Free cash - if you play your cards right

'Free cash - if you play your cards right' is the catching headline of an article on FT.com this week exploring the benefits of cash back credit cards.

The article explains how while a cash back card can seem like an opportunity to pocket a few extra quid, a 0 per cent purchase card can offer higher financial rewards.

The idea is that by making your purchases on a 0% card and only making the minimum payment, the remaining payment can be invested in a high interest saving account which will, in turn, earn more than could be achieved with cachback deals.

While it's an interesting proposal, it would require a far greater degree of self discipline to save the money than it would to simply make use of the benefits offered by the cash back cards. A worthwhile read though if you have confidence in your financial management skills and want to make a buck or two out of the credit card companies!