Crystal Specialist Finance has appointed Gareth Shilton as its new group strategy director. He brings over 30 years of financial services experience, having held senior roles at firms Ocean Finance, where he most recently served as chief executive officer. He also held positions including sales manager, underwriting manager, chief operating officer and director. As part of his new role, Shilton will focus on identifying opportunities for business improvement and operational efficiencies, supporting the firm’s long-term sustainability and commercial development.

Hanley Economic Building Society has expanded its residential mortgage range with the launch of a five-year fixed rate 100% LTV rent to own mortgage. This product is available for those within ST postcodes and aims to provide a pathway for aspiring homeowners in the Stoke-on-Trent area without the need for an initial deposit. The five-year fix is available from 5.79% and applicants must have a household income of over £25,000 per annum. There are no application or arrangement fees, and the products has a maximum loan size of £350,000.

Atom bank has set monthly records for both applications and completions for near prime mortgages. The number of near prime mortgage applications increased by 28% month-on-month in April, following a record month in March. Applications in April 2025 were nearly three times higher than in April 2024. Atom said the growth was “even more pronounced” in the value of near prime applications, which rose by over 35% month-on-month in April, while jumping 64% year-on-year.

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