Sunday money pages: February 23

A rundown of the top money and personal finance stories from this Sunday’s national newspapers.

RBS review puts focus on customers and UK economy

Ross McEwan is to place transparency, customers, and an end to bureaucracy at the centre of the Royal Bank of Scotland as he delivers the most dramatic strategic review the institution has seen in its recent history. Telegraph.

Put investment and energy at heart of Budget, CBI urges

Britain’s biggest business lobby group has told the Chancellor he must place investment and energy at the centre of his priorities if the UK’s economic growth is to continue apace. Telegraph.

Is it time to turn your back on Isas?

Things usually pick up for savers in the run-up to a new tax year, but so far the cash individual savings account season has been a desperately disappointing affair. If you’re waiting for the market to pick up, you could be waiting in vain, but should you really be looking at regular savings accounts instead? Independent.

Parents working out a way to beat the eye-watering rise in childcare costs

Families are facing a crippling financial burden that is pricing half a million mums out of the workplace. Observer.

Missing out on rising property prices? Invest in a ‘housing Isa’

House prices are roaring ahead, according to Halifax, which reported a price rise of 1.1% in January alone and a gain of 7.3% over the year. Compare that to the paltry 1% or 2% most savers are earning on their deposits and, over the past 12 months, it’s evident that property has been the better investment. Guardian.

Poundland may not be cheap when it floats

Some investors might, understandably, be disappointed that they won’t be able to get in on the ground floor when Poundland floats on the market. Independent.