GKB Saving 3 Account

Graubünden's cantonal bank pays 0.15% on 3a savings. The mountains are more impressive than the rate.

GKB Saving 3 Account ranks #69 among 93 3a savings accounts in Switzerland. The Cantonal Bank of Graubünden (GKB) is a major institution in eastern Switzerland with a strong regional reputation. But at 0.15% interest with no standout features, this 3a account is a placeholder, not a destination.

Is the Interest Rate Competitive?

0.15% is well below the market leaders. GKB is a profitable, well-capitalized cantonal bank that could offer more. For context, the top 3a savings accounts pay 0.75% or higher. On a CHF 7,056 annual contribution, the difference between 0.15% and 0.75% is about CHF 42 per year. Over decades, that adds up.

No management fees help, but that's table stakes for a cantonal bank. The rate itself is the primary driver of your returns, and here it falls short.

What Actually Stands Out

Cantonal bank stability is the main draw. GKB is majority-owned by the Canton of Graubünden, which provides an implicit government guarantee on top of esisuisse deposit protection. Your money is as safe as it gets.

GKB has an extensive branch network across Graubünden, including remote mountain communities where other banks don't reach. If you live in Davos, St. Moritz, or any of the smaller valleys, GKB might be your most convenient physical banking option. Five withdrawal options round out a solid but unremarkable package.

What Most Reviews Miss

GKB actively promotes its 3a investment solutions alongside the savings account. The savings product often serves as an entry point before advisors suggest switching to managed funds. Those funds come with higher fees that benefit the bank more than a low-interest savings account does.

If you're using GKB purely for 3a savings (not investments), you're essentially subsidizing their more profitable product lines. The bank's incentive is to move you into investments, not to raise your savings rate. Keep that in mind during advisory conversations.

The Bottom Line

GKB's 3a savings account is safe and convenient for Graubünden residents, but the rate doesn't reward your loyalty. If you're staying in savings rather than investments, you can do significantly better elsewhere. Check the full rankings at best 3a savings accounts in Switzerland.

Verdict: A trusted cantonal bank account that prioritizes safety over returns. Fine for convenience, but not for growing your retirement savings.