Traditional Avings accounts
| Provider | Account Name | Interest Rate (AER) | Notes | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Bank | Easy Access Saver | 5.00% | Includes 2.25% bonus for 12 months; must have Chase current account | View |
| Atom Bank | Instant Saver | 4.75% | No withdrawal penalties | View |
| Trading 212 | Easy Access Cash ISA | 4.86% | Tax-free interest; app-based | View |
| Moneyfarm | Cash ISA | 4.84% | Includes 0.7% bonus | View |
| Chip | Instant Access Account | 4.56% | Includes 12-month bonus | View |
| Cynergy Bank | 1-Year Fixed Rate Bond | 4.55% | Lock-in for 12 months | View |
Modern Alternatives: Staking, DeFi & More
🔗 1. Crypto Staking
Staking involves locking up your crypto (like Ethereum or Solana) to help validate transactions on a blockchain. In return, you earn rewards—kind of like earning interest. As of January 2025, the UK Treasury officially exempted staking from collective investment scheme regulations, making it more accessible and legally distinct from traditional investments.
- Best for: Long-term holders of proof-of-stake coins.
- Risks: Market volatility, lock-up periods, and platform reliability.
- Learn more about staking in the UK
📱 2. DeFi (Decentralised Finance) Platforms
DeFi lets you lend, borrow, or earn interest on crypto without traditional banks. Platforms like Aave, Compound, or Uniswap offer yield farming and liquidity pools.
- Best for: Tech-savvy investors seeking high returns.
- Risks: Smart contract bugs, impermanent loss, and regulatory uncertainty.
🪙 3. Tokenised Assets
These are real-world assets (like real estate or art) represented as digital tokens. You can invest in fractions of high-value items via platforms like RealT or Securitize.
- Best for: Diversification with a modern twist.
- Risks: Platform credibility and liquidity.
💼 4. Robo-Advisors with Crypto Exposure
Some UK robo-advisors (like Moneyfarm or Nutmeg) are starting to offer portfolios that include crypto ETFs or blockchain-related stocks.
- Best for: Hands-off investors who want exposure to crypto without holding coins.
- Risks: Market risk and limited control over asset selection.
🧠 5. AI-Powered Investment Apps
Apps like Plum or Chip use AI to automate savings and investments, and some now offer crypto options or thematic portfolios (e.g., “Future Tech”).
- Best for: Beginners or those who want a smart, passive approach.
- Risks: Limited customization and reliance on app algorithms.
| Crypto Asset | Platform | Approx. AER (%) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ethereum (ETH) | Lido, Stader | 2.5% – 3.3% | Liquid staking; rewards vary by validator |
| Solana (SOL) | Stakin, Solaxy | 6% – 8% | High-speed network; some platforms advertise up to 81% |
| Tether (USDT) | Binance, Nexo | 1.5% – 18% | Stablecoin; higher rates on newer platforms |
| XRP | YouHodler | Up to 8% | Centralized staking; limited availability |
| USDC | YouHodler | Up to 18% | Stablecoin; rates depend on lock-up terms |
| BNB | Binance, Stader | 0.5% – 3% | Native Binance token; flexible staking options |
| Lido Staked ETH | Lido | ~2.7% | Wrapped ETH staking; liquid and widely used |
| TRON (TRX) | Moonstake | ~3.6% | Popular in Asia; moderate returns |
Note: Crypto staking AERs are variable and depend on market conditions, platform fees, and lock-up periods. Always check the latest terms before committing funds.
