government bonds

NS&I vs Gilts — Which UK Government-Backed Investment Is Right for You?

British savers looking for government-backed safety face a genuine choice: National Savings & Investments (NS&I) products or UK government gilts. Both carry the full backing of HM Treasury, making them among the safest investments available in the UK. But the similarities end there — their returns, access, tax treatment, and suitability for different investors diverge significantly. With gilt yields at 4.45% for long-dated conventional bonds and NS&I offering a range of fixed and variable-rate products, the current environment gives investors real options. Understanding the practical differences can help you choose the right vehicle — or combination — for your savings and investment goals.