Which financial product typically offers a fixed interest rate for a set term?

Certificates of Deposit (CDs) are financial products designed to provide a fixed interest rate over a predetermined term, which typically ranges from a few months to several years. When you invest in a CD, you agree to leave your money in the account for that specified duration, and in return, the bank or financial institution pays you interest at a set rate, which is often higher than traditional savings accounts.

The appeal of CDs lies in their predictable returns and the safety they provide, as they are typically insured by the FDIC up to certain limits. This fixed interest rate allows individuals to plan their finances more effectively, as they know exactly how much interest they will earn over the term of the CD. At maturity, the principal amount and the earned interest can be withdrawn, or the investor may choose to roll it over into a new CD.

This contrasts with money market accounts, which may offer variable interest rates, and stocks and equity funds, whose returns are dependent on market performance and can fluctuate widely, lacking the guarantee of a fixed return.