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Term Deposits: Your Safe Haven in Volatile Markets
Investment Strategy
February 1, 2025
MyInterestFinder Team

Term Deposits: Your Safe Haven in Volatile Markets

Safe Haven Market Volatility Security Capital Preservation

Market Volatility and Your Savings

Stock markets can swing 20-30% in a matter of weeks. Property values fluctuate. Crypto can lose half its value overnight. But term deposits? Your principal is 100% guaranteed.

The Case for Capital Preservation

Government-backed term deposits offer unique advantages during uncertain times:

  • Zero capital risk: Your principal cannot decrease
  • Guaranteed returns: Know exactly what you'll earn
  • Government protection: Up to $250,000 per institution
  • No market correlation: Unaffected by share market movements

Historical Perspective

During recent market downturns:

  • 2020 COVID crash: ASX fell 37% - term deposits paid steady returns
  • 2022 market correction: Global stocks down 20% - deposits unaffected
  • Banking concerns 2023: Silicon Valley Bank collapse had zero impact on Australian government-backed deposits

Current Rate Opportunity

Today's term deposit rates are exceptional:

  • Rates at 8-year highs (7-8.5% P.A.)
  • Significantly above long-term averages
  • Beating inflation with real positive returns
  • Risk-free returns that rival historical share market averages

Portfolio Allocation Strategy

Consider term deposits as the foundation of a defensive portfolio:

  • Conservative: 60-80% in term deposits
  • Balanced: 30-50% in term deposits
  • Growth: 10-20% as a stability anchor

Peace of Mind Has Value

Beyond the financial returns, government-backed deposits provide something invaluable: certainty. In a world of economic uncertainty, knowing your savings are secure and growing steadily provides genuine peace of mind.

Sometimes the best investment decision is choosing not to take unnecessary risks with your hard-earned money.