2. SAVINGS AND INVESTMENT PRODUCTS
2.1 The Providers
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Banks, building societies and the Government are generally seen
as secure repositories for deposit-type savings and investments.
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'National Savings' also provide secure homes for cash based deposits.
The wide variety of products tend to reflect market interest rates.
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It should not be overlooked, however, that banks and building societies
are commercial organisations open to market forces, and so can flourish
or fail as can any other trading organisation. Generally, the greater
risk is with the 'newer' companies who may over extend themselves,
perhaps being swallowed up by larger concerns or even ceasing involvement
in certain sectors.
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The other side of the coin is the greater freedom now available
to building societies and friendly societies to offer a wider range
of products, where both product and performance may attract interest
away from the traditional sources
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