Did You Know Fridays

The ECCU Retail Bond

What is a Retail bond?

A retail bond is a type of debt security specifically targeted at retail or individual investors rather than large institutional investors. The investors lend money to the issuer (in this case, government) in return for regular interest payments and repayment of the principal (the amount invested) at maturity.

Why was the ECCU Retail Bond Programme developed?

To make investing more affordable and accessible for individuals, encourage a culture of investment, and increase participation on the Regional Government Securities Market (RGSM).

What is the minimum and maximum investment required to participate in the household bond?

Minimum: EC$500 (in increments of EC$100). Lowered from EC$5,000 and increments of EC$1,000.
Maximum: EC$50,000 per investor

What is the term and rate?

Duration: 2 years
Fixed annual interest rate: 4.25%

What are the benefits of investing in the retail bond?

Higher Returns: The interest rate on the retail bond is higher than the minimum savings rate
Safety: Backed by the full faith and credit of the issuer (the Government), offering strong security for your investment.
Predictability: Fixed interest payments at set intervals provide a reliable income stream.
Accessibility: Affordable entry point starting at EC$500, making it easy for more individuals to invest.
Meaningful Impact: Your investment helps fund national development projects, allowing you to grow your savings while contributing to the country’s economic progress.

How long will bidding process be open?

The bidding process for the retail bond has been extended to three weeks (31 October to 21 November 2025). Used to be one (1) day.

Who can invest in the ECCU Retail Bond?

Any individual who meets the basic requirements (such as identification and compliance with financial regulations) may invest, through a licensed broker.

Issuers:

The Governments of Grenada and Saint Christopher (St Kitts) and Nevis will be issuing the inaugural retail instruments.

Grenada retail bond: for Individual investors across the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU)
Saint Christopher (St Kitts) and Nevis retail bond: for investors across the ECCU who are individuals and Non-Profit Institutions Serving Households (NPISH) such as churches, NGOs, charities, and sporting clubs

What do I need to participate in the retail bond?

A brokerage account with a broker-dealer licensed by the Eastern Caribbean Securities Regulatory Commission.
Funds (minimum EC$500) available for investment.

What is a brokerage account?

It is an investment account that an investor opens with a brokerage firm to buy, sell and hold various financial assets.

What type of information is needed to open a brokerage account?

Requirements vary by broker (typically valid ID, proof of address, and compliance documents). Contact your broker for details.

Who are the brokers?

There are currently six licensed brokers who operate on the market. These are:

Broker

Country

Contact

Grenada Co-operative Bank Limited

Grenada

473 440 2111