Staff Correspondent

Interest rates for five national savings schemes have been revised for the January–June 2025 period, aligning them with prevailing market rates for the first time in the country.

A notification issued by the Internal Resources Division (IRD) of the Ministry of Finance on January 15, 2025, said that the revised rates are effective from January 1, 2025.

The schemes affected by this adjustment include the Five-Year Bangladesh Savings Certificate, Three-Monthly Profit-Based Savings Certificate, Pensioner Savings Certificate, Family Savings Certificate and Post Office Savings Bank Term Accounts under the National Savings Scheme.

Besides, the interest rates for these savings schemes will now be revised biannually, reflecting changes in the rates of five-year and two-year treasury bonds. Importantly, investors will receive the profit rate prevailing at the time of purchase throughout the entire term of the investment, ensuring consistent returns.

To ensure equity for less privileged groups, the investor categories under the National Savings Scheme have been simplified into two new stages: investments of Tk 7.50 lakh or below, and those exceeding Tk 7.50 lakh.

As in the past, early encashment will yield profits based on an annual rate applicable at the time of withdrawal.

This move is anticipated to benefit marginal investors and encourage greater participation in the National Savings Scheme, according to an IRD press release.

Through the scheme, women, retired employees, pensioners, senior citizens and the physically disabled can access enhanced financial and social security.

The changes are expected to make the scheme more effective in supporting these groups.