Smart Money Risers for August 2026

If you're looking for a new bank, lender, insurer or savings and investment provider, knowing who delivers a great customer experience is just as useful as knowing who's offering the best rates. Our Smart Money Risers index tracks month-on-month and quarter-by-quarter improvement in customer review ratings across the consumer personal finance sector, identifying which providers are improving fastest and why.

August's top cross-market provider risers

Aviva climbed to a rating of 4.14 out of 5, with customers responding positively to competitive value, straightforward digital journeys and clear communication across its financial services offering.

Reviews highlighted simple online processes, competitive renewal pricing and accessible information, alongside positive experiences where customer service teams provided clear explanations and effective support. Pension customers also valued understandable annual statements and tools that made it easier to follow investment performance.

“Good price/rate for a recognised company and customer services were very helpful when I needed to speak to them, resolved my query very quickly and followed up to make sure I was happy” said one Aviva customer.

Chase Bank emerged as one of August's strongest banking risers, with customers responding to its combination of digital simplicity, support and account benefits. Chase achieved a customer rating of 4.45 out of 5.

Reviews highlighted an intuitive app and quick access to human support, alongside strong savings rates and convenient overseas use. Customers also valued proactive security measures that helped provide reassurance around unusual or disputed transactions.

“The app is very intuitive and easy to use, and the range of perks and incentives is excellent. Customer service has been great and very proactive in protecting the customer” said one Chase Bank customer.

Anna Bentham, Marketing Director at Chase, commented: “These findings show that customers value more than just a good rate. They want banking that fits seamlessly into their lives, combines digital convenience with human support, and gives them confidence that their money is protected. That’s exactly what we’re focused on delivering at Chase.”

StepChange emerged as one of August's strongest performers, achieving a rating of 4.90 as users praised the organisation for helping them regain control of difficult financial situations.

Reviews highlighted clear advice, straightforward debt management tools and patient, non-judgemental support. Customers frequently described feeling less stressed and more confident once they understood the options available to them and had a structured plan in place.

“Talking to StepChange was one of the best financial decisions I ever made. I didn't realise how many options were available to me, and they made an immediate impact on my quality of life” said one StepChange customer.

What's driving customer satisfaction right now?

Across August's data, three trends stand out:

1. Established brands are showing signs of recovery.
2. Simplicity matters.
3. Support at ‘high stress’ moments can shape the entire relationship.

Reviews from real customers

Want to check ratings for a provider you're considering or leave your own review? Reviews on Smart Money People help you find out and share what it's really like to be a customer of financial services providers.