Sunday money pages: February 2

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

Lenders slash cost of personal loans

A price war in the personal loans market means that rates of just 4.5% are available for those with a squeaky clean record. Observer.

Investors face up to social media

The sector is still unproven, says Julian Knight, who warns that some analysts advise a cautious approach to the shares. Independent.

Blue chip companies lose £60bn in shares run

Investors will be hoping this does not prove the case after global shares suffered their worst start to the year for four years, with the value of Britain’s blue chip companies tumbling by about £60billion. Express.

Why it’s not always best to top up your state pension

Pensioners will be able to boost their state pension by up to £25 a week after yet another tweak to the pensions system was announced this week. Early indications suggest that this opportunity has generous terms, but what are the likely benefits and what else should you be looking to do? Independent.

‘We lost everything gambling on shares’

As DIY investing goes mainstream, one couple lost their life savings by using a tool meant for professionals. Telegraph.

British Gas profit plunges after families take revenge for price hikes

Hard-pressed customers have dealt a profits blow to embattled British Gas in revenge for sky-high bills. Mirror.

Which sector is tempting Isa investors this year?

For the third year in a row, the UK equity-income sector is proving most popular among Isa investors as we approach the end of the tax year. Independent.