As Singaporeans prepare for the Chinese New Year celebrations, OCBC has introduced a timely savings promotion designed to help customers start the Year of the Horse with stronger financial footing. From 1 January to 31 January 2026, customers who deposit at least S$50,000 in fresh funds into an OCBC Passbook Savings Account or OCBC Statement Savings Account can enjoy an attractive 1.80% interest a year, as long as the funds remain untouched for 88 days. With festive spending on the horizon and market interest rates shifting, this short‑term promotional rate offers a meaningful opportunity for savers looking to grow their cash securely.
The mechanics of the promotion are refreshingly simple. Eligible customers must bring in fresh funds, money not currently held within OCBC and place a minimum of S$50,000, with the promotion applying to deposits up to S$3,000,000. Once the funds are deposited, the requirement is straightforward: maintain the balance without any withdrawals for 88 consecutive days. This holding period is short enough to remain flexible for most savers, yet long enough to deliver a rewarding interest boost compared to standard savings account rates.
What makes this Chinese New Year promotion appealing is its accessibility. Many savings products in the market require customers to fulfil multiple conditions such as salary crediting, card spending, or insurance purchases. In contrast, this offer focuses solely on maintaining a deposit. For customers who prefer a fuss‑free approach to earning interest, the simplicity is a major advantage. It also suits individuals who may be holding larger cash balances temporarily perhaps from year‑end bonuses, maturing fixed deposits, or investment proceeds and want a safe place to earn a respectable return without committing to long‑term lock‑ins.
The timing of the promotion is especially thoughtful. Chinese New Year is a period when households often reassess their finances, set new savings goals, and prepare for festive expenses such as reunion dinners, travel, and red packets. By offering a promotional rate during this season, OCBC gives customers an incentive to channel their fresh funds into a stable savings vehicle rather than leaving them idle. The 88‑day requirement also carries symbolic meaning. 88 is widely associated with prosperity and good fortune, making the promotion feel culturally aligned with the festive spirit.
For those comparing this offer with fixed deposits, the promotion sits in an interesting middle ground. While some fixed deposits may offer slightly higher rates, they often require longer lock‑in periods and may not provide the same level of liquidity. OCBC’s 1.80% promotion offers a balance between yield and flexibility, making it suitable for customers who want a short‑term parking option without committing to half‑year or full‑year tenures.
As always, customers should review the full terms and conditions to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and understand the implications of early withdrawals. But for many savers, OCBC’s Chinese New Year 2026 promotion presents a practical way to earn more on their cash while keeping their financial plans adaptable.
With rising interest in secure, short‑term savings options, this festive promotion arrives at the perfect moment encouraging Singaporeans to begin the new year with disciplined saving and a little extra growth on their hard‑earned funds.