If you've got money in the bank, it's probably not growing very fast. Interest rates have been low for a while and you're lucky to get more than 0.25% on your savings.
Why aren't interest rates higher?
Liz Weston recently tackled the question of why interest rates are so low. The short answer: "Blame the economy."
She mentions that there's not much demand to borrow, but you may not agree -- you might want and need loans. Nevertheless, demand is still light and other forces are keeping rates low to (if the plan works) stimulate more demand.
Until the economy gains strength, interest rates will stay low. It's a good time for borrowers, but not for savers. If the safety of bank products is important to you, take note of Weston's observation:
"If you're being offered rates much above that level, you're either dealing with a riskier investment or being asked to lock up your money for a considerable period."

