Banks will update lending and deposit terms: will Ukrainians be able to save?

During 2026, Ukrainians may receive positive changes in the financial sector: we are talking about a decrease in interest rates on loans and deposits. According to experts, available interest rates on loans may decrease by 1–1.5%. This will depend on the economic situation and security conditions in Ukraine, says Serhiy Mamedov, Vice President of the Association of Ukrainian Banks and Head of Globus Bank.

Mamedov emphasizes that there are opportunities to reduce interest rates. Still, they are closely tied to the stability of the economy, the National Bank’s decisions on the base rate, and regular financial support from international partners. In a positive scenario, loans will become more profitable for the population and businesses.

In 2025, the banking system issued more loans than in 2024, with a growth of 15–18%, and businesses received more than 20% of new loans. This indicates the banks’ active lending and the population’s willingness to borrow.

As for deposits, the decline in inflation will improve the conditions for holding and increasing funds in bank accounts. If inflation decreases to 6.6%, as the NBU predicts, banks will be able to offer more profitable hryvnia deposits.

According to Mammadov, if the NBU discount rate decreases from 15.5% to 14–14.5%, average deposit rates may decrease by about 1%, bringing them closer to 13–13.5% per annum. Since depositors usually seek more profitable offers, in 2026, we can expect rates of about 14–15% per annum on hryvnia deposits.

This means that depositors’ money in banks can work more productively, and loans will become less expensive. It is important to monitor bank offers and analyze inflation and taxes so that your savings bring real income.