Savings figures for January 2006 were the highest for that month since 2001, with net inflows of £212m, compared to net withdrawals of £299m.

Many first-time buyers receive family help to get on the ladder. But how long can parents carry on supporting the market? Paula John reports

Londoners are the most indebted people in the country, according to a new report. Mike Collins fishes for a few coins

Cash machines charging customers for making withdrawals are becoming more common and MPs want more action to protect consumers from the fees. Andrew Partridge finds out more

The number of Brits that want to save has increased by 10 per cent in the last year, according to the Legal & General’s MoneyMood Survey.

Retirement planning remained the UK consumer’s top motive to take financial advice in the final quarter of last year, according to IFAP – the organisation promoting the benefits of independent financial advice. Its data shows that the share of consumers seeking advice on their retirement provision rose significantly toward the end of 2005.

Buy-to-let lenders advanced a record 130,400 loans in the second half of last year, an increase of 39% over the preceding six months, according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders.

People retiring this year will need a total lifetime income of at least £130,000 in addition to State benefits, as increased longevity means their money has to last longer, according to Prudential.