Money supply / Wikipedia
Top 10 Best HKD Time Deposit Rates in Hong Kong May 2026
This May 2026 roundup ranks Hong Kong's best HKD time deposit promotions, topped by WeLab Bank's 4.8% p.a. six-month new-funds rate on a HK$10,000 minimum. Rates across the list run from 3.9% at HSBC Premier up to that WeLab high, spanning three-month terms at ZA Bank to twelve-month deposits at Mox, BOCHK and Hang Seng, with minimum deposits as low as HK$5,000 and as high as HK$200,000 for private-banking tiers like DBS Treasures and Standard Chartered Priority. Most promotions require fresh funds or a salary credit and expire between May and June 2026, so check each bank's terms before locking in a rate.
Top10Grid lets the community re-rank anything — this order is our editors' pick for now; use the buttons below to vote it up or down.
Current Rankings
- –#1
6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - WeLab Bank
WeLab Bank’s 6-month HKD Time Deposit offers the highest promotional rate among Hong Kong’s digital banks as of May 2026. Designed for depositors who can commit fresh capital for half a year, this product significantly outpaces standard board rates and even peer digital offerings.
Based on publicly available information as of May 2026, the rate reflects a campaign targeting retail customers seeking low-risk yield enhancement in a rising HIBOR environment. The account is opened and managed entirely via the WeLab Bank app, with HKMA deposit protection up to HK$500,000.
PROS: Exceptionally competitive 4.8% p.a. fixed for six months; low minimum deposit of just HK$10,000 makes it accessible to almost all savers; no branch visits required—fully digital onboarding including eKYC; interest is calculated daily and paid at maturity, with no early withdrawal penalty beyond losing accrued interest; the deposit is protected under the Hong Kong Deposit Protection Scheme.
Key Metrics
Rate::4.8% p.a. (6-month tenor)Min deposit::HK$10,000New funds requirement: Yes:+2 moreEligibility
- Open to all Hong Kong residents aged 18 or above with a valid HKID and a local residential address. The rate is exclusively for new funds that are not currently held in any WeLab Bank account
- funds must be transferred from another bank via FPS or CHATS. No salary linkage or priority banking tier required
Things to Watch Out For
- The promotional rate is time-limited and may drop after the campaign period
- funds are locked for the full 6-month tenor, so early withdrawal forfeits all accrued interest
- no physical branch support for in-person queries
- the rate applies only to HKD deposits, not foreign currencies. Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates directly with the bank before applying
SourcesGoogle - –#2
3-Month HKD New Customer Time Deposit - ZA Bank
ZA Bank extends an aggressive 3-month time deposit rate aimed squarely at first-time customers, making it the best short-term option on the market. Based on publicly available information as of May 2026, this offer leverages ZA’s low-cost digital infrastructure to pass high rates directly to savers.
The product is ideal for those with a cash surplus who want a quick, no-strings-attached return while maintaining liquidity. As a licensed virtual bank under HKMA, deposits are protected up to HK$500,000.
PROS: Attractive 4.6% p.a. for only a three-month commitment; very low entry barrier at HK$5,000; fully mobile account setup in minutes; no ongoing relationship requirement—after the deposit matures, the customer can withdraw or roll over at prevailing rates; interest credited at maturity simplifies tax reporting.
Key Metrics
Rate::4.6% p.a. (3-month tenor)Min deposit::HK$5,000New funds requirement: Yes, from external source:+2 moreEligibility
- New ZA Bank customers only, defined as individuals who have never held any account with ZA before
- Requires HKID and residential address, with eKYC verification
- Funds must come from a bank account outside ZA Bank, transferred via FPS
- No salary or minimum balance conditions
Things to Watch Out For
- The promotional rate is only for the first time deposit
- existing customers receive lower standard rates
- tenor is short, so earnings are relatively modest in absolute terms
- no physical branch or phone banking—support is app-based only
- if the deposit is not manually withdrawn, it may sit idle earning minimal interest. Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates directly with the bank before applying
- –#3
12-Month HKD Salary Credit Time Deposit - Mox Bank
Mox Bank offers a standout 12-month time deposit rate for salary-credit customers, combining a competitive fixed return with convenient digital banking. Based on publicly available information as of May 2026, this product stands out for its balanced 12-month tenor and its integration with Mox’s spending and savings ecosystem.
The deposit is fully protected under the Deposit Protection Scheme. Unlike many promotions, the rate is available to existing customers who meet the salary condition, not just new ones.
PROS: Solid 4.5% p.a. locked for one year, providing a predictable income stream; no requirement for new funds outside normal salary flow; Mox’s app allows instant setup and maturity instructions; interest can be credited to the linked Mox current account for immediate use; combined with Mox’s card cashback, the overall banking relationship becomes highly rewarding.
Key Metrics
Rate::4.5% p.a. (12-month tenor)Min deposit::HK$50,000New funds requirement: Not mandatory, but salary credit required:+2 moreEligibility
- Open to Mox account holders who have received their monthly salary directly into a Mox account for at least the past three months. Salary must be of a regular employment nature
- freelancers with irregular income may not qualify. HKID and valid employment documentation may be requested
Things to Watch Out For
- The relatively high minimum deposit of HK$50,000 may exclude very small savers
- salary-credit condition locks users into using Mox as their primary payroll bank
- if salary crediting stops, the rate on renewal will drop to standard
- early withdrawal is not permitted without full interest forfeiture
- Mox is a digital-only bank with no physical outlets. Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates directly with the bank before applying
SourcesGoogle - –#4
6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - Citi Priority
Citibank Hong Kong’s Citi Priority tier provides one of the highest traditional bank promotional rates in May 2026. Based on publicly available information as of May 2026, the 4.65% p.a. for six months is targeted at mass-affluent clients who bring fresh assets to Citi.
This product stands out because it combines a top-tier rate with the safety and service of a full-service bank, including branch access. Deposits are insured up to HK$500,000 by the HKMA.
PROS: Excellent 4.65% rate from a major global bank; Citi Priority status brings additional perks like fee waivers and preferential forex rates; the tenor of six months offers a good balance between yield and liquidity; at maturity, funds can be rolled into other Citibank investment products or withdrawn without penalty; strong online and telephone banking support.
Key Metrics
Rate::4.65% p.a. (6-month tenor)Min deposit::HK$100,000New funds requirement: Yes, to the Citi Priority relationship:+2 moreEligibility
- New-to-bank customers who open a Citi Priority account and maintain a Total Relationship Balance of at least HK$500,000 (deposits, investments, insurance) within the same promotion period
- Alternatively, existing clients who upgrade to Priority and bring HK$100,000 in fresh funds qualify
- HKID, proof of address, and income verification required
Things to Watch Out For
- The high minimum deposit of HK$100,000 and the broader relationship requirement make it less accessible
- if the Priority status is not maintained, subsequent rates will be lower
- early termination forfeits all interest and may incur an administrative charge
- the account has a monthly fee if balance falls below threshold. Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates directly with the bank before applying
SourcesGoogle - –#5
6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - DBS Treasures
DBS Bank (Hong Kong) extends a competitive 6-month time deposit rate to its Treasures wealth management clients, reflecting DBS’s focus on relationship-based pricing. Based on publicly available information as of May 2026, this product offers a robust rate from a reputable regional bank, though the higher minimum deposit and invitation-only nature limit its accessibility.
Hong Kong Deposit Protection Scheme coverage applies. PROS: Attractive 4.4% p.a. fixed rate for half a year; Treasures clients enjoy dedicated relationship manager support, priority branch services, and cross-border banking conveniences; interest is paid at maturity and can be directed to any linked DBS account; the deposit can be used as collateral for DBS investment facilities; part of a broader wealth management ecosystem with insurance and investment choices.
Key Metrics
Rate::4.4% p.a. (6-month tenor)Min deposit::HK$200,000New funds requirement: Yes, to DBS Treasures:+2 moreEligibility
- Existing DBS Treasures clients who receive a promotion invitation
- Generally, Treasures status requires a minimum asset under management (AUM) of HK$1 million
- The promotional rate requires fresh funds transferred from outside DBS
- HKID and financial documentation may be requested
- Not available to standard banking clients
Things to Watch Out For
- High entry barrier: HK$200,000 minimum deposit and Treasures AUM requirement make it unsuitable for most retail depositors
- the promotion is not publicly advertised
- auto-renewal at lower board rates can catch clients off guard
- early withdrawal results in zero interest and possible penalty
- DBS’s digital experience, while improved, may not match pure digital banks. Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates directly with the bank before applying
SourcesGoogle - –#6
6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - BEA
The Bank of East Asia (BEA) offers a straightforward 6-month time deposit promotion that delivers a solid 4.3% p.a. with a moderate minimum deposit. Based on publicly available information as of May 2026, this product provides a reliable option for savers preferring a well-established local bank with extensive branch coverage.
BEA’s digital platform and physical network offer a hybrid banking experience. Protection under the Deposit Protection Scheme up to HK$500,000 applies.
PROS: Decent 4.3% rate for a six-month lock-in; minimum deposit of HK$50,000 is within reach of many middle-class savers; BEA has over 70 branches in Hong Kong for in-person service; the promotion is available to both new and existing customers, as long as funds are new to BEA; interest can be credited to a BEA savings account and used for daily spending.
Key Metrics
Rate::4.3% p.a. (6-month tenor)Min deposit::HK$50,000New funds requirement: Yes, from non-BEA sources:+2 moreEligibility
- Any individual retail customer with a BEA HKD savings or current account. The deposit must come from external bank accounts
- internal transfers do not qualify. Proof of source of funds may be required for larger amounts. HKID and address proof needed for account opening. No salary or wealth tier required
Things to Watch Out For
- The rate is lower than digital bank promotions
- auto-renewal at board rates (often under 1%) can erode returns if the client forgets to instruct otherwise
- early termination before maturity sacrifices all accrued interest
- BEA’s mobile app, while functional, lacks some of the intuitive design of digital-native competitors. Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates directly with the bank before applying
SourcesGoogle - –#7
12-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - Bank of China Hong Kong (BOCHK)
BOCHK’s 12-month time deposit provides a dependable, longer-term fixed-income option at 4.2% p.a. for customers with fresh capital. Based on publicly available information as of May 2026, this product offers a moderate rate that benefits from BOCHK’s strong brand and extensive branch network.
It suits conservative investors looking to lock in returns for a full year amid interest rate speculation. HKMA deposit protection covers up to HK$500,000.
PROS: Fixed 4.2% p.a. for 12 months offers certainty in a potentially declining rate cycle; BOCHK is the largest retail bank in Hong Kong with unrivaled branch and ATM access; the deposit can be managed via BOCHK’s internet banking or mobile app, with optional branch handling; interest payout at maturity can be directed to a BOCHK savings account; promotional rate often extended to existing customers who bring new money.
Key Metrics
Rate::4.2% p.a. (12-month tenor)Min deposit::HK$100,000New funds requirement: Yes, for promotional rate:+2 moreEligibility
- Available to all BOCHK individual account holders. The promotional rate requires new funds—defined as the increase in total deposit balance compared to a reference month. Minimum incremental balance must be HK$100,000. Salaried workers, retirees, and students with the deposit amount qualify. HKID and proof of address needed
- large deposits may require source-of-funds declaration
Things to Watch Out For
- The 12-month tenor ties up money for a longer period
- if interest rates rise, the depositor is locked out of better opportunities
- early withdrawal before maturity results in a penalty—typically no interest and a small administrative charge
- the rate is lower than what some digital banks and relationship-tier promotions offer
- BOCHK’s board rate after renewal is significantly lower. Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates directly with the bank before applying
- –#8
6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - Standard Chartered Priority Banking
Standard Chartered Hong Kong’s Priority Banking time deposit promotion yields 4.1% p.a. over six months, tailored for the priority banking segment. Based on publicly available information as of May 2026, this offer is suitable for clients who can meet the relationship requirements and seek a rate from a large international bank with global connectivity.
The deposit is protected under the Deposit Protection Scheme up to the statutory limit. PROS: Competitive rate from a top-tier bank with a strong presence in Asia; Priority Banking status unlocks dedicated relationship management, global account linkage, and preferential loan rates; the six-month tenor provides quick liquidity relative to the rate achieved; interest can be used to offset other standard chartered banking fees; promotional rate is fixed and not floating with HIBOR during the term.
Key Metrics
Rate::4.1% p.a. (6-month tenor)Min deposit::HK$200,000New funds requirement: Yes, to Priority Banking relationship:+2 moreEligibility
- New or existing Standard Chartered customers upgrading to Priority Banking by depositing at least HK$200,000 in fresh funds
- Priority Banking typically requires a minimum Total Relationship Balance of HK$1 million across deposits, investments, and insurance
- HKID, salary proof, and address verification are required
- The offer may be invitation-only or through a banking relationship manager
Things to Watch Out For
- High deposit threshold
- the requirement to maintain a priority relationship may incur monthly fees if the balance drops
- early withdrawal forfeits all interest earned
- the board rate upon auto-renewal is unattractive
- digital interface, while improved, may not match the app experience of dedicated digital banks. Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates directly with the bank before applying
- –#9
12-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit with Payroll - Hang Seng Bank
Hang Seng Bank, part of the HSBC Group, offers a 12-month time deposit at 4.0% p.a. to customers who consolidate their salary or mortgage relationship. Based on publicly available information as of May 2026, this product provides a solid, stable return from one of Hong Kong’s most trusted local banks.
Although the rate is lower than aggressive digital banks, the convenience and Hang Seng’s extensive service network balances the equation. Protected under the Deposit Protection Scheme up to HK$500,000.
PROS: Decent 4.0% fixed for one year with a moderate HK$50,000 minimum; salary-credit linkage encourages disciplined saving without requiring large upfront sums; Hang Seng provides one-stop financial services including MPF and credit cards; interest is credited at maturity and can be used to defray banking fees or invested; the bank’s 260+ branches and ATMs offer unmatched accessibility.
Key Metrics
Rate::4.0% p.a. (12-month tenor)Min deposit::HK$50,000New funds requirement: Yes, and either payroll or mortgage linkage:+2 moreEligibility
- Existing Hang Seng integrated account holders with a monthly payroll credit of any amount or an active residential mortgage with Hang Seng
- The deposit must come from new funds—transfers from other banks
- HKID, income documents, and mortgage statement (if applicable) needed
- New customers can open an account and set up payroll within the promotion window
Things to Watch Out For
- The 4.0% rate is not the highest available
- payroll or mortgage requirement restricts eligibility to those with a deep banking relationship
- if the salary credit stops, the promotional renewal rate cannot be guaranteed
- early withdrawal penalty is steep—no interest paid
- the standard savings rate after maturity is very low. Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates directly with the bank before applying
SourcesGoogle - –#10
6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - HSBC Premier
HSBC Hong Kong’s Premier banking time deposit promotion offers a 3.9% p.a. rate over six months, reflecting the bank’s conservative yet relationship-focused pricing. Based on publicly available information as of May 2026, this product offers a lower yield compared to some peers on this list, but it remains a relevant choice for Premier clients who value HSBC’s global reach and priority services.
The deposit is covered by the Hong Kong Deposit Protection Scheme. PROS: A recognized global bank with extensive international support; Premier status includes a dedicated relationship manager, global emergency services, and preferential FX rates; the six-month tenor locks in a fixed return without a long commitment; the deposit can be opened online or at any HSBC Premier center; interest is paid at maturity and easily accessible.
Key Metrics
Rate::3.9% p.a. (6-month tenor)Min deposit::HK$100,000New funds requirement: Yes, for HSBC Premier customers:+2 moreEligibility
- HSBC Premier customers must maintain a Total Relationship Balance of HK$1 million or more, or have a residential mortgage of at least HK$5 million
- The time deposit requires fresh funds of HK$100,000 transferred from outside HSBC
- HKID, proof of address, and wealth documentation are required for Premier onboarding
- Existing Premier clients qualify if they bring new money
Things to Watch Out For
- The 3.9% rate is the lowest among the top 10, making it less attractive for yield maximizers
- the high relationship balance requirement excludes many savers
- if Premier status is not maintained, a monthly fee applies
- early withdrawal results in no interest and possible penal charge
- auto-renewal rates are meagre, requiring active management at maturity. Rates are indicative and subject to change. Always verify current rates directly with the bank before applying
Quick Comparison
| Metric | #16-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - WeLab Bank | #23-Month HKD New Customer Time Deposit - ZA Bank | #312-Month HKD Salary Credit Time Deposit - Mox Bank | #46-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - Citi Priority | #56-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - DBS Treasures | #66-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - BEA | #712-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - Bank of China Hong Kong (BOCHK) | #86-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - Standard Chartered Priority Banking | #912-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit with Payroll - Hang Seng Bank | #106-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - HSBC Premier |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rate: | 4.8% p.a. (6-month tenor) | 4.6% p.a. (3-month tenor) | 4.5% p.a. (12-month tenor) | 4.65% p.a. (6-month tenor) | 4.4% p.a. (6-month tenor) | 4.3% p.a. (6-month tenor) | 4.2% p.a. (12-month tenor) | 4.1% p.a. (6-month tenor) | 4.0% p.a. (12-month tenor) | 3.9% p.a. (6-month tenor) |
| Min deposit: | HK$10,000 | HK$5,000 | HK$50,000 | HK$100,000 | HK$200,000 | HK$50,000 | HK$100,000 | HK$200,000 | HK$50,000 | HK$100,000 |
| New funds requirement: Yes | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | |
| Promotion valid until | 31 May 2026 | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
| New funds requirement: Yes, from external source | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — | — |
Data extracted from item descriptions. Verify rates with the issuing institution.
How Did We Choose the Best HKD Time Deposit Rates?
Our methodology: Promotional time deposit rates were collected directly from each bank's official Hong Kong website in May 2026. Rankings are ordered by effective annual return (highest first). We recorded the minimum deposit, eligible term length, and eligibility conditions (e.g., new funds only, salary credit required).
What does 'new funds only' mean? Most promotional rates require money that has not been held at that bank in the past 30–90 days. Confirm eligibility with your bank before transferring.
What happens if I withdraw early? Early withdrawal typically forfeits all accrued interest. Review your bank's specific terms before committing.
Are these rates guaranteed? Promotional rates are fixed for the agreed term length. Rates shown were accurate at time of publication — verify the current rate on each bank's official website before depositing.
Frequently Asked Questions About HKD Fixed Deposits
What does 'new funds' mean? Most promotional rates require money that is not already sitting at that bank. Transferring savings from another bank counts as new funds; simply shuffling money between your own accounts at the same bank usually does not qualify.
What does 'p.a.' mean? 'Per annum' — the interest rate earned over a full year. A 4.8% p.a. rate on a 6-month deposit means you receive roughly 2.4% in interest for those 6 months.
What happens if I need my money back early? Most banks allow early withdrawal, but you typically forfeit all or part of the interest earned. Always check the penalty terms before locking in your deposit.
Which option has the lowest minimum deposit? ZA Bank's 3-month offer starts at just HK$5,000, making it the most accessible entry point on this list.
Are my deposits safe? Deposits held at Hong Kong licensed banks are protected up to HK$500,000 per depositor under the [Hong Kong Deposit Protection Scheme](https://www.dps.org.hk).
New Funds, Salary Credit, and Other Strings Attached
Almost every product on this list requires something beyond simply having money to deposit: most require 'new funds' transferred in from outside the bank rather than money already sitting in an existing account, several require an active salary credit or mortgage relationship, and the highest-tier offers require maintaining a broader relationship balance across deposits, investments, and insurance. Before comparing headline rates, check which of these conditions you can actually meet — a higher advertised rate you don't qualify for isn't a real option.
What Happens After the Promotional Period Ends
Every product here auto-renews at the bank's standard board rate once the promotional tenor matures, unless you actively give a counter-instruction — and board rates on ordinary time deposits are typically far lower than the promotional rate that attracted the deposit in the first place. The practical way to use a list like this is to calendar the maturity date and decide in advance whether you'll roll into a new promotion, move the funds elsewhere, or accept the lower standard rate, rather than letting it auto-renew by default.
Image credits
- 6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - WeLab Bank: International Finance Corporation / Wikipedia
- 3-Month HKD New Customer Time Deposit - ZA Bank: Bank of China (Hong Kong) / Wikipedia
- 12-Month HKD Salary Credit Time Deposit - Mox Bank: Bing Images / blog-cdn.moneysmart.hk
- 6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - Citi Priority: Bing Images / v.icbc.com.cn
- 6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - DBS Treasures: Bing Images / www.dbs.com.sg
- 6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - BEA: Bing Images / blog-cdn.moneysmart.hk
- 12-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - Bank of China Hong Kong (BOCHK): Bank of China (Hong Kong) / Wikipedia
- 6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - Standard Chartered Priority Banking: International Finance Corporation / Wikipedia
- 12-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit with Payroll - Hang Seng Bank: Bing Images / cms.hangseng.com
- 6-Month HKD New Funds Time Deposit - HSBC Premier: Nathan Tran / Pexels
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Frequently asked questions
What are the best HKD time deposit rates in Hong Kong for May 2026?
The top 10 best HKD time deposit rates for May 2026 are listed in the article, with rates varying by bank, deposit amount, and tenure; check the full list for specific offers from leading Hong Kong banks.
What is the minimum deposit required for HKD time deposits in Hong Kong?
Minimum deposit requirements vary by bank and promotion, typically ranging from HKD 1,000 to HKD 100,000; refer to each bank’s terms in the top 10 list for exact amounts.
What tenures are available for HKD time deposits in Hong Kong?
Common tenures include 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months, and up to 24 months or longer; the best rates are often for shorter terms like 3 to 6 months.
Are there penalties for early withdrawal of a HKD time deposit?
Yes, early withdrawal typically incurs a penalty, such as losing some or all interest earned and possibly a fee; check individual bank policies before committing.
How can I compare HKD time deposit rates from different banks in Hong Kong?
Use the top 10 list as a starting point, then verify rates on bank websites or comparison platforms, focusing on deposit amount, tenure, and any promotional conditions.
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