Award Banner
Award Banner

Best fixed deposit rates in Singapore (April 2025): Minimum deposits from $500, rates up to 2.90%

Best fixed deposit rates in Singapore (April 2025): Minimum deposits from $500, rates up to 2.90%
PHOTO: Pexels

If you think that fixed deposits are only for conservative cash-rich aunties and uncles, think again.

A fixed deposit (also known as a time deposit) account is a type of bank account that pays account holders a fixed amount of interest in exchange for depositing a certain sum of money for a certain period of time.

Although fixed deposit rates have been falling, there's a good number of rates that are still very decent and worth giving a shot if you have some money lying around. You don't even need a large stash of cash — these days, banks are offering fixed deposits starting from as low as $500!

Overview of Singapore fixed deposit rates (April 2025)

Which bank in Singapore has the best fixed deposit rate? These are the best fixed deposit rates in Singapore this month for various deposit amounts and commitment periods. 

PHOTO: MoneySmart

Note: Most of these are promotional interest rates, and banks can change their rates anytime. Do check their respective websites for the latest rates.

Overall highest fixed deposit rates in Singapore (April 2025)

Looking for the absolute highest fixed deposit rates across all deposit amounts and commitment periods? If your deposit amount and period are flexible, these are the best fixed deposit rates you can get in Singapore in Apr 2025:

  • Maybank (2.90% p.a.—min. $20,000 for six months)
  • HL Bank (2.80% p.a.—min. $100,000 for six months)
  • State Bank of India (2.50% p.a.—min. $50,000 for six months)
  • Bank of China (2.50% p.a.—min. $500 for three months)
  • StashAway Simple Guaranteed (2.50% p.a.— one month with no minimum amount)
  • DBS (2.45% p.a.—min. $1,000 for 12 months)
  • Hong Leong Finance (2.45% p.a.—min. $20,000 for nine or 10 months)
  • Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed (2.45% p.a.— three months with no minimum amount)
  • ICBC (2.40% p.a. — $500 for three months)
  • CIMB (2.30% p.a. — min. $10,000 for three months)
  • UOB (2.30% p.a. — min. $10,000 for six months)
  • RHB (2.20% p.a. — min. $20,000 for three or six months)
  • OCBC (2.15% p.a. — min. $30,000 for nine months)
  • Standard Chartered (2.10% p.a. — min. $25,000 for five months)
  • HSBC (1.90% p.a. — min. $30,000 for three or six months)

To view fixed deposit rates by commitment period or deposit amount, navigate our summary to jump to the section that best matches your needs.

Fixed deposit rates by commitment period

When it comes to fixed deposits, do you have a time frame in mind? Whether you want to stash your cash for three, six or 12 months, we’ve worked out the best fixed deposit rates for you.

Best fixed deposit rates for a 3-month commitment period

Looking for a short fixed deposit period? Here are the best fixed deposit rates in Singapore for a 3-month commitment period. 

  • Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed (2.45% p.a. — three months with no minimum amount)
  • StashAway Simple Guaranteed (2.40% p.a. — three months with no minimum amount)
  • Bank of China (2.50% p.a. — $500 for three months)
  • ICBC (2.4o% p.a. — $500 for three months)
  • CIMB (2.30% p.a. — min. $10,000 for three months)
  • RHB (2.20% p.a. — min. $20,000 for three or six months)
  • Citibank (2.20% p.a. — $50,000 for three or six months)

Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed

Period Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed rate (no min. or max deposit amount)
1 month 2.40% p.a.
3 months 2.45% p.a.
6 months 2.40% p.a.
12 months 2.00% p.a.

Rates accurate as of 8 April 2025. Do check the Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed page for the latest rates.

If you’re looking for a fuss-free, guaranteed way to grow your money, you might want to look beyond our traditional banks.

Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed isn't technically a fixed deposit, but invests your funds into fixed deposits by with banks that are regulated by MAS. Their rates are generally higher than traditional banks, and there’s also no minimum or maximum amount.

As of 8 April 2025, Syfe Cash+ Guaranteed is offering up to 2.45% p.a. with a 3-month tenure. It's taken a huge hit since last year, when it was offering up to 3.8%. Still, 2.45% is one of the highest rates this month on our list.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Higher rates than traditional banks, no minimum or maximum deposit amount.
  • What we don't like: No liquidity. You cannot withdraw the funds prematurely even if you’re willing to pay a penalty. With traditional banks, you can prematurely withdraw your fixed deposit funds by paying an early withdrawal fee.

StashAway Simple Guaranteed rate

Period StashAway Simple Guaranteed rate (no min. or max. deposit amount)
1 month 2.50% p.a.
3 months 2.40% p.a.
6 months 2.30% p.a.
12 months 2.20% p.a.

Rates accurate as of 8 April 2025. 

StashAway offers a cash management solution called Simple Guaranteed that earns you interest on your money. StashAway Simple Guaranteed places funds in fixed deposits with MAS-regulated banks, and you get an interest rate that’s slightly higher than what you’d get with a fixed deposit at a bank.

As of 8 April 2025, the highest StashAway Simple Guaranteed interest is 2.50% p.a. for a 1-month period, with no minimum or maximum deposit amounts. It's just a little higher than Syfe's highest rates this month, and for a shorter time frame.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Relatively high rates compared to traditional fixed deposits. Plus, no minimum or maximum deposit amount.
  • What we don't like: Like Syfe's Cash+ Guaranteed, there's no way for you to withdraw your funds early, penalty fee or not. Once locked in, your cash is locked in tight.

ICBC fixed deposit rates

  Deposit amount
Period $20,000 to <$200,000 (over the counter) $500 to <$200,000 (via e-banking)
1 month 2.25% p.a. 2.35% p.a.
3 months 2.30% p.a. 2.40% p.a.
6 months 2.20% p.a. 2.30% p.a.
9 months 2.20% p.a. 2.30% p.a.
12 months 2.15% p.a. 2.40% p.a.

Rates accurate as of 8 April 2025. The rates above are promotional rates subject to change at any time by ICBC. 

There are a few fixed deposits which have pretty low barriers to entry on this list, but Chinese bank ICBC takes the cake. If you set up your fixed deposit via e-banking, their minimum deposit is just $500 — nope, we didn't miss a zero there!

Even if you only have $500 to invest, you can still get a rate of 2.40% p.a. with a commitment period of three months. You have to do this via e-banking to get this rate.

Set on doing it the old school way over the counter? Firstly, you'll have to hit a minimum deposit requirement of $20,000. And secondly, the highest interest rate you can get is slightly lower, at 2.30% p.a. for a 3-month period.

There is a plus point for ICBC's fixed deposit — there's no penalty for early withdrawal. That means you fixed deposit isn’t as fixed as you might think.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Ultra low minimum deposit amount of just $500 via e-banking and a low commitment period of anywhere between a month to a year, making ICBC very accessible. ICBC also doesn't penalise you for early withdrawals.
  • What we don't like: Rates are only slightly above average. And for older folk who want to open a fixed deposit account in person, their minimum deposit amount shoots up to $20,000 while the fixed deposit rates drop slightly.

Citibank fixed deposit rates

  Deposit amount
Period $50,000 to $3 million
3 months 2.20% p.a.
6 months 2.20% p.a.

Note: The promotional rates above are stated as valid until April 30, 2025. Do check Citibank’s fixed deposit promotion page for the latest rates in case Citibank makes changes.

The best Citibank fixed deposit rate you can currently get is 2.20% p.a. for a minimum deposit amount of $50,000 and a commitment period of three or six months. That’s down by 0.20% since their promotional rates in March 2025, which in turn was down 0.10% from their rates in Feb 2025.

One disadvantage of Citibank's fixed deposit is it’s generally not very accessible — despite the relatively short commitment periods, $50,000 is a large sum of money. That said, their current minimum deposit amount of $50,000 is actually lowered already from the previous minimum of $250,000.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Short commitment period of just three months. For those with a lot of money to park in a fixed deposit account, there’s also a high upper limit of $3 million.
  • What we don't like: High minimum deposit amount. Not everyone has $50,000 just lying around.

Read Also
money
Best fixed deposit rates in Singapore (February 2025): Minimum deposits from $500, rates up to 2.90%

HSBC fixed deposit rates

Deposit period Personal Banking customers Premier and Premier Elite customers without investment holdings Premier and Premier Elite customers with investment holdings
3 months 1.90% p.a. 2.10% p.a. 2.30% p.a.
6 months 1.90% p.a. 2.10% p.a. 2.30% p.a.
12 months 1.80% p.a. 2.00% p.a. 2.20% p.a.

Promotional rates valid until April 30, 2025. Do check HSBC’s website for the latest rates.

HSBC is offering anything from 1.80% to 2.30% p.a., depending on your banking relationship with them. For the bulk of us who are regular banking customers, the highest fixed deposit rate you can get with HSBC this month is just 1.90% p.a.

The best case scenario is if you are a Premier or Premier Elite customer who also has investments with HSBC. If you fit the bill, HSBC will give you 2.30% p.a. for deposit periods of three or six months.

No matter your banking relationship with HSBC, the minimum sum you have to put in is a hefty $30,000. Compared to other banks, it’s a rather large sum for an average at best fixed deposit interest rate.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Short commitment period of just three months available.
  • What we don't like: High minimum sum. You’re going to need at least $30,000 to place a fixed deposit with HSBC.

Bank of China fixed deposit rates

Period Fixed deposit interest rates
Over the counter placement ($10,000 and above) Mobile banking placement ($500 and above)
1 month 2.30% p.a. 2.40% p.a.
3 months 2.40% p.a. 2.50% p.a.
6 months 2.35% p.a. 2.45% p.a.
9 months 2.30% p.a. 2.40% p.a.
12 months 2.30% p.a. 2.40% p.a.
18 months 2.10% p.a. 2.20% p.a.
24 months 1.90% p.a. 2.00% p.a.

The rates above were set on March 31, 2025 and are subject to change any time by the Bank of China. We noticed they change rates every few weeks or so. 

The Bank of China is currently offering 2.50% p.a. for a placement of $500 for a period of three months — surprisingly easy to do, in terms of the minimum deposit amount and deposit period. Do note that you need to make this deposit via mobile banking to enjoy this rate. 

Rates aside, the best part about the Bank of China’s fixed deposit rates is the low minimum deposit and tenor period. Currently, even if you only have $500 to spare for only one month, you can still get a pretty decent interest rate of 2.40% p.a. 

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Short commitment period of three months, and very low minimum deposit amount of $500.
  • What we don't like: Like ICBC, the Bank of China offers different rates depending on how you place your funds — online rates are better than rates at the bank branch. This may disadvantage older folks who want to open a fixed deposit account over the counter and find that their fixed deposit rates become 0.10% p.a. lower.

Best fixed deposit rates for a 6-month and 12-month commitment periods

Looking to stash your cash in a fixed deposit account for six months or one year? Here's a summary of the best fixed deposit rates in Singapore in 2025 for 6-month and 12-month commitment periods:

Best fixed deposit rates in Singapore for 6 and 12 months (April 2025)
Min. deposit amount 6 months 12 months
No minimum 2.40% p.a. (Syfe); 2.30% p.a. (StashAway) 2.20% p.a. (StashAway, Syfe)
$500 2.45% p.a. (Bank of China); 2.30% p.a (ICBC) 2.40% p.a. (Bank of China); 2.25% p.a. (ICBC)
$10,000 2.15 – 2.20% p.a. (CIMB) 2.00 – 2.05% p.a. (CIMB)
$20,000 2.90% p.a. (Maybank); 2.20 – 2.30% p.a. (RHB) 2.70% p.a. (Maybank); 2.10 – 2.20% p.a. (RHB)
$30,000 2.10% p.a. (OCBC)
$50,000 2.50% p.a. (State Bank of India) 2.40% p.a. (State Bank of India)
$100,000 2.80% p.a. (HL Bank)

CIMB fixed deposit rates

  Deposit amount: $10,000 and above
Period Personal Banking (For regular CIMB customers) Preferred Banking
3 months 2.30% p.a. 2.35% p.a.
6 months 2.15% p.a. 2.20% p.a.
9 months 2.00% p.a. 2.05% p.a.
12 months 2.00% p.a. 2.05% p.a.

Promotional rates valid from April 1, 2025, subject to change anytime by CIMB. 

Malaysian bank CIMB is offering relatively good fixed deposit rates in Singapore this month, at up to 2.30% p.a. for regular CIMB customers and 2.35% p.a. if you're a CIMB Preferred Banking customer.

This promo is for deposits of at least $10,000. To enjoy the highest rates, you need to lock up your money for three months and must apply and deposit your money online.

If you're looking to deposit smaller amounts of your savings into a fixed deposit account, CIMB's board rates apply from deposits of $1,000 and up. However, they are a measly 0.2 per cent to 0.3 per cent p.a. or so. In this instance, you would be better off placing your money almost anywhere else.

ICBC (2.40 per cent p.a. with a minimum deposit of $500 for three months) and the Bank of China (2.50 per cent p.a. with a minimum deposit of $500 for three months) are good options for small deposit amounts and small time frames.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Relatively short commitment periods of three and six months.
  • What we don't like: CIMB's best rates are reserved for their Preferred Banking customers — these are 0.05% p.a. higher than the rates for regular Personal Banking customers. So if they advertise their rates as up to a certain rate, know that those rates may not apply to you.

RHB fixed deposit rates

  Deposit amount: $20,000 and above
Period Personal banking Premier banking
3 months 2.20% p.a. 2.30% p.a.
6 months 2.20% p.a. 2.30% p.a.
12 months 2.10% p.a. 2.20% p.a.

Note: The rates above are correct as of 8 April 2025. They are promotional rates subject to change at any time by RHB. 

The easiest way to place your fixed deposit with RHB is on your phone via the RHB Mobile SG App. However, if that isn’t possible for you, RHB’s fixed deposit rates are the same whether you use mobile banking or head down to one of their branches.

The highest rate personal banking customers can get is 2.20% p.a. with a minimum deposit requirement of $20,000 — slightly on the high side compared to other banks. Currently, this rate applies to two of the three available tenors — three or six months.

A big advantage to RHB's fixed deposit is that they don’t charge you any penalty fee for early withdrawal. That means you can take your cash out early with no penalty in the event of an emergency.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: No premature penalty fee if you want to withdraw your funds early!
  • What we don't like: RHB's minimum deposit amount of $20,000 is higher than that for other banks.

HL Bank fixed deposit rates

Period Fixed deposit rates 
6 month 2.80% p.a.

Do check HL Bank's latest fixed deposit promotion; HL Bank may revise rates at any time at their discretion.

A member of the Hong Leong group, HL Bank's current fixed deposit promotion is for 2.80% p.a., one of the highest rates this month.

The bad news is that it comes with large minimum deposit amount of $100,000. If you don’t have this amount, HL Bank is not even an option for you.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: High promotional fixed deposit rates — we've seen HL Bank hit 4% p.a. at its peak in 2023. This month, HL Bank's 2.8% is — in relative terms — also one of the highest.
  • What we don't like: Their promotional rates require a very high minimum deposit amount of $100,000.

Maybank fixed deposit rates

  Deposit amount: $20,000 and above
Period iSAVvy Time Deposit Promotion (Online Placement) Deposit Bundle Promotion (Placement in Branch)
6 months 2.45% p.a. 2.90% p.a.
9 months 2.40% p.a. 2.70% p.a.
12 months 2.35% p.a. 2.70% p.a.

Note: The rates above are promotional rates subject to change at any time by Maybank. 

Maybank is among one of the higher fixed deposit rates this month with up to 2.90% p.a. (six months) under a deposit bundle promotion. Without the bundle, it’s 2.45% p.a. (six months).

To unlock the highest rate that's available under the deposit bundle promotion, you must have an eligible Maybank savings accounts or current account. For every $1,000 in the account (minimum of $2,000), you can put $10,000 into your fixed deposit (minimum $20,000).

For example, if I have $3,000 in my Maybank savings account, I can do a $30,000 fixed deposit and earn 2.90% p.a. on it over six months.

While that's a relatively high rate this month, don’t forget that you need to leave money in your current or savings account to unlock this rate. This sum of money you stash away will come with an opportunity cost. In the example above, I face the opportunity cost of the interest I would be able to earn on the $3,000 even while I earn interest on the $30,000 fixed deposit.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: We like that both online placements and placements in branch enjoy the same rates — those who can’t access one or the other for whatever reason aren't disadvantaged. Their deposit bundle promotions also work well if you already have or intend to get a Maybank savings account.
  • What we don't like: Low rates, longer commitment periods, and quite a large deposit amount relative to other banks on this list.

OCBC fixed deposit rates

Period Deposit amount of $30,000 and above
9 months 2.05% p.a. (placement in branch) / 2.15% p.a. (online banking)
12 months 2.00% p.a. (placement in branch) / 2.10% p.a. (online banking)

Note: The rates above are promotional rates subject to change at any time by OCBC. 

OCBC's highest fixed deposit rate this month is 2.15% p.a. for a 9-month deposit period. That's if you use internet banking. Going down to an OCBC branch to set up your fixed deposit account is going to yield an even lower rate of 2.05% p.a.

While 2.15% p.a. is not high, OCBC has maintained relatively low fixed deposit rates for the past few months anyway. Now that other banks have slashed theirs, OCBC’s has gone from low to kinda average.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Short commitment period of six months.
  • What we don't like: Relatively high minimum deposit amount of $30,000. OCBC also has a pretty significant disparity in its in-branch rates versus online banking rates, which makes me think older folks who only can only access banking services in person are disadvantaged.

Read Also
money
9 best personal loans in Singapore with lowest interest rates (April 2025)

Fixed deposit rates by minimum deposit amount

Is cash your limiting factor? Good news — the minimum amount for a fixed deposit account starts from as low as $500! Here are the best fixed deposit rates for deposits of the following amounts:

  • $10,000 and under
  • $20,000 – $49,999
  • $50,000 and above

Best fixed deposit rates for deposits $10,000 and under

These are the best fixed deposit rates in Singapore 2025 for deposits $10,000 and under:

  • Bank of China (2.50% p.a. — min. $500 for three months)
  • DBS (2.45% p.a. — min. $1,000 for 12 months)
  • ICBC (2.40% p.a. — $500 for three months)
  • CIMB (2.30% p.a. — min. $10,000 for three months)
  • UOB (2.30% p.a. — min. $10,000 for six months)

DBS fixed deposit rates

  Deposit amount
Period $1,000 – $19,999 $20,000 – $999,999
1 month 0.30% p.a. 0.05% p.a.
3 months 1.00% p.a.
6 months 2.15% p.a.
9 months 2.35% p.a.
12 months – 60 months 2.45% p.a.

DBS kept their fixed deposit rates consistent throughout 2024, with rates of up to 3.20% p.a. But now as of 2025, they've taken a big hit.

Currently, the best DBS fixed deposit rate is 2.45 per cent p.a. for those who put $1,000 to $19,999 into a fixed deposit for 12, 18, 24, 36, 48 or 60 months. That's decent compared to other promotional fixed deposit rates this month from other banks, and of course is still miles better than having your cash parked in a regular savings account.

Additionally, one thing I have always liked about the DBS fixed deposit rates is their low minimum deposit amount of $1,000. Additionally, they're also pretty flexible with the deposit period. If you can only afford to lock in your cash for less than 12 months, DBS will let you choose any deposit period at 1-month intervals, from 1 - 12 months. Most other banks limit this to 3-month intervals.

However, if you're looking to put $20,000 or more into a fixed deposit, the current DBS rates are a flat, unimpressive 0.05 per cent p.a. for all lock-in periods. You'd be better off investing your money almost anywhere else.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Low minimum amount of just $1,000. We also like that you get so much flexibility in terms of how long you want to leave it in for—DBS offers deposit periods in 1-month intervals from 1 -12 months.
  • What we don’t like: DBS doesn’t have very high fixed deposit rates (and rarely change them too). Their rates only become worth looking at from deposit periods of 12 months onwards, and even then are only relatively attractive if other banks drop their rates. Also, DBS is a poor option for investing larger sums. If you want to put in $20,000 or more, DBS fixed deposit rates plummet to just 0.05% p.a.

UOB fixed deposit rates

  UOB fixed deposit rates
Period Minimum deposit amount: $10,000
6 months 2.30% p.a.
10 months 2.00% p.a.

Promotion valid until: April 30, 2025, subject to change by UOB. 

UOB’s fixed deposit rate is currently 2-tiered — 2.30% p.a. for a deposit period of six months and 2.00% p.a. for a deposit period of 10 months. This rate applies as long as you deposit a minimum of $10,000, and is comparable to parking your money with CIMB for three months to get 2.30% p.a. interest.

If you want higher rates, consider the Bank of China (2.50% p.a.) or ICBC (2.40% p.a.) with just $500 for a 3-month tenor.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Commitment periods start from a relatively short six months.
  • What we don't like: UOB's current rate is below average. As aforementioned, you’d do better at other banks for the same deposit amount and period.

Best fixed deposit rates for deposits $20,000-$49,999

If you have over $20,000 you want to stash away, here are your best fixed deposit rates in Singapore this month:

  • Maybank (2.90% p.a. — min. $20,000 for six months)
  • Bank of China (2.50% p.a. — min. $500 for three months)
  • Hong Leong Finance (2.45% p.a. — min. $20,000 for nine or 10 months)
  • ICBC (2.40% p.a. — $500 for three months)
  • CIMB (2.30% p.a. — min. $10,000 for three months)
  • RHB (2.20% p.a. — min. $20,000 for three or six months)
  • OCBC (2.15% p.a. — min. $30,000 for nine months)
  • Standard Chartered (2.10% p.a. — min. $25,000 for five months)

Standard Chartered fixed deposit rates

  Deposit amount: $25,000 and above
Period Personal Banking customers Priority Banking customers Priority Private Banking customers
5 months 2.10% p.a. 2.15% p.a. 2.20% p.a.

Promotional rates valid until: April 10, 2025, subject to change by Standard Chartered. 

With interest rates from 2.10% p.a. to 2.20% p.a., Standard Chartered’s fixed deposit rates are on the lower end decent this month.

Plus, you only get the highest rate if you’re a priority private banking customer, i.e. with a certain high net worth.

If you’re a regular customer, you’ll only be able to get a rate of 2.10% p.a. with a 5-month tenor at their current promotional rates. 

In any case, you can get a better rate with the Bank of China with a smaller minimum sum — deposit $500 or more to lock in 2.50% p.a. over three months.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Relatively short commitment period of six months.
  • What we don't like: Standard Chartered doesn’t have very high rates for the average Joe — you only get a decent one if you’re a priority private banking customer.

Read Also
money
Travel insurance for infectious diseases: What you need to know (2025)

Best fixed deposit rates for deposits $50,000 and above

Have a fairly sizeable sum of money? If you have $50,000 or more that you want to put into a fixed deposit account, you've got a few good options. Here are the best fixed deposit rates in Singapore 2025 for deposits $50,000 and above:

  • State Bank of India (2.50% p.a. — min. $50,000 for six months)
  • Bank of China (2.50% p.a. — min. $500 for three months)
  • ICBC (2.40% p.a. — $500 for three months)
  • RHB (2.20% p.a. — min. $20,000 for three or six months)
  • CIMB (2.30% p.a. — min. $10,000 for three months)
  • Hong Leong Finance (2.45% p.a. — min. $20,000 for nine or 10 months)
  • Citibank (2.20% p.a. — $50,000 for three or six months)

State Bank of India Singapore fixed deposit rates

The State Bank of India is currently offering just two fixed deposit promotions with a minimum deposit of $50,000:

Tenor Promotional interest rate Minimum deposit
6-month 2.50% p.a. $50,000
12-month 2.40% p.a. $50,000

These rates are quite high this month compared to other banks. However, so is their minimum sum you need to deposit.

If we're looking at smaller sums, we’re left with the board rates that only require a minimum of $5,000:

 
  SBI Singapore board rates
Period Deposit amount: $5,000 to $1,000,000
1 month 0.35% p.a.
3 months 1.75% p.a.
6 months 2.25% p.a.
12 months 2.00% p.a.
24 months 1.50% p.a.

The highest board rate you'll get to enjoy is 2.25% p.a., which is actually comparable to some promotional rates this month from other banks.

However, if you're planning to leave your $5,000 in a fixed deposit, you can still find better rates elsewhere. For just $500, you can enjoy 2.40% p.a. with ICBC or 2.65% p.a. with the Bank of China for a 3-month period.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Relatively short commitment periods available, with decent interest rates.
  • What we don't like: SBI asks for a high minimum deposit sum.

Hong Leong Finance fixed deposit rates

Deposit amount 9 months 10 months 11 months 13 months
$5,000 to < $20,000 2.40% 2.40% 2.35% 2.35%
$20,000 and above 2.45% 2.45% 2.40% 2.40%

The rates above were set on March 20, 2025 and are subject to change any time at the discretion of Hong Leong Finance. See Hong Leong Finance’s fixed deposit rates for the latest.

Besides putting your money with banks, it's also worthwhile looking into other financial institutions which also offer competitive fixed deposit rates. Hong Leong Finance is one such institution. Don't get it confused with HL Bank, though. While the 2 share the same name, they offer entirely different fixed deposit rates.

With a lock-in period of nine or 10 months, Hong Leong Finance is currently offering a fixed deposit rate of 2.45 per cent p.a. for a $20,000 minimum deposit. For slightly longer tenors of 11 or 13 months, you earn 2.40 per cent p.a. These rates are comparable to other banks this month.

MoneySmart Take

  • What we like: Short tenor periods for which you have to stash your cash with them.
  • What we don't like: Hong Leong Finance isn’t coming out super strong in terms of their fixed deposit rates — average at best. They also require a minimum deposit of $20,000, which is not the most beginner-friendly.

Read Also
money
Best bank offers in Singapore (March 2025): Lady Gaga concert presale, up to 50% off flights and more

Fixed deposit vs savings account - what's the difference?

Anyone looking for a better alternative to their basic savings account will be faced with the same decision: fixed deposit or high-interest savings account? Both options beat the measly 0.05% p.a. interest on a regular savings account, but looking at interest rate alone isn’t enough to compare the two. 

Here are the differences between fixed deposits and savings accounts at a glance:

  Fixed deposit Savings account
Tenure As low as one month, but go for at least six months for better rates None
Interest rate Usually, the longer the tenure, the better the interest rate Usually the same regardless of tenure
Deposit amount Fixed amount, usually at least $5,000, but promotional offers can go as low as $500 with ICBC and the Bank of China Smaller initial deposit and minimum monthly balance ($500 to $3,000)
Currency SGD by default, but some banks offer higher interest rates for foreign currency SGD by default. There are a few multi-currency accounts, but no difference in interest rate
Can you withdraw? Contrary to popular belief, yes, you can withdraw prematurely. However, you lose the interest and may have to pay a penalty. Yes, no impact on interest, but don’t fall below the minimum balance
Interest payments Quarterly or annually Monthly
Risk level Virtually risk-free, insured up to $75,000 by Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC)

Compare fixed deposit vs Singapore Savings Bonds (SSB) vs T-bills

If you're looking for a virtually risk-free investment vehicle, you're bound to have come across fixed deposits, Singapore Savings Bonds (SSB) and Treasury bills (T-bills). Which is the right one for you? Here are some key differences you should consider.

  Fixed deposit SSB T-bills
Tenure As low as 1 month, but go for at least 6 months for better rates 10 years 6 months / 1 year
Current interest rate Up to 3.35% p.a. 2.69% p.a. (Apr 2025 SSB’s 10-year average return)  2.73% p.a. (cut-off yield for 26 Mar 2025 6-month T-bill)
Deposit amount Usually at least $5,000, but promotional offers can go as low as $500 with ICBC and the Bank of China $500-$200,000 $1,000, with a cap of $1 million in non-competitive bids at each auction. 
Currency SGD by default, but some banks offer higher interest rates for foreign currency SGD SGD
Can you withdraw? Contrary to popular belief, yes—you can withdraw prematurely. However, you lose the interest and may have to pay a penalty. Yes, with no penalty. However, you must pay a $2 transaction fee each time you buy/redeem a bond. No, you cannot redeem T-bills early. Instead, you can try to sell it on the secondary market.
Interest payments Quarterly or annually Every 6 months Upon maturity, full value of T-Bill refunded following initial sale at a discount
Risk level Virtually risk-free, insured up to $75,000 by Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC) Virtually risk-free, backed by the Singapore government Virtually risk-free, backed by the Singapore government

Read Also
money
9 best personal loans in Singapore with lowest interest rates (April 2025)

This article was first published in MoneySmart.

homepage

trending

trending
    GE2025: 9 rallies to take place on April 26
    Foreigners trying to influence General Election: MHA, ELD ask Meta to block access to posts
    PM Wong urges voters to 'choose leaders of good character' in PAP's first party political broadcast
    It is 'important for Singapore's democracy' that WP wins more seats, says Pritam in election broadcast
    GE2025: PSP, RDU, SDP, PPP, PAR, NSP promise to push for policy changes if elected to Parliament in first political broadcast
    'Pasir Ris-Changi GRC residents think we have a good chance of winning', says SDA's Chia Yun Kai
    From weird to wonderful: 6 GE2025 quotes that will have you doing a double take
    'Everyone has the right to express their feelings': WP candidates address four-cornered fight in Tampines GRC
    Sora Ma responds to hate comments, including 1 accusing her of being 'happy' soon after husband's death
    Post about WP new face Siti Alia's rally speech sparks online debate
    PAP's Desmond Lee responds to opposition's calls for GST exemption, says 'we want to make it progressive'
    'A fresher Pritam Singh': Teo Chee Hean to Aljunied resident who mistook PAP's Faisal Abdul Aziz for WP chief

Singapore

Singapore
    • AsiaOne clinches 5 awards for online strategies at Digital Media Awards Asia 2025
    • GE2025: WP to defend Sengkang GRC against PAP
    • '2 potential office holders': Shanmugam to lead PAP team for Nee Soon GRC with 4 new faces
    • 'He was a champion of unity and hope': Singapore Archdiocese pays moving tribute to Pope Francis on his passing
    • Parliamentary pursuits: Retiree's 'secret' autograph book holds over 90 MP signatures
    • SDP leaders criticise GST hike and govt vouchers: 'Give you cup of water to put out fire'
    • PAP has 'lost its way', say Tan Cheng Bock and Leong Mun Wai in PSP's first GE2025 rally
    • Singaporeans have to be fighters 'just like what the people in Hougang have taught us': Pritam Singh in his first GE2025 rally
    • Don't give the opposition a free pass, PM Wong cautions at PAP's first GE2025 rally
    • GE2025: Party Political Broadcasts and SDP rally on April 25

Entertainment

Entertainment
    • Taiwanese actor Jeremy Huang, known for appearance on Mr Con & Ms Csi, dies at 31
    • 'You see how deep the water is': Darren Lim carries son on his shoulders through Bukit Timah flash floods on April 20
    • Desmond Tan recounts challenges of playing twins with polar personalities in new drama
    • Gossip mill: Elvin Ng and other celebs to play charity football match, Sora Ma becomes Singapore citizen, Elva Hsiao 80% recovered after hip fracture
    • Sean 'Diddy' Combs' lawyer defends 'swinger' lifestyle after rapper rejected plea
    • Hugh Grant calls for ban on laptops and tablets in the classroom
    • 'Grandpa robbers' face trial in Paris over Kim Kardashian jewellery heist
    • Ronald Cheng and wife in court over divorce and child support
    • Freddie Mercury's sister spent $5.2m buying up his auctioned belongings
    • Harvey Weinstein motives are disputed as sex crimes retrial begins

Lifestyle

Lifestyle
    • Local brands like Ann Chin Popiah and Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice to open at 5-star hotel in Macau
    • 'It hurts, losing everything': Mentai-Ya boss closes all remaining stalls after $550k losses in 2 years
    • Kenny Rogers Roasters now has an all-you-can-eat buffet for $28.90++, here's a sneak peek at the menu
    • This new American malt shop along Joo Chiat Road looks like it came straight out of a Wes Anderson film
    • COE prices end mixed in second bidding for April 2025, with Cat A and E seeing a slight increase
    • Electrifying business: Mercedes-Benz launches 3 new electric vans in Singapore
    • Books Kinokuniya to open new outlet at Raffles City this August
    • Fashion meets sustainability: A sneak peek at 2nd Street outlet in Orchard, opening on April 29
    • The Coconut Club has a new restaurant inspired by an 'overlooked' fruit, here's what to expect
    • Four Star celebrates 57th anniversary with premium mattresses from $570 and bedframes at just $57

Digicult

Digicult
    • A $500 wake-up call: How the Samsung Galaxy Ring made me realise my stress
    • Monster Hunter Wilds producer explains how game has remained unique and fresh over 20 years
    • Google Pixel 9a: The best AI-centric phone under $800 in 2025?
    • Western intelligence agencies warn spyware threat targeting Taiwan, Tibetan rights advocates
    • Taiwan says China using generative AI to ramp up disinformation and 'divide' the island
    • Russian court fines Telegram app for refusal to remove anti-government content, TASS reports
    • One Beijing man's quest to keep cooking — and connecting with Americans — on camera
    • Nintendo Switch 2 to launch in June with US$449.99 price tag
    • Games in April: RPGs, racing and Ronaldo in a fighting game
    • Is it time to get a MacBook at a good price? The M4 MacBook Air says yes

Money

Money
    • Giant deal: Malaysian company to acquire Cold Storage and Giant supermarket chains in Singapore
    • China warns countries against striking trade deals with US at its expense
    • Why we bought a $960k 2-bedder condo at Penrose during Covid-19: A buyer's case study
    • Why are recently MOP-ed 3-room HDB flats in Yishun fetching top prices?
    • Should you buy a freehold or leasehold condo in 2025? Here's the surprising better performer
    • Chinatown merchants in the US are feeling the bite of tariffs
    • From Xiaxue's executive flat to Bishan's million-dollar flat: What's behind the price surge of 4-room HDB flats?
    • DPM Gan unveils task force to tackle impact of US tariffs on Singapore, warns of a 'more unstable and fragmented world'
    • South Korea, Vietnam pledge co-operation as US tariffs loom
    • Macau's leader warns world's biggest gambling hub could face a budget deficit

Latest

Latest
  • More than 100,000 pay respects to Pope Francis in final hours of lying-in-state
  • Trump says he pushed Netanyahu on Gaza aid
  • US charges Milwaukee judge with obstructing immigration arrest in Trump crackdown
  • Conflicting US-China talks statements add to global trade confusion
  • US universities help foreign students weather Trump purge
  • US prosecutors to seek death penalty against Luigi Mangione in UnitedHealth executive's murder
  • UN agencies for food and refugees plan deep cuts as funding plummets, documents show
  • World Food Programme to reduce food support in Sudan due to funding shortages
  • In first 100 days, Trump tells migrants 'leave the United States'

In Case You Missed It

In Case You Missed It
  • Pope Francis died after suffering stroke and cardiac arrest: Vatican
  • GE2025: Why this 32-year-old is setting up a political party to contest East Coast GRC
  • Two men fight each other at Johor checkpoint over allegation of cutting queue, probe on
  • Pair narrowly escape death after driving off incomplete highway in Indonesia while following Google Maps
  • Ex-MP Lee Bee Wah introduces former MDDI director Goh Hanyan as potential candidate to Nee Soon residents
  • Robert Ng, son of late billionaire Ng Teng Fong, and 3 children to be designated as 'politically significant persons'
  • 'She should be with her family': Employer gives maid plane ticket, $800 to return to Myanmar and search for missing mum
  • 'He needed something to help him fight,' says man who bought Hokkien mee for dying patient
  • Thai woman struggles to evacuate during earthquake while her dog sleeps unfazed
This website is best viewed using the latest versions of web browsers.