Back to: Bank Accounts

 

The global credit crisis has caused many of us to pause, take stock and question our own financial position.

With Westpac being 1 of only 20 banks worldwide with a Standard & Poor's AA rating, you can save and invest with us, with utmost confidence, knowing that we:

• Have no direct exposure to the US subprime market
• Continue to record strong growth over the past 12 months despite economic uncertainty
• Are Australia's first bank with over 191 years' experience helping Australians manage their money - through good times and bad.

We've identified 10 Smart Money Moves that will equip you to continue banking with confidence. These include tips like;

Smart Money Move - Get the best deal on my savings

When looking for the best deal for your savings the first thing to remember is that even though there are many different savings accounts, they generally fall into 2 main types:

1. Those that offer higher interest rates with more limited access.
2. Those that offer higher access and earn lower interest.

The Smart Money Move is:

• Check with your bank what rate you are currently earning to see if it's competitive.
• Be open to considering multiple savings accounts - one for short term, one for medium and one for long-term goals
• If you have don't need ready access to some of your savings you may like to consider a locked account with no set-up, monthly service or management fees to help maximise your return.*

Some Westpac savings accounts worth considering are:

• Term Deposit - a cash investment ideal for securing your savings. With a term deposit you know exactly the rate of return you'll receive and when to expect it.
• Westpac eSaver -ideal for those looking to maximise their return whilst having the convenience to instantly access funds, through automated Telephone and Internet Banking, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Smart Money Move - Get better at budgeting

Assessing and sticking to a realistic budget could enable you to keep abreast of your financial situation with clarity and confidence. This is especially important in the current economic environment.

Our easy-to-use online budgeting tool could help you calculate any surplus or financial shortfalls. It also suggests available options and actions.

Mastering the art of budgeting is one of the smartest money moves you can make.

Like to know more moves?

Download and read the full list of Smart Money Moves.

	Smart Money Moves (PDF 607kb)
	Smart Money Moves (RTF 179kb)

Business customers

For the latest business banking information read about our Smart Cash Flow Moves.