Which Bank with the Highest CDI to Choose in 2024? Complete Guide to Profitable Digital Accounts

Why Are Digital Banks Gaining Ground Over Traditional Savings?

Digital banks have revolutionized the way Brazilians manage their investments. The reason is simple: while savings accounts offer only 7.41% per year plus the Referential Rate (currently zero), digital accounts linked to the CDI (Interbank Deposit Certificate) provide significantly higher returns.

A practical example: investing R$ 1,000 for 24 months in an account with 102% of the CDI yields R$ 204.12, while savings accounts earn only R$ 129.29. The difference is not negligible for those looking to maximize their savings.

The secret lies in the CDI, a rate that tracks the Selic and is recalculated daily. Unlike savings accounts, which update their yield once a month on the deposit anniversary, digital accounts allow for continuous gains on business days.

The Best Digital Banks and Their Yields

Nubank: the option with consistent returns

Nubank stands out for offering 100% of the CDI. The strategy is brilliant: instead of a traditional savings account or checking account, the bank uses a payment account that automatically invests in Federal Public Securities. The result is daily earnings starting from the 31st day, independent of the deposit anniversary.

Neon: the longer the investment, the better

For those seeking a bank with higher CDI as time passes, Neon offers a progressive proposal. Starting at 100% of the CDI, the rate increases by 13 percentage points every six months until reaching 113% after two years. This structure encourages loyalty and rewards long-term investors.

PicPay: financial organization and yield

Founded in 2012, PicPay combines functionality with profitability. Its accounts generate 102% of the CDI on all business days and include the “Cofrinhos” tool, allowing users to separate savings into customized categories. It’s a behavioral approach to investing.

PagBank: simplicity and automation

PagBank, the platform from PagSeguro, introduced the Rendeira Account. It works automatically: any balance remaining for 30 days earns 100% of the CDI. No bureaucracy, no complex requirements.

Mercado Pago: bank with the highest CDI for premium clients

Mercado Pago starts with 100% of the CDI for everyone. But those who subscribe to Meli+ and deposit R$ 1,000 or more monthly see their balance earn 105% of the CDI. A segmentation strategy that works.

99Pay: differentiated yield by tier

The 99 digital account offers up to 110% of the CDI for balances up to R$ 5,000 and believes in extra advantages: yields occur every day, including weekends, while many competitors operate only during business hours. Additionally, it offers cashback on rides and recharges.

Iti (Itaú): goals and financial organization

Iti’s digital account from Itaú offers 100% of the CDI through the “My Goals” feature. Similar to piggy banks from other banks, it allows users to separate savings by different objectives, with yields starting from the first business day.

Banco PAN: accessible from the start

PAN democratizes access to the CDI: starting with just R$ 30 in balance, the bank begins applying your money. In the first 30 days, it yields 10% of the CDI; after that, it switches to 100% of the CDI. No maximum balance limit.

Understanding the Differences: CDI versus Savings

Savings accounts use a fixed formula: 70% of the Selic plus the Referential Rate. Its calculation is monthly and tied to deposit anniversaries. The CDI, on the other hand, reflects the average rate of short-term interbank loans and is calculated daily, offering a more dynamic update.

When a product offers more than 100% of the CDI, it means you earn an additional margin over the base rate. During periods of high Selic, this advantage is significantly amplified.

How to Choose the Best Bank with Higher CDI for Your Goals

The decision depends on some criteria:

If you want maximum returns: Neon and 99Pay offer up to 113% and 110% of the CDI, respectively.

If you want simplicity: PagBank and Banco PAN do not require complex minimums or specific behaviors.

If you want organization: PicPay and Iti allow you to segment savings by categories and goals.

If you are already a Mercado Livre customer: Mercado Pago offers 105% of the CDI with Meli+, making it advantageous for this audience.

Conclusion: Maximize Gains in 2024

Digital banks have transformed the reality of Brazilian investors. While savings accounts offer 7.41% per year, accounts with CDI generate between 100% and 113% of the interbank rate, representing gains that can double or triple your returns over time.

Choosing the bank with the highest CDI is not just about numbers but about which institution best aligns with your profile. If you value progressive growth, look for Neon or 99Pay. If you prefer flexibility, Nubank and PagBank are solid alternatives. The important thing is not to leave your money idle in traditional savings when much more profitable options are available.

In an environment of rising interest rates, taking advantage of these digital accounts is essential to protect and expand your purchasing power.