by Gabriel Chen

The mood is now for dollars - and sense.

Many banks that once actively sold complex structured products now woo customers with products that are less risky and easier to grasp - though the returns may be lower.

It is back to basics for investors who are choosing safety, having seen assets mauled by the global financial crisis.

Spare change as savings

This is how OCBC Bank's SmartChange works.

Suppose you charge $14.20 to your credit card. This amount is rounded up to the next dollar - $15.

The 'spare change' of 80 cents can be channelled to a savings account of the cardholder's choice as a form of savings.

For more The Straits Times stories, click here.