A savings is one of the most popular investments in Brazil and worldwide. It is seen as a low-risk investment, simple to use and accessible to anyone.

However, understanding how savings yields work is essential for making intelligent financial decisions and planning for the future with greater security.

In this complete guide, you'll find out:

• How savings yields work

• What factors directly influence earnings

• How to calculate the return on your investment

• Strategies for maximize results

• The impact of inflation on your money

• Comparisons between savings and other types of investment

How do savings yields work?

In simple terms, savings work as follows: you deposit an amount in your account, and this money grows according to the interest rates established by law.

The yield is calculated monthly, on the so-called “investment anniversary”. In other words, if you deposit on the 10th, the yield won't be credited until the next 10th.

The income rules depend on the Selic rate:

• Selic above 8.5% per year → savings yield 0.5% per month + TR (Referential Rate).

• Selic equal to or below 8.5% per year → savings yield 70% from Selic + TR.

This means that earnings are directly linked to economic conditions and the Central Bank's monetary policy.

Factors Influencing Savings Yields

Although the application is simple, there are factors that directly impact the yield.

1. inflation

A inflation is one of the main enemies of savings. Even if the money is earning, if inflation is higher than the interest received, the purchasing power of your balance decreases.

Example: if your savings account earns 6% a year, but inflation is 7%, you lose 1% of real value.

2. Selic rate

A Selic is the basic interest rate of the Brazilian economy. It influences all fixed-income investments, including savings.
When the Selic rate is high, other investments tend to be more advantageous, and savings lose their competitiveness.

3. Application time

The longer the money remains invested, the greater the accumulation of the compound interest, even in small amounts.

4. Economic policy

Decisions by the Central Bank and external factors, such as international crises or political instability, also affect the economy and, consequently, savings yields.

How to Calculate Savings Yields

Calculating savings yields manually can be complicated, but there are free online tools that simplify this process.

A good example is Citizen's Calculator, made available by the Central Bank. In it, you can find information:

• Initial amount invested

• Monthly deposits (if any)

• Application deadline

• Application start date

Within seconds, the system shows you the final amount you will have over the desired period.

Strategies to Maximize the Return on Your Savings

Even though it is a low-return investment, some practices can help to get the most out of your savings:

1. Contribute Regularly

Constant deposits, however small, make a difference over the years. Consistency is more important than the initial amount.

2. Reinvest the Interest

Avoid withdrawing your monthly income. Let it accumulate to take advantage of the compound interest.

3. Track Inflation

If inflation is higher than the return on savings, consider migrating some of the money to other investments that offer real gains.

4. Diversify Your Investments

Don't put all your resources into savings. Explore alternatives such as Tesouro Direto, CDBs, LCIs, investment funds and even shares, depending on your profile.

5. Use Digital Tools

Applications such as BankRate, Mint, Personal Capital and GuiaBolso help you keep track of your finances and can offer insights into better money management.

The Impact of Inflation on Savings Yields

Inflation is a determining factor as to whether saving really makes sense.

How Inflation Affects Your Money

When inflation is higher than the return on savings, the money invested loses real value. This means that, even with a larger balance, you buy less on the market.

Understanding the Inflation Rate

In Brazil, the main indices used are

• IPCA (National Broad Consumer Price Index) - used as a reference for inflation targets.

• INPC (National Consumer Price Index) - measures the impact of inflation on low-income families.

Comparing Inflation and Savings

• Yield higher than inflation → real wealth grows.

• Yield equal to inflation → equity stagnates.

• Yield lower than inflation → equity loses real value.

That's why it's essential to monitor the IBGE and the Central Bank of Brazil to make assertive financial decisions.

Savings or Other Investments: Which to Choose?

Although savings are practical and safe, they are not always the best option. In high Selic scenarios, for example, applications such as Selic Treasury or CDBs with daily liquidity usually yield more.

Those looking for medium and long-term profitability can consider investment funds, ETFs or private pensions.

Investors with a bolder profile can include shares or real estate funds (FIIs) in your wallet.

The important thing is to understand that savings can be used as emergency reserve, But it will hardly be enough to build wealth in the long term.

Conclusion

A savings is a simple, accessible and safe investment, but limited in terms of profitability.

Understanding how yields work, how inflation impacts your earnings and what strategies can be applied is essential to making informed decisions.

If used with discipline and within a broader diversification strategy, savings can fulfill the role of emergency reserve.

However, in order to build solid assets and achieve financial independence, It is essential to know and explore other options on the market.

💡 Final tip: keep a close eye on Selic rate and inflation, Use calculation tools and, if necessary, consult a financial planner.

Knowledge is your greatest ally in turning small deposits into great achievements.