oleh admin | Apr 2, 2025 | money, personal finance, saving money, Travel, travel planning and tips
Several significant money-saving benefits for travelers are being offered by banks, but you might be overlooking these while spending freely!
Various financial institutions nationwide now provide benefits such as discounted travel insurance bundled within package deals along with hotel cash-back offers just for choosing their banking services.
Here are the British bank accounts providing the top travel perks available today…
CASHBACK ACCOUNTS
NATWEST
Using the NatWest Travel Rewards credit card, account holders have the opportunity to earn one percent cashback on all expenditures including flights, train trips, car rentals, ferry rides, bus fares, hotel stays, bookings through travel agencies, cruise vacations, and campsite accommodations.
Customers have the opportunity to earn rewards of up to 15 percent, which can subsequently be converted into cash or electronic codes redeemable at chosen retailers such as Booking.com, National Express, and Enterprise.
With this rewards card, there isn’t a cap on the amount of cash back you can accumulate.
Without any yearly charge and no fees for transactions made overseas, this card might offer a simple method to earn benefits on your everyday purchases.



AMERICAN EXPRESS
American Express offers a variety of banking options for customers looking to accumulate miles and rewards as they make purchases.
The Preferred Rewards Gold is an ideal choice for beginners with Amex since it waives the annual fee during the first year. For each pound you spend, you earn one reward point, plus you can receive up to 12,500 bonus points annually depending on how much you spend.
Upon joining, you’ll receive a welcome bonus that has been boosted from 20,000 Membership Reward points to 30,000 points once you’ve spent £3,000 within three months. Don’t miss out—act quickly to grab these additional points!
Additional benefits consist of four complimentary airport lounge passes along with £120 worth of Deliveroo credit.
Nevertheless, the price for this account increases to £195 starting from the second year.
In the meantime, the American Express Platinum Card has an imposing yearly charge of £650; however, this cost might be justified due to the extensive array of benefits and rewards it provides.
With this account, you’ll receive 80,000 Membership Reward points once you’ve spent £10,000 within six months. This promotion is valid until May 27, 2025.



Using this account, you will receive two Priority Pass cards, granting entry into over 1,400 airport lounges, along with top-tier status across four prominent hotel reward programs.
All-inclusive comprehensive travel insurance is provided as well, along with an annual restaurant credit of £400 and a biannual Harvey Nichols credit of £50.
The most widely used Amex card is the British Airways American Express card because it has no annual fee, and you earn one Avios for each £1 spent – along with additional benefits.
companion voucher, allowing you to reserve two seats with British Airways, Iberia, or Aer Lingus for the cost of one, upon spending £15,000 within a calendar year on your card.
A lone traveler can get a 50 percent discount on their ticket as well.
British Airways
It also provides an American Express Premium Plus card through which you can receive 30,000 Avios aviation points once you have spent £6,000 within 90 days.
For each pound spent with British Airways and BA Holidays, you have the opportunity to accumulate three Avios points.
With an annual charge of £300, the British Airways American Express Premium Plus card provides 30,000 Avios points once you accumulate £6,000 in spending over 90 days, along with earning 1.5 Avios points for each £1 spent generally, and triple Avios points for every £1 spent specifically with BA.
In the meantime, devoted patrons of Marriott Hotels might want to consider getting a Marriott Bonvoy American Express card.

By paying an annual fee of £95, you will have the opportunity to receive two Marriott Bonvoy points for each pound spent or accumulate up to six points per pound when staying at any Marriott properties.
Upon signing up, you will receive 20,000 hotel points after spending £3,000 within the first 90 days.
BARCLAYS
The Barclaycard Avios Mastercard offers an excellent method for accumulating Avios as you make purchases – plus, it’s free to use.
Sticking £1,000 into your account within the initial 90 days earns you 5,000 Avios, and thereafter you’ll receive one Avio point for each pound spent.
If you charge £20,000 on your card within a year, you will receive an Avios upgrade voucher that lets you enhance two British Airways flights.
In contrast, for an yearly charge of £240, you can obtain the Barclaycard Avios Mastercard Plus. This card provides 25,000 Avios points once you’ve made purchases totaling £3,000 within 90 days, followed by earning 1.5 points for every £1 spent afterwards.
You just need to spend £10,000 on your credit card within a year to receive the Avios upgrade voucher.

VIRGIN
For travelers choosing Virgin Atlantic over British Airways, the
Virgin Atlantic
The Reward Mastercard is an excellent choice since it comes with no annual fee and provides 3,000 Virgin Points following your initial purchase.
Starting from now, for every pound spent, customers will receive 0.75 Virgin Points or 1.5 points per pound when shopping with Virgin.
If you accumulate £20,000 within a year, you will receive a bonus voucher equivalent to up to 150,000 Virgin Points. These points can then be applied toward purchasing a companion ticket for either a paid or rewards-based flight.
Individuals who agree to pay an annual fee of £160 for the Virgin Atlantic Reward+ Mastercard will receive 18,000 points following their initial purchase.
Following that, they will receive three points for every £1 spent with Virgin Atlantic and must only accumulate £10,000 in spending within a year to qualify for the aforementioned rewards voucher.
PACKAGED ACCOUNTS
VIRGIN MONEY CLUB M


Bundled packages provide clients with both a banking account and insurance coverage, such as travel insurance, for an additional cost.
The Virgin Money Club M boasts one of the most affordable rates at only £150 annually, providing coverage for the entire family.
At this price point, it provides global family travel insurance for customers up to 74 years old, covering couples along with their four children aged 18 or younger, plus UK and European breakdown assistance exclusively for the account holder.
This option enables numerous global journeys and comes with coverage for winter activities, weddings, and golf.
The household will be protected with coverage of up to £2,000 per individual for their electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops against various mishaps including theft overseas or potential water damage during a seaside vacation.
The benefits are approximately valued at £500 when purchased individually, and there’s no required initial investment. Thus, Virgin Money Club M offers substantial savings.
CO-OP BANK EVERYDAY EXTRA
The Co-Op Bank Everyday Extra is an excellent choice for senior couples since it offers travel insurance valid up to the age of 79 at a yearly cost of £180.


This option enables numerous global travels for up to 45 days each trip and comes with coverage for winter activities totaling 21 days annually along with golfing protection.
The service provides mobile phone covers exclusively for account holders, yet it does include worldwide travel insurance for individuals up to age 22, provided they share the same residence as the account holder or are enrolled in full-time education and remain unmarried.
The insurance coverage can be up to £400 annually with no required minimum payment.
NATIONWIDE FLEXPLUS
Families might be attracted to the Nationwide Flexplus because it provides global travel insurance coverage not only for the account holder and their spouse but also for dependents up to age 23. Additionally, it includes phone insurance for both the spouse and children at an annual cost of £216.
The insured phones’ beneficiaries must be under 19 years old; however, those up to 22 can qualify if they are enrolled full-time in an educational institution and remain unmarried.
The limit for claims per year is four, and typical mobile phone insurance costs around £80 annually. Making full use of this offer could provide excellent value.
The UK and European breakdown coverage is provided free of charge for the account holder(s) who can use this service when traveling in any vehicle along with up to seven additional individuals.

The agreement is worth around £500, which means you’ll be making significant savings.
HALIFAX ULTIMATE REWARD
The Halifax UltimateReward account charges £228 annually, but it offers more benefits.
global travel coverage for trips up to 31 days long, with options for winter sports and golf included for both you and your spouse aged up to 71, as well as kids under 19.
The bank account additionally includes car insurance and U للغاصند
صند
K breakdown cover.
LLOYDS
The Club Lloyds Silver account stands out as the most affordable choice among packaged bank accounts, costing just £135 annually. It might be ideal for you if you’re comfortable with having fewer benefits included.
Additionally, there is a minimum monthly deposit requirement of £2,000; however, you will receive a complimentary £175 bonus when switching from another bank.
This is the sole bank on the list that provides both fee-free spending and ATM withdrawals overseas.


Travel insurance designed for families is valid for the UK and Europe until the age of 65, covering activities like skiing as well as events such as weddings and business trips. This policy includes coverage for you, your spouse, and offspring who are younger than 18 years old.
Although the breakdown coverage primarily includes roadside assistance within the UK, the account holder also receives mobile coverage.
HSBC PREMIER
If you fall into the category of high earners, you may want to look at HSBC Premier.
There’s no monthly charge; instead, having a £100,000 deposit credited to your account each month provides unlimited global family travel insurance at no extra cost.
This policy will cover both you and your partner until the age of 70, with options for winter sports and business coverage included, valid for trips up to a maximum of 31 days each.
Children aged 18 or up to 23 if they are still in full-time education are included when traveling with the account holder or residing with relatives.
Read more
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | banking, business, controversies, economics, money
Well-known Nigerian entertainer and movie producer Ayo Makun, widely recognized as AY, has voiced his worries about the high service fees charged by commercial banks in Nigeria.
On his X account (previously known as Twitter), AY raised doubts about how banks can consistently report trillions of Naira in quarterly profits amidst Nigeria’s faltering economy.
He contended that certain fees levied on customers are specific to Nigeria and ought to be contested.
He questioned, “How do banks manage to report trillions in profits each quarter despite a struggling economy? We should challenge the minor charges and deductions from our accounts. These fees often have a specific presence in Nigeria. What explains this?”
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | business, financial markets, financial services, investing company news, money
HFM has established a robust presence in Nigeria’s online trading sector. Could you discuss how trust and security have influenced your progress up until now?
Certainly. In Nigeria, trust and security have always formed the backbone of our expansion. Right from the start, we recognized that online trading, particularly with contracts for difference (CFDs), could be intricate and daunting for numerous individual investors. Therefore, we prioritized openness, adherence to regulations, and offering a safe environment. This approach helped establish our reliability. Additionally, we’ve made significant investments in customer education and tailored assistance, fostering confidence among many Nigerian traders who now rely on us.
As worries over fraud and financial scams in online trading continue to rise, what actions is HFM implementing to boost confidence and security, especially within CFD trading? Which particular safeguards have been put into effect to shield individual investors from dangers such as improper use of leverage, fraudulent activities, or weaknesses in the trading platforms?
At
HFM
At the heart of our operations lies client protection. We prioritize fraud prevention, ensure responsible leveraging, and safeguard funds with great seriousness. To achieve this, we’ve established several tiers of protective measures to foster a safe and open trading atmosphere.
From the outset of client engagement, we implement rigorous Know Your Customer/Anti-Money Laundering protocols to confirm identities and thwart illicit activities. Our platform features instantaneous trade surveillance mechanisms aimed at identifying and resolving dubious actions. Regarding leverage, clients have complete autonomy to modify it according to their personal risk appetite and trading approaches; additionally, we offer detailed risk data prior to initiating any trades.
To safeguard your funds, we keep all client deposits in isolated accounts at premier banks, distinct from our own operating capital. Consequently, regardless of market fluctuations, your money stays secure. Additionally, we collaborate with prominent liquidity suppliers to sustain a robust financial standing, which facilitates seamless and dependable trading experiences.
In terms of technological capabilities, we routinely evaluate our infrastructure through audits and stress tests, ensuring it remains secure with top-tier encryption methods. To further fortify user accounts, we provide two-factor authentication. Our leading-edge insurance scheme covers various threats such as fraud, human mistakes, and unexpected issues. Moreover, a specialized system continuously monitors potential risks round-the-clock to protect clients’ best interests.
Our aim is to create a secure and open setting where traders can concentrate on their tactics with complete assurance.
Protecting investors is essential, yet promoting innovation also holds significant value. Can you explain how HFM manages to uphold regulatory requirements while still encouraging development in CFD trading?
Achieving this delicate equilibrium has been successful for us. Instead of seeing compliance as an obligation, we regard it as the foundation that instills trust in our clientele when they engage in transactions. Concurrently, we persistently explore novel avenues such as advanced trading instruments, user-friendly designs, and accessible mobile platforms which make trading more inclusive. Both our product developers and compliance officers collaborate closely to guarantee each advancement adheres strictly to stringent regulatory guidelines while still providing customers with a smooth interaction.
In what ways is HFM working alongside regulatory bodies such as the SEC to guarantee adherence to regulations without compromising its competitive edge?
We take a highly proactive approach in this area and have maintained continuous discussions with the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding the critical necessity of regulating CFD trading in Nigeria.
HFM
, we see regulation not as a hurdle but as a competitive advantage, it filters out bad actors, raises industry standards, and builds long-term trust. As a global brand regulated in multiple jurisdictions, including South Africa, Kenya, Mauritius, Seychelles, Dubai, the United Kingdom, and Cyprus, we bring deep regulatory experience to the table.
Our interaction with the SEC aims at facilitating the creation of straightforward, actionable regulations for CFD trading. These rules should safeguard investors’ interests while also fostering innovation. We strive to maintain an environment where trades occur under a clear, organized structure ensuring secure assets, stringent performance criteria, and adherence to international best practices. An effectively regulated marketplace encourages greater involvement from various players, enhances reliability, and promotes steady expansion throughout the financial sector.
Given our substantial and expanding clientele in Nigeria, we understand the duty we bear. Therefore, instead of merely backing regulations, we are proactively collaborating with the SEC to develop equitable and robust rules that promote honesty, safeguard investors, and raise the bar for the CFD trading sector in Nigeria. We aspire ultimately to become the foremost transparent and reliable CFD brokerage within the nation.
What internal measures does HFM employ to identify and stop misconduct involving traders, third-party brokers, or malicious entities on the platform? In what ways do HFM’s security protocols concerning CFDs contribute to enhancing Nigeria’s standing as a secure and appealing market for international investors?
Internally, we maintain a specialized compliance and risk management team that keeps watch over activities round the clock. Additionally, we employ sophisticated algorithms designed to identify unusual trading behaviors or patterns, which could include instances of insider misuse or actions taken without authorization by external parties. Any detected problems are promptly elevated for comprehensive investigation. Such preventive measures ensure the security of our clients’ interests.
Given the tighter restrictions on CFDs, could this lead to traders moving to non-regulated venues instead? What strategies will HFM employ to keep their user base while maintaining regulatory adherence and safety?
This is indeed a legitimate worry. Certain traders might be drawn to non-regulated platforms that provide substantial rewards with minimal transparency. However, we think that many customers, particularly under current conditions, prioritize security and reliability more than quick profits. We aim to inform users regarding the hazards associated with unlicensed brokerages and keep delivering top-notch assistance, clear cost structures, and specialized regional knowledge. Ensuring adherence to regulations alongside maintaining customer loyalty becomes seamless when individuals recognize that their enduring prosperity is what matters most to us.
Does HFM require explicit risk warnings, leverage restrictions, or increased transparency measures for CFD traders? Are there intentions to reinforce these protective guidelines?
Certainly. All our CFD products require mandatory risk warnings, which we present in straightforward, jargon-free terms specifically designed for Nigerian users. Additionally, we have introduced adjustable leverage limits that consider both the user’s level of expertise and their account type. Our policies undergo regular reviews, particularly with changes in regulations. Furthermore, we plan to incorporate advanced AI-powered risk assessment tools to personalize trading restrictions and alert systems according to individual clients’ behaviors and risks they undertake.
Apart from CFDs, are there other high-risk financial products like cryptocurrency derivatives that HFM plans to subject to stricter regulation for better investor protection?
Yes, CFD regulation should cover all CFD products, including crypto CFDs. While they offer opportunities, they also carry significant risks, especially for retail investors who may not fully understand the volatility involved. We want to continue to make these products accessible, but only within a framework that puts investor protection first.
In what ways does HFM’s strategy for regulating Contract for Difference (CFD) align with Nigeria’s overarching objective of expanding capital markets and at the same time safeguarding financial stability?
We see ourselves as a bridge between retail traders and the broader capital market ecosystem. By championing safe, regulated CFD trading, we’re helping introduce new participants to financial markets, many of whom may eventually graduate to equities, ETFs, or even direct capital market investments. Our compliance-driven model aligns with Nigeria’s financial stability goals while expanding access to wealth-building tools. It’s about growing the market responsibly.
In the future, we plan to offer Contracts for Difference (CFDs) on selected Nigerian-listed company stocks. This move aims to provide local investors with an option to protect their conventional equity holdings through stock CFDs, which aren’t presently available locally. Introducing these instruments not only enhances the functionality of CFDs for Nigerian traders but also bolsters the broader financial ecosystem by providing advanced risk management options. We believe this aligns well with Nigeria’s goals of expanding capital markets and drawing in greater numbers of individual investors.
Thank you for dedicating your time. It’s evident why
HFM
leads in the field of financial trading.
I appreciate your time. It was nice talking with you.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | business, finance news, financial markets, investing, money
Following its robust financial performance in 2024, the bank has suggested a dividend of N1.00 per share.
Wema Bank has reported a profit before tax of N102.51 billion, indicating a rise of 135 percent from the N43.59 billion noted in the previous year.
The bank
has suggested a dividend of N1.00 per share following its robust financial performance in 2024.
As stated by the bank on Sunday, its balance sheet continues to be well-structured, varied, and robust, with total assets increasing by 60 percent to reach N3.585 billion in 2024.
The total assets were at N2.240 billion in 2023. Additionally, the bank increased its deposit base year-over-year by 36 percent to reach N2.523 billion from N1.860 billion.
Loans and advances rose by 50 percent, totaling N1.201 billion in 2024 from N801.10 billion in 2023. The non-performing loans ratio was at 3.86 percent by the end of the year.
The bank reported enhanced yearly performance, showing a 92 percent increase in gross earnings to N432.34 billion from N225.75 billion in the previous year.
The interest income surged by 92 percent year-over-year to N353.54 billion from N184.48 billion, whereas the non-interest income saw an increase of 91 percent to reach N78.80 billion.
The bank announced a Return on Equity of 43.60 percent, a Return onAssets of 2.96 percent, and maintained a Capital Adequacy Ratio of 19.67percent.
The cost-to-income ratio was at 56.23 percent, underscoring the commercial bank’s robustness and fiscal stability.
The robust performance in 2024 was credited to effective strategy implementation in areas such as risk control, client engagement, and online banking services by Managing Director Moruf Oseni.
“We continue to be dedicated to assisting Nigerian businesses and individuals through our cutting-edge banking products and services,” he stated.
He pointed out ALAT, the leading digital platform of the bank, as being at the forefront of digital banking usage amongst Nigeria’s youth demographic.
Mr. Oseni mentioned one instance as ALAT XPlore, which is Nigeria’s premier authorized banking application tailored for teens between the ages of 13 and 17, aimed at fostering financial acumen and accountability.
Despite facing a difficult operational landscape, the bank keeps expanding across all financial metrics, highlighting the team’s strength and proficiency.
“The most impressive result is from Profit Before Tax, which jumped by 135 percent,” he noted.
Mr. Oseni pointed out that the 92 percent increase in gross revenue, along with a 60 percent expansion in total assets and an earning of 483.20 kobo per share, significantly bolstered the balance sheet strength.
“The cost-to-income ratio of 56.23 percent has notably enhanced compared to the prior period,” he mentioned.
He further declared that the financial institution’s Capital Raise Initiative was scheduled to commence in April 2025 through a N150 billion rights offering.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | football clubs, money, soccer, sports
African Stars have pocketed N$1.5 million after clinching victory in the first-ever MTC Maris Cup on Saturday.
A crowd of several thousand spectators gathered at the Hage Geingob Stadium for the game, and Stars did not let down their supporters. A first-half goal by star player Willy Stephanus ensured their win.
The stars emerged aggressively, generating several opportunities early on, yet striker Youssouf Ibrahim was unable to capitalize on them.
The Stars took the initiative at the 14-minute mark when they won a corner. The ball was played out to Stephanus, who struck an impressive shot from just outside the penalty area. His powerful effort flew into the left-hand side of the net.
The stars kept launching assaults and had multiple chances during the opening period, yet neither Stephanus nor Abram Tjahikika could find the back of the net.
A young African returned even more resolute following his time off, with Nkwuda Obinna delivering solid crosses from the left flank. Meanwhile, Denzil Narib saw one of his headers brilliantly blocked by Stars’ goalkeeper Mervin Kasetura, and Deacon Kakuenje missed an opportunity when he sent another header over the crossbar from just a short distance away.
As the match entered its concluding moments, intense aerial challenges emerged, and with tempers flaring out of control, referee Vistoria Shangula struggled immensely to maintain order.
A young African player was unable to secure an equalizer, and as a result, the Stars managed to claim the trophy along with the winner-takes-all prize of N$1.5 million.
Following the game, Stephanus mentioned that their past experiences were crucial in the finale.
“The sense of accomplishment from clinching the inaugural Maris Cup is incredible, and I’m hopeful this will become an annual prize. We recognize that Young African is a strong opponent; their players are ambitious and always eager to compete against us due to our longstanding rivalry over the last couple of years, which ultimately came down to our experience today,” he stated.
“The players hold this trophy in high regard, and it will significantly enhance our momentum as we continue with our league efforts moving ahead. Since we’re currently leading the league, we aim to maintain this position and strive for our third championship title,” he concluded.
Stephanus likewise expressed gratitude to the fans of Stars for their backing.
The Starlite supporters consistently show up in large numbers, particularly here in Windhoek, so we must express our gratitude as players. We demonstrate this appreciation through our performance on the field.
The young African defender Dylan Horongo mentioned that Stars capitalized on opportunities and committed fewer errors.
“He mentioned that we understood the team taking risks would be the one to emerge as victors. The squad minimizing errors would ultimately claim victory, hence Stars seized their opportunities at the beginning of the match and subsequently controlled the game flow,” he stated.
“Since the cup is now complete, we’ll return to the planning stage to address our errors. We will face them again on Tuesday, but that’s alright; they can keep the cup, yet the league belongs to us,” he said additionally.
The Stars midfielder, Abram Tjahikika, took home the Player of the Tournament award, while their goalie, Kasetura, received the Goalkeeper of the Tournament accolade. Each was awarded N$20,000 for their exceptional performances.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Mar 31, 2025 | business, commerce, loans, money, news
An increase in bad debts has led Mwananchi Credit, an immediate lender, to revise its operations by discontinuing Checkoff loan distributions.
According to a memo obtained by The Star, the decision was made following several discussions, starting with a meeting on February 25th.
Nevertheless, the firm has swiftly refuted allegations that it has dismissed employees from its check-off loan division, maintaining that it is merely optimizing processes to enhance customer service.
The human resources manager at Mwananchi Credit, Collins Okello, stated that everyone who was employed in the department has been requested to resubmit their applications for their positions. Job interviews are scheduled to begin on Tuesday.
“Even with extensive efforts to improve the portfolio and tighten financial responsibility, the product has kept falling short. Multiple team leaders have failed to reach their set goals, leading to considerable monetary losses,” stated Okello.
The restructuring comes after a series of high-level discussions, during which key concerns about loan collections, non-performing loans, and commission structures were raised.
Even with attempts to boost financial responsibility and increase revenue collection, the checkoff loan item kept performing poorly, leading to significant monetary losses for the business.
The firm has recognized the efforts of staff members from the checkoff loan division and has guaranteed their continued support throughout this transitional phase.
This choice underscores an increasing issue across the finance industry, with non-performing loans and ineffective collection methods compelling firms to reassess their lending policies.
This action might indicate a larger trend within the sector, where additional companies could follow to reduce financial hazards and boost earnings.
As part of ongoing restructuring initiatives, Mwananchi must now focus on relocating impacted staff members while also guaranteeing adherence to fiscal responsibility standards.
This choice will probably influence the firm’s upcoming fiscal approach as it aims to reinforce its corporate structure.
The company is most recognized for its logbook loans, enabling vehicle owners to utilize their logbooks as security in order to obtain rapid funding.
Mwananchi has been providing the finest loan options to customers across the nation.
It includes salary deduction loans, which are commonly utilized by public sector workers like educators, law enforcement personnel, and various civil service members.
Provided by Syndigate Media Inc. (
Syndigate.info
).
Halaman 3 dari 9«12345...»Akhir »