Robert McLister·General·May 30, 2008Basis Points (bps) A basis point is 1/100 of a percent. 50 basis points therefore equal 1/2%. The basis point is commonly used for calculating changes in mortgage rates and bond yields. Like news like this?Join our CMT Updates list and get the latest news as it happens. Unsubscribe anytime. SUBSCRIBE! Thank you for subscribing. One more step: Please confirm your subscription via the email sent to you.