed.

Aussies 'to keep hold of handouts'

Mon, 08 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Kevin Rudd's Christmas cash handout is unlikely to find its way into cash registers, a new survey has found.

Bank accounts 'get kids saving'

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Getting a bank account for children can be a good way to get them into the habit of saving, one money expert has claimed.

Gen X needs to get saving

Sun, 30 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The children of baby-boomers will need to start ploughing cash into savings accounts and supers if they are going to afford themselves a decent retirement, a new study has warned.

Money lost in Commonwealth muddle

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

As many as 200,000 customers have been affected by a glitch in Commonwealth computer systems which left many people's bank accounts overdrawn.

Banks ease up on payment penalties

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

While the internet has enabled people to transfer their money between bank accounts easily and quickly, banks are only just coming round to supporting customers who get things wrong on the web.

Look out for shonky warranties says Choice

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Consumers should be on their guard against investment warranties which offer little protection, Choice has warned.

Aussies wise up to repayment

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Following the recent hacks at the base rate made by the Reserve Bank, many Australians are taking the opportunity to pay off debts on credit cards and personal loans, it has been claimed.

Will choice suffer as banks band together?

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

A number of major mergers of Australian banks could spell bad news for consumer choice, it has been warned.

Parents hiding cash in kids accounts

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

With many people looking for ways to save a bit of cash during this difficult period, the Tax Office has urged people to resist the temptation to stash money away in children's bank accounts.

Scheme takes the hassle out of switching

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Consumers who are unhappy with their bank account provider can now vote with their feet a little more easily.

Confidence hit from all angles

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Australian spending confidence has been hit from three different directions, one expert has claimed.

Banks battle to keep hands on deposits

Tue, 11 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Banks may bring out a range of "guaranteed" savings accounts in an effort to keep hold of consumer savings.

Be wise this Christmas, experts urge

Thu, 06 Nov 2008 13:00:00 GMT

With many pensioners and low-income households set to receive a one-off bonus from the government, consumers have been advised to be prudent with the windfall.

Mid-20s 'the best time to save'

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

While younger Australians will never have witnessed the kind of downturn that now looks imminent, generation Y can protect itself from financial ruin by saving as little as $20 a week.

Web savings accounts 'coming into their own'

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

New online savings accounts are beginning to offer competitive saving rates and attractive withdrawal options, which could prove attractive for consumers looking for easy cash access.

Rudd: Super rich can look after themselves

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

While premier Kevin Rudd's plan to protect money locked up in savings accounts will likely come as a relief to struggling Aussies, he has stressed that the country's millionaires can look after their own tails.

BankWest backs savings account safety

Sun, 19 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

BankWest has offered its full support for guarantees to keep money locked up in savings accounts and term deposits safe.

Extra cash 'will give boost' for first-home buyers

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

As part of a raft of measures to help first-home buyers struggling to get on to the property ladder, the government has doubled the amount of cash available under its first-home buyer grants scheme.

Savings safe as stock markets stumble

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Australians can take solace in the fact that all deposits made into savings accounts will be protected, no matter how bad the financial climate gets, Kevin Rudd has claimed.

Aussies 'may be in for a big headache'

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Aussies who have borrowed too much on cheap credit cards and low-rate personal loans may be in for a financial headache in the months to come, one expert has warned.

ANZ puts money in one place

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

ANZ has announced the launch of MoneyManager, an online service which will allow Aussies to keep track of all their finances in one place - from savings accounts to credit card payments.

Rudd mulls over early Christmas present

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

With many Aussies worried about the security of their savings accounts and the amount outstanding on credit cards and personal loans, Kevin Rudd has put forward a plan to dole out billions in cash ahead of the Christmas period in order to lighten the mood.

Banks scramble to attract first home buyers

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Banks are fighting among themselves to offer the best savings interest rates on new first home savers accounts (FHSAs).

Piggybanks go virtual with SmartyPig from ANZ

Thu, 09 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

ANZ has ushered in a new era of smart saving with the launch of its web-based SmartyPig savings account.

First home buyers savings accounts 'a major score'

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:00:00 GMT

The new first home savers account (FHSA) is a great opportunity for the first home buyer from generation Y, it has been claimed.

First Home Saver Accounts - what it means for homebuyers

Tue, 23 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Potential first-home buyers will be able to claim as much as $1,700 a year in government funding with the new First Home Saver Account.

Aussies dodging debt and saving more

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

One in three Australians are saving up to repay debts on items such as credit cards and home loans, a new poll has revealed.

Many managing money more effectively

Tue, 02 Sep 2008 14:00:00 GMT

Despite warnings that Aussies' finances are heading down the pan, many are actually managing their money much more effectively than they have in the past.

Australia told to 'batten down the hatches'

Sun, 31 Aug 2008 14:00:00 GMT

With a recession looking increasingly likely, the Herald Sun has advised Australians to "batten down the hatches" and prepare for the worst.