Last Updated: April 2026  · 
Editorial Policy
 ·  By MoneyKH Research Team

Is your money safe in a Cambodian bank? The honest answer in 2026: Cambodia’s banks are regulated by the National Bank of Cambodia with capital adequacy requirements, liquidity rules, and a new Emergency Liquidity Assistance (ELA) framework — but Cambodia does not have a formal deposit guarantee scheme comparable to the USA’s FDIC, the UK’s FSCS, or Singapore’s SDIC. As of April 2026, a deposit protection scheme is still “being developed” according to the NBC’s own January 2026 annual report, making Cambodia one of the last countries in ASEAN without formal deposit insurance. This means that if a Cambodian bank were to fail, there is currently no guaranteed government-backed reimbursement of your deposits up to a fixed limit. What does protect your money: NBC licensing requirements, minimum capital ratios, the NBC’s lender-of-last-resort ELA facility, the stability of large banks like ABA, ACLEDA, and Canadia, and the political-economic reality that Cambodia cannot afford the consequences of a major bank failure. For most Cambodians with deposits in one of the major licensed commercial banks, the practical risk of loss is low — but understanding the framework (and its gaps) is essential financial literacy.

The Gap Nobody Tells You About: Cambodia Has No Formal Deposit Guarantee Scheme

If you have savings in an ABA Bank account and ABA Bank were to fail tomorrow, how much of your money would you get back? In the United States, the FDIC guarantees up to $250,000 per depositor per bank. In the United Kingdom, the FSCS covers up to £85,000. In Singapore, the SDIC covers up to SGD $75,000. In Thailand, each depositor is protected up to THB 1 million. In Vietnam, up to VND 125 million is guaranteed.

In Cambodia, the answer is: there is no formal, legally-enacted deposit guarantee that specifies a protected amount. As of April 2026, the NBC’s own annual report describes deposit protection mechanisms as “being developed.” A working group has been formed. Studies have been conducted. International experts from the US Treasury have consulted. But no scheme has launched.

Why Has Cambodia Not Established Deposit Insurance Yet?

Three structural factors make deposit insurance harder to implement in Cambodia than in most other countries.

Dollarisation: Approximately 90% of Cambodian bank deposits are held in USD. Most deposit insurance schemes globally cover only the domestic currency because central banks can print local currency to fund payouts — they cannot print USD. Creating a USD deposit insurance fund requires building a foreign-currency reserve fund through bank premiums, which takes years and creates its own challenges around adequate capitalisation.

Shallow premium base: For deposit insurance to work, all participating banks pay an annual premium into a central fund. The fund only becomes meaningful over time. Cambodia would need to start with a modest coverage amount and low premium, building up gradually — which limits the immediate protection it can offer and makes the scheme less visible to consumers in its early years.

Rapid sector growth: Cambodia’s banking and financial system grew at exceptional speed. Broad money circulation surged from 41.6% of GDP in 2010 to 142% by 2022 — one of the fastest expansions in ASEAN. Designing a deposit insurance framework that is appropriate for a rapidly-evolving sector, without inadvertently creating moral hazard (banks taking more risk because deposits are guaranteed), requires careful calibration. The NBC has been methodical rather than rushed.

The good news is that the institutional groundwork has been laid. The NBC has a dedicated Deposit Protection and Bank Resolution Unit. A formal working group with the Ministry of Economy and Finance is active. The March 2026 Emergency Liquidity Assistance framework (see below) is a complementary piece of the same financial stability architecture. The scheme is coming — it just has not arrived yet.

What Actually Protects Your Money in a Cambodian Bank Right Now

The absence of formal deposit insurance does not mean deposits are unprotected. Multiple layers of NBC regulation create meaningful protection in practice. Understanding each layer helps you assess the actual risk to your savings.

NBC Emergency Liquidity Assistance (ELA) — The March 2026 Framework

In March 2026, the National Bank of Cambodia issued Prakas No. B37.026.204, formally establishing a framework for Emergency Liquidity Assistance (ELA) to banking and deposit-taking financial institutions. This is a significant development that strengthens depositor protection — though it is not a deposit guarantee scheme.

NBC Regulatory Framework — What Governs Cambodia’s Banks

The NBC supervises Cambodia’s banking sector under the Law on Banking and Financial Institutions and a series of Prakas (regulatory proclamations). Key elements that protect depositors:

Risk by Bank Type — Where Your Money Is Safer and Where It Is Not

Not all Cambodian deposit-taking institutions carry the same level of risk. Understanding the hierarchy is essential for placing savings wisely.

Cambodia vs ASEAN — Deposit Protection Comparison

Practical Guide — How to Protect Your Deposits in Cambodia Right Now

Given that formal deposit insurance does not yet exist, the following practical steps are the best available framework for protecting your savings.

Frequently Asked Questions — Cambodia Bank Safety 2026

More MoneyKH: Cambodia Banking Guides

🏦 Banking Safety & Accounts

• Best Banks in Cambodia 2026 — Full Comparison →
• ABA Bank Review 2026 →
• ACLEDA Bank Review 2026 →
• Canadia Bank Review 2026 →
• Cambodia Savings Account Interest Rates 2026 →
• How to Open a Bank Account in Cambodia →

📱 Digital Wallets

• Bakong Payment System 2026 →
• Best Digital Wallets in Cambodia 2026 →

Published by the MoneyKH Research Team. Last updated: April 2026. NBC Annual Report January 2026 sourced from Khmer Times, January 26 2026: NBC confirmed deposit protection mechanisms “being developed.” AMRO article “Time is Ripe for a Deposit Protection Scheme in Cambodia” (February 2024) sourced from amro-asia.org and Phnom Penh Post. NBC Emergency Liquidity Assistance Prakas No. B37.026.204 (March 2026) sourced from Phnom Penh Post. Regional deposit coverage limits sourced from respective schemes’ official websites, verified April 2026. This article does not constitute financial or legal advice. MoneyKH is an independent comparison platform — see our full disclaimer.

Last Updated: April 2026  · 
Editorial Policy
 ·  By MoneyKH Research Team

🇰🇭 MoneyKH Independence Pledge:
We receive no referral fees from any bank or ATM network operator reviewed in this article. Rankings cannot be purchased. Platform funded by display advertising only.
Full disclaimer →

NO REFERRAL FEES · EVER

ATM fees in Cambodia 2026: ATM withdrawals at your own bank’s ATM network are free at most major Cambodian banks. The fees start when you withdraw at another bank’s ATM — typically $1–$5 per transaction — or when you use a foreign card at a Cambodian ATM, where the local bank charges a flat fee of $4–$6 on top of whatever your home bank charges. ABA Bank has the largest free ATM network in Cambodia with 700+ machines, making it the clear choice for minimising ATM costs. This guide covers every major bank’s fee structure, the foreign card situation, the locations where ATM access is limited, and when it makes more sense to use QR payments or digital transfers instead of withdrawing cash at all.

🇰🇭 ATM Fees · ABA · ACLEDA · Canadia · Wing · Cambodia · Expat Guide · 2026

ATM Fees Cambodia 2026 — Bank-by-Bank Fee Guide for Residents, Expats & Tourists

Cambodia is a heavily cash economy outside major urban centres — many markets, rural businesses, and smaller provincial towns still operate primarily in physical KHR and USD. Knowing which ATM to use, and what it costs, is practical financial literacy for anyone living or travelling in Cambodia. This is the guide MoneyKH wishes existed when we started banking here.

⚡ Jump to Section:

• Fee Summary — All Banks at a Glance →
• ABA Bank ATMs →
• ACLEDA Bank ATMs →
• Canadia Bank ATMs →
• Wing Bank Cash-Out →
• Foreign Cards in Cambodia →
• Withdrawal Limits →
• When to Avoid ATMs Entirely →
• ATM Access Outside Phnom Penh →
• FAQ →

ATM Fee Summary — All Major Banks at a Glance

MoneyKH note: Fees listed are as of April 2026 and are subject to change. Always check the ATM screen before confirming a transaction — the fee is displayed before you complete the withdrawal and you can cancel without charge. ATM counts are approximate and shift as banks expand or consolidate their networks.

ABA Bank ATMs — The Free Network Benchmark

ABA Bank operates Cambodia’s largest ATM network with 700+ machines across the country. For ABA account holders, every withdrawal at an ABA ATM is free — no transaction fee, no monthly withdrawal cap that triggers fees, no minimum withdrawal amount.

ABA ATM key facts:

• Own-network withdrawals: Free, unlimited
• Currencies dispensed: USD and KHR — ABA ATMs are one of the few in Cambodia that dispense both currencies from the same machine, with denominations selectable during the transaction
• Foreign card fee: $5 flat per transaction — charged by ABA to the foreign cardholder, regardless of withdrawal amount. Your home bank may charge additional fees on top of this.
• Daily withdrawal limit: Typically $2,000–$3,000 per day for ABA account holders — verify your specific card limit in the ABA Mobile app or by contacting ABA
• ATM locations: ABA ATMs are concentrated in Phnom Penh (particularly BKK1, Daun Penh, Chamkarmon), Siem Reap, Sihanoukville, and major provincial capitals. The ABA Mobile app includes an ATM locator for finding the nearest machine.
• 24-hour availability: Most ABA ATMs are accessible 24 hours — standalone kiosks and in-branch ATMs generally operate round the clock

The MoneyKH verdict on ABA ATMs: For Cambodian residents who bank with ABA, the free 700+ ATM network is a meaningful practical advantage over competitors. For expats or tourists using a foreign card, the $5 fee is steep on small withdrawals — maximise each transaction by withdrawing the largest practical amount to minimise the per-dollar cost of the fee.

For full detail on ABA Bank’s account types, savings rates, and app features, see our ABA Bank review 2026.

ACLEDA Bank ATMs

ACLEDA Bank operates 500+ ATMs across Cambodia with the deepest provincial reach of any commercial bank. ACLEDA’s branch and ATM network covers every province — a meaningful practical advantage for residents and business owners in smaller towns and rural areas where ABA’s network thins out.

ACLEDA ATM key facts:

• Own-network withdrawals: Free for ACLEDA account holders
• Currencies dispensed: USD primarily; KHR available at selected machines
• Foreign card fee: $4–$5 flat per transaction
• Daily withdrawal limit: Varies by account type — typically $1,000–$2,000 for standard accounts
• Provincial advantage: ACLEDA operates ATMs in districts where ABA has no presence — for anyone conducting business in rural Cambodia, ACLEDA’s network coverage is a practical reason to maintain an ACLEDA account alongside a primary urban bank account
• ATM locations: Every provincial capital, plus many district towns. ACLEDA’s branch density outside Phnom Penh is unmatched among commercial banks.

The MoneyKH verdict on ACLEDA ATMs: ACLEDA is not the best ATM choice for urban Phnom Penh daily use — ABA’s network density in the capital is greater. ACLEDA becomes the practical best option in provincial towns where ABA ATMs are absent. Many Cambodians who travel or do business outside major cities maintain both an ABA account for urban use and an ACLEDA account for provincial cash access.

For ACLEDA’s full product range including SME loans and savings rates, see our ACLEDA Bank review 2026.

Canadia Bank ATMs

Canadia Bank operates 200+ ATMs concentrated primarily in Phnom Penh and major urban centres. Canadia is not a first-choice bank for ATM access — its network is smaller than ABA or ACLEDA — but its machines are well-maintained, reliably stocked, and located at convenient urban points including major shopping centres and business districts.

Canadia ATM key facts:

• Own-network withdrawals: Free for Canadia account holders
• Currencies dispensed: USD primarily
• Foreign card fee: $5 flat per transaction
• Daily withdrawal limit: Typically $1,000–$2,000
• Best locations: Phnom Penh CBD, Aeon Mall locations, Siem Reap town centre

The MoneyKH verdict on Canadia ATMs: Use Canadia ATMs if you bank with Canadia and the machine is conveniently located. Do not choose Canadia as your primary bank for ATM access — the network is too small to guarantee coverage when you need it. Canadia’s strength is its fixed deposit rates and institutional reputation, not its ATM reach. For Canadia’s savings products, see our Canadia Bank review 2026.

Wing Bank — Agent Cash-Out Instead of ATMs

Wing Bank operates differently from traditional ATM-based banks. Rather than a machine network, Wing uses a 9,000+ agent network of physical locations — Wing-branded counters at shops, pharmacies, and service points across Cambodia — where Wing customers can deposit and withdraw cash directly from their Wing account.

Wing cash-out key facts:

• Agent cash-out fee: Free for Wing-to-cash withdrawals up to specified daily limits; small fees may apply above threshold amounts — check current Wing fee schedule in the Wing app
• Currencies: KHR and USD — Wing agents handle both currencies
• Rural reach: Wing’s agent network extends to villages and district towns that no ATM network serves. For cash access in deep rural Cambodia, Wing agents are often the only digital-to-cash option available.
• No ATM card required: Wing cash-out is conducted via the Wing app — the agent scans a code or verifies a transaction reference. No physical card is needed.
• Agent locator: The Wing app includes an agent locator showing the nearest cash-out point

The MoneyKH verdict on Wing cash-out: Wing’s agent network is not a substitute for a bank ATM card in urban Cambodia — the process is slower and depends on agent availability and float. In rural and provincial areas, Wing agents are frequently the best or only option for digital-to-cash conversion. The combination of an ABA or ACLEDA account for urban ATM use and a Wing account for provincial cash-out is a practical setup for Cambodians who move between urban and rural settings. For Wing’s full feature set including remittance, see our Wing Bank review 2026.

Foreign Cards in Cambodia — What Tourists and New Expats Pay

This section is specifically for people using a non-Cambodian bank card — a Visa or Mastercard issued by a bank in Australia, the UK, the US, Europe, or elsewhere — at Cambodian ATMs. The fee structure has two layers, and both matter.

Layer 1 — The Cambodian bank’s fee:
Every Cambodian bank charges a flat fee to foreign cards withdrawing from their ATMs. This is the fee shown on the ATM screen before you confirm. It ranges from $4–$6 depending on the bank. It is non-negotiable and applies regardless of the amount you withdraw.

Layer 2 — Your home bank’s fees:
On top of the Cambodian bank’s fee, your home bank will typically apply its own international ATM withdrawal fee (often $3–$5 or a percentage) plus a foreign currency conversion markup (typically 2%–3.5% on the exchange rate used). These fees do not appear on the Cambodian ATM screen — they appear on your home bank statement.

Total cost example — withdrawing $300 from an ABA ATM on a UK debit card:

How to minimise foreign card ATM costs in Cambodia:

• Withdraw the maximum practical amount each time. The Cambodian bank’s flat fee is fixed regardless of amount — withdrawing $500 instead of $100 cuts the fee-per-dollar dramatically. Most Cambodian ATMs allow up to $500–$1,000 per transaction for foreign cards.
• Use a low-FX-fee home bank card. Cards from banks like Wise, Revolut, or Charles Schwab (US) charge minimal or zero foreign ATM and conversion fees. If you are an expat planning to stay in Cambodia, switching your primary card to a low-fee option before arrival saves significant money over time.
• Choose ABA or ACLEDA ATMs over standalone ATMs. Independent ATM operators in tourist areas (often unbranded machines in airports, shopping centres, and tourist strips) frequently charge higher fees than bank ATMs — sometimes $6–$8 per transaction. Always use a named bank ATM where possible.
• Always select “withdraw in USD” when offered a choice. Some Cambodian ATMs offer Dynamic Currency Conversion — the option to process your withdrawal in your home currency rather than USD. Always decline this. The exchange rate applied by the ATM operator’s DCC service is invariably worse than your home bank’s rate. Withdraw in USD and let your own bank convert.
• Open a Cambodian bank account if staying more than a month. The economics of foreign card ATM fees make a local account worthwhile quickly for expats and longer-stay visitors. See our guide to opening a bank account in Cambodia for the process and documentation required.

Withdrawal Limits — What You Can Take Out Per Transaction and Per Day

Note: Limits vary by individual account type, card tier, and machine configuration. Business accounts typically have higher limits than personal accounts. Contact your bank directly or check your account settings in the bank’s mobile app for your specific limits. Limits can often be temporarily increased for specific needs by contacting the bank — useful if you need to access a large cash amount for property transactions or business purposes.

When to Avoid ATMs Entirely — The QR and Transfer Alternative

Cambodia in 2026 has a highly developed digital payment infrastructure, and for urban residents, ATM withdrawals are increasingly unnecessary for everyday spending. Before queuing at an ATM, consider whether a digital payment is more practical.

Situations where a digital payment beats an ATM withdrawal:

• Paying at any urban merchant with a QR code: Restaurants, cafés, supermarkets, pharmacies, petrol stations, and most formal retail outlets in Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville accept QR payments. Paying with ABA Pay or any KHQR-compatible wallet is instant, free for the consumer, and eliminates the need for physical cash at these merchants. See our guide to how KHQR payments work.
• Sending money to family or colleagues: Bank-to-bank transfers via the Bakong infrastructure, Wing transfers, or ABA-to-ABA transfers are instant and free or very low cost. There is no reason to withdraw cash and physically hand it over for transfers between people who both have Cambodian bank accounts or digital wallets.
• Paying bills: Electricity, water, internet, and many government services can be paid directly from ABA Mobile, ACLEDA Unity, or Wing — no cash required.
• Online purchases: Growing numbers of Cambodian e-commerce platforms accept direct bank payment or wallet payment. Using a QR payment for online checkout avoids both ATM fees and the security risk of carrying cash.

Situations where cash and ATMs remain necessary:

• Markets, street food vendors, and informal businesses that do not accept digital payments
• Rural and provincial areas where QR payment acceptance is limited
• Tuk-tuk and moto drivers who prefer or require cash (though acceptance is growing)
• Large property or vehicle transactions where cash or bank cheque is the convention
• Areas with poor mobile data coverage where QR payments cannot complete

For a full picture of Cambodia’s digital payment ecosystem — including which wallets work where — see our best digital wallets in Cambodia guide and our overview of Cambodia’s fintech landscape in 2026.

ATM Access Outside Phnom Penh — The Provincial Reality

ATM coverage falls off sharply once you leave Cambodia’s major urban centres. This matters for expats travelling outside the capital, Cambodians returning to home provinces, and business owners with operations in rural areas.

Practical advice for travel outside major cities: Withdraw sufficient cash before leaving Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. Assume ATM access becomes unreliable once you are more than an hour from a provincial capital. If you use Wing Bank, the agent network provides the deepest rural cash access of any institution — use the Wing app’s agent locator before departure to identify cash-out points along your route.

For Cambodians working in Phnom Penh who send money to family in rural provinces, digital remittance via Wing Bank is generally more practical than withdrawing cash and physically transporting it — family members can cash out at a Wing agent in their town. For international money transfers to and from Cambodia, see our best ways to send money to Cambodia guide.

Frequently Asked Questions — ATM Fees in Cambodia 2026

Which bank has the cheapest ATM fees in Cambodia?
ABA Bank is the cheapest for account holders — own-network withdrawals are free, and the 700+ ATM network means you will almost always find an ABA machine in urban and suburban Cambodia. For residents banking with ABA, ATM fees are effectively zero for normal usage. ACLEDA is comparable within its own network and is the better choice for provincial towns where ABA ATMs are absent.

How much does it cost to use a foreign card at a Cambodian ATM?
Expect to pay $4–$6 from the local Cambodian bank as a flat fee per withdrawal, plus whatever your home bank charges for international ATM use (typically $2–$5 or a percentage) plus a foreign currency conversion markup of 2%–3.5%. On a $200 withdrawal, total fees can easily reach $15–$20. Minimise this by withdrawing the maximum practical amount per visit, using a low-fee international card, and opening a Cambodian bank account if you are staying longer than a month.

Can I withdraw Cambodian riel from ATMs?
Yes, but selectively. ABA Bank ATMs are the most widely available machines that dispense both USD and KHR. ACLEDA dispenses KHR at some machines. Most other bank ATMs dispense USD only. If you specifically need KHR cash — for markets, rural travel, or smaller merchants — look for an ABA ATM and select KHR during the transaction. Note that KHR notes dispensed are typically in 50,000 and 100,000 denominations.

What should I do if an ATM eats my card or the transaction fails?
If the ATM retains your card, contact the ATM operator’s bank immediately — call their customer service number displayed on the machine. Do not leave the ATM until you have noted the machine ID, location, and time of the incident. For your own bank’s card, call your bank’s 24-hour hotline and request a temporary card freeze while the situation is resolved. For ABA, the ABA Mobile app allows you to freeze your card instantly while you resolve the issue.

Are there ATM fees for transfers between different Cambodian banks?
ATM withdrawals from another bank’s machine (not your own) typically incur a $1–$3 fee charged by the ATM’s bank, displayed on screen before you confirm. This is separate from bank-to-bank transfer fees within mobile apps — most Cambodian bank apps allow free or low-cost interbank transfers via the Bakong infrastructure, which is generally a better option than withdrawing from another bank’s ATM. See our Bakong guide for how interbank transfers work.

Is it safe to use ATMs in Cambodia?
ATM safety in Cambodia is comparable to other Southeast Asian countries. The main risks are card skimming — a device attached to the card reader to capture card data — and distraction theft in crowded areas. Practical precautions: use ATMs at bank branches rather than standalone kiosks in high-traffic tourist areas, cover the keypad when entering your PIN, check the card reader for anything that looks loose or attached, and check your account balance via your bank’s app after each ATM use to catch any unauthorised transactions quickly.

Do I need a Cambodian bank account to use ATMs here?
No. Any international Visa or Mastercard can be used at Cambodian ATMs — you pay the foreign card fees described above. For stays of more than a few weeks, opening a Cambodian bank account eliminates ATM fees and provides access to Cambodia’s digital payment ecosystem. See our guide to opening a bank account in Cambodia for the full process.

What is the maximum I can withdraw from a Cambodian ATM in one day?
Daily limits vary by bank, account type, and card tier. ABA account holders can typically withdraw $2,000–$3,000 per day across all transactions. ACLEDA and Canadia limits are generally $1,000–$2,000. Foreign cards may face lower per-transaction limits of $500–$800 set by the local ATM operator, regardless of what your home bank allows. Contact your bank to check and increase your specific limit if needed. For large cash needs — property transactions, business purposes — discuss with your bank in advance, as temporary limit increases are often possible.

MoneyKH · Cambodia Personal Finance Authority Platform
Article 30 · Bank Accounts Category · April 2026
Editorial independence policy → · About MoneyKH →

Last Updated: April 2026 ·
Editorial Policy → ·
By MoneyKH Research Team →

Cambodia fixed deposit rates in 2026 range from approximately 4.75% p.a. (1-month, ABA Bank) to 6.75% p.a. (36-month, Canadia Bank) for USD commercial bank deposits, with microfinance institutions (MFIs) offering higher rates of 5.5–7%+ in exchange for a meaningfully different risk profile. The MoneyKH verdict is clear: for 1–3 month USD fixed deposits, ABA Bank leads or matches the market at competitive short-term rates with the benefit of mobile account opening and an NBC-regulated full commercial bank licence. For 6-month and longer FDs, Canadia Bank leads all commercial banks by approximately 0.25–0.5 percentage points and is MoneyKH’s recommended FD institution. MFI fixed deposits at LOLC Cambodia and KB Prasac offer higher yields but carry a categorically different risk profile that depositors must evaluate independently. All FD interest in Cambodia is subject to a 6% withholding tax for residents and 14% for non-residents under Cambodian law — verified April 2026.

Why Fixed Deposits Are Cambodia’s Highest-Return Safe Savings Tool

Cambodia’s financial system is almost entirely dollarised. Approximately 85% of all bank deposits and loans are denominated in USD, with Cambodian Riel (KHR) playing a supporting role primarily for small transactions and government obligations. For depositors, this means the relevant question is almost always: what is the best USD fixed deposit rate in Cambodia?

Fixed deposits (FDs) — also called term deposits or time deposits — offer a guaranteed, fixed interest rate in exchange for committing your money for a set period ranging from one month to five years or more. Unlike the daily-access savings account covered in our Cambodia Savings Account Rates 2026 guide →, an FD is locked. Withdrawing early typically results in forfeiting much or all of your interest.

The FD market in Cambodia is two-tiered. Commercial banks — ABA, Canadia, ACLEDA, Wing, Maybank, and FTB — offer lower FD rates but come with full commercial banking licences, NBC regulation, and CDGC deposit protection coverage. Microfinance institutions (MFIs) — LOLC Cambodia, KB Prasac, Hattha Bank, AMK, Amret — have historically offered 1–3 percentage points higher than commercial banks on comparable USD FD terms. The premium exists because MFIs carry a categorically different risk profile, have different regulatory standing, and access capital markets differently. MoneyKH’s position on this is consistent and firm: MFI rates are shown for reference only. We never recommend MFIs as primary savings vehicles.

Quick Verdict: The Best FD in Cambodia Depends on One Question

MoneyKH’s FD recommendation framework is simple. The single most important variable is your investment term. Match it to the right institution:

Cambodia Commercial Bank Fixed Deposit Rates 2026: Full Comparison

The table below compares USD fixed deposit rates for commercial banks — those operating under a full commercial banking licence from the National Bank of Cambodia, with depositor funds protected under the Credit Guarantee Corporation of Cambodia (CGCC) framework. All rates are approximate and were verified by MoneyKH in April 2026 via direct review of official bank channels and direct inquiry. Rates marked “Contact bank” reflect institutions that do not publicly list precise rate tables and where current rates should be confirmed by calling the bank or visiting a branch. ⭐ marks the rate leader for each term.

* Wing Bank has made significant rate cuts since 2023. Contact Wing directly for current FD rates. Approximate ABA and Canadia rates verified April 2026 via direct inquiry. All other rates: contact individual banks. Withholding tax of 6% (resident) / 14% (non-resident) applies to all FD interest at all institutions above. All rates shown are gross before withholding tax.

ABA Bank Fixed Deposits 2026: The Best Short-Term & Digital Option

ABA Bank (MoneyKH score: 9.1/10) leads the Cambodian banking market on daily banking, savings rates, and digital experience. On fixed deposits specifically, ABA’s short-term rates (1–3 months) are competitive — matching or slightly exceeding Canadia’s equivalent short-term offerings. For longer terms (6 months and above), Canadia leads by approximately 0.25–0.5 percentage points.

ABA’s standout FD advantage is its mobile FD opening. Existing ABA customers can open a Fixed Deposit directly in the ABA Mobile app with a tenor of 1 to 60 months — no branch visit, no paperwork, available at any time of day. For depositors who prioritise convenience alongside rate, this is a genuine differentiator. ABA also offers a free Visa Credit Card for FD balances of USD 3,000 or more (terms apply).

Full ABA Bank product details, fees, SWIFT code, and complete review: ABA Bank Review 2026 (9.1/10) →

Canadia Bank Fixed Deposits 2026: Cambodia’s Best FD Rates at 6 Months+

Canadia Bank (MoneyKH score: 8.0/10) is the undisputed choice for fixed deposits of six months and above in Cambodia’s commercial banking sector. Canadia consistently leads ABA by approximately 0.25 percentage points on comparable USD FD terms from the 6-month tenor onwards, and the gap widens further at 24 and 36-month terms. The MoneyKH recommended FD strategy — ABA for short-term liquidity, Canadia for long-term capital — has been stable throughout 2025 and into 2026.

Canadia Bank was founded in 1991 and is Cambodia’s largest locally owned commercial bank by deposit base. Unlike ABA — which is majority-owned by National Bank of Canada — Canadia is Cambodian-owned, which matters for some depositors who prefer domestic ownership. Both are fully NBC-regulated with equivalent CDGC deposit protection. The practical advantage of both Canadia and ABA is that transfers between them via Bakong are instant and free, making the split-banking strategy frictionless to execute.

Canadia FDs are available online via the Canadia Mobile Banking app (for existing customers opening a new FD) as well as in-branch at all Canadia locations. The minimum FD amount and current prevailing rate should be confirmed directly with Canadia at (+855) 23 868 222 before committing. Interest withholding at 6% (resident) or 14% (non-resident) applies.

Full review including branch network, savings rates, SWIFT code, and complete verdict: Canadia Bank Review 2026 (8.0/10) →

ACLEDA, Wing & Other Commercial Bank FD Rates

ACLEDA Bank

ACLEDA Bank (MoneyKH score: 8.6/10) is Cambodia’s largest bank by branch network (250+ branches) and the dominant SME lender. For fixed deposits, ACLEDA is positioned in the mid-range of commercial banks — historically offering USD 12-month FD rates around 4.50–5.00% p.a. before rate cuts in 2024. ACLEDA’s FD rates have been subject to revisions; contact ACLEDA directly at any branch or via SWIFT code ACLBKHPP for current rates. ACLEDA’s FD product is most relevant for depositors who already hold their primary business account with ACLEDA and want to consolidate their fixed savings in the same institution. For pure rate maximisation among commercial banks, Canadia leads.

ACLEDA Bank Review 2026 (8.6/10) →

Wing Bank

Wing Bank (MoneyKH score: 8.2/10) gained its full commercial banking licence in 2022, having previously operated as a payment service provider since 2009. Wing’s FD rates were competitive during its promotional post-licence phase, but Wing has made material rate cuts since 2023. In the period from 2023–2025, Wing reduced USD FD rates for 1- and 2-year terms by over 3 percentage points. Current Wing FD rates should be verified directly. Wing’s core value proposition is its 9,000+ agent network, 50-country remittance capability, and its AliPay+ / WeChat Pay integration — not fixed deposit yield maximisation.

Wing Bank Review 2026 (8.2/10) →

MFI Fixed Deposit Rates 2026: Higher Yields, Different Risk Profile

With that caveat firmly stated, here is a factual reference of the institutions that have historically offered the highest FD rates in Cambodia for USD deposits.

* Rates sourced from February 2025 market data. MFI rates change frequently and may have moved materially since. Verify directly with each institution. Past rates do not guarantee current rates.

For detailed information on MFIs operating in Cambodia — including LOLC, Prasac, and AMK — and the important distinctions in their risk profile versus commercial banks, see the Microfinance Loans Cambodia 2026 guide →

Withholding Tax on Fixed Deposit Interest in Cambodia

All interest earned on fixed deposits in Cambodia is subject to Cambodian withholding tax. The rate depends on your tax residency status — not your nationality. Withholding tax is automatically deducted by the bank at the time interest is paid; you receive the net amount. It is not optional.

What You Actually Earn After Withholding Tax

The table below shows the net USD yield on a USD 10,000 Canadia Bank 12-month FD at ~6.25% gross, after withholding tax. The gross-to-net difference is significant, especially for non-resident expats.

Example only. Based on approximate Canadia Bank 12-month USD FD rate of ~6.25% p.a. verified April 2026. Your actual rate may differ — confirm with Canadia directly.

The MoneyKH Fixed Deposit Strategy: ABA + Canadia = 95% of the Optimal Answer

MoneyKH’s core banking recommendation is a two-bank structure for Cambodian savers and residents at any income level:

The practical execution is straightforward. Maintain your primary transactional and savings account at ABA. When your ABA savings balance exceeds 3–6 months of living expenses, transfer the surplus to Canadia Bank via Bakong (instant, free, available in both mobile apps) and open a Canadia FD at the term that suits your horizon. At maturity, roll the FD or transfer back to ABA via Bakong if you need liquidity.

This strategy does not require visiting LOLC, KB Prasac, or any MFI, does not expose your core savings to a higher-risk institution, and still captures the best available commercial bank FD rates in Cambodia’s market. The incremental rate from MFIs above Canadia ranges roughly 0.5–1.5 percentage points — in most cases not sufficient to justify the structural risk difference for the majority of personal savings.

How to Open a Fixed Deposit in Cambodia

There are two methods: in-branch (required for first-time customers and all non-digital institutions) or via mobile app (available for existing customers at ABA and Canadia). For a full guide to opening any bank account in Cambodia, including documentation requirements for Cambodians and foreigners, see the How to Open a Bank Account in Cambodia 2026 guide →

Cambodia Fixed Deposit FAQ — 10 Questions Answered

More MoneyKH: Savings & Banking Guides

Savings Rate Comparisons

• Cambodia Savings Account Rates 2026: Every Bank Compared →
• Best Banks in Cambodia 2026: ABA vs ACLEDA vs Canadia →

Individual Bank Reviews

• Canadia Bank Review 2026: Best FD Rates in Cambodia — 8.0/10 →
• ABA Bank Review 2026: Cambodia’s Top-Rated Bank — 9.1/10 →
• ACLEDA Bank Review 2026: 250+ Branches, 8.6/10 →
• Wing Bank Review 2026: Remittance Leader — 8.2/10 →
• Maybank Cambodia Review 2026: For ASEAN Professionals →

Banking Basics & Payments

• How to Open a Bank Account in Cambodia 2026 →
• Bakong Payment System: Cambodia’s Complete Guide 2026 →
• Best Mobile Banking Apps in Cambodia 2026: Ranked & Reviewed →
• Microfinance Institutions in Cambodia: Prasac, LOLC & AMK Guide →

Last Updated: April 2026  · 
Editorial Policy
 ·  By MoneyKH Research Team

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USD vs KHR savings in Cambodia 2026: Cambodia is one of the most dollarised economies in the world — the US dollar functions as the primary currency for most formal economic activity, and most Cambodians save in USD by default. But the National Bank of Cambodia’s active de-dollarisation policy, combined with consistently higher KHR interest rates offered by most banks, means the question of which currency to save in now has a more complex answer than it did five years ago. This guide does the real rate mathematics, explains the NBC’s de-dollarisation incentives and what they mean for depositors, and gives MoneyKH’s direct verdict on currency allocation for Cambodian savers in 2026 — broken down by financial situation, risk tolerance, and time horizon.

🇰🇭 USD · KHR · De-dollarisation · Savings · Fixed Deposits · NBC Policy · Cambodia · 2026

Cambodia USD vs KHR 2026 — Currency Choice for Savings, Fixed Deposits & Daily Use

Every depositor in Cambodia faces this question at some point. Your bank teller offers you a higher rate on a KHR fixed deposit than on USD. Your colleague says never hold KHR savings. The NBC runs campaigns encouraging riel use. A financial article tells you the exchange rate risk is too high. Who is right? The answer depends on what you are saving for, how long you are saving for, and what financial risk you can absorb. This guide works through all of it.

⚡ Jump to Section:

• Cambodia’s Currency Reality — What You Need to Know First →
• The Interest Rate Gap: USD vs KHR in 2026 →
• The Real Rate Calculation →
• NBC De-dollarisation Policy — What It Means for Savers →
• Exchange Rate Risk — The Core Argument Against KHR →
• MoneyKH Verdict: Which Currency Should You Save In? →
• Recommendation by Saver Type →
• FAQ →

Cambodia’s Currency Reality — What You Need to Know First

Before making any savings currency decision in Cambodia, you need to understand a fundamental fact: Cambodia operates a de facto dual-currency system. US dollars and Cambodian riel (KHR) circulate side-by-side in the economy. Most large transactions — property, vehicles, business contracts, formal salaries — are denominated in USD. Small daily transactions — street food, tuk-tuks, local markets — are often conducted in KHR. Prices in shops are frequently shown in both currencies simultaneously.

This duality is not accidental. It is the result of Cambodia’s history — the USD became the dominant currency during the UN administration period in the early 1990s when the national banking system was effectively non-functional, and it has never been displaced. The NBC has been working to change this since 2016, but the change is gradual and the economy remains heavily dollarised in 2026.

What this means for savers:

• Your expenses matter for your currency choice. If you pay rent, school fees, and your grocery bill in USD, holding USD savings is rational — there is no conversion friction between your savings and your spending. If your daily expenses are in KHR, holding KHR savings is equally rational for the same reason.
• The exchange rate is not freely floating. The NBC manages the KHR/USD exchange rate within a tight band. The riel has traded in a range of approximately 4,000 to 4,200 KHR per USD for several years. This is not a guarantee — it is a managed float — but it provides more stability than most emerging market currencies of comparable size.
• Banks offer different interest rates on USD and KHR accounts. This rate differential is the central quantitative consideration in the savings currency decision, and it is more significant than most depositors realise.

For context on Cambodia’s banking landscape and which institutions offer the best rates overall, see our best banks in Cambodia guide and Cambodia savings account interest rates comparison.

The Interest Rate Gap: USD vs KHR in 2026

The most important number in the USD vs KHR savings decision is the interest rate differential. In Cambodia in 2026, banks consistently offer higher interest rates on KHR deposits than on equivalent USD deposits. The gap is not trivial.

MoneyKH note: These are representative market rates based on offerings from ABA Bank, ACLEDA, and Canadia Bank as of April 2026. Individual bank rates shift quarterly. Always verify current rates directly with your bank before placing a fixed deposit. For a live rate comparison across all major Cambodian banks, see our Cambodia savings account interest rates guide.

The rate differential of 2.0%–3.0% per year is the critical number. It means that a KHR depositor earns meaningfully more in nominal interest than a USD depositor at the same bank for the same term. The question is whether that extra return is real — or whether it is eaten up by exchange rate depreciation.

The Real Rate Calculation

The standard argument against KHR savings is exchange rate risk: if the riel depreciates against the USD, your higher nominal KHR interest rate may be partially or fully offset by the loss in purchasing power relative to USD. This is the right concern to have. Here is the actual mathematics.

Scenario: $10,000 placed for 12 months in 2026

What this tells us:

The break-even point — the rate of KHR depreciation that would make a KHR depositor indifferent between the two currencies — is approximately 2.6% per year in this scenario (given a 2.5% rate differential between USD and KHR deposits). If the riel depreciates by less than 2.6% against the dollar over your deposit term, you come out ahead in KHR. If it depreciates by more, you were better off in USD.

The NBC has managed the KHR/USD exchange rate within a band of roughly 4,000–4,200 for several years as of 2026. The annual rate of movement within that band has historically been well below the 2.5%–3.0% rate differential that KHR deposits offer. This does not make KHR savings risk-free — it means the historical record suggests the risk has been manageable for short-to-medium term deposits. Past exchange rate management does not guarantee future stability.

The practical implication: For short-term deposits of 6–12 months, the KHR rate advantage is mathematically compelling if you believe the NBC will maintain its managed float within historical ranges. For longer-term savings of 3–5+ years, the uncertainty compounds and the case for currency diversification — holding some in each — becomes stronger.

NBC De-dollarisation Policy — What It Means for Savers

The National Bank of Cambodia has been pursuing an explicit de-dollarisation policy since 2016. The goal is to increase the share of economic activity conducted in KHR — to restore the national currency to a dominant role in the domestic economy. This policy directly affects the savings environment for Cambodian depositors.

How the NBC incentivises KHR saving:

• Higher reserve requirements on USD deposits: The NBC requires banks to hold a higher proportion of USD deposits as reserves compared to KHR deposits. This makes USD deposits more expensive for banks to hold, which is part of why banks offer lower rates on USD savings — their cost of capital for USD is higher relative to KHR.
• KHR interest rate incentive: The rate differential described above is partly a market outcome of the NBC’s reserve policy — banks pass on the incentive by offering more attractive KHR rates to depositors to encourage KHR deposit growth.
• Government salary payments in KHR: The Cambodian government has progressively shifted civil servant salary payments to KHR. This directly increases the volume of KHR in circulation and normalises KHR as a savings currency for a large portion of the workforce.
• NBC stability commitment: The NBC’s public commitment to exchange rate stability — managing KHR within a predictable band — is designed to reduce the perceived risk of holding riel savings. The policy is explicitly intended to make KHR an attractive savings vehicle, not just a transaction currency.
• Bakong and digital KHR: Cambodia’s Bakong digital payment system actively promotes KHR transactions — the digital infrastructure of Cambodia’s cashless economy is being built with KHR integration as a priority.

What de-dollarisation means for your savings decision:

The NBC’s policy creates a structural incentive to hold KHR savings that is unlikely to disappear in the short term. The higher KHR deposit rates are not a temporary anomaly — they are partly a policy outcome. As long as the NBC maintains its reserve requirement differential and its managed exchange rate band, the KHR rate advantage for short-term deposits is likely to persist.

De-dollarisation also introduces a long-term tail risk for USD holders in Cambodia: if the policy succeeds and KHR strengthens or becomes the dominant transactional currency, the practical case for holding USD savings diminishes. This is a slow-moving risk, not an immediate concern, but it is worth acknowledging for long-term financial planning.

Exchange Rate Risk — The Core Argument Against KHR

The rational case for KHR savings exists. But the rational case against it also deserves honest treatment.

The core risk is structural, not technical. Cambodia is a small, open economy with significant dollarisation, heavy dependence on USD-denominated trade and investment, and a central bank that — despite its reserves and policy commitment — operates with fewer tools than a fully sovereign monetary authority. The KHR’s stability depends on the NBC’s ability and willingness to defend the managed float. Both have held so far, but neither is guaranteed indefinitely.

Scenarios that could hurt KHR savers:

• A significant deterioration in Cambodia’s external position — a sharp drop in garment export revenue, tourism collapse, or FDI withdrawal — would put pressure on the NBC’s USD reserves and its ability to defend the KHR rate band.
• A broader regional currency crisis — similar to the 1997 Asian financial crisis — could transmit exchange rate pressure to KHR even if Cambodia’s fundamentals are sound.
• A shift in NBC policy — if the NBC ever decided to allow the KHR to depreciate meaningfully to boost export competitiveness, KHR savers would bear the cost of that policy choice.

Why these risks are manageable for most Cambodian savers in 2026:

• The NBC has maintained the KHR/USD band through the COVID-19 economic shock, regional market volatility, and multiple cycles of external pressure. This track record is meaningful.
• The de-dollarisation policy gives the NBC an active institutional interest in maintaining KHR stability — a depreciating riel would undermine the policy and NBC credibility simultaneously.
• For short deposit terms (3–12 months), the window for a large unexpected depreciation is narrow. The risk compounds with time horizon.
• The break-even calculation shows that the riel would need to depreciate by 2.5%–3.0% annually to wipe out the interest rate advantage. Small, managed movements within historical ranges do not reach this threshold.

For most Cambodian residents — whose incomes, expenses, and financial obligations are primarily Cambodia-based — the decision is not “KHR vs USD savings” in isolation. It is “what proportion of my savings should be in each currency, given my actual financial life.” That framing leads to the verdict below.

MoneyKH Verdict: Which Currency Should You Save In?

MoneyKH does not recommend holding 100% of savings in either currency. Currency diversification is the correct answer for most Cambodian depositors in 2026.

Here is the direct framework:

The clearest MoneyKH position: Placing short-to-medium term savings entirely in USD fixed deposits and ignoring the KHR rate premium is leaving real money on the table, given Cambodia’s historical exchange rate stability. Placing all savings in KHR and ignoring the structural exchange rate risk is accepting a risk that is not adequately compensated by the rate differential alone over long time horizons. The answer — currency diversification with a KHR tilt for short-term deposits — is less exciting than a definitive recommendation but is the honest one.

Recommendation by Saver Type

Cambodian national, salary in KHR, expenses primarily in KHR:
Hold the majority of short-to-medium savings in KHR. Your income and expenses are already KHR-denominated — adding KHR savings removes, rather than adds, currency risk relative to your actual financial position. Keep 20–30% in USD as a reserve against large future USD-denominated expenses (property, education abroad, international travel).

Cambodian national, salary in USD, expenses primarily in USD:
This is the most common urban professional profile. Hold your emergency fund in USD. For short-term deposits where you can accept the exchange rate exposure, a KHR fixed deposit for 6–12 months is mathematically advantageous. For longer-term savings, maintain the majority in USD to match your expense currency. Revisit after each deposit maturity as rate differentials shift.

Expat in Cambodia, income from abroad in USD:
USD savings is the natural default — your income source, home country obligations, and eventual repatriation are all USD-denominated. A small KHR allocation (10–20% of Cambodia-based savings) to capture the rate premium on short-term deposits is reasonable, with the explicit understanding that this is a yield-enhancing trade within a primarily USD savings structure. For expat banking options, see our best banks in Cambodia guide.

SME owner with Cambodian revenue in a mix of USD and KHR:
Match your savings currency allocation to your revenue currency split as closely as practical. If 60% of your revenue is in USD and 40% in KHR, a similar savings split is logical — it reduces the operational overhead of constant conversion and keeps your working capital in the currency it will be spent in. For SME financial planning including loan access, see our SME loans in Cambodia guide.

First-time saver with limited capital:
Start with whichever currency your employer pays you in. If paid in KHR, open a KHR savings account. If paid in USD, open a USD savings account. Do not complicate the decision at the early stage — the most important thing is to begin saving consistently. Currency optimisation is a second-order consideration once you have a regular savings habit established. See our guide to opening a bank account in Cambodia to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions — USD vs KHR Savings Cambodia 2026

Is it safe to save in Cambodian riel?
Saving in KHR carries exchange rate risk — if the riel depreciates against the USD, the USD equivalent of your KHR savings falls. The National Bank of Cambodia has managed the KHR/USD exchange rate within a stable band for several years, making short-term KHR deposits relatively predictable in USD terms. The risk is real but has been manageable for most Cambodian depositors within historical exchange rate ranges. It is not safe in the same sense that insured USD deposits at a US bank are safe, but it is not as risky as holding an unmanaged emerging market currency. Diversification between the two currencies is the prudent approach.

Do Cambodian banks guarantee the KHR exchange rate on fixed deposits?
No. Cambodian banks do not guarantee the KHR/USD exchange rate. They guarantee the nominal KHR return — the stated interest rate on the fixed deposit. What your KHR deposit is worth in USD at maturity depends on the exchange rate at that time, which the NBC manages but does not fix permanently. Always treat the USD-equivalent value of a KHR deposit as an estimate, not a guarantee.

Why do Cambodian banks offer higher interest rates on KHR?
The rate differential exists for two connected reasons. First, the NBC requires banks to hold higher reserve ratios on USD deposits than KHR deposits — this regulatory cost makes USD deposits more expensive for banks, which is partially passed to depositors as lower rates. Second, the NBC’s de-dollarisation policy creates an institutional incentive for banks to attract KHR deposits, which they do by offering more competitive rates. The rate gap is partly a policy outcome, not purely a market one.

What has the KHR/USD exchange rate done historically?
The KHR has traded in a band of approximately 4,000 to 4,200 per USD for several years as of 2026. Annual movements within this band have been small — typically 1%–2% in either direction — well within the range at which the KHR rate premium compensates depositors for the currency exposure. This track record is relevant but is not a guarantee of future stability. The NBC’s reserve position and policy commitment are the more important forward-looking indicators.

Should I keep my home loan in USD or KHR?
Most Cambodian home loans are denominated in USD — this is the standard for formal mortgage lending in Cambodia in 2026. Borrowing in the currency your income is earned in reduces currency mismatch risk. If your income is in KHR and your mortgage is in USD, a KHR depreciation increases the real cost of your repayments. For a full guide to home loan options in Cambodia including currency considerations, see our Cambodia home loan and mortgage guide.

Is gold a better option than either USD or KHR savings in Cambodia?
Gold serves a different purpose than a savings account — it is a store of value and inflation hedge rather than a yield-generating instrument. A bank savings account (in either currency) generates interest; gold does not. Gold is relevant as a portfolio allocation for Cambodians who want a hedge against both currency depreciation and inflation, but it should not replace interest-bearing savings accounts — it should complement them. Cambodia has deep cultural familiarity with gold as savings, and physical gold is widely traded and liquid in Cambodian markets. For current gold prices in both USD and KHR, see our Cambodia gold price tracker.

Which banks offer the best KHR fixed deposit rates?
KHR fixed deposit rates vary by bank, term, and deposit amount. For a current comparison of KHR and USD savings rates across all major Cambodian banks — including ABA, ACLEDA, Canadia, and microfinance institutions — see our Cambodia savings account interest rates guide. Microfinance institutions including PRASAC and LOLC often offer higher deposit rates than commercial banks — they carry higher institutional risk but are regulated by the NBC.

Does it matter which bank I use for KHR savings?
Yes. Interest rates, account minimums, and deposit insurance coverage all vary by institution. All NBC-licensed banks and microfinance institutions operate under NBC supervision. Cambodia’s deposit protection scheme provides coverage up to a specified limit per depositor per institution — check current NBC deposit guarantee limits before placing large KHR deposits at any single institution. Spreading large deposits across multiple NBC-licensed institutions is prudent practice regardless of currency choice.

MoneyKH · Cambodia Personal Finance Authority Platform
Article 28 · Financial Literacy Category · April 2026
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