Live Above The Madness
Blending contemporary design with Maasai influences, ol Donyo is what a safari lodge should truly embody. Taking to the skies in the 4-seater Cessna 206, Captain Morris informs me that the flight from Kimana to ol Donyo’s private airstrip will take a mere eleven minutes. “Be prepared for a few bumps along the […]
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What you should know before using ACV in your daily routine.
This hybrid handheld is sure to be on lots of gift lists this year, so you’ll want to buy one while it’s still in stock.
There was a time when smart shopping referred to shoppers who sought out the best bargains through things like coupons and sales, or those who focused on the value of products and services, making the most of their dollar. Today, smart shopping is more involved, as consumers have a few more techniques and tools at […]
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“You can’t save someone who isn’t willing to participate in their own rescue.” ~Unknown
You and I have been doing the work. Talking. Writing. Processing.
Everything I’m focused on right now—in my healing, in my spirit, in my writing—is love. Becoming love. Living in love. Returning to love.
And yet, there’s a chapter of my life that continues to whisper to me: Why wasn’t love enough?
I spent nine years in a relationship that left me anxious, confused, and small. I was always on edge. Walking on eggshells, never knowing whether I’d be met with affection or fury. He could be charming one moment and cruel the next. A Jekyll-and-Hyde personality I came to normalize.
I stayed longer than I like to admit because I believed, deep down, that my love could heal him. If I just loved harder, more purely, more selflessly, maybe I could soften his edges. Diminish the rage. Make him whole.
But no matter how hard I tried, it didn’t work.
He still raged. He still criticized. He still looked at me like I was the problem.
Eventually, I had to face a truth I never wanted to admit: Love, at least mine alone, wasn’t enough to change him.
So many of us are raised on the idea that love conquers all. That it’s our job to be patient, forgiving, and understanding. That if we just hold space long enough, people will change. Heal. Transform.
But here’s what I’ve learned the hard way:
Leaving was complicated. We didn’t live in a bubble. There were family, friends, colleagues, and the church, each with strong opinions.
“God hates divorce.” That was the message drilled into me. Sometimes in whispers. Sometimes in shouts.
In the church, women are told to submit. But submission, to me, always meant a mutual dance. A respectful exchange of give and take, compromise, and safety. Not suppression. Years later, I finally heard the words “submission without suppression,” and something clicked.
Another moment of clarity came when I heard: God cares more about the human in the relationship than He does about the institution of marriage. That truth was liberating. It helped me accept that even if I wasn’t being physically abused, I was still being harmed in ways that mattered.
At the time, I thought I was in a crisis of faith. But my soul knew better: it wasn’t faith that was broken. It was people. My spirit whispered that the path forward wasn’t in saving the marriage.
It was in saving myself.
Leaving wasn’t just about walking away from one man. It meant losing entire circles of connection.
My ex’s family had been part of my daily rhythm with shared meals, holiday gatherings, and weekend adventures. That familiar pattern disappeared overnight.
Even friendships I thought were my own slipped away. Some didn’t understand my choice. Others quietly withdrew, perhaps uncomfortable with divorce itself, or perhaps with me choosing a new path. I’ll never know for sure.
The losses were painful. I had to sit with the ache, mourn the empty spaces, grieve the old circle. But slowly I began to see: some people are only meant to walk with us for a season. Growth means outgrowing certain spaces and opening to new ones.
Healing came with the release of those no longer meant for me, so I could make room for the ones who were.
It took years—and therapy, journaling, truth-telling, and self-forgiveness—to admit that I wasn’t weak for staying. I was loving. I was loyal. I was trying.
But the love I gave wasn’t being received. It wasn’t reciprocated. And it wasn’t respected.
Here’s the radical truth I finally embraced:
My love was never the problem. It was real. It was whole. It was enough.
But it could never replace the work someone else refused to do.
Leaving doesn’t happen all at once. It comes in bursts and choices.
There was the physical leaving, which involved moving out of our home and subletting a college apartment that no thirty-six-year-old should have to reside in.
And then came the months of separation and eventually divorce—difficult conversations, compromises, and grief. Along the way, a new friendship was strengthening and shifting.
From the day I met Jim, I was drawn in by his smile, his laugh, his kindness. Over time, a deep trust and mutual respect developed. As the distance between my ex and me grew, Jim and I grew closer. We came to a crossroads, another choice.
When I first left, I clung to the idea of remaining friends with my ex. Coffee together. Kind words. Civility. But I quickly realized two things: first, that wasn’t in his nature. And second, it wasn’t fair to Jim.
Jim listened patiently as my ex talked about “winning me back.” Then, with kindness and clarity, Jim said, “You need to choose, because I’m not going to stay in limbo while you figure things out.”
It wasn’t an ultimatum meant to control me. It was a boundary meant to protect his heart. And in that moment, I felt the difference between destructive love and healthy love.
Healthy love stands firm without hostility. It respects both people. It asks for clarity, not chaos.
Today, my life looks radically different. I’m in a partnership built on respect, kindness, trust, and healing.
A relationship where I feel safe, seen, and loved without having to earn it.
And yet, sometimes I still look back. Not with longing but with tenderness for the woman who stayed.
The woman who tried. Who hoped. Who believed love could fix what was broken.
To her, I say:
You were doing your best with what you knew at the time. It’s okay that you thought love could be enough. It’s okay that you tried. And it’s beautiful that you eventually walked away.
If you’re in a relationship where love feels like walking on eggshells, where you’re exhausted from trying to be “enough,” hear this:
You are allowed to leave in the name of love. Especially the love you owe yourself.
And if you’re in the messy middle, give yourself grace. Know this: it’s okay to love again and still feel trauma. To still get triggered. To mourn, rage, regret.
It’s okay to cry, even when you’ve moved on and built a healthier life. Tears are part of release, part of healing, part of love finding its way back to you.
Lori Ann King is a writer, wellness warrior, and truth-teller who explores healing, freedom, and joy through words. She is the author of Come Back Strong and a two-time contributor to the Chicken Soup for the Soul series. She writes at LoriAnnKing.com.
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The latest iPhone software builds on these features and makes them even better. Make sure you’ve set them up.
Skip the pot watching and use this modern method for making soft-, medium- and hard-boiled eggs.
The rituals of home life — from moments of pause to mindful meals — are evolving as interiors become active participants in well-being. LUXUO explores how thoughtful technology and considered design turn everyday routines into a personalised experience of quiet, purposeful luxury.
The act of making food has shifted from routine work to a soothing way to create something meaningful. Today’s kitchens serve as quiet zones where this transformation happens, filled with smart tools that take care of mundane tasks so you can focus on creative touches. Homes now also feature spaces — like wall-mounted city gardens — for growing your favourite greens and seasonings.
In today’s sleek home interiors, Aran Cucine Oasi quietly celebrates how living spaces are evolving — where natural elements blend seamlessly with intelligent layout choices. Designed by Stefano Boeri Architetti, this version turns the classic kitchen island into a compact “life hub,” combining key tasks like cooking, chopping, cleaning, sorting waste, and socialising into a single flowing structure.
A slender lemon tree stands at the core, its stem rising through the floor like a quiet beam of energy and growth. More than decoration, it symbolises how food, air, and aesthetics intersect in daily life. Anchoring this idea is a Corian countertop — a sturdy synthetic stone — shaped across two tiers with matching side panels that pull out to form a dining table seating between three and nine people. The material feels heavy, slick, and resilient, grounding the kitchen’s smart design and tactile presence.
Clean shapes meet natural textures in quiet balance, blending technology with earthy calm. Oasi goes beyond being just a cooking space — it is a vision, showing homes where people and plants thrive together. Within this private world of stone, timber, seamless surfaces, and growing greens, Aran Cucine reminds us that kitchens can be living, pulsing centres of the home.
In a small nook at home, the Grobrix wall farm changes cooking without any fuss. Hung like a painting and buzzing softly, it grows herbs, greens, even hot peppers — all within reach of your stove, every season. Built in Singapore, this soil-free setup runs on a monthly plan that covers care and fresh plant refills; you just need a spot on the wall about 65 by 200 cm plus access to two regular plugs. It offers a smart watering feature and intelligent lighting to cut down waste, using way less power and H₂O, while baby plants come pre-packed, so you do not have to figure things out. You enjoy the ritual of gardening and “foraging” for herbs and vegetables to cook up a storm. Before long, whipping up meals feels more like gathering what you have grown — easy, earth-friendly, and satisfying to share with loved ones.
The home gym is not just some ignored spot with an old treadmill anymore. Instead, it has become a dedicated zone for daily motion, like your own private training ground for body and mind. Function shapes the look, yet mood matters just as much. Inside the quieter setting of home spaces, Scavolini’s Gym Space shows up with subtle boldness — a washroom where sleek looks go hand in hand with intentional exercise. Designed by Mattia Pareschi, this setup turns traditional Swedish wall bars into a striking structure that supports both self-care habits and workout flows. Fresh in soft “Blond” or rich “Core” timber, the beams shape the room’s backbone — off which dangle mirrors, lights, racks for towels, spots to stash stuff, along with a pull-up rod and workout seat. Every piece slots in tight, so looks and use fit together clean, no give on either side.
The idea turns the bathroom into more than just a place to recharge — it becomes a spot for overall well-being, mixing workouts, self-care, or quiet moments. Because it takes up little room, it fits tight spaces yet stays flexible, so you can do yoga, hang exercises, or abdominal muscles moves without disrupting your day. Soft lighting, sleek surfaces, and hidden plumbing boost the look, making the function feel smooth and calm.
Scavolini’s Gym Space turns the home bathroom into a spot where power meets grace. Not just a room, it quietly shows how daily life can feel bold — hinting that personal areas too can fuel energy, look sharp, and boost mood without trying too hard. Built less about struggle, more about tuning into your rhythm and muscle.
Wellness-driven interiors are founded on the principles of mindful architecture, a design philosophy that prioritises the human experience primarily. It is about making conscious choices to achieve a sense of balance and tranquillity. Kelly Wearstler, a renowned designer, eloquently defines this ethos: “Wellness is not a trend; it is a timeless aspect of design.” It is about creating situations that are healing for the human spirit. To achieve this, Wearstler deploys a comprehensive approach that includes maximising natural light, guaranteeing seamless spatial movement, and using non-toxic, natural materials. The result is a residence that exudes serenity, a true haven from the outer world.
Wearstler’s domestic design for the Madison Residence centres on the bathroom as the focal point of the residence. The primary bath is a tribute to natural materials in their most beautiful forms. Patinated brass divided light doors frame ribbed glass, the walls are covered in luminous glass tiles, and the glowing space is illuminated by vintage smoked glass sones with a wave theme.
In addition, Wearstler’s Marlboro project in Los Angeles, U.S., leans hard into calm emptiness. Picture stepping into your pad where creamy neutrals — think sandy beige, pale oat, warm white, and hushed grey — wrap every room like a whisper. Light sneaks in through wide panes and rooftop glass, draping textured stucco walls, unfinished timber rafters, plus slipcovered chairs, and sofas in a lazy golden wash.
Stone countertops blend right in, almost disappearing; meanwhile, the open setup gives you elbow room to just exist — a subtle nudge to slow down. The feel is firsthand yet subtle, every piece picked because it is real and peaceful. This zone is made for daily moments — where grace blends with comfort, so the vibe pulls you in, invites you to pause, shut out the noise, take a breath, and just let go into quiet renewal.
Axel Vervoordt, from the Netherlands, ranks among the top names in interior design — his take on calm spaces does not focus on quiet or meaningful vibes but instead leans into “Wabi-Sabi,” finding elegance in flaws while chasing a sense of lasting simplicity.
Vervoordt builds quiet elegance through touch — think raw limestone underfoot, walls finished in silky plaster, while linen drapes fall loosely by the window. Instead of bright tones, he picks shades found outdoors: soil-like browns, hushed greys, faded leafy hues come into play. According to the well-known creator, mood matters way more than decoration; he once said, “What grabs me is not stuff, it’s air, sunlight, and how things fit together. The design’s true core shows up only after you have removed everything extra.” Tucked inside, there is a spot meant just for stillness — a padded mat sits low, framed by either greenery outside or a single potted plant within sight.
In a big old building from the 1800s near Antwerp — once used for making malt and gin — Vervoordt brought wabi-sabi to life through design: calm strength found in flaws, things left incomplete, surfaces shaped by years. Here, solid silos showing cracks, flaking walls, bare timber, or aged bricks set the scene — imperfections turned strengths. The space’s rugged structure stays untouched, its worn look highlighted instead of hidden.
In here, natural light spills softly through tall windows, lighting up the rooms; walls show tiny flaws like faint marks or slight unevenness — signs of time passing by. These minute details are not accidents — they speak quietly of honesty and simplicity. When you mix those raw touches with elegant artwork and fine furniture, it creates contrast — one part bold, one part quiet. This place lets buildings and paintings live at their own pace, changing slowly while keeping a peaceful vibe alive. Kanaal is not merely somewhere you visit — it is proof that beauty often hides most deeply in what is flawed. Wearstler and Vervoordt’s work both have a common theme to pause and enjoy our space, and to deeply connect with our interiors through the activities we desire.
The bathroom transcends its utilitarian roots to become a sanctuary for purification. Here, technology and ritual merge to create a spa-like experience. Here are some technologies in the bathroom sector that help create a personalised spa for you to unwind in the ritual of ablution.
In fancy bathrooms, the Kohler Stillness Bath shows what calm can really feel like — more than just a soak, it is a total escape for your senses. Built with Japan’s idea of forest bathing in mind, this setup pulls you into a zone where water meets light, and mist blends with aroma. Instead of pouring from above, water quietly flows up from under the bowl, spilling over one side into a ring made of warm Hinoki wood, making quiet ripple sounds. Around it, lights shift through colours to match mood therapies, while thin vapour floats on top and scents drift out from a tall tower nearby.
You can add scented oils into the tap head to create a fragrant, soothing bath experience. Image: Kohler.
All together, they make a space that does more than clean your skin. A sleek, standalone shape settles the room with stillness; because of its height plus thoughtful back support, it offers a full-body dip that wakes up both flesh and thought. This is not about bathing — instead, it is designed for downtime, a deliberate break, soft recharge tucked into one smooth design move.
Everyone enjoys tunes while washing up, right? Bathing’s usual routine gets a boost from audio magic — all made possible by fresh tech from Kaldewei, a top German name in high-end bathrooms.
In chasing that perfect bathroom hideout, Kaldewei adds something unexpected — sound. Meet the Sound Wave tub, which is not just a place to soak but plays music too. Hidden under any Kaldewei bathtub, this clever speaker setup turns the whole thing into a giant vibrating speaker. Stream tunes wirelessly using Bluetooth, so your favourite tracks do not only play — they ripple through the water. You are not just hearing notes — you are sensing them softly on your skin.
A smooth blend of form and calm, where old-school bathing becomes a rich, sensory escape tailored just for you. With a smart setup that saves links for eight gadgets, anyone at home can tap into this clear, soothing audio world without hassle — turning peace-seeking into something uniquely theirs.
As a result, the template for modern existence becomes more clearly defined. It is no longer only about the square footage or the eye-catching lighting fixture. True luxury is found in the daily rhythm of a well-lived life — in the steam of a smart shower, the catharsis of a well-prepared meal, and the quiet power gained from a deliberate home gym. This is the new domestic ritual: consciously curating space that not only houses but also elevates our lives. It is where conscious design meets deliberate living, resulting in a home that is more than just a backdrop, but the primary event.
The post Rituals Reimagined: The Art of Mindful Living Spaces appeared first on LUXUO.
*Rates and APYs are subject to change. All information provided here is accurate as of Nov. 3, 2025.
Investing in the stock market can allow your money to grow, but also involves risk. Storing your cash in a savings account doesn’t come with risk, but it also means the value of your funds will be eroded by inflation over time. Certificates of deposit (CDs) offer something in the middle.
These accounts offer annual percentage yields (APYs) that are higher than what you’ll see on many savings accounts, even high-yield savings accounts (HYSAs). In exchange for those higher rates, you’ll have to lock up your funds for a certain amount of time — typically between three months and five years. If you have money that you know you won’t need for the length of the term, putting it in a CD could be a good option.
Read on for our list of banks and credit unions offering the best CD rates in the market now, as well as a guide on how these accounts work and how to choose the best one for you.
Our editors and writers assessed roughly 60 CD offerings from some of the largest and most popular commercial banks, credit unions and online banks. We collected CD rates for varying terms, as well as minimum balance requirements and special promotions.
Read our full methodology here.
Listed alphabetically, these are the banks offering top CD rates right now.
Why we chose this company: As an online-only bank, Bask is able to offer its customers attractive rates on savings products, including CDs. It offers some of the highest APYs on three-month CD and one-year CDs among the institutions on our list at 4.10% and 4%, respectively.
At maturity, Bask will automatically roll your funds over to a CD of the same term length with the current interest rate, unless you opt to redeem and close your account. The bank will remind you 30 days before the term ends. Once it does, you’ll have 10 days to add funds, make a partial withdrawal or close out the account without facing a penalty. If you need to withdraw early, the fee is 90 days’ worth of interest for CDs with terms of one year or shorter, and 180 days of interest for those greater than one year.
If you’re looking for a longer-term CD, you may want to look elsewhere: Bask doesn’t offer CDs with terms of longer than two years.
Why we chose this company: Bread Savings has become a go-to for high-yield savings accounts and CDs — and for good reason. The online-only bank offers a whopping 4.20% APY on six-month CDs, and attractive rates across the board. But the $1,500 minimum deposit requirement is higher than the $500 or $1,000 you’ll typically see.
As usual, there is an early-withdrawal penalty: 90 days of interest for terms shorter than one year, 180 days of interest for terms between one and three years, and 365 days of interest for terms of four years and more. CDs automatically renew unless you close the account or notify the company that you don’t want to renew. Bread Savings has the typical 10-day grace period.
Why we chose this company: First Internet Bank — an online bank that has a wide range of savings accounts — stands out for its attractive rates on a range of CDs. Unlike some of the other institutions listed here, First Internet has a three-month CD, though its APY is lower than what you can get on many of the bank’s longer-term CDs.
The early-withdrawal penalties are higher overall than what you’ll see at many banks: 90 days of interest for the three-month CD, 180 days interest for terms of between six and 18 months, and 360 days interest for terms of two years and more. By comparison, many of our top picks don’t charge more than 180 days’ worth of interest for early withdrawal penalties. CDs automatically renew at maturity. You have a 10-day grace period to withdraw without penalty, or you can send a written notice to not renew the CD.
Why we chose this company: Limelight Bank offers four CDs with terms of between six months and three years that have APYs of 3.70% to 4.15% — extremely attractive rates for savers. The online bank owned by Capital Community Bank (CCBank) offers a 10-day grace period after the maturity date to withdraw funds without penalty.
If you have to withdraw the money early, there’s a penalty of 90 days of interest for the six-, 12- and 18-month CDs, and 180 days interest for the 36-month CD.
Why we chose this company: If you’re looking for a short-term CD, Live Oak is a good option. The bank offers a 4% APY on its one-year CD, 3.90% on its nine-month CD, 3.80% APY on its six- and 18-month CDs and 3% on its three-month CD. The APYs then drop to 2% for CDs with longer terms than a year.
At maturity, the CD will automatically renew at the same term unless you choose to withdraw your funds within the 10-day grace period. If you withdraw early, there’s a fee of 90 days of interest for CDs of less than two years, and 180 days of interest for CDs of two years or more.
The minimum $2,500 deposit requirement is higher than the standard $1,000. Live Oak also has a maximum amount you can put in a CD: $250,000, which is the maximum amount covered by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).
Why we chose this company: Marcus has become a go-to for high-yield savings accounts — but the online banking platform from Goldman Sachs also has a wide variety of CDs with attractive yields.
In addition to APYs of more than 3.90% on its CDs with traditional term lengths, Marcus also offers CDs with no penalty for early withdrawal with seven-, 11- and 13-month terms, as well as a 20-month CD that allows you to request a rate increase if interest rates rise during the term, also known as a “bump-up” CD. The $500 minimum deposit requirement is lower than the more standard $1,000, making Marcus’ CDs even more accessible.
There’s an early-withdrawal fee of 90 days interest for CDs with terms a year or less, a fee of 180 days interest for those with terms of one to five years, and a fee of 270 days interest for those with terms of more than five years. When your CD matures, you will have 10 days to withdraw your balance without a penalty, renew your CD with the same term at the current APY or close your CD and open a new one with a different term.
Why we chose this company: If you’re looking for options, NASA Federal Credit Union is the place to go. The credit union has a wide range of terms, including those you may not see elsewhere like 15 and 49 months (though these come with a high $10,000 minimum deposit requirement). There are also bump-up CD options for two- and three-year CDs, and a one-year add-on CD with a minimum deposit requirement of $250 that allows you to deposit up to $2,500 more each month. For savers age 23 and below, the one-year “Early Savers” CD has a minimum deposit requirement of just $50.
The early-withdrawal penalties are 182 days of interest for terms of less than two years and 365 days of dividends for terms of two years or more. The grace period is 10 days, and CDs will be automatically renewed unless you opt out.
You need to be a member of the credit union, which began as a banking institution for NASA employees, to open a CD. Today, though, non-astronauts can join if they first become members of the National Space Society (NSS), which will give you eligibility.
Why we chose this company: Newtek Bank is an online-only bank that offers a range of CD offerings with terms of between six months and five years. The best APYs are for the shortest terms, six months and one year — though note that there’s no three-month CD. If you’re hunting for a long-term CD, you may want to look elsewhere: The four- and five- year CDs only have a 2% APY.
If you withdraw your money early, you’ll face a fee of 90 days of interest for CDs with terms of less than a year, and 180 days of interest for CDs with terms of a year or longer. Once your CD matures, the account will renew. You’ll only have seven days after maturity to withdraw funds without a penalty — shorter than the typical 10-day grace period.
Why we chose this company: Popular Direct offers competitive rates on eight different CDs ranging from three months to five years, making this a good pick if you plan to create a CD ladder. The online-only platform makes it easy to access your account via mobile or desktop any time of the day, and you can easily open an account online.
The bank will automatically renew your CD once it matures after a 10-day grace period, though it will send reminders that the maturity date is coming up so you can opt out of the renewal ahead of time (and you can do so even before Popular Direct starts sending you reminders).
The fee for early withdrawal is 89 days of interest for terms less than 91 days, 120 days of interest for terms between 91 and 364 days, 270 days of interest for terms of one to three years, 365 days of interest for terms three to five years and 730 days for terms of more than five years. Most of our other top picks only impose an early-withdrawal penalty of 180 days’ worth interest on their long CD terms. The biggest downside to Popular Bank’s CD offerings, though, is that all terms have a very high required minimum balance of $10,000.
Why we chose this company: Synchrony Bank is an online-only bank that offers 14 different traditional CD term lengths, ranging from three months to five years. Aside from its short-term three-month CD (which yields just 0.25%), Synchrony’s rates are pretty competitive — and we like that there’s no minimum deposit required to open one.
The bank currently offers a 3.75% APY on its six-month CD, a 4.10% APY on its nine-month CD and a 4% APY on its five-year CD. Synchrony also has a few specialty CDs, including an 11-month no-penalty CD and a 24-month bump up CD, though both pay relatively low rates compared with the bank’s standard offerings. Additionally, Synchrony offers traditional and Roth IRA CDs for those looking to save for retirement.
As with most CDs, you’ll pay an early withdrawal penalty if you take money out before it reaches maturity. The fee for early withdrawal on terms of 12 months or less is equal to 90 days of interest; for terms over 12 months but under 48 months, it’s 180 days of interest; and for terms of 48 months or more, the penalty increases to 365 days of interest. While the last tier is on the steeper side, it’s still within the typical range for long-term CDs.
Why we chose this company: Tab Bank offers competitive APYs on all of its CDs, with the highest being the 3.98% APY on a one-year CD. If you’re looking for a shorter-term CD, however, you won’t find that at Tab. The bank doesn’t offer any CDs with terms shorter than a year.
Like at other banks, you’ll face an early-withdrawal penalty if you withdraw your money before the term ends and the CD matures. The penalty on the one-year CD is 90 days of interest, while it’s 180 days on the CDs with longer terms. Tab offers the typical 10-day grace period once your CD matures to withdraw your money, but you’ll have to notify the bank via email within that 10-day period if you don’t want your CD to renew automatically. You can receive interest payments via check, transfer or compounding.
We looked at an array of financial institutions to find the best CD rates. The following list includes some of the companies we reviewed that, while they didn’t make the final cut, we still consider noteworthy.
We assessed many CDs at major banks and credit unions that ultimately did not make our list. Below are several CDs that were not named here, but may have what you’re looking for.
Capital One has attractive APYs on a range of CDs and there’s no minimum balance requirement. If you’re looking for a one-year CD, you may want to consider this bank with its 3.85% APY. The six- and nine-month CDs are also attractive with an APY of 3.50%. However, its rates overall were less competitive.
Discover has a wide range of CD terms. It’s especially worth considering if you’re looking for a place to park your long-term savings, since it offers 3.50% APY on six- and 9-month CDs. There’s no minimum deposit requirement to open a CD, but its APYs are generally lower than others on the market.
With APYs of 3.90% and 4.10% on its six- and eight-month CDs, respectively, LendingClub offers relatively competitive rates. It offers four other CDs with APYs between 3.40% and 3.75% with just a $500 minimum deposit requirement — but its rate are lower overall than our picks.
CDs can be a great place to park cash that you know you may not need for a certain period of time. For instance, if you’re planning to buy a house in three years, you can consider a three-year CD so that the money grows, but will be ready to withdraw once it’s time to make a downpayment.
CDs, like all savings and investing vehicles, come with their pros and cons.
CDs are a savings vehicle in which you agree to lock up your money at a bank or credit union for a certain period of time — called the term — for a guaranteed, fixed rate of return.
Banks and credit unions offer a wide variety of terms, though most are between three months and five years, and not all banks offer the same terms. The CD may also have a required minimum deposit, like $500 or $1,000, you’ll have to agree to before you invest.
In most cases, interest accrues within the CD during the term, which contributes to your total return thanks to compounding. Some banks will have let you opt to get regular interest payments throughout the term, but this will reduce your total earnings at the end of the term.
When the term expires, you generally choose between rolling over the money into another CD or withdrawing the proceeds. If you pull your money out of a CD before the term is up, the bank will charge an early-withdrawal penalty (except in the case of no-penalty CDs), generally between 90 days and a year’s worth of interest.
Banks and credit unions offer different types of CDs. Here are some of the options you may come across:
Putting your cash into a CD allows you to watch your money from on your terms. But it’s important to carefully decide which type of CD is right for you. Here’s how:
A CD ladder is a strategy that entails buying CDs with varying maturity dates so that you can take advantage of attractive interest rates while having access to money when you need it. Since longer-term CDs typically have higher rates than shorter-term CDs, a ladder lets you earn more interest and keep some access to your money.
For example, if you have $10,000, you could put $2,000 in a one-year CD, $2,000 in a two-year CD and so on. When each CD expires, you can either put the money into a new CD that ends after the last CD on your ladder, or take the cash.
A certificate of deposit or CD is a savings vehicle that allows you to lock in a certain interest rate for a set period of time. If you withdraw your money early, you’ll face a penalty — but you also won’t see your APY drop if interest rates decline.
Yes, the interest that you earn on a CD is considered taxable income by the IRS. The issuer of the CD will typically send you a Form 1099-INT with the details (assuming the interest was more than $10).
You will likely face an early-withdrawal penalty. These will depend on the bank or credit union, but are often 90 days to one year’s worth of interest. If your money is in a no-penalty CD, there won’t be a penalty.
As of April 2025, the best rates for CDs are between 4% and 5%.
To find the best CD rates, we collected data on the various term lengths and rates from roughly 60 of large banks and credit unions. We focused on some of the most common term lengths: three-month, six-month, 12-month, one-year, two-year, three-year and five-year terms. Since many of the financial institutions have similarly attractive interest rates, we zeroed in on the one-year term when necessary, since that was a term offered by nearly all the banks and credit unions we assessed.
While we prioritized CD rates, we also considered the amount of terms companies offered, minimum balance requirements and early-withdrawal penalties. We eliminated some accounts offered by banks or credit unions that served niche communities, like those who live in one particular state.
Savers enjoyed high APYs on CDs in 2022 and 2023, when the Federal Reserve hiked the benchmark federal funds rate 11 times to battle decades-high inflation, and banks and credit unions followed suit. However, as that benchmark interest rate has come down, so have CD rates.
On Oct. 29, the Fed cut its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis point — the second cut this year — bringing the target range to 3.75% to 4%. According to the Fed’s September dot plot, most policymakers anticipate at least one more quarter-point reduction before year-end.
With borrowing costs coming down, many of the top banks we track have already trimmed their CD rates in recent weeks. If you’re thinking about locking in a CD, now may be a good time to act. Rates are still elevated, but they’re likely to keep slipping as the Fed continues to ease policy.
The companies listed below are organized in descending order of top APY offered.
2025’s luxury skincare ritual goes beyond the basics of cleansing, toning, moisturising and sun protection. The next generation of serums transforms each of these foundational steps into intentional acts of care, layering scientific innovation with targeted proprietary ingredients to engage the senses. Whether enhancing hydration, radiance or firmness, serums now act as the central force in daily routines, capable of amplifying the benefits of surrounding products while delivering cutting-edge actives directly where they are needed. From lightweight watery oils to multifunctional tinted formulations, these concentrated elixirs merge science and sensoriality — redefining what it means to care for skin in a modern ritual.
Reimagined after 15 years of research and backed by nine patents, Guerlain’s Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum formulation is the amalgamation of science with nature alongside a unique alchemy of three rare black bee honeys — Ouessant from France, Trøgstad from Norway and Connemara from Ireland — combined with Guerlain’s royal jelly. Each honey is selected for its exceptional repairing properties: Ouessant honey boosts skin renewal by over 50 percent, Connemara honey stimulates hyaluronic acid synthesis by 96 percent and Trøgstad honey energises repair mechanisms by 87 percent.
With 99 percent naturally-derived ingredients, the Abeille Royale Youth Watery Oil Serum’s “deep diffusion” texture penetrates the epidermis, activating the skin’s self-repair systems from the very first drops. Within an hour, skin appears plumper and more hydrated and after one month, wrinkles are visibly reduced while radiance and smoothness are restored. Its lightweight, watery-oil formula — enriched with melt-in microbeads — fuses seamlessly with the skin, offering a sensorial experience that complements its technical performance.
SK-II’s latest serum transforms the notion of radiance into a holistic concept of youthful vitality or what the brand describes as an “aura inside out”. Built on years of biophotonics research, the GenOptics InfinitAura Essence targets skin’s Aura Protein — a key factor in maintaining luminous, even-toned skin. Stressors are known to impair this protein, leading to dullness and uneven texture; SK-II’s serum is designed to counteract these effects at the source.
The formula works in two cycles. The first energises skin’s aura protein, supplying it with essential nutrients, while the second targets visible imperfections, reducing yellowness, redness and dark spots for a brighter, smoother complexion. Enriched with over 50 micronutrients — a soothing Bisabolol ProX complex and potent brightening actives like Niacinamide and rare lotus extract — the serum was clinically tested on more than 200 women. The results saw instant radiance, smoothness and translucency, followed by improved firmness, vibrancy and a significant reduction of wrinkles and pigmentation over 28 days. Light, gentle and suitable for all skin types — the texture absorbs effortlessly, turning daily application into a ritual. Morning and night, a few drops applied strategically to cheeks, forehead and chin could make “radiance” a tangible, visible experience.
CHANEL’s N°1 DE CHANEL Serum-in-Mist transforms the concept of skincare into an on-the-go ritual, combining potent science with an ultra-light, portable format. Encased in a signature bubble-shaped, fiery red vessel, this mist is designed to fit effortlessly into a bag, pocket or the palm of one’s hand, ready to restore for application anytime, anywhere.
The serum’s single active ingredient — red camellia extract — is the culmination of 19 years of research. Derived from a plant known to live up to 200 years, the extract is rich in protocatechuic acid, which boosts skin’s vitality mechanisms and strengthens its natural defence against oxidative stress by 141 percent, while camellia leaf buds soothe instantly. The bi-phase formula is airy and imperceptible on the skin, delivering concentrated antioxidant protection in a refreshing spritz that enhances both skincare and makeup. Usage is both intuitive and ritualistic: shake, spray across the face in horizontal and vertical motions and reapply when needed throughout the day.
Shiseido’s Ultimune Power Infusing Serum reframes the serum as a proactive step in the fight against visible aging, targeting the very cycle that leads to fine lines, wrinkles and skin fatigue. Built on over 30 years of research into skin immunity, the formula is clinically shown to prevent and visibly correct signs of aging, with 95 percent of users noticing improved texture and reduced wrinkles within just one week.
At the heart of Ultimune is the exclusive Power Fermented Camellia+ technology, which harnesses the regenerative potential of the Camellia flower from Japan’s Goto Islands. Using the plant in its entirety — from seeds to petals and leaves — the serum delivers 14 amino acids through a unique bio-fermentation process, nourishing the skin while strengthening its natural resilience. Additional ingredients — including Reishi mushroom, Iris root extract and Heart Leaf with Fermented Roselle — work in synergy to protect against environmental stressors, soothe and enhance overall vitality.
The serum is infused with microcapsules and absorbs quickly to leave skin feeling smooth and firmer. Clinically, it improves 11 key signs of aging, from uneven tone and dullness to wrinkles and loss of elasticity with 98 percent of users reporting reduced visible aging signs. With Shiseido’s Ultimune Power Infusing Serum, the act of applying serum becomes a ritual of fortifying and visibly enhancing skin for long-term use.
Luxury skincare in 2025 is about working with the skin’s biology, not against it. IDS PepBlu Serum embodies this shift, translating the clinic-favourite PepBlu DEEP Facial into a potent at-home serum. Designed for mature, sensitive or overworked skin, it goes beyond hydration to activate the skin’s natural renewal pathways, stimulating collagen, reducing fine lines and improving elasticity.
The formula combines synthetic growth factors — EGF, IGF-1, FGF, VEGF, and TGF-β — with Blue Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) and neuropeptides (Syn-Ake, Snap-8), mimicking the effects of the body’s own repair mechanisms while smoothing expression lines. Its proprietary delivery system ensures deep absorption and enhanced efficacy, making it ideal for post-treatment care or layered into a high-performance routine. Blue Copper Peptides (GHK-Cu) and neuropeptides (Syn-Ake and Snap-8) further smooth tension and expression lines, mimicking a needle-free “Botox effect.” The serum’s proprietary delivery system ensures deep absorption, making it compatible with post-procedure care, facials and energy-based treatments. Over time, the formula strengthens the skin barrier, leaving a radiant, resilient complexion suitable for mature, dry, sensitive or overworked skin.
Lancôme’s Skin Idôle 3 Serum Supertint blurs the line between skincare treatment and makeup, offering lightweight, buildable coverage while delivering 24-hour luminous wear. Designed for a natural “no-makeup” finish, it is available in 20 adaptable shades, making it a versatile everyday essential. Its weightless, serum-like formula combines three powerful serums: niacinamide, hyaluronic acid and vitamin E. The tinted serum works beneath its dewy veil to reinforce the skin barrier, hydrate and visibly plump. In consumer tests, bare skin appeared softer and smoother after four weeks, proving that this multitasking serum actively supports skin health while enhancing radiance. Non-greasy, crease-proof and non-comedogenic, it transforms the act of applying makeup into a skin-strengthening ritual.
Allies of Skin’s Beta Glucan & Resveratrol Advanced Hydrating Serum is a next-generation formula designed to deliver deep, sustained moisture while reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier. At its core are 8 percent Beta Glucan paired with ceramides, 5.5 percent Resveratrol with polysaccharides and 1.5 percent Carnosine, a carefully curated blend that enhances moisture retention, provides antioxidant protection and supports overall skin resilience.
Unlike conventional hydrating serums, its pearly, milky texture glides effortlessly across the skin, leaving a breathable veil of moisture. The serum absorbs quickly, ensuring the skin feels replenished, calm and supple. Clinically tested, it instantly increases hydration by over 120 percent, with sustained results that leave skin noticeably smoother and plumper after the first use.
Founder Nicolas Travis emphasises the hero role of Beta Glucan — sourced from adaptogenic mushrooms — which works in harmony with ceramides and additional antioxidants like Resveratrol and Carnosine to protect against oxidative stress while promoting long-term skin health. This makes the serum a multi-layered ally as it not only hydrates deeply but also fortifies the skin, helping it resist moisture loss and environmental damage. Part of a full ritual, this serum layers beautifully under moisturisers, eye treatments or makeup, making it a versatile addition to any skincare routine.
Sisleÿa L’Intégral Anti-Âge Longevity Essential Serum is a breakthrough formula tailored for the needs of mature skin. Drawing on longevity science and Sisley’s expertise in phyto-cosmetology, the serum supports the cutaneous, vascular and immune systems of the skin, restoring their natural communication and encouraging regenerative processes. It is a blend of over 50 active ingredients — including beta-glucans, Red Vine extract, Vitamin E Acetate, Green Lentil Extract and Hypnea musciformis red algae — to target wrinkles, loss of firmness, dullness, yellowing and dehydration. By enhancing the skin’s natural renewal, limiting pro-aging signals and reinforcing the skin barrier to improve texture and resilience.
The serum’s silky texture glides on effortlessly, delivering hydration and comfort with Hyaluronic Acid, Shea and Macadamia oils and Phytosqualan, leaving skin feeling soft and nourished. Integrated into the Sisleÿa L’Intégral Anti-Âge routine, it enhances other treatments to support a complete daily ritual for visibly revitalised skin.
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