Was the Budget any good and what will it mean for you?

In this episode of This is Money Podcast, hosts Georgie Frost, Simon Lambert, and Helen Crane analyze John Healy's first budget, which they describe as momentous but lacking in impactful changes. The budget featured 98 costed policy measures, yet much of it felt insignificant. Simon rates the budget a six or seven out of ten, emphasizing that while it avoided worsening the tax system, it failed to present a strong plan for growth and investment.

Helen calls the budget boring, noting the lack of direction or clarity on investment strategies, particularly in infrastructure. The hosts express disappointment with announcements regarding welfare reviews and energy assistance, describing it as an ineffective approach. The headline message of 'breathing space' did not resonate strongly with the hosts, who feel many pre-announced measures diluted the excitement of the budget.

The budget's treatment of savers and landlords drew significant concern, with a new 4% tax on savings income announced. The increase in taxes on landlords is seen as potentially damaging to tenants, with landlords likely to increase rents as a result. Additionally, the introduction of two more ISAs adds to the confusion rather than simplifying the system. The podcast concludes by discussing the need for listeners to consider their financial situations in light of the new budget measures, particularly regarding energy tariffs and ISA allowances.