Best Fixed Deposit Rates for 2025: Up to 2.9%

updated: Feb 21, 2025

Here's everything you need to know about fixed deposits in Singapore, from the best fixed deposit rates, how fixed deposits work and whether they are the best place to stash your cash.

SingSaver Team

written_by SingSaver Team

Best Fixed Deposit Rates for 2025: Up to 2.9%

The information on this page is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. While we review and compare financial products to help you find the best options, we do not provide personalised recommendations or investment advisory services. Always do your own research or consult a licensed financial professional before making any financial decisions.

Looking to supercharge your savings? Fixed deposits (FDs) in Singapore could be your answer, boasting some of the market's most attractive interest rates. Right now, you can snag rates with special promotions pushing even up to 2.9%

FDs help grow your savings, but with some conditions: You deposit a fixed amount for a specified tenure, and in return, you receive a guaranteed interest rate for that duration. And, of course, with higher FD rates, the account can offer better returns compared to regular savings accounts.

Our list features banks and financial institutions in Singapore that SingSaver and our partners have reviewed and that offer nationally available FDs. The selections have competitive interest rates across popular short- and long-term FD tenures.

Saver-savvy tip

Keep in mind that fixed deposit rates in Singapore can fluctuate, and the most attractive offers are often promotional. Stay informed by checking the latest rates on banks' websites before making your decision.

Best fixed deposit rates for 2025

Our picks for fixed deposit rates

Bank of China fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

Bank of China Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

Counter Rates

Mobile Banking Promo Rates

1 month

2.50%

2.60%

S$10,000 and above 

(Over the Counter)

S$500 and above 

(Via Mobile Banking)

2 months

2.60%

2.70%

3 months

2.80%

2.90%

4 months

2.70%

2.80%

5 months

2.60%

2.70%

6 months

2.65%

2.75%

9 months

2.50%

2.60%

12 months

2.50%

2.60%

18 months

2.10%

2.20%

24 months

1.90%

2.00%

Bank of China offers up to 2.90% p.a. interest rate with a 3-month tenure if you open an account via mobile placement and make a minimum deposit of S$500.

For over-the-counter transactions, the highest you can earn is 2.80% p.a. for a 3-month placement, with a minimum deposit of S$10,000.

The fixed deposit rates for BOC are updated every few months, and the rates above are based on the promotional rates listed on 20 January 2025
 
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SingSaver's take

CIMB fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

CIMB Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

Personal banking online promo interest rates (p.a.) for S$10,000 and above

Preferred banking online promo interest rates (p.a.) for S$10,000 and above

3 months

2.70%

2.75%

S$10,000 and above

6 months

2.55% 

2.60%

9 months

2.40%

2.45%

12 months

2.40%

2.45%

Personal banking: CIMB currently offers fixed deposit rates of up to 2.70% p.a. for fixed deposits with a 3-month tenure. This requires a minimum deposit of S$10,000. The promotion begins on 1 February 2025.

Preferred banking: the best interest rate for CIMB Preferred banking customers is 2.75% p.a. for fixed deposits with a 3-month placement, again with a minimum deposit amount of S$10,000.

Citibank fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

 

Citibank Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

Citigold Private Client

Citigold

3 months

2.80%

2.70% 

(S$10,000 to <S$250,000)

2.90%

2.80%

(S$250,000 to

S$3 million)

6 months

2.70%

2.60%

(S$10,000 to <S$250,000)

2.80%

2.70%

(S$250,000 to S$3 million)

 

Citibank Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

Citi Priority, Citibanking or Citi Plus

3 months

2.50%

(S$50,000 to S$3 million)

6 months

2.50%

(S$50,000 to S$3 million)

The interest rates for Citibank are quite generous and arguably one of the highest fixed deposit rates in the market.

Citi Private Client members can earn up to 2.90% p.a. on deposits of S$250,000 to S$3 million for a 3-month tenure. But note that the deposits must be placed through a Relationship Manager. Citi Private Client customers need to have an asset under management (AUM) of S$1,500,000 or more.

Citigold members stand to earn up to 2.80% p.a. on deposits between S$250,000 to S$3 million for a 3-month tenure. However, do note that the minimum AUM for Citigold members is S$250,000.

Meanwhile, with a minimum placement of S$50,000, Citi Priority/Citibanking/Citi Plus can earn 2.50% p.a. on 3/6-month tenure with Citibank.

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DBS / POSB fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

DBS/POSB Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

12 months

2.45%

S$1,000

The highest interest rate for DBS fixed deposit is 2.45% p.a. for a 12-month tenure, with a deposit of S$1,000 to S$19,999. You can check out the full DBS fixed deposit rates here.

For applicants of new placements, DBS/POSB is only accepting placements for tenures 12 months and below. This means that new applicants will still be able to enjoy the highest fixed deposit rate.

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Hong Leong Finance Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

 

Hong Leong Finance Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

6 months

2.55%

S$20,000 to below S$50,000

2.60%

S$50,000 and above

8 months

2.50%

S$20,000 to below S$50,000

2.55%

S$50,000 and above

10 months

2.45%

S$20,000 to below S$50,000

2.50%

S$50,000 and above

Hong Leong Finance typically offers promotional rates that usually change monthly.

As of 8 January 2025, the 6-month promotional rate is 2.60% p.a. for deposits S$50,000 or more.  

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HSBC fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

 

HSBC Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

3 months

2.10%

S$30,000 to S$200,000

2.40%

S$200,000 and above

6 months

2.40%

S$30,000 to S$200,000

2.70%

S$200,000 and above

12 months

2.20%

S$30,000 to S$200,000

2.50%

S$200,000 and above

HSBC currently offers promotional fixed deposit rates of 2.70% p.a. for a 6-month tenure with a minimum deposit of S$200,000

The promotional rates are valid till 28 February 2025.

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ICBC fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

ICBC Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

E-banking

Over the counter (S$20,000 and above)

1 month

2.45%

2.35%

S$500 to <S$200,000

2.45%

2.45%

≥S$200,000

3 months

2.85%

2.75%

S$500 to <S$200,000

2.90%

2.90%

≥S$200,000

6 months

2.45%

2.35%

S$500 to <S$200,000

2.55%

2.55%

≥S$200,000

9 months

2.40%

2.30%

S$500 to <S$200,000

2.50%

2.50%

≥S$200,000

1 year

2.30%

2.20%

S$500 to <S$200,000

2.45%

2.45%

≥S$200,000

ICBC offers one of the lowest minimum deposit requirements for their fixed deposits, at just S$500 via e-banking. If you do the placement over the counter, the minimum deposit is S$20,000.

By applying via e-banking, you can receive 2.85% p.a. for a fixed deposit with a 3-month tenure and below S$200,000. For over-the-counter placement, you'll enjoy an interest of 2.75% p.a. for a 3-month tenure. This promotion is available from now till further notice.

With ICBC, 12 months is the longest tenure that they offer. Upon renewal of your fixed deposit, when it reaches the end of the tenure, the prevailing e-banking promotional rate for fixed deposits will automatically apply.

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Maybank fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

 

iSAVvy Time Deposit Promotion - Online Placement (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

6 months

2.45%

S$20,000

9 months

 2.40%

S$20,000

12 months

 2.35%

S$20,000

For fixed deposits with Maybank (online placement), the highest available interest rate offered is 2.45% p.a. for a 6-month tenure, with a minimum deposit amount of S$20,000.

However, you can enjoy up to 3.15% p.a. interest with the Deposit Bundle Promotion (placement in branch). 

Deposit Bundle Promotion - Placement in Branch (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

6 months

2.90%

S$20,000

9 months

2.70%

S$20,000

12 months

2.70%

S$20,000

Here's how this bundle works:

  • Every S$1,000 deposited into selected Maybank Current or Savings accounts (min. S$2,000)

  • You can deposit S$10,000 into Deposit Bundle Promotion (min. S$20,000)

  • Receive up to 2.90% p.a. on your Deposit Bundle Promotion

The minimum deposit is S$20,000 and this bundle is available to individual, SME, and commercial banking customers.

The fresh funds required for selected Maybank Current and Savings accounts are as follows:

  • Passbook Savings Account

  • Privilege Plus Savings Account

  • SaveUp Account

  • PremierOne Account

  • Current Account

  • FlexiBiz Account

  • PremierBiz Account 

OCBC fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

OCBC Fixed Deposit Rate (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

Branch

Online

6 months/12 months

2.25% 

2.45%

S$30,000

OCBC's fixed deposit rate is 2.45% p.a. for a 6-month/12-month tenure if you apply via OCBC Internet Banking. However, you can still enjoy an interest of 2.25% p.a. if you open an account with a 6-month tenure in person at any OCBC branch. The minimum deposit amount is S$30,000.
 
Alternatively, you can also check out the OCBC 360 Account, which offers an interest rate of up to 7.65% p.a. (EIR 4.65% p.a.) on your savings.

Apply Now

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Standard Chartered fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

Standard Chartered Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

Priority Private Banking

Priority Banking

Personal

6 months

2.80%

2.70%

2.50%

S$25,000

For fresh funds deposits, Standard Chartered's Priority Private banking clients enjoy the best interest rate of 2.80% p.a. for their fixed deposits with a 6-month tenure.
 
For the same duration, SCB priority banking customers enjoy 2.70% p.a. while personal banking customers can earn 2.50% p.a. for fresh deposits placed from 3 to 28 February 2025.

Regardless of your banking tier, the minimum deposit is S$25,000. If you're looking for tenures longer than nine months, Standard Chartered only offers tenures of nine months and above to existing time deposits that are on auto-rollover. It's currently not available for new placements.

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RHB fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

RHB Fixed Deposit Rate (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

Personal Banking online placement

Premier Banking online placement

3 months

2.58%

2.68%

S$20,000

6 months

2.58%

2.68%

S$20,000

12 months

2.58%

2.68%

S$20,000

RHB is offering an interest rate of up to 2.68% p.a. for fixed deposits with Premier Banking online placements.

For personal banking, you can earn 2.58% p.a. for all 3-month to 12-month placements. Note that the promotional rates are subject to change without prior notice.
 
You need to place a minimum deposit of S$20,000 to enjoy the fixed deposit promotional rate and apply via the RHB Mobile SG app. 

UOB fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

UOB Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount (Fresh Funds)

6 months

2.40% (Promotional interest rate)

S$10,000

10 months

2.20% (Promotional interest rate)

S$10,000

For October, UOB's promotional fixed deposit rate has been revised to 2.40% p.a. for a 6-month tenure, with a minimum deposit of S$10,000. The promotional period is from 1 to 28 February 2025.

Standard Chartered fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

 

Standard Chartered Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

Priority Private Banking

Priority Banking

Personal

6 months

2.80%

2.70%

2.50%

S$25,000

For fresh funds deposits, Standard Chartered's Priority Private banking clients enjoy the best interest rate of 2.80% p.a. for their fixed deposits with a 6-month tenure.
 
For the same duration, SCB priority banking customers enjoy 2.70% p.a. while personal banking customers can earn 2.50% p.a. for fresh deposits placed from 3 to 28 February 2025.

Regardless of your banking tier, the minimum deposit is S$25,000. If you're looking for tenures longer than nine months, Standard Chartered only offers tenures of nine months and above to existing time deposits that are on auto-rollover. It's currently not available for new placements.

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RHB fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

 
 

RHB Fixed Deposit Rate (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount

Personal Banking online placement

Premier Banking online placement

3 months

2.58%

2.68%

S$20,000

6 months

2.58%

2.68%

S$20,000

12 months

2.58%

2.68%

S$20,000

RHB is offering an interest rate of up to 2.68% p.a. for fixed deposits with Premier Banking online placements.

For personal banking, you can earn 2.58% p.a. for all 3-month to 12-month placements. Note that the promotional rates are subject to change without prior notice.
 
You need to place a minimum deposit of S$20,000 to enjoy the fixed deposit promotional rate and apply via the RHB Mobile SG app. 

UOB fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

 

UOB Fixed Deposit Rates (February 2025)

Deposit Tenure

Interest Rate per Annum

Minimum Amount (Fresh Funds)

6 months

2.40% (Promotional interest rate)

S$10,000

10 months

2.20% (Promotional interest rate)

S$10,000

For October, UOB's promotional fixed deposit rate has been revised to 2.40% p.a. for a 6-month tenure, with a minimum deposit of S$10,000. The promotional period is from 1 to 28 February 2025.

SBI Singapore fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

Sing Investments & Finance LTD (SIF) fixed deposit rates (February 2025)

Saver-savvy tip

When comparing fixed deposit rates in Singapore, aim for the highest annual interest rate that suits your preferred tenure. Currently, shorter-term deposits, like those with tenures of one year or less, tend to offer the most competitive rates. However, longer-term deposits with slightly lower rates may still yield higher returns overall.

If flexibility is important, consider banks that offer penalty-free fixed deposit options, allowing early withdrawal without incurring fees.

>> See more: Fixed Deposits and Money Market Accounts: Which Should You Choose?

Recent news about fixed deposit rates in Singapore

Think fixed deposits are just for your conservative relatives? Think again. They're a smart way for anyone to grow their savings with minimal risk. Here's the lowdown: you deposit a sum of money for a set period, and in return, you earn a guaranteed interest rate. While rates have been declining, there are still attractive offers available, and you don't need a fortune to get started. In fact, many banks now offer fixed deposits with starting amounts as low as S$500! Plus, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced an increase in deposit insurance coverage in 2024. The coverage limit per depositor rose from S$75,000 to S$100,000, ensuring that a greater proportion of depositors are fully protected under the Deposit Insurance (DI) Scheme, administered by the Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC). This enhancement provides greater peace of mind for depositors, knowing their funds are better protected in the event of a bank failure.

Fixed deposit definition: what is a fixed deposit?

A fixed deposit is a safe investment where you deposit a lump sum for a set period to earn fixed interest. Interest rates vary based on the amount and duration. 

FDs offer stable, guaranteed returns unaffected by market changes, with minimal risk to your principal. This makes FDs a straightforward choice for secure and predictable financial growth. However, early withdrawals often incur a penalty which depends on the bank’s policy.

Choosing a fixed deposit account

When selecting a fixed deposit account in Singapore, it's essential to consider several factors to ensure the investment aligns with your financial goals and circumstances.

Deposit tenure

Fixed deposit tenures in Singapore can range from as short as one month to several years. Shorter tenures offer more liquidity, allowing quicker access to funds, while longer tenures typically provide higher interest rates.

Types of fixed deposits

Banks in Singapore offer various fixed deposit options, including standard fixed deposits, foreign currency deposits, and recurring fixed deposits. Choose the option that best suits your financial goals and preferences.

Interest rates

Interest rates vary among banks and are influenced by factors such as tenure and deposit amount. Comparing rates across different banks is crucial to maximise returns. 

Minimum deposit

The minimum deposit required to open a fixed deposit account varies by bank and can range from as low as S$500 to S$200,000 or more. Ensure that the minimum deposit aligns with your available funds.

Withdrawal penalties

Fixed deposits are designed to be held until maturity. Withdrawing funds before the end of the tenure can result in penalties, such as reduced interest earnings or administrative fees. Therefore, it's important to understand the terms and conditions related to early withdrawal before committing to a fixed deposit.

When to consider fixed deposit account

FDs are a good option when you have a lump sum of money to invest and want to earn a guaranteed return over a set period. This option is suitable for saving towards a specific goal, like a holiday or a big purchase, where you know you won't need access to the funds immediately.

FDs also generally offer higher interest rates than regular savings accounts, helping you maximise your returns.

What is the annual return on a S$10,000 fixed deposit?

If you’re considering investing S$10,000 in a fixed deposit account, it’s essential to understand the factors that influence the annual percentage yield and how these figures can vary.

Of course, the annual return on a fixed deposit depends on the interest rate offered by the bank, the tenure of the deposit, and whether the interest is compounded or paid out periodically. For instance, with an interest rate of 3% per annum, a S$10,000 fixed deposit held for one year would yield S$300 in interest at maturity.

Saver-savvy tip

A longer tenure with a lower interest rate may still earn you more than a shorter tenure with a higher rate. For example, a 12-month Fixed Deposit with a 3.00% p.a. interest rate could yield more than a 6-month FD with a 2.00% p.a. rate.

If you invested S$10,000, you would earn around S$100 with the 6-month FD, but S$300 with the 12-month FD. To compare potential returns, use an online Fixed Deposit calculator to evaluate different tenures and rates before making your decision.

Other FDs: promotional & no-penalty FDs

While standard fixed deposit (FD) tenures such as one, three, or five years are among the most popular options, there are other types of FDs that may offer unique benefits, such as higher interest rates or greater flexibility.

  • Promotional FDs: Typically feature special rates offered for a limited time. These promotions might offer higher returns compared to traditional FDs with standard tenures. However, the rates may change frequently.

  • No-Penalty FDs: These FDs allow you to withdraw the full deposit amount before the maturity date without paying any penalties. However, some banks may not give the interest if deposit is withdrawn prematurely.

These options can be suitable depending on your financial goals, liquidity needs, and tolerance for monitoring promotional offers or adjusting to lower returns.

Current promotional FD rates

These standout promotional FD rates are based on SingSaver's latest analysis of the fixed deposit market in Singapore. Banks frequently offer promotions to specific terms and may require minimum deposits.

Keep in mind that savvy savers should always check for these deals with the bank to maximise their returns before locking in a fixed deposit.

Best no-penalty FD rates

Need flexibility with your savings? No-penalty FDs might be just the ticket. These accounts offer a unique advantage: you can withdraw your funds before the maturity date without incurring the usual early withdrawal penalties. This can be a lifesaver if you need unexpected access to your cash or find a better investment opportunity.

Some banks in Singapore that offer no-penalty FDs include:

  • Hong Leung Finance Fixed Deposit: These accounts offer penalty-free premature withdrawals, however, no interest will be paid if withdrawn early.

  • ICBC SGD Fixed Deposit: There is no penalty for early withdrawal of a fixed deposit, but the interest will be paid at the current account rate.

While no-penalty FD accounts offer flexibility, it's crucial to understand the specific terms associated with these accounts, as the treatment of accrued interest upon premature withdrawal can vary. Some banks may adjust the interest rate to the prevailing savings account rate, which is typically lower than the FD rate.

Alternatives to fixed deposits

While fixed deposits are a popular option for safe, predictable returns, there are several alternatives in Singapore that offer varying levels of risk and reward. Depending on your financial goals, whether it’s liquidity, a higher return, or long-term growth, there are several low-risk and higher-risk products that can help you grow your savings.

  • Singapore Savings Bonds (SSBs): SSBs are backed by the Singapore government and offer step-up interest rates over time. They’re flexible, with no penalties for early withdrawals, but higher returns are only earned in the later years.

  • Fixed-Income Products: These include government or corporate bonds and fixed-income funds, which offer steady returns with relatively low risk. They provide more attractive returns compared to traditional FDs, while maintaining diversification.

  • High-Interest Savings Accounts: Some of the best high-yield online savings accounts can offer high returns, but often require meeting specific conditions. They also provide high liquidity but have fluctuating interest rates compared to FDs.

  • Endowment Plans: Endowment plans combine insurance with savings, offering guaranteed returns over time. They’re low-risk but focus on long-term wealth accumulation, typically with additional fees and penalties.

  • Insurance-savings Plans: These plans offer higher interest than regular bank accounts plus insurance coverage, with flexibility to withdraw and top-up funds easily. These plans combine the benefits of saving and insurance in one simple product.

  • Cash Management Accounts: Cash management accounts invest in short-term assets like money market funds, offering better returns than regular savings accounts. 

  • Brokerage Accounts: A brokerage account allows you to trade stocks or Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), offering potentially higher returns.

>> See more: How to Beat Inflation

Fixed deposits or Singapore Savings Bonds (SSB)?

Another popular low-risk investment product you can find in Singapore is the Singapore Savings Bonds (SSB)

Both fixed deposits and SSBs require you to invest a fixed amount of cash, for a predetermined period of time in order to earn returns. 

For fixed deposits, the tenure can range from one month to three years. For SSBs, you earn higher interest only in the later years. This encourages applicants to hold on to their SSBs for the entire ten-year duration.

 

What are SSBs?

Singapore Savings Bonds (SSBs) offer an alternative for one of the best investments in 2025. They are a type of Singapore Government Securities (SGS) issued and backed by the Singapore government. At issuance, interest rates for the entire 10-year term are fixed and locked in for each issue.

This interest rate differs with every month's issue and is fixed based on the average SGS yields the month before.

SSBs allow you to earn step-up interest on your savings. The interest rate starts low, increasing every year until Year 10. The longer you hold onto your SSB, the more interest you receive.

Interest is paid every six months and will be automatically credited into the bank account that is linked to your CDP Securities account.

Supplementary Retirement Scheme (SRS) investors can also use their SRS funds to invest in SSBs. Read more about fixed-income products such as SSBs.

This month's SSB rates:

Source: MAS

Like fixed deposits (FDs) in Singapore, the interest returns for SSBs will differ each month. It is good practice to check the latest rates before investing.

Pros of Singapore Savings Bonds (SSBs)

Cons of Singapore Savings Bonds (SSBs)

Risk-free, fully backed by the government of Singapore.

Low interest rates, with higher interest rates only earned towards the end of the 10 years

Low minimum amount of S$500 required 

Up to S$200,000 per individual 

High liquidity. You can withdraw your money at any time, with no penalties. You will, however, lose out on the higher interest rates in the later years.

SSB interest rates change every month for every issuance

Can use your SRS funds to purchase SSBs

Transaction fee of S$2 charged for each application and redemption request

Fixed deposits vs SSBs

Choose Fixed Deposits If:

  • You need a guaranteed return for a specific short-term goal (e.g., a down payment on a house in 1 year).

  • You prefer the simplicity of a fixed interest rate and a defined maturity date.

  • You have a lump sum to invest and don't plan on adding to it.

  • You prioritise knowing the exact amount you'll earn at the end of the term.

Choose SSB If:

  • You have a longer-term investment horizon (e.g., retirement savings).

  • You want flexibility to withdraw your funds without penalty.

  • You prefer a government-backed investment with no risk of default.

  • You want to earn a higher interest rate over time with the step-up feature.

However, the current low interest rates have made both savings types less attractive, with insurance savings plans and cash management accounts growing in popularity by offering higher rates of returns.

Fixed deposits or savings accounts

Besides fixed deposits and SSBs, you can also consider savings accounts to keep your cash liquid. These savings accounts can earn a high interest rate of up to 7.68% p.a. However, many of these accounts require you to jump through hoops to earn the higher interest rates.

About savings accounts

Savings accounts allow you to earn interest on the money you keep in the account, with the amount depending on the account's conditions.

Some savings accounts, such as the CIMB FastSaver, do not set any conditions to earn interest, apart from you keeping your money in the account.

Other accounts, such as the DBS Multiplier, OCBC 360 and UOB One, make you work for your money. 

These high-yield savings accounts have a level-up criteria such as crediting your salary, spending on one of the bank's credit cards, purchasing insurance or investment products, or taking up a loan to earn higher interest rates.

Current rates: Savings accounts have more unpredictability. Over the past year, the interest rates of savings accounts have seen downward revisions. 

Unlike fixed deposits or SSBs where the interest rate you earn over the months and years is set in stone from the start, savings accounts can see changes on short notice.

Here's an overview of the interest rates you can potentially get with the various banks in Singapore.gs accounts?

Savings account 

Maximum interest rate (p.a.)

Bank of China Smart$aver

7.00%

CIMB FastSaver

3.30%

Citi Interest Booster

4.00%

DBS Multiplier

4.10%

GXS Savings Account

3.18%

Maybank Save Up

4.00%

OCBC 360

7.65%

RHB High Yield Savings Plus Account

2.00%

Standard Chartered Bonus$aver

7.68%

Trust Savings Account

3.00%

UOB One Account

6.00%

UOB Stash Account

5.00%

Again, do keep in mind that many of these savings accounts have multiple criteria for you to earn higher interest.

Fixed deposits vs savings accounts

 

While both fixed deposits and savings accounts are popular saving tools, they have distinct characteristics that cater to different needs. Here's a breakdown of their key differences:

Tenure

  • Fixed Deposits: Have a fixed tenure. You commit to keeping your funds deposited for the entire duration.

  • Savings Accounts: Have no fixed tenure. You can deposit and withdraw funds as needed.

Minimum deposit

  • Fixed Deposits: Often require a minimum deposit amount, which varies between banks.

  • Savings Accounts: May have a minimum initial deposit, but typically have no ongoing minimum balance requirements.

Liquidity

  • Fixed Deposits: Have lower liquidity. Early withdrawals usually incur penalties.

  • Savings Accounts: Offer high liquidity. You can access your funds easily and without penalty.

Interest rate

  • Fixed Deposits: Generally offer higher interest rates than savings accounts, especially for longer tenures. The rate is locked in for the entire term.

  • Savings Accounts: Provide a lower, variable interest rate. The rate can fluctuate based on market conditions and the bank's policies.

Pros of savings accounts

Cons of savings accounts

Higher interest rates than fixed deposits and SSBs

Might have to jump through hoops to earn higher interest

High liquidity. Money can be put in and taken out anytime.

Interest rates subject to change anytime, although banks tend to give a few weeks notice before the change

No minimum period required to earn interest. You earn interest every day the money is in the account. 

Could incur fall-below fees or early account closure fees

Choose Fixed Deposits If:

  • You have a lump sum of money you won't need access to for a specific period.

  • You want to earn a guaranteed return with a fixed interest rate.

  • You're comfortable with the lower liquidity and potential penalties for early withdrawal.

Choose Savings Accounts If:

  • You need frequent access to your funds.

  • You want flexibility to deposit and withdraw money as needed.

  • You prioritise liquidity over earning the highest possible interest rate.

Methodology

SingSaver regularly compares fixed deposit rates from a wide range of banks and financial institutions in Singapore to identify the most competitive options. We analyse factors like interest rates, minimum deposit requirements, fees, and the overall customer experience.

This helps us provide up-to-date and reliable information on the best FD rates available, though it's always possible that higher rates may exist elsewhere.

Frequently asked questions about fixed deposits

  • Which banks have the best FD rates?

    Many banks in Singapore offer competitive FD rates, but the best option depends on your individual needs. Citibank and Maybank often have high overall rates, while Bank of China, CIMB, and ICBC are strong for shorter tenures. Sing Finance has a competitive 12-month rate, and Hong Leong Finance, HSBC, and UOB frequently offer promotions.

  • Why should I open a fixed deposit account?

    Fixed deposit interest rates are generally low and promotional rates often come with a higher minimum deposit requirement.

     

    However, there are situations when opening a fixed deposit account could be an attractive option:

    • You're sitting on a considerable amount of cash that is earning a meagre 0.05% p.a. in an ordinary savings account.

    • You want a virtually risk-free investment option. Even if something happens to the bank, your deposits and interest earned are still protected (up to S$75,000 thanks to the SDIC).

    • You want regular cash flow. Interest payments are paid out regularly at quarterly or annual intervals.

    • You need liquidity in your investments. A partial or full withdrawal of fixed deposits can be done at any time so your cash remains liquid. However, you might lose out on any interest to be paid if the money is withdrawn before the fixed deposit reaches full maturity. 

     

    Other low-risk, low-returns products include: 

     

    If you're looking to truly grow your money, look away from fixed deposits and towards investing. One way to start is with a robo-advisor that offers a well-diversified portfolio tailored to your investment goals and risk appetite. 

     

    Compare Best Robo-Advisors

  • Is the interest earned on fixed deposits taxable in Singapore?

    No, the interest received from deposits with approved banks or licensed finance companies in Singapore is not taxable.

  • How can I get the maximum returns from a fixed deposit?

    Fixed deposit interest rates are dependent on the tenure of the fixed deposit. To get the highest and best possible interest rate on offer, you'll have to look at the tenure the bank is offering and whether you're comfortable with that tenure for your fixed deposit.

     

    Promotional fixed deposit interest rates could also have higher minimum deposits required, such as S$10,000 or S$20,000. You'll need to be willing to deposit that amount for that specific tenure in order to enjoy those interest rates.

  • Can I withdraw my fixed deposit before the tenure is up?

    Unlike a savings account, you can't top up your fixed deposit. When you open a fixed deposit account, the sum of money you put into the account stays there until the end of the fixed deposit tenure.

     

    If you want to put more money into a fixed deposit, what you can do instead is open another fixed deposit account. Keep in mind that the interest rates for the new fixed deposit account could differ based on the bank's current promotion.

  • What are the requirements to open a fixed deposit account?

    If you are an existing account holder, you will have to log in to the bank's internet banking platform to open a fixed deposit. 

     

    If you do not have an existing account with the bank, you might be required to open an account. This would require the following:

    • Front and back of your NRIC (for Singaporeans / PRs)

    • Passport and Employment Pass (for foreigners)

    • Proof of residential address

  • How do I apply for a fixed deposit account?

    You can apply for a fixed deposit with any bank in Singapore. Upon application, you will have to transfer your funds into a fixed deposit account to start earning interest on your money.

     

    Do keep in mind that promotional fixed deposit rates typically also require your deposits to be fresh funds. This means that it can't be money you're transferring from a savings account (with the same bank) to the fixed deposit. 

  • Can foreigners open fixed deposits in Singapore?

    Yes. If you are a foreigner, you will need your passport, proof of address, and an Employment Pass/Dependent Pass/S Pass/Student Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass, whichever is applicable.

  • Can I open a fixed deposit using foreign currency?

    Yes, besides Singapore dollar deposits, you can also put your foreign currencies in fixed deposits. 

     

    Many banks offer fixed deposits for common foreign currencies like the US dollar, Australian dollar, Euro, and British pound sterling. You might even find higher fixed deposit interest rates for foreign currency deposits.

     

    Check the fine print for terms and conditions related to conversion fees or auto-renewal clauses and remember to shop around for the best promotional rate before locking in your savings.

  • When's the best time to open a fixed deposit account?

    Fixed deposit rates are highly dependent on the current interest rate environment

     

    In today's low interest rate environment, you can expect fixed deposits to have lower interest rates, similar to how savings accounts have also been lowering the interest you can earn in the account.

     

    So unless you're sitting on a mountain of idle cash, it's best to wait for an attractive promotional rate from the bank before committing (banks typically change their rates monthly). 

     

    In general, such interest rates can range from 0.6% to 1.5% p.a., but higher interest rates could also come with higher minimum deposit requirements.  

     

    As with all financial decisions, you should also consider the opportunity costs. In the case of fixed deposits, consider that the money could have been invested in higher yield investment products, or spent on some form of appreciating types of asset.

     

    Remember, once your money is deposited, it is locked in until the fixed deposit hits maturity (unless you're willing to forgo any interest you've earned by withdrawing early). 

     

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SingSaver Team

SingSaver Team

At SingSaver, we make personal finance accessible with easy to understand personal finance reads, tools and money hacks that simplify all of life’s financial decisions for you.