BARGAINS OF THE WEEK: FINANCE

DEAL OF THE WEEK

WILL INTEREST rates rise in the next few weeks? Most observers think so, but this could be good news for savers. Many institutions are already adjusting long-term savings products upwards. Hinckley and Rugby Building Society this week launched a two-year "escalator bond" paying 6 per cent gross in year one and 7 per cent in year two. A combined rate of 6.5 per cent. Not bad. The minimum investment is pounds 5,000. Further investments cannot be made once the account is open but new accounts can be opened instead while the bond is available. Call 0800 774499.