Best USD Time Deposit Interest Rates and Offers [June 2024]
Time deposits represent a cornerstone of conservative investment strategies, offering a blend of safety, predictability, and relatively attractive returns in an often-volatile financial landscape. Understanding the mechanics and benefits of time deposits is crucial for making informed decisions that align with one's financial goals and risk tolerance. With the effects of previous US interest rate hikes, Hong Kong banks continue to offer competitive interest rates on USD time deposits, presenting a prime opportunity for you to capitalize on their idle cash and gaining a secure way to grow your assets with minimal risk.Â
Summary:
- The best 12-month USD time deposit rate from traditional banks was Fubon Bank at 5.00%, with a minimum deposit requirement of USD 30,000.
- The best 12-month USD time deposit rate from virtual banks were AirStar Bank at 4.20%, with a minimum deposit requirement of HKD 1,000.
- The best 6-month USD time deposit rate from traditional banks was Fubon Bank at 5.10%, with a minimum deposit requirement of USD 30,000.
- The best 6-month USD time deposit rate from virtual banks was Fusion Bank at 4.70%, with no minimum deposit requirement.
- The best 3-month USD time deposit rate from traditional banks was Fubon Bank at 5.30%, with a minimum deposit requirement of USD 30,000.
- The best 3-month USD time deposit rate from virtual banks was Fusion Bank at 4.80%, with no minimum deposit requirement.
- The best 1-month USD time deposit rate from traditional banks were Bank of China and Nanyang Commercial Bank at 4.00%, with a minimum deposit requirement of HKD 50,000 and HKD 30,000 respectively.
- The best 1-month USD time deposit rate from virtual banks was AirStar Bank at 1.20%, with a minimum deposit requirement of HKD 1,000.
- StashAway USD Cash Yield offers a yield-to-maturity of 5.33% p.a., with no minimum, no maximum deposit requirement, and no lock-ins.
Best USD Time Deposit Interest Rates Offered by Traditional Banks
| Bank | 7 day | 1 month | 3 months | 6 months | 1 year | Min Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSBC Premier Elite/ Premier | 4.00% | 4.00% | 3.60% | USD 2,000 | ||
| HSBC One/ Others | 3.70% | 3.70% | 3.30% | USD 2,000 | ||
| Bank of China (Preferential FX Time Deposit Offer) | 8.00% | 4.00% | USD 1,000 | |||
| Standard Chartered (new funds) | 4.20% | 4.20% | 3.90% | USD 2,000 | ||
| ICBC Asia(Elite Club Account Customer) | 3.00% | 4.60% | 4.50% | 4.40% | USD 15,000 | |
| 3.20% | 4.80% | 4.65% | 4.5% | USD 100,000 | ||
| 3.40% | 5.00% | 4.75% | 4.55% | USD 1,000,000 | ||
| ICBC Asia (Integrated Account Customer) | 3.00% | 4.60% | 4.50% | 4.40% | USD 15,000 | |
| Bank of China (new funds) | 3.80% | 3.80% | 3.50% | USD 1,000 | ||
| ICBC Asia (New Funds) | 4.00% (38 days) | 4.90% (98 days) | 4.65% (188 days) | USD 15,000 | ||
| 4.20% (38 days) | 5.00% (98 days) | 4.75% (188 days) | USD 100,000 | |||
| Fubon Bank | 5.30% | 5.30% | 5.10% | 5.00% | USD 30,000 | |
| Bank of East Asia (Supreme Gold - New Fund) | 4.75% | 4.50% | 4.25% | USD 1,000 | ||
| Bank of East Asia (Supreme Gold - Existing Fund) | 4.65% | 4.40% | 4.15% | USD 1,000 | ||
| Bank of East Asia (Supreme) | 4.65% | 4.40% | 4.15% | USD 1,000 | ||
| Bank of East Asia (All other account) | 4.65% | 4.40% | 4.15% | USD 1,000 | ||
| Hang Seng Prestige Private/ Prestige Banking | 5.00% | 4.60% | 4.50% | USD 2,000 | ||
| Hang Seng Bank Prestige Banking - Online Banking | 5.00% | 4.60% | 4.50% | USD 2,000 | ||
| Hang Seng Bank Prestige Banking - Branch/Phone Banking | 4.90% | 4.50% | 4.40% | USD 2,000 | ||
| Hang Seng Preferred Banking (Online Banking) | 5.00% | 4.60% | 4.50% | USD 2,000 | ||
| Hang Seng Preferred Banking (Branch/Phone Banking) | 4.80% | 4.40% | 4.30% | USD 2,000 | ||
| Chong Hing Bank | 0.60% | 4.10% | 4.80% | 4.45% | 4.05% | USD 1,000 |
| 0.80% | 4.30% | 5.00% | 4.65% | 4.25% | USD 10,000 | |
| Nanyang Commercial Bank (Reward-Plus Time Deposit) | 9.00% | 4.70% | HKD 1,000 (equivalent) | |||
| CMB Wing Lung Bank (Branch) | 0.80% | 1.80% | 2.10% | 2.50% | 2.70% | USD 1,000 |
| 0.80% | 1.90% | 2.20% | 2.60% | 2.80% | USD 50,000 | |
| CMB Wing Lung Bank (Bank Mobile App) | 0.80% | 3.40% | 3.90% | 3.90% | 3.80% | USD 1,000 |
| 0.80% | 3.90% | 4.50% | 4.50% | 4.40% | USD 50,000 | |
| 0.80% | 3.90% | 4.50% | 4.50% | 4.40% | USD 100,000 | |
| 0.80% | 4.10% | 4.60% | 4.60% | 4.50% | USD 500,000 | |
| Shanghai Bank (New Fund) | 4.50% | 5.00% | 4.70% | 4.30% | No min | |
| Shanghai Bank (Personal Mobile Banking) | 4.08% | 4.58% | 4.28% | 3.88% | No min | |
| DBS Bank | 3.00% | 4.60% | 4.55% | 4.00% | USD 6,000 | |
| Public Bank (Hong Kong) | 1.50% | 4.25% | 4.75% | 4.65% | 4.50% | No min |
| Citibank (Citigold) | 4.2% | HKD 50,000 | ||||
| OCBC Bank (Premier Banking Customers) | 3.88% | 4.80% | 4.55% | 4.30% | HKD 100,000 (equivalent) | |
| OCBC Bank (Mass Customer) | 3.00% | 4.70% | 4.50% | 4.20% | HKD 100,000 (equivalent) |
* rate as of 18th June 2024
Best USD Time Deposit Interest Rates Offered by Virtual Banks
| Bank | 7 day | 1 month | 3 months | 6 months | 1 year | Min Deposit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fusion Bank | 0.05% | 0.10% | 4.80% | 4.70% | 4.00% | No min |
| AirStar Bank | 0.05% | 1.20% | 4.20% | 4.20% | 4.20% (360 days) | HKD 1,000 |
| ZA Bank | 0.10% | 0.10% | 0.15% | 0.20% | 0.20% (360 days) | HKD 1 |
| Livi Bank | 0.25% | 0.45% | 1.50% | 2.00% | 2.40% | HKD 500 |
| 0.25% | 0.45% | 2.50% | 3.00% | 3.40% | HKD 100,000 |
* rate as of 18th June 2024
Earn Up to 5.45% p.a. with StashAway USD Cash Yield
When looking for alternatives to traditional USD time deposits, StashAway's USD Cash Yield is a standout option, offering up to 5.33% p.a. (as of May 2024) with no minimum or maximum deposits requirement. This yield is achieved through investments in ultra-short-dated US Treasuries, which are known for their safety and stability. Unlike fixed deposits, this portfolio has no lock-in periods, allowing for flexible withdrawals and transfers.
Integrating this option into your investment strategy can provide a high-interest alternative to traditional time deposits, ensuring both growth and security for your savings.
How does USD Fixed Deposit Work
USD fixed deposit, also known as USD time deposit or USD certificate of deposit (CD), is a financial product offered by banks and financial institutions. It is a type of savings account that allows you to deposit a specific amount of United States dollars for a predetermined period of time. The term length can significantly impact the interest you earn, with longer terms often offering higher rates. It's essential to shop around and compare rates from various financial institutions to ensure you're getting the best deal.
How to decide between HKD Fixed Deposit and USD Fixed Deposit
When deciding between HKD fixed deposits and USD fixed deposits, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key points to help you make a decision:
- Currency Considerations:Â HKD and USD are pegged between 7.75 and 7.85. FX fluctuation is generally minimal. If you have short-term cash needs in HKD, you may opt for HKD fixed deposits that can provide stability and convenience in managing your money.Â
- Interest Rates:Â Compare the interest rates offered on HKD fixed deposits and USD fixed deposits. USD fixed deposits generally provide a higher interest rate than HKD fixed deposits. Analyze the potential earnings from each currency and weigh them against the associated currency exchange risk.
- FX Conversion Fee:Â Currency conversion often involves an implied fee reflected in the exchange rate spread. Traditional banks typically offer less favorable foreign exchange rates compared to other financial institutions. Therefore, if you plan to convert HKD to USD, it's essential to consider these fees to secure a better rate.
- Diversification: Consider your overall investment portfolio and the importance of diversification. If your investment portfolio is already heavily HKD-based, adding USD fixed deposits can provide diversification and potentially hedge against currency risk. Â
- Accessibility and Liquidity: Consider the accessibility and liquidity of the fixed deposits. Evaluate the ease of depositing and withdrawing funds in both currencies. Assess any potential restrictions, penalties, or fees associated with early withdrawal or premature termination of the fixed deposit. Â
Tips on How to Compare and Choose the Best Time Deposit Rates
- Research and Compare Rates: Start by checking the interest rates offered by various banks, including both traditional and virtual banks. Websites and financial comparison tools can provide up-to-date information on the rates available for different terms and deposit amounts.
- Consider the Term Length: The length of the time deposit can affect the interest rate. Typically, longer terms offer higher rates. Assess your financial needs and decide how long you can afford to lock in your money without access.
- Check for Promotional Offers: Banks often offer promotional rates for new customers or for larger deposits. These promotions can significantly boost your interest earnings but be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully.
- Understand the Fine Print: It is crucial to read the terms and conditions associated with the time deposit. Pay attention to details regarding the renewal policies, early withdrawal penalties, and any conditions that might allow the bank to change the interest rate.
- Evaluate the Credibility of the Financial Institution: Opt for reputable banks that are well-regulated and have a solid track record. This ensures the safety of your deposits.Â
- Be careful of the HKD/USD Foreign Exchange Spread: Although there is a linked exchange rate system in Hong Kong and the Hong Kong dollar exchange rate also remains stable within a band of HKD 7.75 - 7.85 to USD 1. There are still conversion costs and handling fees generated through the process of exchange. Make sure the interest earned is able to cover the exchange spread.
- Consult with Financial Advisors: If you are unsure, consulting with a financial advisor can provide personalized advice based on your overall financial situation and goals.
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