In 2026, Mexicans have more options than ever to make their money work for them. The federal government’s CETES bonds compete directly with fintech companies like Nu, Mercado Pago, GBM, and Klar, all of which offer returns that exceed inflation. Which option is best for you?
Rate Comparison (March 2026)
| Product | Annual Rate | Liquidity | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 364-day CETES | 7.30% | At maturity | Federal Government |
| GBM Smart Cash | 8.25% | Business days | CNBV Fund |
| Klar Investment | 8.50% | Flexible | IPAB |
| Nu Cajita | 7.00% — 13%* | Immediate | IPAB |
| Mercado Pago MX | 7.00% — 15%* | Immediate | IPAB |
* Maximum rate subject to minimum monthly card usage or direct deposit of payroll.
CETES: the safest option
CETES are backed by the Mexican Federal Government—it is impossible for them to default in local currency. They are ideal if you don’t need the money in the short term and want maximum security. At 364 days, they yield 7.30% annually with no conditions. They can be purchased at cetesdirecto.com starting at $100 MXN.
The only drawback: the money is locked up until maturity (although you can sell early on the secondary market at a possible discount). Income tax withholding is 0.90% annually on the principal starting in 2026.
Nu and Mercado Pago: Full Liquidity with Conditions
Both Nu Mexico and Mercado Pago offer a base rate of 7% annually with immediate access to the money. Both are protected by the IPAB.
The big difference lies in the promotional rates: Nu offers up to 13% with Cajita Turbo if you make at least one purchase with the Nu card that month. Mercado Pago can offer up to 15% if you deposit more than $3,000 MXN/month or set up direct deposit for your paycheck. If you already use these platforms for everyday purchases, taking advantage of these rates makes a lot of sense.
GBM Smart Cash: the middle ground
GBM Smart Cash offers 8.25% annually with no conditions and funds available on business days. It is an investment fund regulated by the CNBV; the IPAB does not apply (it is not a bank deposit), but the fund’s regulation and diversification provide high security in practice. It is the best option if you want to beat the base CETES rate without being tied to usage conditions.
Klar: The Highest Rate Without Complex Conditions
Klar offers 8.50% annually on its standard flexible investment, with access within 24–48 hours. For Plus/Platinum users, the rate can reach 15%. Protected by the IPAB. It’s an option to consider if you prioritize rate over total immediacy.
Which one should you choose?
- Maximum security + no conditions: 364-day CETES (7.30%)
- Best rate with no conditions + liquidity: Klar 8.50% or GBM 8.25%
- I already use Nu/Mercado Pago for purchases: take advantage of promotional rates (up to 13–15%)
- Large amount, no liquidity needed: 364-day CETES
At APYData, we update the rates for all these products in real time. Check out the complete comparison of investments in Mexico to see the updated ranking.