At first glance, things like coffee and chocolate might not seem to have much to do with mortgages. But as you might have noticed, both have become noticeably more expensive in recent months. Don’t worry, this isn’t another lecture about skipping your morning latte or Starbucks trip to save for your house deposit. Instead it’s a call to look behind those higher prices where you’ll find a bigger story about inflation, which has a direct impact on the mortgage deals available to you. From everyday treats to global markets Coffee beans and cocoa are traded on international markets, and their prices are influenced by factors like climate change, crop yields, transport costs and global demand. When supplies are disrupted, as has happened recently with poor harvests in key producing countries, prices rise sharply. For consumers, that means higher costs at the supermarket or coffee shop. The link to inflation When everyday goods like food, energy and raw materials go up in price, it feeds into inflation – the measure of how fast the cost of living is increasing. Food prices, in particular, remain one of the biggest contributors to overall inflation. Higher inflation puts pressure on the Bank of England to act, since one of its main roles is to keep inflation close to its 2% target.   Why this matters for mortgages When inflation is high or expected to rise, the financial markets anticipate that the Bank of England will hold interest rates higher for longer. This expectation pushes up “swap rates” - the rates at which banks lend to each other. Swap rates play a big part in determining the cost of fixed-rate mortgages, so if they climb, so does the cost for lenders to borrow money. This means they are less able to offer cheaper deals. In other words, the higher cost of your flat-white or favourite chocolate bar can ripple through the economy and ultimately influence the rate you are offered on your next mortgage. What you can do The good news is that while global markets are outside our control, you can prepare for what’s happening closer to home. If your fixed rate is coming to an end, speaking to an adviser early can help you secure a new deal in advance and avoid being moved onto a higher Standard Variable Rate (SVR). An adviser can also guide you through all your options, whether you’re set to remortgage or looking to buy. One of the key benefits of using an adviser for this process is that they have a much wider choice of mortgage options available to them – compared to your bank or even your own online search. This means you can be reassured that you’re accessing competitive options that are best suited your needs and circumstances. Coffee and chocolate may be everyday luxuries, but their rising costs are a reminder of how interconnected our finances really are. Understanding those links, and planning ahead, is the best way to stay one step ahead of changes in the mortgage market. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to overlook the importance of protecting our financial security both for now and in the future. We work hard to build a comfortable life for ourselves and our loved ones, but what happens if the unexpected happens and we become too ill to work. How can we ensure that our security today and our financial legacy remains intact for the next generation? One of the most effective ways to protect our wealth is by incorporating income protection and critical illness cover into our financial planning. These two insurance options provide a safety net during challenging times, offering financial support when we need it most. Together, these two types of insurance complement each other to offer comprehensive financial protection: · Income protection provides ongoing financial support during periods of incapacity, ensuring you have a reliable source of income to sustain your lifestyle and your financial plans · Critical illness cover offers a lump sum payment upon diagnosis of a specified serious illness, providing a financial cushion to take a huge weight off your mind at a difficult time. By combining income protection and critical illness cover, you can protect your wealth, protect your lifestyle and protect your financial legacy in the face of unexpected health challenges. · Maintaining your lifestyle Both income protection and critical illness cover can help you continue your lifestyle by providing financial support. Whether it's paying the mortgage, paying bills, continuing your pension and investment contributions, these insurance options offer flexibility, security and peace of mind. · Preserving your savings and investments You won't need to dip into your savings, sell investments or reduce your pension contributions to maintain the lifestyle you're accustomed to and are planning for. With income protection in place, you'll have a reliable source of income to cover your expenses during times of illness or injury. This means you can preserve your savings for future goals and emergencies, without the worry of depleting them. · Protecting your legacy By safeguarding your financial stability, income protection and critical illness cover can ensure that your wealth remains intact for future generations. You can pass on your assets and provide for your loved ones without worrying about unforeseen financial setbacks. Incorporating income protection and critical illness cover into your financial planning strategy is a proactive step towards protecting your financial legacy for the future. Speak to us to secure your financial well-being for now and for generations to come. Call Planguard Finance on 01455 817477 or drop them an email on clientservices@planguardfinance.co.uk

Do you have a family who rely on your income? Get covered for sickness, injuries, life cover & more. DM me for advice. 01455 817477 clientservices@planguardfinance.co.uk Planguard Finance is an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Self-employed? Taking time off work if you’re sick can be worry. DM me for advice on income protection and other options. Planguard Finance is an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, a trading style of Openwork Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

A strong week for global equities, as favourable economic data supported risk-on sentiment. Japanese equities led the way, rallying strongly following the announcement of Sanae Takaichi as new Prime Minister.

The mortgage market is shifting. Following several cuts to the Bank of England base rate - including a 0.25% cut to 4% in August - tracker mortgages are once again on the radar for borrowers remortgaging in 2025. These rate moves make trackers more appealing, but how do they stack up against other options? Why tracker mortgages matter now - A tracker mortgage mirrors the Bank of England’s base rate plus a fixed margin. This means your monthly payments go down if rates fall and rise if rates go up. - This is different to a fixed rate mortgage where you will pay the same amount each month for a set period - typically two or five years, but with longer fixes also available. - If interest rates change so does the rate on your tracker mortgage, expectations are that interest rates will continue to decrease, which could make a tracker mortgage an attractive option for some borrowers. In fact, Andrew Bailey, the Governor of the Bank of England, recently told the House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee that “the path of [interest] rates is still downwards”. - Following the recent base rate cut in August, some experts are predicting further cuts later in the year and perhaps further movement into 2026. - However, the Governor has long stated that any future movement will need to be made gradually and carefully and is heavily reliant on a number of key factors such as inflation, the UK economy and any external geopolitical shocks. - While these factors remain very hard to predict, those who have the means and confidence to ride the wave of future interest rates are exploring tracker rate mortgages. But fixes remain strong too - That said, fixed-rate mortgages do remain very competitive and in some cases are more affordable than trackers – at least in the short term. According to Moneyfacts, average mortgage rates on both two-year and five-year fixed rate products sit at around 5%, with sub-4% rates available on some mortgages for qualifying borrowers. - Fixed rates offer predictable payments and peace of mind, which is especially helpful when budgeting in uncertain times. While you may not reap the benefits of a drop in interest rates, you will always know how much you’re paying and to many borrowers, that is more powerful than any potential saving.  Which might suit you best? - Choose a tracker mortgage if you’re comfortable with potential fluctuations and want to benefit immediately from any further base rate cuts. - Opt for a fixed-rate mortgage if your focus is on stability and knowing exactly what your mortgage will cost, regardless of rate movements. - Discuss whether discount variable options might suit your situation, especially if you’re unsure how long you’ll stay in your home. Get advice before you decide - The right choice depends on your personal situation, risk appetite, and future plans. A mortgage adviser can explain the differences clearly, help you weigh tracker benefits against fixed-rate certainty, and guide you toward a solution that best fits your needs. - Is your fixed term ending soon? We can help you compare your options and choose with confidence. To book your appointment with a mortgage adviser, please get in touch here (email address and phone number). YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Major global stock indices rose modestly for the week, despite US equities lagging on hawkish commentary from the US Federal Reserve. Chinese equities performed best, as domestic investment continued to propel share prices higher.

When your mortgage deal comes to an end, it’s natural to wonder what’s next. Should you stick with your current lender and switch to a new deal—or explore what other providers have to offer? Understanding the difference between a product transfer and a remortgage is the first step. And with expert advice, you can turn uncertainty into confidence. What is a remortgage? A remortgage is when you move your mortgage to a new lender. It’s often done when your current deal ends and you want to avoid being moved onto your lender’s Standard Variable Rate (SVR)—which is usually much higher. Remortgaging can help you: • Access better interest rates • Adjust your loan amount or term • Release equity for home improvements or other needs What is a product transfer? A product transfer is when you switch to a new mortgage deal with your existing lender. You’re not changing providers—just choosing a different product. This option can be quicker and simpler, often with: • No legal work • Fewer checks • Faster turnaround Which option is right for you? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right choice depends on your goals, financial situation, and the deals available. • Product transfers can offer convenience and stability—especially if you’re happy with your lender and want to avoid extra paperwork. • Remortgaging might unlock better rates, more flexibility, or the chance to borrow more. Even if staying put feels like the safest option, it doesn’t always mean you’re getting the right deal for you. That’s why it’s worth comparing both routes. Take the weight off your shoulders with specialist help This is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make—and it pays to get it right. As mortgage advisers, we will: • Review deals from your current lender and across the wider market • Help you avoid slipping onto a costly SVR • Talk you through the pros and cons of each option • Tailor our advice to your unique circumstances Whether you’re looking for certainty, flexibility, or a new rate, we’ll help you make a confident, informed choice. Ready to explore your options? Don’t leave it until the last minute. Speak to an adviser around six months before your deal ends to give yourself time to plan and secure the right rate. But don’t worry if you’ve left it a little late—there are still options available. We can act quickly to help you avoid slipping onto your lender’s SVR and find a deal that works for you. Call the office on 01455 817477 or email clientservices@planguardfinance.co.uk to book your appointment.