Articles - Uncertainty over timing of an interest rate increase

 Head of savings and investments at Fair Investment Company Oliver Roylance-Smith looks at some of the short term options for savers.

 "With growing uncertainty over when the Bank of England will raise interest rates from their historic low of 0.50 per cent, savers may be looking for temporary homes for their cash savings.

 "The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is waiting to see how economic growth and the risks of inflation develop before moving to raise rates - uncertainty around both has led to a lively debate on when interest rates will rise.

 "For savers who may be reluctant to opt for a long-term fixed rate account and would rather wait and see what path the MPC takes there are some short-term homes for savings.

 "Although the rates are not as competitive as longer term accounts, instant access accounts are one option, such as the ING Direct Savings Account offers 3.00 per cent AER guaranteed for 12 months, while the one year fixed rate bonds can offer up to 3.50 per cent."