On 1 Apr, SCB sent me an invitation offer to enjoy Exclusive Bonus Interest for four months (Apr to Jul) at an interest rate of 3.5%. Even though other banks or instruments out there had similar deals, I thought to take this up just because it could act like a four month fixed deposit except it's liquid. For users of the esaver account, it usually gave two months promotion each time, using incremental fresh funds as a criteria. So in April and May, the bonus interest came on time i.e the last day of the month. June passed and I awaited the same outcome but did not receive. Maybe it was the weekend and the bank needed a couple of working days to process. I waited till 3 July and decided to contact the online chat. Customer service told me that I wasn’t entitled to June’s bonus since a new cycle of esaver promotion had begun. Since there was no balance increment in my account, it wasn't entitled to earn the bonus portion. This totally deviated from my understanding of the terms and conditions. Obviously, it was a disappointment and I didn't want to argue my case. Without wasting time, I looked for another avenue to park these idle funds and fortunately, HSBC EGA had an offer. Five days later, the Exclusive Bonus appeared. Be hopeful, there is sunshine after the rain. Customer service staff are humans too and they make mistakes.
There’s been not much investment activity as I ponder whether to subscribe to Astrea 8. Share prices have rebounded nicely amid expectations of an interest rate cut. To that, I think it depends on the US election outcome. If Trump wins, I am concerned that inflation would return, thereby keeping rates high. Meanwhile, enjoy what the high yield savings accounts can give.
Tip: Petrolo Torrione 2019, young and approachable, ripen peach with cedar wood, soft tannins
