As the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) hints at potential interest rate reductions in its upcoming monetary policy, banks are adopting strategies to attract depositors amid slowing deposit growth. The State Bank of India (SBI) and HDFC Bank have announced significant updates to their deposit schemes, with a focus on offering better returns to senior citizens.
SBI’s Special Deposit Scheme for Senior Citizens
The State Bank of India has introduced a special deposit scheme aimed at benefiting senior citizens:
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Senior Citizens (80+ years):
- Interest rate: 7.75% under the new scheme.
- Applicable for the 444-day Amrit Vrishti Yojana, effective until March 31, 2025.
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General Depositors:
- Interest rate: 7.25% for the same scheme.
This initiative aligns with SBI’s ongoing efforts to encourage savings and support senior citizens with higher returns.
Recurring Deposit Scheme: SBI Har Ghar Lakhpati Yojana
SBI has also launched the Har Ghar Lakhpati Yojana, a recurring deposit scheme:
- Aimed at offering a maturity amount of ₹1 lakh or more based on a pre-calculated deposit plan.
- Current interest rates:
- 6.75% for general depositors.
- 7.25% for senior citizens.
HDFC Bank Revises Interest Rates on Bulk Deposits
HDFC Bank has announced an increase in interest rates on bulk deposits, targeting larger depositors and signaling competitive measures in the banking sector.
- Bulk deposit interest rates have been revised to ensure competitive returns, particularly for corporate and high-net-worth individual (HNI) clients.
Industry-Wide Trends
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Increased Focus on Senior Citizens:
With an aging population, banks are offering preferential rates for senior citizens to attract their savings. -
Deposit Growth Concerns:
Slower deposit growth has prompted banks to launch innovative schemes and offer higher rates. -
Other Banks Following Suit:
- Bank of Baroda recently increased its deposit rates, aligning with industry trends.
- Competitive interest rates across banks are expected to continue until RBI’s next policy announcement.
What This Means for Depositors
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Senior Citizens:
Those aged 60 and above, particularly 80+ years, can benefit from higher interest rates under schemes like SBI’s Amrit Vrishti Yojana. -
General Depositors:
Competitive rates from SBI, HDFC Bank, and others ensure better returns for fixed and recurring deposits. -
High-Net-Worth Individuals:
HDFC Bank’s focus on bulk deposits offers lucrative opportunities for those investing large sums.
Conclusion
As the banking sector prepares for potential RBI rate cuts, these deposit schemes indicate banks’ proactive approach to sustain and grow their deposit base. For senior citizens and depositors with substantial savings, this is an opportune time to leverage higher interest rates and secure better returns.