How to get the most out of your fixed deposits as interest rates fall

Choose a higher compounding frequency, and invest across multiple tenures and banks

State Bank of India recently cut the interest rates on its fixed deposits (FDs) for the third time in two months. The new FD interest rates will be effective from May 12. Other banks are expected to follow suit. Those looking to invest in FDs should do so at the earliest before rates plunge further.

The ongoing crisis in debt funds has left investors with fewer options. Says M Barve, founder, MB Wealth Financial Solutions: “In a falling interest rate scenario, investors turn to debt funds, which usually offer higher post-tax returns. But given the troubles they are witnessing currently,