ISA Rates, ISA Interest Rates

By: EconomyWatch   Date: 21 September 2009

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ISA rates or ISA interest rates vary significantly between providers. Hence, you should do a thorough research and comparison before deciding on a particular ISA. It is better to opt for a fixed rate ISA when the interest rate is low and expected to decline. Variable rate individual accounts can be considered when the market is healthy and the rates are reasonable.

Fixed Rate ISA in a Low Rate Market

When there are very low ISA rates in the market, a fixed rate ISA can protect you from a decline in interest rates. Normally, interest rates for fixed-rate ISAs are at the top end of the individual savings account market. In case you feel the interest rate is low and would fall further, it is better to lock in the current rate. However, a major issue with the fixed rate deal is that once you invest the money into your ISA account, you have to keep it for one to three years. If there is any rise in the interest rates in the meantime, you will lose the opportunity.

If you are bothered about the existing ISA rates as well as the performance of the stock markets, you can use direct debt to spread your ISA subscription. This way you can benefit from any depreciation in the market, since you can buy more units at lower prices. You will gain much more benefits when the market recovers. You can also invest all your ISA allowances in stocks and shares and keep it as cash pending investment. With this, you can use your allowance without any commitments to the markets.

Apart from comparing ISA interest rates, you should consider the terms and conditions for each deal. You should also consider:

  • How much the ISA manager will charge for maintaining the account

  • Is there any charge for transfers

  • Is there any charge for withdrawals

  • Is there any minimum deposit required for opening balance

ISA interest rates vary based on broader market conditions and health of the nation’s economy. Even if you do not know much about the direction of the ISA rates, you can opt for a fund that has performed consistently over the past few years.


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