The start of the new year has brought unwelcome news for investors across the country. On Thursday, 1 January, the Directorate of National Savings, under the Ministry of Finance’s Internal Resources Division, issued an official notice announcing a revision of interest rates for various government savings instruments.
According to the new framework, the maximum interest rate on savings bonds has been reduced to 10.59%, while the minimum rate now stands at 8.74%. This adjustment is part of a continued policy following the earlier rate reduction in July 2025.
A key change in the revised structure is that interest calculation will now depend on the amount invested. Investments of up to BDT 750,000 will attract a relatively higher interest rate, whereas sums above this threshold will earn interest at a lower rate.
The following table summarises the previous and current interest rates for some of the most commonly held savings instruments:
| Savings Instrument | Investment Limit | Previous Interest Rate (%) | New Interest Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Savings Certificate | ≤ 7.5 lakh BDT | 11.93 | 10.54 |
| Family Savings Certificate | > 7.5 lakh BDT | 11.80 | 10.41 |
| Pensioners’ Savings Certificate | ≤ 7.5 lakh BDT | 11.98 | 10.59 |
| Pensioners’ Savings Certificate | > 7.5 lakh BDT | 11.80 | 10.41 |
| 5-Year Bangladesh Savings Bond | ≤ 7.5 lakh BDT | 11.83 | 10.44 |
| 5-Year Bangladesh Savings Bond | > 7.5 lakh BDT | 11.80 | 10.41 |
| 3-Monthly Savings Certificate | ≤ 7.5 lakh BDT | 11.82 | 10.48 |
| 3-Monthly Savings Certificate | > 7.5 lakh BDT | 11.77 | 10.43 |
The Ministry of Finance has clarified that savings bonds issued before 1 July 2025 will continue to accrue interest at the previous rates. The new rates will only apply to reinvestments or newly issued certificates. Moreover, the authorities plan to review and adjust interest rates every six months going forward.
Economic analysts describe the reduction as a strategic move to maintain financial stability while ensuring a balance between investor security and reasonable returns. Experts recommend that investors reassess their savings strategies to maximise the benefits under the revised rates.
Despite the lower returns in the short term, savings bonds remain a safe and reliable long-term investment, backed by the full guarantee of the government. They continue to be a preferred choice for cautious investors seeking secure avenues to grow their wealth.