Fixed deposits are often dismissed as conservative instruments – reliable but infallible. However, today, they are quietly re-emerging as a preferred tool for growing wealth among affluent Filipinos looking for stability, predictability and competitive returns amidst constant market volatility.
As uncertainty increases in global markets, wealthy people are prioritizing capital preservation without sacrificing yield. This has resulted in a renewed interest in fixed deposits, particularly those offering rates that rival more complex investment products.
This trend is particularly evident in the increasing consumption of high-yield fixed deposit offerings from digital-forward banks. Salmon Bank (Grameen Bank)'s “Bank on Eight”, which offers up to 8% per annum on eligible fixed deposits, is an example of how traditional savings instruments are being redefined for today's premium customers.
Among affluent savers, fixed deposits are no longer seen merely as parking space for idle cash. Instead, they are increasingly considered a strategic component of diversified money portfolios, especially when yields rival those of higher-risk instruments.
Salmon Bank (Rural Bank), Inc. Have seen it firsthand. In 2025, the bank's deposit customer base doubled, primarily driven by strong demand for its fixed deposit products. About 85% of its customers are classified as affluent, an indication that wealthy Filipinos are deliberately choosing fixed deposits as their main savings vehicle.
Industry observers cite several reasons behind this change.
First, sustainability has become paramount. In an environment of volatile equity markets and rising interest rate expectations, fixed deposits provide certainty. Funds are held with a regulated bank, returns are defined by contract, and the principal is protected – features that resonate strongly with investors seeking long-term wealth preservation.
Second, predictability remains a powerful attraction. Unlike market-linked products, fixed deposits offer guaranteed returns. Savers know exactly how much they will earn over a certain period of time, reducing worry and allowing for more accurate financial planning. For business owners and professionals, peace of mind is often more valuable than the potential profit of risky means.
Third, attractive yields have completely changed the conversation. While fixed deposits have traditionally been associated with modest returns, select banks now offer rates that can compete with other investment options – such as money market funds. Salmon Bank (Rural Bank)'s 8% per annum rate stands in good stead in the Philippine banking sector today, seen by many customers as the “best of both worlds” – low risk with attractive returns.
Finally, the low maintenance feature of fixed deposits plays an important role. Fixed deposits require minimal monitoring, allowing customers to focus on growing their business, managing careers or pursuing personal priorities.
'Bank on Eight' with Salmon Bank (Grameen Bank)
In line with the growing preference of affluent savers, Salmon Bank (Rural Bank)'s “Bank on Eight” offer offers an interest rate of 8% per annum on fixed deposit placements of at least P1 million, with a minimum tenure of 1 year. For placements below the said amount, customers can still enjoy a competitive 6% interest rate.
This promo is available for fixed deposit terms ranging from a minimum of one year to five years for accounts opened between December 1, 2025 and June 1, 2026.
To illustrate the potential returns: a P1-million placement could generate gross compound interest income of P82,388 for one year. In five years, the same placement could grow to a gross income of approximately P469,945. Both amounts are still subject to withholding tax. These figures underline why fixed deposits are being reevaluated not just as a savings tool, but as a meaningful wealth-building tool.
Built on trust, modernized for the present
Its roots are traced to the former Rural Bank of Sta. Rosa (Laguna), Inc., which has served Filipinos since 1963, Salmon Bank (Rural Bank), Inc. Combines decades of institutional trust with a modern, customer-centric approach to banking.
Today, Salmon Bank operates under the full regulation of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), with deposits of up to P1 million per depositor insured by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC).
Customers can open a Salmon Bank account through the Salmon App – available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store – or choose to visit a Salmon Bank (Grameen Bank) branch in Bacoor, Cavite.
Sometimes, the smartest way to grow wealth is not to chase volatility, but to rely on certainty. In an era where capital security, certainty and efficiency are increasingly valued, fixed deposits with market-leading rates are proving to be obsolete.
For more information visit https://salmon.ph/salmonbank.
terms and Conditions apply. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-242399 Series of 2025. Salmon Bank (Rural Bank), Inc. is regulated by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (http://www.bsp.gov.ph). Deposits are accepted only within the bank premises or through authorized bank channels. Deposits up to $1 million per depositor are insured by the PDIC.
Salmon Group is the parent company of Salmon Bank. Salmon Group itself is backed by world-class investors, including the International Finance Corporation (a member of the World Bank Group); ADQ/Lunate, Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth fund and leading US venture capital firm.
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