Mumbai: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) kept its policy repo rate unchanged at 5.25% in its February 2026 monetary policy meeting, signaling stability for savers and borrowers. As a result, most major banks are maintaining their fixed deposit (FD) interest rates.
Here’s a snapshot of the latest FD rates from leading banks:
FD Rates Across Major Banks
| Bank | General Citizens | Senior Citizens |
|---|---|---|
| SBI | 3.05% – 6.60% | Up to 7.10% |
| PNB | 3.00% – 6.60% | Up to 7.10% |
| ICICI Bank | 2.75% – 6.50% | 3.25% – 7.10% |
| Bank of Baroda (BoB) | 3.50% – 6.60% | 4.00% – 7.10% |
| Canara Bank | 3.25% – 6.50% | Up to 7.25% |
Senior citizens typically earn 0.45–0.70% higher than general depositors.
What RBI’s Repo Rate Pause Means for FD Investors
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No immediate rate hikes for new FDs; banks are likely to keep interest rates stable.
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Existing deposits continue at the original rates.
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The RBI’s neutral stance reflects balanced inflation and growth outlook, limiting aggressive rate changes.
Investor Tips
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Lock in rates now before any future downward revisions.
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Prefer medium- to long-term tenures (2–5 years) for higher interest.
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Compare across banks; small rate differences can significantly impact returns over time.
Bottom Line: With the RBI keeping the repo rate steady, depositors should consider locking in competitive FD rates now, especially for medium-term tenures or senior citizen benefits.