CIMB THAI points to ‘New Normal Trend’ in saving with alternative investment replacing traditional deposits

Mr. Tan Keat Jin, Head of Consumer Banking of CIMB THAI Bank, said that consumer behavior has recently begun to shift from traditionally parking funds solely in deposits to seeking more diversified savings options. In particular, short-term corporate bonds and fixed income funds are gaining popularity, as they offer higher return potential while maintaining manageable risk levels.

Amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainties, including tensions between the U.S. and Iran, financial markets have become increasingly volatile. As a result, investors are reducing exposure to high-risk assets and moving toward short-term instruments that provide greater stability. At the same time, geopolitical pressures have contributed to rising inflation, making traditional savings less effective, as deposit interest rates may not keep pace with inflation.

This is further compounded by a declining interest rate environment following the Bank of Thailand’s policy rate cut to 1.00% (as of 25 February 2026), which CIMB THAI expects to remain at this level throughout the year. Consequently, deposit returns are likely to stay low. Transitioning from “saving in deposits” to “saving through investments” has therefore emerged as a new approach to preserving and growing wealth in a low-interest-rate environment.

To better meet evolving customer needs, the bank has curated products aligned with these changing behaviors, helping customers manage their savings more efficiently and withstand long-term economic volatility. For customers who traditionally place funds in fixed deposits with tenures of 12–36 months, offering average returns of approximately 0.4–1.5% per annum, an alternative is short-term corporate bonds with similar tenures, offering returns of around 1.75–3.25% per annum, or approximately 2% on average. This shift can potentially double returns compared to deposits, with only a slight increase in risk. Minimum investment starts at THB 50,000. Examples of attractive short-term secondary market bonds include SC291A, BGRIM279A, IVL285A, and IVL286A.

For investors seeking the lowest risk, government bonds remain a highly secure option, offering capital protection and the ability to lock in long-term returns of approximately 2.4–2.9% per annum, depending on maturity.

Another alternative is fixed income mutual funds, which have delivered approximately 3.4% annual returns over the past year (based on KFAFIX-A fund performance). These are suitable for investors seeking diversification with professional fund management.

When investing in corporate bonds, it is important to focus on issuer quality—selecting companies with strong fundamentals, investment-grade credit ratings, and consistent cash flow generation. Diversifying across industries and bond tenures is also recommended to mitigate concentration risk.

CIMB THAI offers a selection of high-quality bonds and funds under its “Safer Pocket” concept, designed as a secure allocation for customers seeking stable growth across market conditions. Customers can conveniently invest in both primary and secondary market bonds, as well as funds, via the CIMB THAI app. The CIMB My Bond feature allows real-time portfolio tracking, including holdings overview, interest income, cash flow, and notification calendar, all within a single platform.

Exclusive privileges are available for CIMB Preferred customers or those investing from THB 3 million and above, including close advisory support from dedicated investment advisors.

Customers and investors can seek further information and investment advice via LINE OA: CIMB Preferred, their Relationship Manager, or any CIMB Thai branch.

Investment involves risks. Investors should thoroughly understand product features, conditions, returns, and risks before making investment decisions.