Analysis - weekly feature on consumer issues

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How to save money in a recession

Two years into a credit crunch which started in autumn 2007, it's easy to get carried away by the euphoria created by the booming stock market and widespread talk that recession is over.

How to manage your student finances

Three years from now, hundreds of thousands of the students who have collected record A-levels will be clutching a university degree - and possibly facing debts of £22,000 as the bill for improving their chances of a well-paid job.

Are you using your gift from the Government wisely?

From the start of September, every child in Britain reaching their seventh birthday can look forward to a second £250 voucher as a Government gift towards a lump sum for when they reach adulthood.

Will Nationwide's move help unlock the mortgage market?

When Nationwide launched a new mortgage for existing customers to a maximum 125% of property value in July, it was criticised for the sort of reckless lending which put the skids under Northern Rock.

Look online for the best currency deals

For British travellers in Europe this summer, the cost of everyday living is painfully high because the pound is so weak against the euro - among many other currencies.

Green shoots of recovery or a 'dead cat bounce'?

Shares are booming again and some banks are raking in huge profits - is the financial meltdown over?

Card debts may cause more economic chaos

With unemployment expected to top four million and many households already suffering from reduced income, there are fears that massive credit-card debts could trigger more economic turmoil.

How to make money from unwanted heirlooms

When full-page adverts claim the price of gold has soared 30% in the past six months alone, it isn't only those facing big debts or mortgage arrears who are tempted to turn old heirlooms and unwanted gifts into cash.

Cardholders could soon pay for their plastic

Credit cards have mostly been available for free since US banks muscled into the UK market in the 1990s, but that might be about to change.

Not much profit with these bonds

When the world's financial markets crumpled last year, many small investors might have felt safe in the knowledge they had cash salted away in with-profits policies held at big insurance companies.