Health insurance can seem daunting, but it’s a potential alternative, or complementary way, to manage your own health and access timely treatment as the NHS faces historic issues.

It is safe to say health insurance is not a widely used product in the UK. Just 2.6% of health spending is done via private medical insurance according to the Office for National Statistics.

But it is gaining some traction – especially given well-documented recent issues in the NHS. While waiting lists are falling, more than seven million are still holding on for procedures.

The UK’s healthcare system is still overwhelmingly nationalised. In practice, this means that the NHS is ‘free at the point of delivery’– but is ultimately paid for through everyone’s taxes. You can read editor Edmund Greaves’s weekly column for more on that.

That being said, a private healthcare system, although much smaller, does exist alongside the national provision.

The lines between private and public are at times blurred as some doctors and healthcare institutions look after both kinds of patient. But how that care is funded is ultimately what is relevant.

This guide explains what health insurance is, how it works, why it might be a useful or necessary alternative to the NHS, what to consider when purchasing and its potential role in your finances.

In compiling this guide, Mouthy Money spoke to Dr Katie Tryon, chief commercial officer at health insurer Vitality for an episode of the Mouthy Money podcast. You can listen to the full podcast episode with Katie to hear more about how health insurance works and what to consider.

What is health insurance?

Health insurance, commonly known as private medical insurance in the UK, is a form of insurance policy that funds private healthcare for specific medical conditions, treatments or other health-related services.

Unlike the NHS, which offers free care at the point of use, private health insurance grants access to private hospitals, consultants and treatments. These private services are typically much quicker than NHS care but there is a significant ‘out-of-pocket’ cost attached.

Private health insurance generally covers acute conditions, such as sudden illnesses or injuries requiring surgery, but often excludes chronic conditions like diabetes or long-term care. Policies differ, but many include hospital stays, specialist consultations, diagnostic tests and treatments like physiotherapy.

Dr Tryon explains: “Traditional health insurance covers private treatment for conditions like musculoskeletal issues, cancer, or cardiovascular problems, depending on policy terms. These are the big-ticket items people historically bought insurance for.”

But she notes that usage of so-called ‘primary’ services such as GPs is growing significantly in response to changes in NHS ease of access.

“The real growth has been in primary care – services like GP consultations, physiotherapy, talking therapies and even skin analytics. Since we launched our GP service in 2015, claims in this area have grown by hundreds of percent.

“Moving further upstream, prevention is a growing focus. We use tools like Apple Watches to encourage physical activity, better nutrition, smoking cessation, weight loss and regular screenings. Health insurance has evolved from just paying hospital bills to a holistic tool for managing and improving health.”

As Dr Tryon says, some plans provide additional benefits, such as holistic services, tech, dental cover or mental health support, depending on the provider and premium.

This is typically done as it is an effective way to ensure the customer remains healthy for longer and also doesn’t end up costing the insurer more in expensive health treatments down the line.

More from Edmund Greaves

How does health insurance work?

When you buy a health insurance policy, you pay a monthly or annual premium to an insurer, who agrees to cover eligible medical costs for private treatment.

The process begins with selecting a policy that matches your needs, budget and desired coverage level. Such cover ranges from basic plans for major treatments to comprehensive ones that include outpatient care and extra services.

If you need treatment, you contact the insurer, who may require pre-approval or allow a GP referral to a private specialist.

The insurer verifies if the treatment is covered, and if approved, you can book appointments at a private hospital or clinic within the insurer’s network. Typically, the insurer pays the provider directly, though some policies require you to pay upfront and claim reimbursement.

Premiums vary based on age, health, lifestyle and coverage. They may increase annually due to inflation or aging, depending on the terms and conditions of the policy.

Policies often have exclusions, like pre-existing conditions or cosmetic procedures, and may include excess fees, where you cover part of the costs. Reading the terms carefully ensures you understand the coverage.

Why might you want or need health insurance?

Health insurance can offer some advantages depending on your situation. The NHS provides excellent emergency care and chronic condition management, but waiting times for non-emergency procedures, like knee surgery, can extend to months.

Dr Tryon is emphatic that health insurance is just about non-emergency procedures and issues but is increasingly being used an alternative for primary care.

“Our data shows a clear correlation between NHS waiting lists and our claims, especially for secondary care like hospital treatments. Primary care and prevention services are areas the public sector struggles to prioritise due to financial constraints.

“Another is the ‘quantified self’ movement. People are obsessed with data – heart rate variability, steps, calories – but often don’t know what to do with it. They’re looking for guidance and we help navigate that. Early intervention is also key. It’s cheaper and better to address issues early, like physiotherapy instead of a hip replacement.

“Finally, the digital revolution, supercharged by Covid, has transformed care delivery. Virtual services and community-based care leapt forward, enabling this shift.”

Private insurance can enable quicker treatment, which is vital if you’re in pain or need to resume work. It can also provide greater choice (depending on what is available in your area) allowing you to select your consultant, hospital and appointment times, offering flexibility the NHS may not.

Private hospitals can provide private rooms and better facilities, giving more comfort during recovery. For the self-employed or those unable to take extended time off, private care can minimise income loss by speeding up recovery.

Access to specialists or advanced treatments may also be easier privately, especially for complex conditions.

What to look out for when buying?

Choosing the right health insurance policy requires careful consideration to ensure it fits your needs and budget.

It is important to remember too that health insurance only works if you have a policy in place before a condition or issue emerges.

Dr Tryon says many policies are provided through workplace programs, but you can take out a policy independently. Costs vary between £70 to £200 (but can be more) depending on your age and health-related factors.

Here are some key things to consider:

Coverage scope: Check what the policy includes. Basic plans may cover only inpatient treatments, while comprehensive ones include outpatient consultations, diagnostics, and therapies. Ensure it matches your priorities.

Exclusions and limits: Most policies exclude pre-existing conditions, cosmetic surgery, or chronic illnesses. Some limit coverage for treatments like cancer care. Review the terms to avoid unexpected gaps.

Network of providers: Insurers partner with specific hospitals and consultants. Check that nearby facilities are included and available with your chosen provider.

Excess and co-payments: Some policies require an excess, like £100 per claim, or a percentage of costs, reducing premiums but increasing your out-of-pocket expenses.

Premium costs: Compare quotes from multiple providers, but don’t compromise essential coverage for a lower price. Use comparison sites or brokers for broader options.

Claims process: Choose insurers with a clear claims process and strong customer service. Look at reviews to consider the firm’s reliability.

Consider your age, health and finances when selecting a policy. Younger, healthier individuals might opt for basic cover, while older people or those with health concerns may need broader protection.

Why health insurance matters for your finances

Health insurance isn’t typically defined as something that can save you money or offer a sensible financial safety net, but its usefulness does extend beyond healthcare.

By protecting your health and potentially your family’s too, it can act as a financial safeguard that protects you against a loss of income, savings and stability through health issues.

For self-employed individuals or those trying to navigate long NHS waiting times, it can enable faster recovery times and outcomes.

Premiums, while highly variable depending on your age and health status, are predictable, unlike ‘out-of-pocket’ medical bills that can reach into the thousands.

However, the costs, often hundreds or thousands annually, require weighing against benefits, especially if you’re young, healthy, or rarely need care. For some, saving for emergencies may be more cost-effective.

Private insurance becomes more appealing for those who can afford it. It complements the NHS, easing the pressure on you to rely on public services while enhancing your healthcare options.

If you’re thinking about getting health insurance, assess your health and finances and consider consulting a financial planner or broker to find the best policy.

Understanding health insurance’s role in your financial plan can help you to make choices that support your health and wealth.

Photo credits: Pexels

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In this episode of Planner Unplugged, Mouthy Money’s Edmund Greaves speaks to Simon Harvey, Managing Director of bdhSterling – a financial planning firm that helps people manage their money between the UK and Australia.

Simon shares how he got into financial planning, what it’s like helping clients who move between countries and why your location can seriously affect your financial choices.

If you’ve ever wondered how expats handle pensions, tax, or investments, this one’s for you.

They also dig into how tech is changing the way we get financial advice, why so many people still struggle to access it, and what really matters when choosing a planner.

Simon offers useful tips for anyone thinking about a career in finance – and explains why helping people reach their goals is what makes the job worth it.

The post Planner Unplugged – Simon Harvey appeared first on Mouthy Money.

Host Edmund Greaves chats with Marlene, founder of UNIQ Family Wealth, about her unconventional journey into financial planning and what keeps her passionate about the job decades later.

They dig into why understanding clients as people, not just portfolios, is key – and how the human side of money is often the most overlooked. Marlene also shares her thoughts on the growing role of tech and regulation in shaping the industry, and why lifelong learning is non-negotiable in a world where everything’s changing fast.

She’s also the author of Boomers: Redefining Retirement and Cascading Your Wealth, and brings a wealth (pun intended) of insight into how planners can better serve clients through life’s big transitions.

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This week, we speak to industry veteran and protection expert Roy Mcloughlin.

In this episode of Planner Unplugged, host Edmund Greaves speaks with financial services veteran and host of the new podcast Mañana Roy Mcloughlin.

They explore Roy’s extensive career, the value of collaboration and the importance of breaking down silos within the industry.

Roy offers insights into financial regulation changes, the growing role of technology and AI, and the urgent need for better training and recruitment of young financial planners. 

The conversation also reflects on the rewarding nature of client relationships and the need for the industry to evolve in order to meet changing expectations.

For the Mañana Podcast here.

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In this Planner Unplugged, editor Edmund Greaves speaks with Katrania Lowers, a financial planner at Colmore Partners. 

Katrania – who was recently shortlisted for the 2025 Nick Cann Progressive Planner Award – discusses her untraditional journey into financial planning and explores how employee ownership drives more client-focused service. 

She shares her passion for engaging the next generation, the power of early conversations around wealth and the need to shift perceptions of financial planning.

Kat also reflects on the role of technology in enhancing client relationships, tackling the advice gap and boosting financial literacy. 

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In the latest Planner Unplugged, Mouthy Money editor Edmund Greaves was joined by Kate Morgan, a financial planner at Smart Financial.

Kate spoke about her journey from a corporate background in accountancy to a career in financial planning, discussing the importance of emotional certainty in advice and the broader challenges facing the advice profession.

She also reflects on the value of long-term client relationships, the impact of technology on the sector and the need for more innovative communication approaches, offering her perspective on the key considerations for aspiring financial planners and why her personal mantra is putting clients’ lives before their money.

Planner Unplugged is a regular podcast interview series with financial planners. It is hosted by Mouthy Money editor Edmund Greaves for financial services private social network, Octo Members.

More Planner Unplugged interviews are available on Octo Members. Octo Members is the fastest-growing UK private social network app for and by financial services professionals, with the aim of creating the largest, most comprehensive community-generated collection of ideas and world-class content created exclusively by and for its members.

Do you work in financial services? We invite you to join over 4000 of your peers to Connect. Share. Engage.

Join now: https://app.octomembers.com/spaces/771493/feed

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The Mouthy Money Podcast launched in 2023 to bring a deeper, thoughtful look at the world of personal finance, money, business and a range of other topics.

Since launch, host Edmund Greaves has looked at wide-ranging topics from running a small business to climbing Kilimanjaro; Why private equity is ruining vets to 200% inflation in Argentina; How bitcoin could solve inflation to why financial education matters.

No financial topic is too big or too small for the Mouthy Money podcast.

You can subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or Youtube.

See below for a full list of past and recent episodes.

Would you like to be involved in the podcast? Have you got an interesting money story to tell? Get in touch at editors@mouthymoney.co.uk

Is it time to get health insurance?

The UK depends on the NHS for its healthcare. But is an alternative rising? Hosts Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite speak with Dr Katie Tryon, chief commercial officer at health insurance firm Vitality about the ins and outs of health insurance as an alternative to the NHS for healthcare needs and the potential financial costs and benefits of a policy.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

What does a comfortable retirement really cost?

Host Edmund Greaves and guest Chris Tuite are joined by Cali Sullivan from the Pensions and Lifetime Savings Association (PLSA) for a conversation about retirement living standards. They chat about the PLSA’s latest updates to the minimum, moderate, and comfortable retirement benchmarks and what these really mean for your future. They explores how housing, lifestyle, and personal circumstances can drastically shift retirement planning needs, and why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t cut it anymore.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

The most common pensions questions answered

Host Edmund Greaves chats with pensions and tax expert Clare Moffat from Royal London to tackle some of the most commonly asked pension questions. From tax relief and contributions to transfers, tax-free cash, retirement income and the state pension system – Claire stresses why getting to grips with your pension and financial planning is key to enjoying a comfortable retirement.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Trapped by inflation? The return of financial repression

 In this episode, hosts Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite explain the concept of financial repression, a policy that affects savers by forcing them to earn returns below inflation. They explore newly-announced government reforms aimed at creating pension mega funds, illustrate the historical context of financial repression and examine its impact on retirees and savers.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Higher learning, higher earning?

Is a postgraduate degree still worth it? Hosts Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite discuss the real value of higher education with Rishi Zaveri, co-founder of Lendwise. They unpack the pros and cons of pursuing further education, the financial hurdles students often face, and how Lendwise is changing the game through peer-to-peer education loans. From the power of alumni networks to the role of qualifications in career growth, this episode explores how education – and how we fund it – is evolving.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Could the Bank of England slash the base rate?

The Bank of England is set to cut its base rate, but how low could it go? Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite look at why rates are coming down, how it could affect personal finances, the economy and the Government’s budget. They also look at the  reasons why it could be good for homeowners and bad for savers.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

How to not run out of money in retirement

Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite are joined by Kevin Hollister, founder of Guiide, for a chat about the realities of retirement planning.

They explore why planning for the future is more important than ever, especially as younger generations face rising housing costs and uncertain financial projections.

Kevin shares how Guiide’s retirement income planning tool is helping individuals take control of their financial futures, from understanding income in retirement needs to navigating the role of home equity in retirement planning.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Saving the Lifetime ISA

Is the Lifetime ISA in trouble? Brian Byrnes, head of personal finance at Moneybox, explains the two big problems the LISA faces, but why we might be hopeful of some reform come Autumn Budget 2025…

The context: the Parliamentary Treasury Select Committee is meeting again today to discuss the future of the Lifetime ISA or ‘LISA’ to decide what to do with the savings product.

Ahead of that we were very pleased to have Brian on to talk to host Edmund Greaves about the LISA.

Brian himself spoke to the committee in February about the case for the LISA. Moneybox, as the UK’s biggest LISA provider is understandably keen to see the product develop and succeed.

Check out the full podcast to get the inside track on the LISA from Brian and Edmund, its benefits and drawbacks – and what might happen in its future.

Available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts

Money Remixed

Host Edmund Greaves speaks with authors Mark Wilkinson and Paul Grant about their book Money Remixed. They explore the mindset behind wealth, breaking down societal stigmas, and the link between health and financial success. Sharing personal stories, they highlight the power of discipline and self-awareness, and call for a new, empowering narrative around money.

Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple podcasts

How modern couples manage their finances 

Join hosts Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite as they sit down with Charlie Richardson, co-founder and CEO of Lumio, for a discussion on the challenges of managing money in modern relationships. From the evolution of joint accounts to balancing financial independence with shared goals, they unpack the complexities of couples’ finances.

Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple podcasts

Spring Statement, Stealth Brit ISAs and good news for parents

Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite unpack the events of Rachel Reeves’s Spring Statement – looking at the troubling economic headwinds, why the Government Budget is so tight and the stealth return of the Brit ISA. Plus, some good news to be had for parents who don’t like doing self assessment tax returns.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and Youtube.

You don’t need to save for a 100 year life

Savers are encouraged by the finance industry to plan for a ‘100 year life’ – but is this just a way for them to charge more fees for longer? Join hosts Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite as they chat with financial adviser and podcaster Dan Haylett, debunking myths about living a ‘100-year life’ and explore why aligning money with personal values is so important.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Spring Statement, ISAs and pensions

Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite, joined by guest Craig Rickman, unpack the upcoming budget and what it means for your wallet. From potential changes to the cash ISA allowance to the impact of welfare cuts on state pensions, they break it all down. Plus, they explore why personal pensions matter more than ever and highlight the need for simpler, more accessible financial products.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Mouthy Money’s new focus – it’s time to get angry about our money

Join Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite as they lay out Mouthy Money’s new approach to talking about money. From building wealth to protecting it and enjoying it – Mouthy Money is now dedicated to lifting the lid on why the system works against you and how you can flip it to your advantage to make your money go further – now and into the future

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

The Bargain Hunter

Host Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite welcome financial journalist Kara Gammell to discuss her new book, The Bargain Hunter, exploring the savvy money-saving strategies and the psychology of spending. Kara shares quirky, practical tips to help listeners take control of their finances, proving that small savings add up to big wins. From smart shopping hacks to the surprising benefits of frozen foods, the conversation explores mindful budgeting, reducing waste, and making incremental changes for long-term financial success. They also highlight the importance of pensions and financial security.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

The future of Cash ISAs, inflation and smart investing

In this episode, with speculation around the future of the Cash ISA increasing Chris Tuite sits down with Chris Rudden, Head of Investment Advisory at MoneyFarm, to break down the current ISA landscape. They explore why they are so popular, the hidden risks of inflation, and how government policies shape our savings and investments. Are cash ISAs really the best bet to build wealth, or is there a smarter way to grow your money?

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Are first time buyers back? 

Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite sit down with Stuart Cheetham, CEO of MPowered, to break down the prospects for first-time buyers as the mortgage market enters an important period. They discuss the recent shifts in stamp duty, the impact of interest rates, and the outlook for first-time buyers. The trio also explores the role of mortgage stress tests and how MPowered is re-imagining the mortgage process to make it more efficient. With insights on the role of brokers and predictions for the future of the market, this episode offers key takeaways for anyone navigating the changing mortgage landscape.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Is the party over for AI stocks?

Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite consider the rise of DeepSeek, the AI technology challenging stock prices of US tech giants such as Nvidia and OpenAI, and what it means for global investment markets.

They also break down UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves’s economic growth plans and the challenges facing the Labour Government — from infrastructure investment to bank branch closures—and the balance needed to make the economy grow.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

What now for mortgages?

Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite are joined by Jeni Browne to discuss the year ahead and the unpredictable rates impacting capital markets. They share personal remortgaging experiences and practical advice for borrowers, including tips on two-year and five-year fixed rates and insights into the future of interest rates.

This podcast is for information purposes only and should not be construed as advice. If in doubt, speak to an authorised advice professional.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Why Gen Z and Millennials are turning to social media when making money decisions

Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite unpack the findings of MRM’s ⁠Young Money Report 2025⁠, shedding light on how 18 to 30-year-olds are navigating their financial futures. They discuss the surprising optimism among young people, the growing influence of social media on money decisions, and the risks posed by scams. Insights from the report highlight a clear call for financial institutions to better engage with this audience. From the rise of financial influencers to the critical need for better education, they explore what’s shaping the new generation’s approach to money and why it matters for the future of finance.

Young Money Report

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Divorce Day: the financial implications of ending a marriage

Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite tackle the tough realities of divorce with Atomos’s Helen Howcroft, breaking down the emotional and financial hurdles that come with ending a marriage. From the significance of ‘Divorce Day’ to busting myths about financial entitlements, they uncover what really happens behind the scenes. Helen shares her professional experiences on navigating the key stages of divorce, managing the emotional rollercoaster, and why expert support is essential.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Why are we losing confidence in our pensions

Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite tackle the challenges of retirement planning with Andrew Tully from Nucleus. They discuss starting early, the power of compounding, and bridging the pension advice gap. Insights from Nucleus’s confidence index highlight rising public concerns about retirement savings. Plus they talk about the role of financial influencers, skepticism about state pensions, and the need for better education and stable policies to rebuild trust.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Should millennials be panicked about pensions?

How worried are you about your pension? Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite explore the tricky world of retirement saving with guest Paul Budgen, co-founder of My Time Pension.

They chat about why pensions can feel so stressful and confusing, and how understanding them doesn’t have to be as scary as it seems. From figuring out what those pension projections really mean to breaking down charges and why they matter, the team covers all the key stuff.

They also talk about how to spread your investments around (because no one likes all their eggs in one basket!) and share tips on navigating tax perks and retirement planning without getting lost in the jargon. Investing and managing your own pension carries risks. If in doubt, seek financial advice.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

How to give your kids the gift of financial freedom this Christmas

Hosts Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite get into the holiday spirit with guest Cem Eyi, co-founder of The Beanstalk App, an app helping UK families save for their kids’ futures.

They unwrap the magic of children’s savings, from the legacy of the Child Trust Fund to the power of Junior ISAs, while also spilling the beans on holiday spending habits across the UK.

But it’s not all mince pies and mistletoe—they dig into sustainable gifting ideas to help Brits cut down on waste and give gifts with real meaning.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Generation X has a pension problem

Host Edmund Greaves chats with Mike Ambery, Retirement Savings Director at Standard Life, about the challenges Generation X faces with pensions and retirement savings. Drawing on findings from Standard Life’s latest report, they discuss the pensions savings gap, the role of state pensions and property, and share practical tips to help Gen X boost their retirement prospects.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

What if you won the lottery?

Hosts Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite venture into the glittering world of lottery wins, celebrating the 30th anniversary of the National Lottery. With the help of financial expert Duncan Horner from Amber River Premier, they tackle the dreams and dilemmas that come with sudden, life-changing wealth. From the emotional whirlwind winners experience to the practical steps needed to turn millions into generational security. The trio unpacks the highs of newfound riches and the potential pitfalls, revealing just how important financial planning, budgeting, and education are to keeping that dream alive

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Afin Bank launch and will Bitcoin go to the moon?

Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite chat about the launch of Afin Bank, a challenger bank designed to support the African diaspora in the UK. Alan Davison, Afin Bank’s Chief Commercial Officer, joins the podcast to explain the bank’s mission to help underserved communities, particularly in getting access to mortgages and other financial services. They explore the unique challenges African immigrants face in the UK, like residency requirements and tricky credit scoring, and how Afin Bank plans to make lending more accessible. They also touch on the bigger picture of challenger banks and the rise of digital currencies like Bitcoin, reflecting on how fast the financial world is changing.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

US Election results, markets and Bitcoin

This week hosts Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite tackle the financial whirlwind stirred up by Donald Trump’s victory. Is it a golden opportunity for investors, or a recipe for runaway inflation? With insights from Saxo Bank’s Althea Spinozzi, they break down what it could mean for your wallet—from the Bank of England’s next moves to the impact on global markets. They also discuss whether Bitcoin and gold might be your best friends in these turbulent times, or just fool’s gold.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Mouthy Money 2024 LIVE Part Two: Hot Takes

Budget 20204 Hot Takes: Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite, are joined by Victor Sacks, owner and IFA at VS Associates and Marlene Outrim, Managing Director and Certified Financial Planner at Uniq Family Wealth immediately after Chancellor Rachel Reeves finished her first Budget to give their live hot takes on what it means for our finances.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Photo credits: Flickr

Mouthy Money 2024 LIVE Part One: Budget Bingo

Mouthy money editor Edmund Greaves is joined live by Chris Tuite, Head of consumer finance at communications consultancy MRM, to comment along and play Budget Bingo while Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivers her first Budget to Parliament.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Budget, media speculation and pensions

 This week, Edmund Greaves and Chris team up to tackle some of the hottest topics in personal finance. They chat about the upcoming budget, break down how the media shapes our views, and discuss the tricky decisions the government has to make. The duo also takes a close look at state pension reforms, inheritance tax simplification, and share personal finance tips to keep you ahead. Chris opens up about his own experience with workplace pensions and the challenge of picking the right investment options.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Photo credits:  HM Treasury Flickr 

Tax rumours, scammers and Amazon Prime Day

This week, host Edmund Greaves is joined by colleague Francesca Giacomin to dive into the biggest money stories of the week. From Rachel Reeves’s retreat from a controversial pension tax raids to new rules aimed at protecting you from sneaky text and email scammers, Ed and Francesca share their personal stories dealing with scammers and why these changes could make a big difference for consumers. And don’t miss their chat about Amazon Prime Day, where Ed reveals a clever trick to ensure you’re not overspending online.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and Youtube

Pension pitfalls, tipping truths and bills breakthroughs

The luxury cruise liner Odyssey remains anchored off Northern Ireland after months of delays, turning a planned three-year adventure for pensioners into a maritime soap opera. In this week’s podcast, Edmund Greaves and Chris Tuite discuss whether it’s a smart investment or if the passengers’ retirement savings are just drifting away. They also tackle the controversial subject of tipping—are Brits really stingy abroad? Plus, Ed shares how switching energy providers helped cut his bills and offers tips to save you money.

Available on Spotify , Apple Podcast and Youtube

Two new Government policies NOT in the Budget that could affect your finances

Edmund Greaves welcomes back co-host Chris Tuite from paternity leave to look at two the big Government reforms being forgotten as attention focuses on the upcoming Budget. While everyone’s talking about taxes, Edmund and Chris focus on coming renters’ and workers’ rights reforms. Plus, Chris and Ed debate Junior ISAs or pensions for your kids?

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Starlink fixed my broadband blues

Edmund Greaves chats with Debbie Greenfield about how Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet, transformed her slow, frustrating Wi-Fi into a fast, reliable connection. Debbie shares her experience and how it turned things around for her life and work.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Childcare juggling, winter fuel allowance and mortgage market joy

Edmund Greaves catches up with Paul Thomas, MRM’s head of news and content, as the two new dads dive into the costs of childcare. They swap stories about the challenges of navigating this ever-growing expense and even compare how things stack up between Wales and England.

Plus they tackle the impact of cuts to the winter fuel allowance on pensioners and discuss the news of a £460 increase in the state pension under the triple lock. Finally, they hit Paul’s home turf: the world of mortgages and the current state of the property market.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Could mutuals be the future of good money?

Mutuals have been around for more than 100 years. Could the unusual structure of such companies be a potential future solution to better financial companies? Edmund Greaves is joined by Stephen McGee, chief executive of Scottish Friendly, to find out more about mutuals and their place in finance in 2024.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Oasis reunion tickets, winning the lottery and childcare chaos

Chris regales Ed with tales of seeing Oasis at their peak, and how much a ticket will cost for the reunion, and whether this and a Labour Government means Cool Britannia is back.

Plus both consider what they’d do with a £100 million lottery win and appeal for a financial advisor to help them make the most of their (currently) fictional cash, while Ed opines the complexity of getting government help with childcare and an important revelation from Pregnant then Screwed on free childcare hours.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Photo by Yvette de Wit on Unsplash

How to manage vulnerability and money

Vulnerability is a major issue in financial services. So how can vulnerable people, and the firms that have to help them, get better organised for the issue? Edmund Greaves is joined by Helen Lord, chief executive of the Vulnerability Registration Service to discuss her work and experiences dealing with vulnerability and finance.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Markets mayhem and expensive hobbies

Chris and Ed look at what’s been happening in markets, and if it matters to normal people. Plus, they both admit to their expensive hobbies, and complain about the railways.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and Youtube.

Loud budgeting, cash stuffing and a big rate decision

Ed and Chris talk big social media money trends including loud budgeting, cash stuffing and doom spending.

The guys also look at this week’s big money story, the interest rate decision from the Bank of England. Both give their potential predictions on what could happen.

Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube

Financial jargon’s worst offenders and how to fix the broken language around retirement

For a special in-studio edition of the Mouthy Money podcast, host Edmund Greaves is joined by James Daley, founder of ratings and consumer group Fairer Finance, and Robert Vaudry, chief customer and investment officer at Wealthtime, to take a deep dive into the world of financial jargon, retirement language and regulatory change coming for financial firms who don’t explain their products in simpler terms.

Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube

Nationwide or Reddit? Where we get our financial information

There’s a problem in the way in which we get our financial information. From Nationwide savings emails to money forums on Reddit – Chris and Ed look at how we obtain financial information, how blurred the rules are, and why the regulator gets it wrong so often.

Available on: Spotify, Apple Podcast, YouTube

One ISA to rule them all

Ed and Chris invite AJ Bell’s Tom Selby on to the pod to talk about potential end to the Brit ISA and the investment platform’s ‘One ISA’ proposal it has submitted to the new Labour Government.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

How do you solve the housing affordability puzzle?

Host Edmund Greaves is joined by Polly Gilbert, co-founder of digital mortgage broker Tembo, to discuss what’s happening in the mortgage market, how to solve the housing affordability puzzle, and why the Lifetime ISA is a good thing.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Labour in charge, prime minister investment scores and bank rates

Chris and Ed look at what happens now Labour is in charge, the prime ministers with the best (and worst) investment returns, and what happens next in the mortgage market.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube

Photo credits: HM treasury

Where do mortgage rates go from here? Part one of the mortgage takeover special

What is happening in the mortgage market? Where do rates go now the Bank of England is looking to cut its base rate?

Host Edmund Greaves is joined by mortgage expert Roger Morris and John Davison from Perenna to talk about what happens next in the mortgage market, and whether we’ll ever get low rates again.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts or watch on Youtube

Council tax, land value tax and what Labour does on 5 July

Council tax is the most broken of all the taxes. Ed and Chris dig into why, while Ed waxes lyrical about his favourite solution. Then the guys look at what they think Labour will do come the first day in Government.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Savers vs spenders, investing gamification and the mortgage takeover

Ed and Chris get to grips with saving vs spending (the Stoics vs the Epicureans of the 21st Century), why the financial regulator is looking at investing gamification and Mouthy Money’s upcoming mortgage takeover.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

What can the Brits learn from Australians about money?

Everyone talks about the Australian pensions system and how much the UK can learn from how much better it is. But what else can we learn from the Aussies about money?

Hope Coumbe, editor of Professional Adviser, catches up with host Edmund Greaves to talk about her experiences as an Australian living in the UK and what the Brits might be able to learn about money from the other side of the world.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and Youtube.

Interest rates, Brit ISAs and beating bill hikes

Mouthy Money editor Edmund Greaves catches up with MRM’s Chris Tuite on weekly money news and personal financial stories including:

Why interest rates are a big deal this week, why the Brit ISA sucks, a tax story that caught our eye, and Ed’s battle of the bills.

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and Youtube.

Diary of an SME owner: it’s all just luck

Mouthy Money diary of an SME owner columnist Michael Taggart catches up with host Edmund Greaves on how his business, MDTea, is getting on. With economic clouds growing, Michael talks about what he feels offered by political parties at the General Election, and why so much of success in business and personal finances comes down to luck. 

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcast and YouTube.

Financial repression, perverse tax outcomes and paying for childcare

Mouthy Money bonus episode two: Ed lectures Chris on ‘financial repression’ – the little-known tool that the next Government might use to fix the economy, while Chris bemoans bad taxes and Ed recounts his trouble finding childcare for his son.

The Mouthy Money bonus podcast is cohosted by Edmund Greaves, editor of Mouthy Money and Chris Tuite, head of consumer finance at MRM.

Available on Spotify and Apple Podcast

BONUS: F OFF funds, pension quad locks and ignoring your investments

In the first edition of a new weekly bonus show on the Mouthy Money podcast channel, host Edmund Greaves is joined by Chris Tuite, head of consumer finance at MRM to discuss the week’s most important money news, and what’s going on in their personal financial lives.

This week, Chris and Ed discuss General Election announcements, rainy day funds and not looking at your investments.

Available on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Tracking down your lost pensions

Have you lost a pension? You might not be the only one. Host Edmund Greaves speaks to head of pensions at Penny, David Henderson, as they discuss a Penny customer who found no less than 11 lost pensions with the app.

Available on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Figuring out your financial goals

Host Edmund Greaves catches up with friend of the channel Myron Jobson. This week Myron & Ed are diving into how to figure out your financial goals. Both reveal some of their past and future goals, and Myron has a handy little guide to how to set your own.

Available on Spotify and Apple Podcast

Why can’t I hold bitcoin in an ISA?

This week we’re joined by Tom Bailey, head of research at Han ETF. Tom speaks to host Edmund Greaves about the world of ETFs, including gold and other asset classes, now available to investors through the investment vehicle.

He also digs into why normal investors in the UK can’t hold bitcoin ETFs thanks to intransigence from the UK’s financial regulator.

Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Being chased for energy bill debts by Michael Jackson

This week’s guest is university lecturer and author Dennis Duncan, who recounts a personal story to host Edmund Greaves about how he was hounded for thousands of unpaid energy bills he didn’t owe after his energy provider went bust, and how he beat the debt collectors who were chasing him.

But strangest of all in the tale, is how the debt collectors signed off their threatening letters with a signature that looked suspiciously like that of late pop star Michael Jackson. Dennis explains what happened and how he beat the debt collectors at their own game.

Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcast

Could financial education solve the pensions crisis?

Could financial education solve the pensions crisis? This is the extraordinary possibility which Sarah Marks, chief executive of financial education charity RedSTART suggests this week when she caught up with host Edmund Greaves. Sarah shares the latest findings from RedSTART’s multi-year education study as well as some surprising insights into why we’re in such a collective fix with our retirement savings.

Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcast

Mouthy Money book competitions

Join host Edmund Greaves and Francesca Giacomin for a quick catch-up on recent news and what’s coming up at Mouthy Money. We even let slip the title of our next book giveaway and the name of an exciting upcoming podcast guest! Tune in to catch all the details!

Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

How rich is rich?

Our concept of wealth is a constantly moving barrier. As we earn and save more, the idea that we might now be ‘rich’ seems difficult to comprehend. But how much would really be the level at which money makes us rich?

Join host Edmund Greaves as he’s joined by MRM’s head of consumer finance Chris Tuite, who details the findings of the Money Matters Index report – and puts an exact number on exactly how much money makes us rich, according to us.

Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Robinhood and the tumultuous retail investing boom

The meme stock boom of the pandemic might be over, but are small-time investors is still thriving? The arrival of US-bases Robinhood in the UK is a timely reminder of just how many options there are for Brits looking to invest their savings.

But with so many options are these firms stable enough to survive, let alone thrive, in tumultuous investment markets?

Mouthy Money podcast host Edmund Greaves is joined by chief executive of Fundscape, Bella Caridade-Ferreira and Chris Tuite, head of consumer finance at MRM, to unpick the investment platform market and why we’re nowhere near a potential saturation point.

Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Where do interest rates go now?

Remortgagers are facing a big question now that rates look set to start falling as inflation eases. In the latest edition of the Mouthy Money podcast, contributing editor Paul Thomas chats to Perry Graves, mortgage broker at Tembo Money to find out what people should do.

Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcast.

Myron & Ed – Spring Budget 2024 and end of the tax year

Host Edmund Greaves and ii financial expert Myron Jobson are back to dissect Jeremy Hunt’s Spring Budget 2024, highlighting the key announcements and what they mean for our finances. Plus, Myron explains last-minute tax year considerations, including capital gains tax changes and more.

Listen on Spotify and Apple Podcast

The true cost of climbing Kilimanjaro

Mouthy Money podcast host Edmund Greaves recounts his recent experience climbing Kilimanjaro for charity, following on from his article about the costs involved with planning a trek up Africa’s highest mountain.

From vaccines to M-Pesa, acclimatising to the gear for summiting – there’s a multitude of money aspects to think of before you climb.

Joined by Argentine-American bitcoin educator and friend of the podcast Trevor Schrock.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Review: The Everything Token by Steve Kaczynski and Scott Duke Kominers

Crypto and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have been on a wild ride in the past few years.

Edmund Greaves and Francesca Giacomin review a new book, ‘The Everything Token’ by Steve Kaczynski and Scott Duke Kominers which delves into the world of NFT technology. Mouthy Money is giving away one of three copies, find out more how to win one by listening in.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Cash is dying. Should we save it?

Cash is dying out as a form of payment. But is it worth saving? Host Edmund Greaves talks to Martin Quinn from the Payment Choice Alliance on why cash matters, and why it might be making a comeback as a payment option.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Look at the state of the mortgage market

Are you remortgaging this year? The home loan market is a minefield at the moment. Host Edmund Greaves catches up with colleague and mortgage aficionado Paul Thomas on how we got to the current situation and what anyone who is looking to remortgage should consider right now.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Myron & Ed: Budget preview – the tax measures to watch out for

In this month’s Myron & Ed team up, the guys preview the upcoming Budget in March, including what they THINK will be in the Budget, what they WANT and the controversial tax Ed would like to see in his wildest dreams…

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Beware the cowboy will writers

You’ve heard of cowboy builders, but did you know cowboy will writers were a thing? Join host Edmund Greaves as he uncovers the scourge of dodgy will writing with Sarah Manuel of professional body STEP, to find out how a bad will could cost you thousands.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Six key trends in finance

Could AI solve the advice gap? This is one of six key trends highlighted by fintech entrepreneur Anthony Morrow, who joins host Edmund Greaves to discuss major changes coming for financial services and consumers this year.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Could bitcoin solve the world’s inflation problems?

With rampant inflation, should we consider a return to the gold standard? Or is the future of money shaped by innovative financial technologies like bitcoin? Host Edmund Greaves digs into how bitcoin works with bitcoin educator Trevor Schrock, and whether it could change how the world’s financial system works.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Myron & Ed: Mortgage rates, the cost of Kilimanjaro and New Year’s resolutions

In episode two of Myron & Ed’s monthly money podcast Edmund Greaves, editor of Mouthy Money, and Myron Jobson, personal finance expert at interactive investor dig what’s happening to mortgage rates, the real cost of climbing Kilimanjaro, and important New Year’s financial resolutions.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Is Blue Monday real?

Is Blue Monday a real thing, or just a concoction to encourage people to buy holidays? Edmund Greaves chats to MRM’s Chris Tuite to look at ‘Blue Monday’s’ origins and questionable motives – but ponders whether it might actually be worthwhile despite the PR spin.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

How Argentina lives with 200% inflation

Mouthy Money editor Edmund Greaves is joined by Argentine-American bitcoin educator Trevor Schrock to get to grips with what living with 200%+ inflation is like in Argentina, and whether bitcoin could one day be the solution to the problem.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Why financial education matters – part two

Join Edmund Greaves for a thought-provoking discussion with Sarah Marks, CEO of RedSTART Educate in the second part of our series on why financial education matters.

In this episode, Ed and Sarah delve into the landscape of financial education, examining the importance of providing individuals with essential financial literacy skills.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Ed and Myron: our financial lives and the Autumn Statement 2023

We’re very excited this week to launch a brand new collaboration on the Mouthy Money podcast. Editor Edmund Greaves and interactive investor personal finance expert Myron Jobson have teamed up to create a brand new series of longer-form podcasts on the Mouthy Money podcast channel.

In the first edition, Myron and Ed dig into their own backgrounds to consider some of the things that have shaped their money lives, including hardworking mums, becoming dads and the lessons they’ve learned from their own mistakes and experiences with money.

They also round up some of the big news from November’s Autumn Statement and how this could affect your money in 2024. Stay tuned and subscribe to our podcast channels to hear more from them in the coming months!

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Why financial education matters – part one

Editor Edmund Greaves chats with financial journalist and children’s book author Sonia Rach to explore the importance of starting early with kids, who learn financial habits as early as age seven.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

The Young Money report

Welcome to Episode 10 of the Mini Money Podcast! Join our host, editor Edmund Greaves, alongside our guest, Chris Tuite, MRM Director and Head of Consumer Finance.

In this episode, we explore the recently released ‘The Young Money Report,’ an MRM report in collaboration with Mouthy Money.

Gain valuable insights as Ed and Chris discuss key findings and explore how industry experts reacted to the findings.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Diary of an SME owner

Episode 9 of Mini Money Podcast, featuring the small business owner and Mouthy Money columnist Michael Taggart.

We dive into Michael’s personal finance background and his journey to running his own small business MDTea.

Plus we find out what he’d do if he won the lottery, and what he’d do as Chancellor for the day.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

The problem with vets

‘The Problem with Vets’ delves into the soaring expenses of veterinary care.

Join us as we dissect the CMA’s investigation and unravel the complex connection between pet owners, private equity, and your furry friend’s well-being.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Emergency funds

Francesca and Edmund tackle the essentials of personal finance amid some unexpected background drilling noise.

It’s not your typical podcast interference; we’re just “drilling down” on the money matters!

They’ll guide you through building an emergency fund, spill the beans on surprising inflation trends, and share the top Money Blogs of the Week from Mouthy Money.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Financial goals

Join Francesca and Ed in the latest episode of the Mini Money Podcast for an engaging discussion: Francesca and Ed define the financial term of the week, “portfolio,” and delve into its significance in personal finance.

Ed answers essential questions about financial goal setting, risk assessment, tax considerations, asset allocation, and the role of financial advisors in portfolio management. Discover two thought-provoking blogs from Mouthy Money: “How to make money from retail deal arbitrage” by Nick Daws and “Project Mbappe: what are the true costs of making your child a sport star?” by Barnaby Sargent Megicks.

Stay updated with the latest financial news highlights courtesy of Ed. Don’t miss out on this informative episode! Tune in to gain valuable insights into managing your finances effectively. Remember to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with the Mini Money Podcast.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Rising interest rates

Join Francesca, your host, and our Mouthy Money Editor, Edmund Greaves, as they dive into the fascinating world of finance and money management.

In this episode, we start with our “Word of the Week,” where we demystify the term “interest rates.” Ed shares his insights and answers some burning questions, including how interest rates vary among UK savings accounts.

Get ready for some valuable tips on leveraging rising interest rates for your investments and understanding the impact of inflation on your savings and investments.

But that’s not all! We also discuss the latest Mouthy Money blog articles, including an exciting opportunity to get your will written for free in October. Trust us; you won’t want to miss this important financial advice.

And in our “Must Know Money News” segment, Ed delves into the hot topic of Inheritance tax abolition, asking whether it will truly save the richest £1 million. As always, Ed provides his expert insights to help you navigate the complex world of finance. Be sure to check out the full articles on the Mouthy Money website for even more in-depth information.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

The Money Mole

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Mini Money Podcast!

Join your host, Francesca, and Mouthy Money Editor Ed Greaves as they dive into the world of personal finance and introduce the enigmatic Money Mole!

In this lively episode, they kick things off with the Word of the Week: “liability.” Ever wondered how personal liabilities impact your financial journey? They’ve got the answers!

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Pension Awareness Week

In this episode, we celebrate Pension Awareness Week by delving into the world of pensions with our financial expert, Ed, and host Francesca.

Discover the ins and outs of pensions, types of pension plans, government’s role, and much more. Ed answers key questions, offering valuable insights and tips for better financial planning.

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

Intro to Mini Money

Welcome to the Mini Money Podcast, your weekly financial knowledge boost! Are you tired of feeling lost in the financial jargon jungle?

Look no further! Join us every week as we dive into the world of money and make it simple for you. In each episode, we’ll take a deep dive into a different financial word or concept, breaking it down into plain and understandable terms that anyone can grasp.

Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting on your financial journey, we’ve got you covered. But that’s not all!

We’ll also keep you in the loop with the latest financial blogs of the week, offering insights and tips to help you make informed decisions about your money.

Plus, we’ll bring you up-to-date with any other relevant financial news that you need to know. Stay informed, stay empowered, and stay financially savvy with the Mini Money Podcast. Subscribe now, and let’s make finance easy and fun together!

Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcast

The post The Mouthy Money Podcast appeared first on Mouthy Money.

Money Remixed by Mark Wilkinson and Paul Grant is an exploration of what it takes to establish a wealthy ‘mindset’.

This, the authors believe, can help anyone who wants to improve their financial situation establish the attitudes and frame of mind needed to succeed.

The book details Mark and Paul’s varied life experiences and how they came to the successes in their work lives more generally.

Mark was for many years an internationally successful DJ, while Paul has been a successful businessman in a career spanning continents.

The authors detail 14 key steps needed to establish their ‘wealthy mindset’ which are the lynchpin of the book.

But beyond that it looks at how to approach early years, early career, life beyond a career and how it all fits together, to give readers a comprehensive framework for leading a wealthier life.

To get your hands on a copy of Money remixed straight away, it is available on Amazon.

The book is part of a wider series from Mark, his original book called Life Remixed looks at Paul’s personal experiences and how people can remix their lives.

The authors are planning more books very soon, including Personalities Remixed (Summer 2025) and Business Remixed (Winter 2025).

Money Remixed podcast

Mouthy Money editor Edmund Greaves had the chance to catch up with both Mark and Paul on the podcast.

They explore the mindset behind wealth, breaking down societal stigmas, and the link between health and financial success.

Sharing personal stories, they highlight the power of discipline and self-awareness, and call for a new, empowering narrative around money.

Find out how to listen on our podcast page.

How to win one of five copies of Money Remixed

To win one of five copies of Money Remixed, just enter your name, address and email on our competition form linked below.

Winners will be drawn at the end of May. Good luck!

WIN A COPY OF MONEY REMIXED

The post WIN A COPY of Money Remixed by Mark Wilkinson and Paul Grant appeared first on Mouthy Money.

The UK economy is navigating a delicate balance of inflation, wage growth, and interest rates, with significant implications for households.

Inflation, the rate at which prices increase, dropped to 2.6% in March 2025, down from 2.8% in February, driven by cheaper petrol and slower rises in leisure costs. However, this respite may be short-lived.

The Bank of England projects inflation could climb to 3.7% between July and September 2025, spurred by higher energy prices, water bills, and bus fares. Analysts warn it may reach 4% over the Summer, with utility bills up 6.4% and water bills soaring 26%.

Global trade tensions, including potential US tariffs, could further inflate prices. Despite this, inflation is expected to drift back toward the Bank’s 2% target by late 2027.

Wages are currently outstripping inflation, providing some relief. From November 2024 to January 2025, average pay (excluding bonuses) rose by 5.9%, delivering a real wage increase of 3.2% after inflation adjustments.

Private sector pay grew faster than public sector earnings, but a softening job market, with declining employment and fewer job adverts, raises concerns.

Public sector pay rises of 5.5% without productivity improvements could drive inflation higher, as private wages often follow suit.

The planned increase in employer National Insurance Contributions (NICs) and the minimum wage in April 2025 may push businesses to raise prices or cut jobs, adding pressure to household budgets.

Interest rates, set by the Bank of England, have fallen three times since August 2024, from 5.25% to 4.5% by February 2025, to bolster growth while taming inflation. Rates were held at 4.5% in March, but with inflation expected to rise, the Bank is proceeding cautiously.

Markets now forecast up to four rate cuts in 2025, potentially lowering rates to 3.5%, especially if global trade issues weaken the economy.

Lower rates reduce borrowing costs, directly benefiting homeowners on tracker mortgages, whose payments adjust with the base rate.

The prospect of further rate cuts has sparked talk of a potential mortgage price war. Lenders, facing intense competition, are already cutting fixed-rate deals to attract borrowers.

In early 2025, two-year fixed mortgage rates dipped below 4% at some high street banks, with five-year fixes not far behind.

More from Edmund Greaves

This trend could accelerate as rates fall, with smaller lenders and building societies likely to offer aggressive deals to gain market share.

For the 80% of homeowners on fixed-rate mortgages, many of whom face renewals in 2025, this could mean lower repayments.

However, borrowers must weigh up their options, as lenders may withdraw offers if inflation spikes unexpectedly.

Households should prepare for higher costs in 2025, with rising utility and water bills squeezing budgets. Savers may see returns diminish as inflation erodes the value of cash and savings rates.

With wages growing but economic uncertainty looming, managing debt and securing affordable mortgage deals will be key to financial stability.

Photo credits: Pexels

The post Inflation down and wages up: could mortgages and interest rates be next? appeared first on Mouthy Money.

In our first instalment, we meet Nigel Yates, lead portfolio manager for the AXA UK Sustainable Equity Fund, at AXA Investment Managers, a fund that recently adopted the ‘Sustainability Improver’ label under the FCA’s Sustainability Disclosure Requirements (SDR) regime.*

How does AXA UK Sustainable Equity Fund invest?

We invest in high quality companies with above average growth characteristics that are demonstrating a clear and credible commitment to reducing their carbon emissions to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

The investment approach centres around investing in companies who have strong long-term growth potential by utilising our People, Planet, Progress thematic overlay to identify companies that are enabling a healthier, greener, more advanced society.

Attractive end markets alone is not enough, however.

We seek out companies that have the ability to deliver growth year after year as a result of their strong business model, culture of innovation and customer focus.

We term this durable profitability and it is at the centre of our investment analysis.

The aim is to have a balanced, diversified portfolio of sustainable growth companies with a low turnover approach and a focus on long-term active company ownership.

Where are you seeing opportunities?

Right now, in our view, the valuation and growth opportunities feel most apparent in the more domestically orientated FTSE 250 Index.

‘Higher for longer’ interest rates have meant companies in sectors such as Real Estate and Building Materials are trading at valuations not seen for many years.

We are terming this the ‘lost decade’ and it includes high quality companies solving environmental and societal issues where demand has been held back by short-term economic uncertainty.

The fund is exposed to Marshalls, Grainger and Genuit where we feel there is the potential for strong recovery.

If the Government can free up planning or if interest rates are able to be cut faster than the market currently expects, these companies could be in demand once again with investors.

What makes you decide to buy into a stock?

This comes down to following the process highlighted earlier. The science is identifying the right companies with growth opportunities and financial metrics such as strong balance sheets, high levels of recurring/repeating revenue and strong cash generation.

We also use our own proprietary methodology for screening companies with the appropriate carbon reduction policies and ESG practices that meet our sustainability objectives.

The art comes from our interactions with management and the valuation we are prepared to pay for the business. We will not invest until we have met the senior leaders of the business and get entirely confident that they can deliver on their growth plans.

We look for businesses with a culture that prioritises a ‘customer first’ mindset and, of course, innovation is crucial.

When all these factors combine with an exciting valuation, we will invest but until it does we are quite happy to remain patient watching from the sidelines.

Check out the Mouthy Money podcast

Tell us about recent changes to the portfolio?

Two companies that have met the criteria described above and have been added to the portfolio are Games Workshop and XPS Pensions.

Games Workshop (GAW) is an unusual company. It is run very much like a family business with a very long-term mindset. Shareholders are treated as less important than their hobbyists (customers), which of course they are!

The result is a business with wonderful financial metrics – growth, high margin, high return on capital employed (ROCE) all resulting in strong cash generation. I think most importantly however is the fact that it feels like Warhammer is on the cusp of becoming ‘mainstream IP’.

It takes a long time to scale a hobby properly. As the number of players grows so does the enjoyment of the game. This gives them pricing power and an ability to expand their monetisation opportunities. GAW has proven an ability to grow sustainably over the last 10 years and the next 10 could be even more fruitful for the business.

There is also lots to like about XPS Pensions which is a specialist pension consultancy offering advice and administration services to UK trustees and pension schemes. It has high levels of recurring income, an inflation-linked fee model, low client attrition, a well-diversified client base and regulatory change continues to be a strong driver of new business.

The market share opportunity within the pensions industry is significant and the adjacent insurance industry could offer another material growth runway in the fullness of time. The level of opportunity for this business could sustainably deliver double-digit revenue growth over the medium-term.

What is your highest conviction view right now?

In our view the market is very short-term focussed right now. Benefit of the doubt and consistent execution seem to count for nothing if a company can’t in the short term disprove a market fear.

This applies right now to Trainline which is the leading independent rail and coach platform selling tickets to millions of customers worldwide.

The recent Government announcement of a ‘Great British Railway’ ticketing website and app to rival Trainline’s offering has caused investors to panic. This is despite the last government developed App being the infamous ‘Track and Trace’ one developed during Covid.

In the fullness of time, it is likely that Trainline’s superior technology and customer focus will ultimately prevail but in the meantime, patience is required.

My fear is that the valuation disconnect with the fundamentals of this business may not go unnoticed and another Great British technology success story is lost before it reaches its full potential.

What do you think of efforts to boost the UK stock market?

I think some of the performance and valuation differential that the UK stock market has experienced relative to other international venues is related to capital flows.

There has been the much-publicised decline of UK pension allocations in favour of pursuing ‘US exceptionalism’.

I’m sure reversing this has been thought about in depth by the UK Government as a healthy stock market is essential to a prosperous domestic economy, which provides the necessary tax revenue to fund essential public services.

Whilst some of the solutions to resolve this might be complicated there are a number of things that can be done in the meantime.

If the Government does nothing else but provide economic stability and remove barriers to invest, such as regulation and ponderous planning decisions, then this will provide a more desirable background to attract capital flows back into the UK market.

What do investors get wrong about your asset class?

The perception of the UK is that it is an old economy, defensive market. There are however lots of high growth, high quality companies with digital first business models.

We also lead the world in corporate governance practices which provides plenty of opportunities for a UK-based sustainable fund.

What is the best advice you could give to an investor in your fund?

Patience is the key attribute that an investor in the stock market must have. Markets tend to underestimate the power of long-term compounding because of a structural focus on short-term earnings.

The best returns come from compounding but compounding by its very nature takes a while, so it’s easy to ignore. Our approach remains centred on owning good quality businesses that can reinvest and compound their returns over time.

I remember when I first invested in RELX, I wanted something that could consistently grow despite the economic conditions. At the time, it was considered by the market as being slightly dull. History has shown that was wrong!

We as an industry are guilty of trying to find the best performer in any given year. However, the best companies to own in my experience are those that deliver solid (not best) returns year in, year out.

FUND SNAPSHOT: AXA UK Sustainable Equity Z Acc

• Fund size: £66.09M
• Ongoing charges: 0.84%
• 5-year cumulative performance: 27.55%
• Since launch: 98.82%

TOP 5 HOLDINGS

1. AstraZeneca 5.55%
2. London Stock Exchange Group 4.28%
3. RELX 3.87%
4. Compass Group 3.33%
5. HSBC Holdings 3.29%

TOP 5 SECTORS

1. Financials 22.37%
2. Industrials 18.31%
3. Health Care 14.19%
4. Consumer Discretionary 13.99%
5. Technology 9.61%

Figures correct as of 28/02/25.

Source: https://funds.axa-im.co.uk/en/individual/fund/axa-uk-sustainable-equity-fund-z-accumulation-gbp/#performanceRisk

Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results.

Companies shown are for illustrative purposes only and may no longer be in the portfolio later. It does not constitute investment research or financial analysis relating to transactions in financial instruments, nor does it constitute an offer to buy or sell any investments, products or services, and should not be considered as solicitation or investment, legal or tax advice, a recommendation for an investment strategy or a personalised recommendation to buy or sell securities.

*Please visit AXA’s Fund Centre where further information is included in the Consumer Facing Disclosure (CFD) Document which outlines the Fund’s sustainability approach – https://funds.axa-im.co.uk/en/adviser/fund/axa-uk-sustainable-equity-fund-d-accumulation-gbp/#documents

Photo by P. L. on Unsplash

The post Investing Ideas: AXA UK Sustainable Equity fund manager on Games Workshop, reducing carbon emissions and FTSE 250 opportunities appeared first on Mouthy Money.