Punters hope to cash in as bank price war looms

A PRICE war on mortgage, insurance, car and personal loan rates has been promised with Bank of Scotland giving the Irish banking market its biggest shake-up in decades from today.

It opens the first three of 46 branches in Dublin and Limerick today promising to undercut its competitors. Its branches will open until 5pm on weekdays - later than all its rivals - and will open on Saturdays.

As well as mortgages, insurance, car and personal loans, Bank of Scotland has also promised better interest rates on savings. It is also planning a telephone and internet banking service.