Revisit: Singapore Savings Bond

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Singapore's interest rate is expected to rise in the coming year as Fed hiked interest rate (http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/business/singapore/singapore-interest-rates/2356210.html). So let's keep our eyes peeled to see if SSB would be following suit should bank savings interest starts to rise.

Is the economy really expected to be recovering next year or would it be toiled by the rate hike? I really have no idea... but if you want to have an inkling of idea how a rate hike would affect investments read interest-rate-and-its-effect-on-market.

 To read more about Singapore Savings Bond, click here.

SSB is for you if...

  • You do not need money for middle to long term
  • Have a stomach for low risk bonds
  • Wanna park your money somewhere safe but more flexible than the lock-in CPF
  • Think that banks would not raise their interest rate any higher than SGB's

Get updated information at http://www.sgs.gov.sg/savingsbonds
and http://www.sgs.gov.sg/savingsbonds/Your-SSB/This-months-bond.aspx for bond rates.

***

 Update Oct 15:

I have gotten $5000 subscribed just for the fun of it. I have not checked out how to liquidate it and how fast it would take should I need to, so dare not park too much cash there first.

***
Update Dec 15:

How to apply or redeem it?

SSB is issued by the government monthly. Full term of bond is 10 years with step-up interest.

 You would first need to apply for a CDP account (which could explain the under-subscription rate as people who don't know about this or find it too troublesome would probably give a miss).

 Then apply through DBS/POSB, OCBC or UOB ATMs or DBS/POSB internet banking. Please have your CDP account number ready when you apply. 
You CANNOT apply or redeem Savings Bonds over the bank counters in person.

 A non-refundable $2 transaction fee will be charged for each application and redemption request. (Ya we know banks don't serve free lunches without service charge)

 Maximum you can hold per bond is $50,000.
[Source: http://www.sgx.com/wps/portal/sgxweb/home/products/fixed_income]

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