FD Rules: The Reserve Bank of India has introduced a significant new regulation concerning fixed deposits (FDs). Starting October 1, 2026, this new framework will require banks to display the interest rates they offer on large deposits on their websites every business day morning.
The RBI’s objective with this initiative is to enhance transparency and create consistency across bulk fixed deposit rates. Let’s explore what this new regulation involves and how it will affect both regular and large investors.
What is the new RBI rule?
According to the updated RBI guidelines, banks must publicly share their daily interest rates for bulk deposits on their website by 10:00 am on each working day.
Should a bank wish to modify or adjust these rates, it will have just 10 minutes following 10 a.m. to do so. The rates published on the website that morning will be applicable to all comparable deposits the bank receives throughout that day.
Bulk Deposit Limit: What qualifies someone as a large depositor?
Under banking standards, fixed deposits valued at ₹3 crore and above are considered bulk deposits. Individual investors, businesses, or organizations intending to invest in an FD of ₹3 crore or more will need to review the current rates displayed on the bank’s website before making their investment.
3 biggest benefits of this new rule
Branch and channel-wise discrimination ends: Once the new rule is implemented, banks cannot provide varying interest rates based on different branches or online platforms on the same day.
Uniformity and Transparency: Customers depositing funds in the same FD category on the same day will receive identical interest rates.
Accurate comparison made easy: Large investors will find it much simpler to evaluate daily rates across various banks and make informed choices.
What will be the impact on small FD investors?
Ordinary retail investors who make normal FDs of Rs 1 lakh, Rs 2 lakh, Rs 5 lakh or less need not worry about this new rule.
Retail FDs not impacted: This new rule primarily covers bulk depositors with more than Rs 3 crore.
Normal FD rates: Small depositors will no longer need to check rates every morning; their FD rates will continue to be governed by the banks’ card rates.
Useful advice for large depositors
If you’re planning to open an FD of Rs 3 crore or more after October 1, 2026, be sure to check the bank’s website every working day at 10:00 am to see the updated interest rates for that day. Take a screenshot of the interest rates displayed on the website for future reference or proof.