Website: http://www.barclays.co.uk

Authority: Barclays Bank is a major UK Bank and part of the global financial services group Barclays that has origins back to 1690. Its 1,658 physical branches in its network and 3,345 ATMs.(2010 annual report)  

How to open a Barclays Fixed Rate Bond (also called Savings Bond):

- For new customers, you can open a fixed rate bond in a physical branch with nearest locations available on their website: http://www.barclays.co.uk

- For existing customers, you can also apply for a fixed rate bond in a branch, however you can also apply by telephone on - 0845 300 8182 as well as if you are registered with Barclays online banking service you can apply directly from the bank website.

What are the requirements to open a Barclays Bank Fixed Rate Bond (or Savings Bond):

- According to their bank website,  bonds may only be available for fixed terms to UK residents who are aged 18 years or over.

Information to consider when opening a Barclays 1 Year Fixed Rate Bond:

Common to other United Kingdom high street banks, Barclays Bank PLC bond rates are highly influenced by a few important factors when determining what rates they set. The most important factor is the monetary policy forecasts and decisions by the Bank of England which include the 'bank rate' they set. For example in a high inflation economy or with higher economic growth the BOE may set rates higher, which banks such as Barclays may set 1 year rate bonds higher if they anticipate and forecast rates may be heading higher into the future. Other factors include the banks business model, bank business costs (maintaining branches and network vs online banks with no infrastructure), capital requirements and regulation. Please note savings accounts are liquid and fixed rate bonds are more illiquid and would have a higher premium versus savings liquid product.

AER Rate is based on Barclays 1 Year Fixed Rate Savings Bond Product with Interest Paid end of term of a balance over �50,000 to �1 million