Investment - Articles - Premium Bonds prizes increase as odds shorten for holders

Compared to the May 2026 draw it is estimated that there will be 322,000 extra prizes in the July draw, with the prize pot increasing by over £60 million. In July, there are expected to be 12 additional £100,000 prizes, 24 more £50,000 prizes and an extra 49 £25,000 prizes.

 

Greig Bingham, Head of Financial Modelling at Broadstone, commented: “The increase in the Premium Bonds prize fund rate and the shortening of the odds will be welcomed by savers, particularly as it means bond holders are now more likely to win a prize each month. With more than 322,000 additional prizes being added to the draw, NS&I is clearly looking to make Premium Bonds more attractive again following the reductions announced as interest rates dropped.

 

“What is also notable is the shift in the make-up of prizes. While the total number of prizes is increasing significantly, the proportion of £25 prizes – the smallest available – has fallen from 47% of all prizes to 37%. That means a greater share of the prize fund is being directed towards higher-value prizes, which could make the product feel more rewarding for savers fortunate enough to win.”