It's no secret that the current interest rates for both savings accounts and term deposits aren't exactly groundbreaking.
In 2011, deposit products offered well over 6%pa. Fast-forward to 2019 and it's rare to find a term deposit that returns more than 3%pa on your savings.
However, there are a few that do. Generally, the best rates are for longer terms and for larger deposits; however, there are a few offering above 3%pa on deposits of just $1000.
Here are five of the best term deposit rates in the market today.
So rates aren't what they were in 2011 but term deposits still have their place and they offer a number of benefits to savers and investors, even in this low-rate environment.
Bank of Melbourne Term Deposit For balances between $1,000 and $5,000,000 with terms available from 1 month to 5 years. Interest is calculated daily and can be paid at maturity, annually, half yearly or monthly with flexible maturity options from 1 month to 5 years.
Five benefits of term deposits
Contact us about our current special term deposit offer 0.35% p.a. On $5,000+ for 6 months, paid on maturity. The following table displays a snapshot of term deposits with a term range between 11-24 months with interest paid as specified. This is based on an investment of $50,000 in a personal term deposit and is sorted by the highest advertised rate for a 12-month term, and finally by shortest payment frequency.
1. They're low risk
Term deposits are a safe, low-risk way to invest your money. Your deposit, up to $250,000, is covered by the Australian Government guarantee scheme, so if the bank were to go under term deposit holders would be paid back ahead of shareholders.
For investors, term deposits are a great option if you're looking for some low-risk, defensive assets to add to your portfolio.
2. They offer predictable returns
Term deposits offer a fixed interest rate, unlike savings accounts, which have a variable rate that could change at any time.
Bank Of Melbourne Term Deposit Rates Australia
Because the rate on your term deposit is fixed for the life of the term, if interest rates fall lower your rate will remain unchanged. It also means you can predict the return on your initial deposit down to the dollar, which is helpful for both peace of mind and budgeting.
3. They prevent you from dipping into your savings
Unlike money in a savings account, which you can withdraw whenever you need, term deposits are locked in until they mature.
This is a good option if you find yourself regularly dipping into your savings for impulse purchases.
4. There are no ongoing conditions to meet
Savings accounts often have monthly deposit conditions to earn the bonus interest rate, and if you don't meet the conditions you're often left with little to no interest. Term deposits have no ongoing conditions to meet, making them a great set-and-forget savings strategy.
5. They're flexible
Term deposits aren't a one-size-fits-all product. You can choose one that's locked in for just one month or up to five years.
Which Bank Has The Best Term Deposit Rate In Australia
You can also choose how you'd like to receive your interest, whether it's monthly, twice a year, annually or in a lump sum at maturity. You can choose whatever suits your financial needs.
Bank Of Melbourne Term Deposit Rates
Term deposits don't offer the big capital growth that you might experience with some high-risk shares or even property but they do provide a safe and secure place to park your savings while you enjoy guaranteed, risk-free returns.