Matthew Boyle is a banking and mortgages publisher at Finder. He has a 7-year history of publishing and has commissioned over 600 guides helping UK consumers and small business owners make better financial decisions.
Matthew holds a BSc in European Business from the University of Hertfordshire and in his spare time loves to walk around Norfolk enjoying the local wildlife.
Expertise
- Helping first-time buyers apply for a mortgage
- Comparing bank accounts and highlighting useful features
- Publishing easy-to-understand guides
Experience
- Published over 600 articles on personal finance
- Featured in leading trade publications and national press including The Times, The Telegraph, The Mirror, The Daily Express and more
- On the judging panel for Finder’s Banking Innovation Awards
Education
- BSc (Hons) European Business | University of Hertfordshire
Featured publications
Industry insights from Matthew Boyle
We asked Matthew to share his expertise by answering a few questions about the mortgage and banking industry in 2021.
What tips can you give to first-time buyers for getting approved for a mortgage?
Preparation is everything. For most people, getting their first mortgage is the biggest financial decision of their lives. Do your research to know any obstacles you may face, learn about what type of mortgage you want, and what fees there are. Mortgage brokers can help by providing specialist advice, for a fee. It’s smart to have a back-up plan, too. First-time buyers often find themselves being declined for a mortgage for their dream property through circumstances that can be hard to foresee. This can be disheartening but unfortunately is sometimes part of the process of getting on the property ladder.
How has the pandemic affected the mortgage industry?
Tighter lending criteria, an economic slowdown and general uncertainty among UK consumers have led to some difficult times for would-be buyers. While Brits have had some help from temporarily reduced rates in stamp duty, and lenders offering mortgage holidays, it’s still tough times for many, and house prices have risen hugely in some areas. I believe it’s far from over - the ramifications of the pandemic on mortgages and home-buying will be felt for a long time yet.
Do you think a cashless society is possible?
This transformation is well underway, speeded hugely by the pandemic. The technology in the industry is being developed at an incredible rate and initiatives like Open Banking allow users to manage nearly all aspects of their bank account and spend their money from their mobile phone. As banks continue to close branches and ATMs across the UK, more people will avoid using cash.
Featured videos
Latest articles by Matthew Boyle
294 articles written by this author
Compare UK student bank accounts and start living your best life
Free railcards, perks and interest-free overdrafts - banks will do anything to make young students their customers. Use our guide to help you open the right account today.
![Compare UK student bank accounts and start living your best life](https://dvh1deh6tagwk.cloudfront.net/finder-us/wp-uploads/sites/3/2019/03/student-bank-450.png)
Alternatives to Small World
Learn about how Small World alternatives can help you send more money for less.
![Alternatives to Small World](https://dvh1deh6tagwk.cloudfront.net/finder-us/wp-uploads/sites/3/2024/07/small-world_450x250.png)
Best bank cards for kids: Debit and prepaid cards
Support your child's financial knowledge and teach them important real-life money skills in a safe and controlled way with a kids' debit card.
![Best bank cards for kids: Debit and prepaid cards](https://dvh1deh6tagwk.cloudfront.net/finder-us/wp-uploads/sites/3/2024/05/Untitled-design-1.png)
Business failure statistics UK
We look at business survival rates, how the chance of business failure varies between industries and some of the reasons businesses stop trading.
![Business failure statistics UK](https://dvh1deh6tagwk.cloudfront.net/finder-us/wp-uploads/sites/3/2024/05/Business-failure-statistics-UK-1.png)
Tax on savings interest calculator UK
Our personal savings allowance calculator will show you whether you need to pay tax on your savings - and how much.
![Tax on savings interest calculator UK](https://www.finder.com/finder-au/wp-uploads/2019/06/article-default_450x250.png)
Kroo vs Monzo: Which is the best?
We take a closer look at 2 of the digital banking brands leading the way in the UK. Compare Kroo and Monzo in our side by side guide.
![Kroo vs Monzo: Which is the best?](https://dvh1deh6tagwk.cloudfront.net/finder-us/wp-uploads/sites/3/2024/03/kroo_vs_monzo_450x250.png)
What is a good salary in London?
According to the latest figures, a single person living in London would need a gross salary of £37,000 to be financially stable.
![What is a good salary in London?](https://dvh1deh6tagwk.cloudfront.net/finder-us/wp-uploads/sites/3/2024/04/Global-savings-vs-base-rate-content-feed-image.png)
Send money overseas with a great rate and low fees
Learn about the best options for sending money overseas.
![Send money overseas with a great rate and low fees](https://www.finder.com/finder-au/wp-uploads/2019/06/article-default_450x250.png)
Inflation around the world: Global inflation tracker and map
Global inflation tracker: check out our map with the most recent inflation data for 180 countries around the world.
![Inflation around the world: Global inflation tracker and map](https://dvh1deh6tagwk.cloudfront.net/finder-us/wp-uploads/sites/3/2024/02/global-inflation-map-content-feed-image.png)
Financial stress and mental health statistics UK
7 in 10 Brits (70%) have experienced financial stress, so we look at the latest statistics to see the impact money has on our mental health.
![Financial stress and mental health statistics UK](https://dvh1deh6tagwk.cloudfront.net/finder-us/wp-uploads/sites/3/2023/11/Financial-stress-statistics-1.png)