Updated for 2026 Syllabus Detailed Explanations High-Yield Core Concepts

Interest Rates on Deposits – 11 Most Expected Questions

Test Blueprint & Topic Weightage

Section / TopicQuestion RangeDifficulty Level
General Eligibility & Account TypesQ1 – Q3, Q5 – Q6Easy to Medium
Maturity & Withdrawal RegulationsQ4, Q7 – Q8Medium
FCNR(B) & Special ProvisionsQ9 – Q11Hard
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⚠️ Examiner Trap Alert: Students often falsely assume that FCNR(B) accounts allow recurring deposits or misunderstand the 14-day grace period for renewals. Always remember that FCNR(B) only permits Term Deposits, and overdue periods beyond 14 days are treated as entirely fresh deposits.

High-Yield Core Concepts

Current Account Restrictions
While Domestic Term Deposits earn fixed interest, banks are strictly permitted to accept interest-free deposits only in Current Accounts.
Maturity Rules
Unpaid matured deposits attract the lower of the savings or contracted rate, while early closures are governed by the bank’s specific Premature Withdrawal Penalty policy.
Foreign Currency Restrictions
As per FCNR(B) Scheme Rules, recurring deposits are explicitly prohibited, restricting this scheme purely to term deposits.
Remuneration Limitations
Under the RBI Master Direction, banks generally cannot pay commission or brokerage for mobilizing deposits, with strict exceptions only for Business Correspondents or Direct Selling Agents.

Semantic Comparison

Feature / MetricInterest Rates on DepositsInterest Rates on Advances
Core DefinitionThe rate banks pay to customers for parking their funds.The rate banks charge to customers for borrowing funds.
Primary Use CaseEncourages consumer savings and mobilizes bank liquidity.Generates primary interest income and profitability for the bank.
Exam ImportanceHighly tested in operational banking and RBI compliance modules.Critical for credit management and priority sector lending topics.

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