ING Direct has increased its instant access savings rate to 3.1% AER, providing serious competition at the top of the instant access savings market.
With a good number of consumers still apathetic about savings rates on short-term bonds or instant access accounts, ING now offers a strong alternative to the Nationwide, whose MySave Online Plus requires a £1,000 minimum opening investment.
The ING Direct rate is a 12 month introductory offer, which falls to the variable rate of 0.5% after one year. Unlike the Nationwide, however, there are no penalties or restrictions for moving or withdrawing funds. The Nationwide’s MySave Online Plus only guarantees the high return of 3.12% if one withdrawal per year is made. This, many would argue, defeats both the point and the principles of instant access savings.
Savers are protected for their savings, but under Dutch rather than UK jurisdiction. While UK savers are protected for up to £85,000 each per bank by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, ING Direct savers are covered for up to €100,000 through Dutch authorities, which would be converted into pounds upon claiming.
For more information, check out Which4U's popular savings account listings. Why not consider taking up this great offer while it lasts?
Mark Hornby