No government funds will be parked, deposited, invested or transacted through these institutions, it said. "IDFC First Bank and In a regulatory filing made in the early hours, IDFC First Bank said it has disclosed the matter to the banking regulator and also filed a police complaint.Live Events Meanwhile, according to the Haryana government circular, no government funds shall henceforth be parked, deposited, invested, or transacted through these banks. All concerned departments/organisations shall take i ...

Find out how much you could earn with today’s savings rates. Interest rates on savings accounts have been falling, so it’s important to be sure you’re getting the best rate possible when shopping around for a savings account. The following is a breakdown of savings interest rates today and where to find the best offers. Overview of savings interest rates today The national average savings account rate stands at 0.39%, according to the FDIC. This might not seem like much, but consider that three years ag ...

Core Insights - The article emphasizes the importance of Annual Percentage Yield (APY) as a more comprehensive measure than simple interest rates when evaluating savings accounts and certificates of deposit (CDs) [2][3][4] Group 1: Understanding APY - APY represents the total interest earned in one year, expressed as a percentage, and is crucial for comparing different savings options [3] - The concept of APY incorporates compound interest, allowing account holders to earn interest on both their initial deposit and the interest already accrued [4][7] Group 2: Importance of Compounding - Compounding interest significantly enhances earnings; for example, a $10,000 deposit at 4% interest compounded monthly yields $408 instead of $400, demonstrating the value of frequent compounding [4][7] - The article highlights that the best savings accounts currently offer APYs between 3.85% and 4%, while the national average is only 0.60%, indicating a substantial difference in potential earnings [6][7] Group 3: Market Comparison - There is a notable disparity in APY rates across different banks and credit unions, with potential earnings on a $10,000 balance varying from $60 at the national average to $400 at top rates, suggesting the need for consumers to shop around for better rates [6][7]

Core Insights - Credit unions are gaining popularity as an alternative to for-profit banks, with membership reaching 145 million by late 2025 [4] - They offer competitive rates on financial products, including savings accounts and share certificates, due to their not-for-profit structure [9][10] - Membership eligibility for credit unions is often based on community, workplace, or organizational ties, although many now have more permissive requirements [3][6] Group 1: Membership and Eligibility - Credit unions are not-for-profit institutions owned by their members, historically requiring a common bond for membership [3] - Many credit unions have relaxed membership requirements, allowing broader access [2][6] - Individuals can find credit unions associated with their existing memberships or organizations, such as those for educators [14][15] Group 2: Financial Products and Services - Credit unions typically offer a variety of financial products, including checking and savings accounts, share certificates, and loans [2][5] - They often provide lower fees compared to traditional banks, redistributing profits back to members [6][8] - Members receive dividends, which are interest payments, potentially leading to higher returns on savings products [9] Group 3: Customer Service and Community Focus - Credit unions emphasize personalized service and relationship-building with members [11][13] - They are often deeply rooted in their communities, supporting local initiatives and charitable giving [18] - Accessibility is enhanced through branch locations and robust digital banking options, including online bill payment and mobile check deposit [12] Group 4: Comparison with Banks - Credit unions offer member ownership, personalized service, and competitive rates, while banks provide larger branch networks and technological innovations [16][20] - Credit unions may lack the same level of digital banking innovation as larger banks, but they focus on community and member engagement [20]

Key Takeaways While Many Savings Rates Have Slipped, the Top APY Is Hanging On at 5% Even after the Federal Reserve cut interest rates three times last fall, the very top savings account rate hasn't budged. The leading APY was already at 5.00% before the first cut in September—and it's still there today, despite additional reductions in October and December pushing the federal funds rate down a total of 0.75 percentage points. That doesn't mean the broader savings market has been immune to the Fed's moves. ...

Key Takeaways Traditional savings accounts preserve your balance but rarely outpace inflation, eroding your money's value. Balances left dormant for too long may be handed over to the state. It's smart to put your savings somewhere it can earn a high return. The best high-yield savings accounts pay 12 times the national average. Putting cash away in a savings account feels reassuring, but comfort alone can come at a cost. Between inflation and the rising cost of living, any account earning less th ...

Overview of Savings Interest Rates - The national average savings account rate is currently 0.39%, a significant increase from 0.06% three years ago [2] - Despite the low national average, some top savings accounts are offering rates as high as 4% APY [2] Comparison of Savings Account Earnings - A $1,000 deposit at the average interest rate of 0.39% would yield a total of $1,003.91 after one year, resulting in $3.91 in interest [4] - In contrast, a high-yield savings account with a 4% APY would grow the same $1,000 deposit to $1,040.81, earning $40.81 in interest over the same period [4] Impact of Deposit Amount on Earnings - Depositing $10,000 in a high-yield savings account at 4% APY would result in a total balance of $10,408.08 after one year, yielding $408.08 in interest [5]

Key Takeaways Many people open new bank accounts without closing their old ones, a trend known as soft switching. Having multiple accounts can help you take advantage of higher interest rates, protect larger balances, and keep your money organized. Pay attention to bank fees, balance requirements, and dormancy rules when you open a new bank account if you keep your old one. Soft switching is the trend of opening a new bank account without closing your current one. This allows you to, say, try new ...

Core Insights - A survey of 2,000 Americans shows that confidence in pop culture knowledge (6.4) surpasses confidence in saving money (3.9) [1][7] - The survey highlights a significant confidence gap in financial literacy, which affects daily financial decisions and savings habits [2][3] Financial Literacy and Savings Myths - 79% of respondents have a savings account earning interest, yet 43% do not know the specific interest rate [4] - Only 54% of respondents have a separate emergency fund, and among those, 74% feel confident in their savings for emergencies [4] - Many Americans mistakenly believe that all banks offer similar interest rates (41%) and that higher balances are necessary for better rates (68%) [8] Recommendations for Improving Savings Habits - Emphasizing the importance of understanding interest rates rather than just account balances can enhance savings effectiveness [9] - Keeping emergency savings distinct from long-term savings can improve financial clarity and decision-making [10] - Regularly reviewing savings accounts is essential to ensure alignment with financial goals, as rates and personal needs change over time [11]

Construction on the Marriner S. Eccles Federal Reserve Board Building in Washington, Jan. 12, 2026.Pete Kiehart | Bloomberg | Getty ImagesThe Federal Reserve kept its benchmark interest rate unchanged Wednesday at the conclusion of its first policy decision of the year. In the face of escalating political pressure from President Donald Trump, a softening labor market, persistent inflation pressures and an uncertain geopolitical landscape, "there is no shortage of confusing narratives," said certified financ ...