Never has so much happened in the UK political and economic worlds between two editions of this magazine. You could blink and miss a whole new government coming into power and another sizeable base rate rise by the Bank of England (BoE).

As we went to press, the base rate was lifted 0.75bps to 3% with some commentators saying the move left a “black cloud” over the UK economy. And BoE governor Andrew Bailey says further rate rises are likely in the coming months to ensure inflation drops off.

Of course, those on tracker or SVR mortgages will be most affected. But, with the markets seemingly happy with the new government, headed by Rishi Sunak, hopefully the time has come where we can stop looking over our shoulders in anxious anticipation of the next economic slap around the face.

In this month’s poll, equity release was named as the specialist area most respondents would move into

There is a lot of doomsday talk in the market, and of course things will be tricky for many, but lenders are still lending and products are still out there for pretty much all requirements. And, as always, brokers will be doing their best to ensure borrowers get the best advice for their needs.

Speaking of which, Ami has launched a five-point protection action plan with guidance for firms on how to approach protection and communicate best with consumers. A worthy endeavour. It’s important to diversify and keep an eye on areas of the market where demand is growing, of which protection is one.

Lenders are still lending and products are still out there for pretty much all requirements

It was also interesting in this month’s poll to see equity release named as the specialist area most respondents would move into. Perhaps unsurprising as Key’s latest figures showed lending in the area hit £1.5bn in Q3.

This month’s Mortgage Strategy is a bumper edition, accompanied by a buy-to-let supplement packed with information on the happenings for landlords. Are they really all leaving the market, or are they adapting to new requirements and to changing tenant demand?

In the main magazine, the cover feature looks at the big question of the moment – how is the failed mini-Budget still impacting the mortgage industry, and how can the sector recover?

Hopefully we can stop looking over our shoulders in anxious anticipation of the next economic slap around the face

Our special report is all about green mortgages, while in our third feature Gary Adams sits down with Twenty7Tec to discuss how it became the success it is today and where it’ll go from here.

So, as the days grow shorter, take a load off and get stuck in.