Best short-term and low-risk investments in Singapore [October 2026]

The safest short-term investments in Singapore are government-backed T-bills and Singapore Savings Bonds (SSB), alongside SDIC-insured fixed deposits. As of 7 October 2026, the latest 6-month T-bill yield is 1.92% p.a., the November 2026 SSB pays 1.67% in year one, and one 12-month fixed deposit pays 2.08% p.a. Pick based on how soon you need the money.

Meanwhile, inflation is picking up again. Singapore's core inflation rose to 2.2% in August 2026,  up from 2.0% in July. That means many fixed deposits now barely keep pace with rising prices, if at all. As a result, the search for safe yet more rewarding options matters more than ever, so your savings don't lose value sitting in low-interest accounts.

While cash alternative investments offer slightly higher returns than traditional savings accounts, they remain relatively low-risk compared to equities and funds.

For those looking to transition their spare cash into these alternatives, it's essential to consider two main factors: liquidity and risk. Ensuring the investment's liquidity aligns with your financial needs is crucial, especially for short-term accessibility.

Typically, these low-risk investments yield returns between 1% to 3% per annum, providing a safe haven without sacrificing immediate access to funds.

Whether you're new to investing or seeking stability amid a volatile market, exploring safe, low-risk investments in Singapore can help you grow your savings effectively. Here are some of the best low-risk options to consider for maximising your returns while maintaining financial security.

Which short-term investment is safest? Compare your options

For short-term money, check three things: how long it is locked, how quickly you can get it back, and whether your capital can fall in value. The table below compares each option on those points.

#1 Are fixed deposits a good short-term investment?

Yes, if you want a known return and can leave the money untouched until maturity. Fixed deposits suit goals with a set date, and Singapore dollar deposits are covered by SDIC up to S$100,000 per member.

If you're not keen on dealing with investment limits and fluctuating interest rates, traditional fixed deposits (FDs) are a reliable and safe choice. Recently, banks in Singapore have been offering higher interest rates, making FDs more appealing.

Fixed deposits offer guaranteed returns, providing predictable earnings with a fixed interest rate known upfront.

They are relatively liquid, allowing withdrawals at any time, although early withdrawal usually means losing some or all of the interest, and terms differ by bank. However, many banks require a higher minimum investment, typically starting at $500 and up to $50,000.

The key benefits of FDs include low risk, as the principal amount is secure, and predictable returns due to the fixed interest rates. They are also simple and passive investments, requiring no active market monitoring.

Are fixed deposits covered by SDIC?

Yes. Singapore dollar fixed deposits with SDIC member banks and finance companies are insured. All your insured deposits with each member are aggregated and covered up to S$100,000. Foreign currency deposits, structured deposits, and investment products such as unit trusts and shares are not covered.

What are the typical fixed deposit interest rates?

Based on our best fixed deposits in Singapore tracker, these are some of the best retail fixed deposits in Singapore offered in October 2026:

• 12-Month Tenor: The best 12-month fixed deposit rate is 2.08% p.a. from Singapura Finance (Vivid Fixed Deposit, placed online, minimum S$10,000, maximum S$100,000; you need a Vivid Savings Account and must be a Singaporean or PR). The next highest is 2.05% p.a. from HL Bank (HLB Connect online, minimum S$10,000), followed by 1.95% p.a. from CIMB Personal Banking (online, minimum S$10,000). (Note: CIMB Preferred Banking and RHB Premier Banking offer up to 2.00% p.a. for this tenor, and Bank of China pays 2.00% p.a. on mobile placements of S$200,000 and above.)
• 6-Month Tenor: The best 6-month fixed deposit rate is 2.05% p.a. from HL Bank (HLB Connect online, minimum S$10,000). The next highest is 2.00% p.a. from Citibank (New Funds Time Deposit, minimum S$5,000), followed by 1.85% p.a. from Maybank (iSAVvy Standalone Time Deposit, minimum S$20,000). (Note: Bank of China, RHB Personal Banking and SingFinance online (fresh funds, minimum S$10,000) all offer 1.80% p.a.)
• 3-Month Tenor: The best 3-month fixed deposit rate is 1.60% p.a. from Bank of China (mobile banking promotion, minimum S$500). The next highest is 1.50% p.a. from Sing Investments & Finance (SIF) (FD Online, fresh funds, minimum S$10,000), followed by 1.45% p.a. from SIF (FD Online, minimum S$1,000). (Note: RHB Premier Banking also offers 1.50% p.a.)
• 1-Month Tenor: The best 1-month fixed deposit rate is 1.30% p.a. from SIF (FD Online, fresh funds, minimum S$10,000). The next highest is 1.15% p.a. from SIF (FD Online, minimum S$1,000), followed by 1.10% p.a. from Bank of China (mobile promo, minimum S$500) and ICBC (e-banking, S$20,000 and above).

Fixed deposits are ideal for conservative investors looking for safety and predictability. They offer a secure way to grow your savings without the need for active management. If this sounds like a suitable option for you, read on to explore other low-risk investment alternatives.

StashAway Simple™ Fixed: A Flexible Alternative 

If you want predictable earnings on short-term cash, Simple Fixed lets you lock in a fixed return of 1.35% p.a. for 1 month and know exactly what you'll earn by the end of the term.

Unlike fixed deposits, it does not impose minimum or maximum deposit amounts, providing flexibility for investors with varying financial goals and capacities.

#2 Are Singapore Savings Bonds a good short-term investment?

Yes, if you may need the money at short notice. SSB are government-backed and can be redeemed in any month without penalty, though you receive the cash by the second business day of the following month.

Launched in October 2015, SSB have become increasingly attractive to Singaporeans, especially with rising interest rates. These bonds are issued by the Singapore government, making them a safe and stable investment choice. Some of the key features of SSB include:

• Ultra-Low Risk: As a government-issued bond, SSBs are among the safest investment options available. Singapore’s AAA credit rating further assures the security of your investment.
• Long Investment Period: SSBs have a tenure of up to 10 years. The bonds pay a step-up interest rate each year, meaning the longer you hold onto your investment, the higher the return.
• Guaranteed Principal: Investors are guaranteed to receive their full principal back at any time, without any capital loss or penalty, even if they redeem their bonds before the 10-year maturity period.

What are the SSB interest rates?

Singapore Savings Bond (SSB) have interest rates anchored to the yields of Singapore Government Securities (SGS). The rates are based on the average daily SGS benchmark yields for one, two, five, and ten-year terms from the preceding month.

This ensures that the coupon rates for each SSB issuance are aligned with the corresponding SGS yields. For example, the average annual compounded return from holding an SSB for five years is closely linked to the yield of a five-year SGS bond.

SSB rates feature a "step up" mechanism, meaning the return increases the longer the bond is held, promoting long-term savings and investment. Our deep dive into the SSB interest rates,  shows a gradual increase, with the latest September 2026 allotment offering a 1-year return of 1.65% and an average 10-year annual return of 2.32%

How does the SSB interest payment schedule work?

Interest on SSB is paid every six months and is credited directly to the bondholder's bank account on the first business day of the month. For cash purchases, interest is credited to the bank account linked to the individual's CDP Securities account. For investments through the Supplementary Retirement Scheme (SRS), the interest is credited directly to the SRS account.

How flexible are SSB?

One of the advantages of SSB is their flexibility. If you need to redeem your bonds early, the process is straightforward, though it can take up to a month as redemptions are processed by the second business day of the following month. 

While there are limits to how much you can invest—minimum of $500 and a maximum holding limit of $200,000 SGD—SSB provides a flexible and accessible investment option for a wide range of investors. CPF funds cannot be used to buy SSB; SRS funds can. A non-refundable transaction fee of S$2 applies to each redemption request at DBS. Fees can differ by bank, so check with your bank before you apply.

How safe are SSB?

SSB is backed by the Singapore government, making them an exceptionally safe investment. Singapore is one of the few countries with a AAA credit rating, indicating a very low risk of default. This ensures that your principal and interest payments are secure, providing peace of mind to cautious investors.

To know more about Singapore Savings Bond, check out our guide: A Complete Guide to Singapore Savings Bonds (SSB)

#3 Singapore Treasury Bills (T-Bills)

Treasury Bills (T-Bills) are often considered a "hidden gem" among low-risk investments in Singapore. Historically overlooked, these short-term government securities have recently gained attention due to their attractive yields. T-Bills are extremely safe investments, backed by the Singapore government's AAA credit rating, indicating a high level of creditworthiness and a strong capacity to repay investors. Some of the key features to take note:

• Ultra-Low Risk: Backed by the government’s AAA credit rating.
• Short Tenor: Available in 6-month and 1-year durations.
• Attractive Yields: Recent rates include 1.92% p.a. for 6-month T-Bills and 1.68% p.a. for 1-year T-Bills.

What are the T-Bills interest rates?

T-Bills provide an excellent option for those looking to invest for the short term without taking on significant risk. The short tenors of 6 months and 1 year make them ideal for investors who want to keep their investment horizon short. 

Recent auctions have shown attractive yields, with the latest 6-month T-Bill yielding 1.59% per annum and the 1-year T-Bill yielding 1.68% per annum. Yields reset at every auction, so they can move either way: the 6-month cut-off yield was 1.60% on 27 August 2026 and 1.70% on 10 September 2026 before reaching 1.92% on 24 September 2026. The next 6-month auction is on 8 October 2026, and the next 1-year auction is on 15 October 2026.

What are the investment requirements of T-Bills?

Investing in T-Bills requires a minimum amount of $1,000 SGD. Application fees vary by bank; DBS, for example, waives them for cash applications. One unique aspect of T-Bills is that their interest rates are not announced until the auction date, meaning the exact yield is only known once the auction is complete. Despite this variability, T-Bills typically offer competitive returns.

What are the risks of T-Bills?

While T-Bills can be sold in the secondary market, they are considered somewhat illiquid because their price may fluctuate before maturity, potentially affecting the return if sold early. However, for those who can hold until maturity, T-Bills provide a secure and predictable investment option.

To find out more about the latest T-Bills information, check out our guide: The Complete Guide to Singapore Treasury Bills (T-Bills)

#4 Are Singapore Government Securities (SGS) bonds low risk?

Yes, they are government-backed, but they suit longer horizons rather than short-term cash. You can't redeem SGS bonds early, and their prices move with interest rates if you sell before maturity.

Singapore Government Securities (SGS) bonds are another safe and stable investment option backed by the Singapore government. These bonds are available in various tenors, ranging from 2 to 50 years, providing a wide range of options for long-term investors.

What exactly are SGS Bonds?

SGS bonds, like Singapore Savings Bonds (SSBs), are fully backed by the Singapore government. They are designed to raise funds for market or infrastructure development within the country. Investors lend money to the government and, in return, receive fixed interest payments, known as coupons, every six months. Some of the key features of SGS Bonds include:

• Varying Tenors: Available in terms of 2, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, and 50 years.
• Latest Yields : 1.60% - 2.65%
• Semi-Annual Coupons: Pay fixed interest rates every six months.
• Government-Backed: Fully backed by the Singapore government, ensuring high safety.

How do SGS Bonds work?

SGS Bonds pay interest through fixed coupon payments every six months. For example, a recent 15-year SGS bond issued on 1 Oct 2026 had a coupon rate of 2.25% per annum. This means that for every $1,000 SGD in face value, you would receive $22.50 SGD annually in two payments of $11.25 SGD each. A new bond's coupon rate is set at its first auction, much like T-Bill yields. When MAS sells more of an existing bond, the coupon stays the same and the auction sets the yield instead. In the 28 Sep 2026 auction, that yield came out at 2.65%.

How flexible are SGS Bonds?

While SGS bonds are more liquid than SSBs, selling them on the secondary market can be cumbersome and may not be suitable for beginners. The bond prices can fluctuate before maturity, affecting the return if sold early. Unlike SSBs, SGS bonds cannot be redeemed before maturity without selling on the secondary market, making them less flexible.

Example;

For instance, if you purchased $10,000 SGD worth of a 50-year Green SGS bond with a 3% coupon rate, you would receive $300 SGD annually, split into two payments of $150 SGD each. These payments continue every six months until the bond matures. If you decide to sell the bond before maturity, the price may vary, affecting your final return.

SGS bonds are an excellent option for long-term investors seeking a safe and stable investment. While they offer lower liquidity compared to SSBs, their guaranteed semi-annual interest payments and government backing make them a reliable choice for securing your financial future.

#5 Are regular savings plans low risk?

No. Regular savings plans invest in the market, so your value can fall, and they are not suited to money you need within the next few years. They suit steady, long-term investing instead.

Regular Savings Plans (RSPs) are akin to a modern, magical piggy bank for your investments. You regularly contribute a fixed sum of money, which a financial institution invests on your behalf using a strategy called dollar-cost averaging (DCA).

This means buying stocks consistently, regardless of market conditions, allowing you to benefit from the market's long-term growth trend. RSPs are designed for medium- to long-term commitments, offering flexibility and liquidity. You can adjust or stop your contributions at any time.

How Much Can You Earn from Regular Savings Plans (RSPs)?

Earnings from RSPs vary, as these plans typically invest in blue-chip stocks, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), and Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). Your returns depend on the performance of these investments. It's essential to focus on transaction fees, which can be significant, rather than trying to pin down exact earnings.

Safety of Regular Savings Plans (RSPs)

Unlike fixed deposits, RSPs don't offer guaranteed returns within a fixed period. They rely on the principle of DCA, which leverages the long-term growth potential of stocks and funds. Your confidence in the market's long-term upward trend will reflect your confidence in profiting from RSPs.

Why Choose Regular Savings Plans (RSPs)?

1. Dollar-Cost Averaging (DCA): This strategy involves investing a fixed amount regularly, regardless of market conditions. It mitigates the impact of market volatility and averages the purchase price of investments over time.
2. Market Exposure: Consistent investments allow you to benefit from the market's long-term growth while weathering short-term fluctuations.
3. Accessibility: RSPs are suitable for beginners and those who prefer not to actively monitor the stock market. With a minimum investment as low as S$100, they provide an accessible entry point for new investors.
4. Medium- to Long-Term Horizon: RSPs are designed for building a substantial investment portfolio over time, rather than for quick gains.
5. Effortless Investment: The process is automated, ensuring you invest regularly without needing to time the market.

StashAway’s Regular Investing Advantage 

StashAway’s Regular Investing Advantage is designed around this same principle of consistent monthly investing.

Investors can pick an eligible investment portfolio or ETF Explorer portfolio, set a monthly investment amount, and automate recurring deposits through eGIRO FAST. 

To encourage the habitual investment for future growth, StashAway offers the below benefits for eligible investment portfolios:

• Additional 0.15% p.a. boost on cash (Simple/ Simple Plus) of the same amount invested in investment portfolios.
• Free buy orders for the same ETF Explorer portfolio.

For more information on regular savings plans, check out our guide: Singapore's Best Regular Savings Plans.

#6 Are short-term endowment plans worth it?

They can be, if you will not need the money for the full policy term, which is typically two to five years. Many offer guaranteed returns if held to maturity, but surrendering early can return less than you paid in. Endowment plans offer a hybrid of savings and insurance, making them a versatile option for those seeking both financial growth and protection. These plans are particularly useful for saving towards significant milestones such as a child's education or retirement.

Recently, short-term endowment plans have gained popularity, maturing in just two to six years compared to the traditional ten years or more.

What are Endowment Plans?

Endowment plans are savings plans provided by insurers that help you achieve a target amount at a later date. You pay a premium, either as a lump sum or in instalments, and upon maturity, you receive your initial investment plus returns.

Short-term endowment plans are an attractive alternative to savings accounts or fixed deposits due to their decent returns and shorter commitment periods.

Should You Get a Short-Term Endowment Plan?

Short-term endowment plans can be a good alternative to traditional savings accounts, fixed deposits, and even Singapore Savings Bonds (SSBs), offering guaranteed returns on some plans (others only illustrate potential returns), along with some insurance coverage.

However, they require a commitment, as early termination can lead to financial loss. Plans are sold in tranches that can close within days, and returns differ by insurer, term, and whether they are guaranteed or only projected. To keep figures consistent across our pages, we maintain one comparison of open and closed plans in our guide to endowment plans in Singapore. Check the insurer's website for the current tranche before you decide.

Are endowment plans covered by SDIC?

Endowment plans are not deposits, so SDIC deposit insurance does not apply. Individual endowment policies from member insurers are covered by the Policy Owners' Protection Scheme, which SDIC administers. It protects guaranteed benefits only, up to caps set under the scheme.

For more information on the best endowment plans in Singapore, check out our guide: The Ultimate Guide to Endowment Plans in Singapore

#7 Cash Management Accounts

Cash management accounts hold your cash in low-risk funds, such as money market funds, and usually let you withdraw at any time. They are not bank deposits, so SDIC insurance does not apply. Cash management accounts (CMAs) have become an increasingly popular low-risk investment option for those looking to grow their savings with higher returns compared to traditional savings accounts.

These accounts are typically offered by digital financial platforms and robo-advisors, providing a blend of liquidity, competitive interest rates, and ease of management.

What are Cash Management Accounts?

CMAs are designed to maximise the interest earned on your cash while maintaining high liquidity. They work by pooling your money with that of other investors and then investing it in a mix of low-risk instruments such as money market funds and short-term bonds. This approach helps generate higher returns while still keeping your money accessible.

Key Features of Cash Management Accounts:

• Competitive Interest Rates: CMAs often offer higher interest rates than regular savings accounts. These rates are variable and depend on the performance of the underlying investments.
• High Liquidity: One of the main benefits of CMAs is their high liquidity. You can usually withdraw your money at any time without penalties, making them suitable for both short-term savings and emergency funds.
• Ease of Management: These accounts are easy to set up and manage through digital platforms, providing a user-friendly experience with features such as automated deposits and withdrawals.
• Low Fees: CMAs typically have low fees compared to traditional investment accounts. Some platforms may even offer fee waivers or reduced fees based on account balance or investment duration.

Why Choose Cash Management Accounts?

CMAs are an excellent choice for those who want to earn higher returns on their cash without taking on significant risk. They are particularly suitable for individuals who need easy access to their funds or who are looking for a flexible, low-risk investment option.

The combination of competitive interest rates, high liquidity, and ease of management makes CMAs a compelling alternative to traditional savings accounts and fixed deposits.

Notable Cash Management Accounts

Several cash management accounts are available in the market, each offering unique benefits. Among these, StashAway provides three distinct solutions under StashAway Simple Cash cash management solutions:

1. StashAway Simple: Earn a projected 4.6% p.a. at ultra-low risk with no minimum or maximum deposit amount, no lock-ins, no cap on earnings and low fees. Your cash is liquid—no limits on withdrawals or transfers.
2. StashAway Simple Plus: Earn 3.5% p.a. YTM on any amount with no lock-ins, no cap on earning, and low fees. Access your cash anytime —no limits on withdrawals or transfers.
3. StashAway Simple Fixed: Plan ahead confidently with returns of up to 1.35% p.a. with no fees and no minimum or maximum deposits.

For more information on the best cash management accounts in Singapore, check out our guide: Complete Guide to the Best Cash Management Accounts in Singapore.

#8 Are high-yield savings accounts worth it?

They can be, if you can meet the conditions, which usually include crediting your salary, spending on a card, or investing. Without those, the interest you earn can be far lower. Singapore dollar deposits are SDIC-insured up to S$100,000 per member.  High-yield savings accounts offer a way to earn higher interest rates compared to regular savings accounts, albeit with specific requirements to unlock these rates. Typically, to benefit from these higher rates, you must meet criteria such as maintaining a minimum balance, making regular deposits, or using linked debit or credit cards.

For example, to maximize earnings with the Standard Chartered Bonus$aver Account, you need to fulfill criteria like crediting your salary, spending, paying bills, insuring, and investing. Similarly, the UOB One account requires you to credit your salary and spend a minimum amount monthly.

For more information on the best high-yield savings accounts in Singapore, check out our guide: Best Singapore Savings Accounts with High Interest Rates.

How do you choose the right low-risk investment?

Start with when you need the money, then choose the option whose lock-up fits. The table below matches common time horizons to options to consider.

 Not personal advice; options listed are examples, not a ranking.

Selecting the best low-risk investment requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Here are key aspects to consider:

1. Your Risk Profile: Understand your comfort level with risk. Low-risk investments are suitable for beginners but still carry some risk.
2. Rate of Returns: Low-risk investments yield lower returns. If slow growth frustrates you, consider higher-risk options or balanced alternatives like money market funds or robo-advisors (see our guide to investment options in Singapore for more choices).
3. Liquidity: Assess how easily you can access your funds. Fixed deposits, T-bills, and SGS bonds are less liquid compared to SSBs, savings accounts, and regular savings plans, which allow more flexible withdrawals.
4. Investment Goals: Determine your financial objectives and the duration you can commit your money. This helps in choosing between short-term and long-term investment products.
5. Professional Advice: Seek advice from financial consultants to better understand your risk profile and investment options.

Low-risk investments provide a steady and secure way to grow your money, especially in volatile markets. While they may not always outpace inflation, they offer a safer entry into investing.

Remember, even low-risk investments come with different levels of considerations. Always conduct thorough research or seek professional advice to ensure your investment decisions align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Frequently asked questions

What is the safest short-term investment in Singapore?

Singapore government T-bills and Singapore Savings Bonds (SSB) are the safest short-term investments, as both are backed by the Singapore government's AAA credit rating. T-bills suit a lump sum you can lock away for 6 or 12 months. SSB suit money you may need sooner, as you can redeem in any month without penalty. SDIC-insured fixed deposits are another low-risk option.

Are T-bills or SSB better in 2026?

It depends on how long you can commit. As of 5 October 2026, the latest 6-month T-bill yield is 1.92% p.a., while the November 2026 SSB (SBNOV26) pays 1.67% in its first year. T-bills lock your money until maturity. SSB can be redeemed in any month with no penalty, and their rates step up the longer you hold them.

Where can I park cash for 1 year in Singapore?

Three low-risk options are a 1-year T-bill, a 12-month fixed deposit, or an SSB that you can redeem early. The latest 1-year T-bill yield is 1.68% p.a. (23 July 2026 auction), and the next 1-year auction is on 15 October 2026. One 12-month fixed deposit pays 2.08% p.a. (Singapura Finance Vivid Fixed Deposit, S$10,000 to S$100,000, for Singaporeans and PRs).

Are fixed deposits covered by SDIC?

Yes. Singapore dollar fixed deposits with SDIC member banks and finance companies are insured, and all your insured deposits with each member are aggregated and covered up to S$100,000. Foreign currency deposits, structured deposits, and investment products such as unit trusts and shares aren't covered. T-bills and SSB aren't deposits, but they're issued by the Singapore government.

Are endowment plans covered by SDIC or the Policy Owners' Protection Scheme?

Endowment plans aren't deposits, so SDIC deposit insurance doesn't apply to them. Individual endowment policies from member insurers are instead covered by the Policy Owners' Protection Scheme, which SDIC administers. It protects guaranteed benefits only, up to caps set under the scheme, so check the current limits on the SDIC website before you commit.

Which short-term endowment plans are open now?

Short-term endowment plans are sold in tranches that can close quickly, so availability and rates change often. Check the insurer's website for the current tranche before you plan around a rate. We keep one maintained comparison of open and closed plans in our endowment plans guide, so figures don't conflict across pages.

Do low-risk investments beat inflation?

Not always. Singapore's core inflation was 2.2% in August 2026, so a 1.67% first-year SSB return or a 1.92% 6-month T-bill yield sits below it, while a 12-month fixed deposit at 2.08% is only slightly above. Low-risk investments protect your capital first. Keeping up with inflation often means accepting a lock-up or more risk.