Tips to sort your finances and what's going on with pubs?

In this episode, Georgie Frost, Simon Lambert, and Lee Boyce discuss key financial steps to take in the new year, emphasizing the importance of budgeting, managing debt, and preparing for unexpected expenses. Simon outlines seven essential steps including establishing a household budget, checking bills for savings opportunities, addressing debts, and the importance of having a will and lasting power of attorney.

The conversation shifts to the pub industry, addressing concerns over rising business rates and the adverse effects of recent government policy changes. Pub owners are worried about steep increases in costs, which could lead to more closures, especially as other financial pressures (like increased energy and labor costs) continue to mount. The hosts ponder the fairness of a pub-specific support package, questioning whether it overlooks similar challenges faced by small businesses across other sectors.

On the banking front, Lloyd's banking shares have reached highs not seen since the financial crisis, and there are significant switching bonuses available for consumers looking to move their banking to Lloyd's and HSBC. The conversation underlines the profits banks are generating thanks to higher interest rates while urging listeners to shop around for better deals. The episode wraps up with a discussion on zero bill homes, explaining the costs and potential savings associated with solar panels and heat pumps in energy-efficient homes, while highlighting that it often takes many years to recoup the initial investment.