Anatomy of a 4.9% headline.

A rate headline is built to be noticed. A careful reader slows down and looks for the nouns around the number.

Find the unit

Is it APY, APR, simple interest, seven-day yield, or a scenario? The label changes the meaning.

Find the condition

Some rates depend on a minimum balance, new-customer status, direct deposit, balance cap, or introductory window.

Find the source

The source should be a clearly identified institution or fund sponsor, not a vague landing page with no accountable provider.