Fixed Deposits (FDs) are a type of savings instrument offered by banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) where you deposit a lump sum of money for a fixed tenure at a predetermined interest rate. In return, you receive interest on the principal amount, which is usually higher than the interest earned on a regular savings account. At the end of the tenure, you receive the principal amount along with the accumulated interest.
-Low Risk: FDs are considered one of the safest investment options since they are not subject to market fluctuations.
-Guaranteed Returns: The interest rate is fixed at the time of deposit, ensuring you know exactly how much you will earn by the end of the tenure.
FDs typically offer higher interest rates compared to savings accounts, making them an attractive option for risk-averse investors.
Flexible Tenure:
FDs offer flexibility in terms of tenure, ranging from a few days to several years, allowing you to choose a period that aligns with your financial goals.
Tax Benefits:
Some FDs, such as Tax-Saver FDs, offer tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act in India, up to a certain limit. However, these come with a lock-in period, usually 5 years.
Loan Facility:
Many banks and financial institutions allow you to take a loan against your FD, typically up to 90% of the deposit amount, at a lower interest rate. This is useful in case of emergencies without breaking the FD.
Easy to Open and Manage:
FDs are easy to open and require minimal paperwork. They can often be opened online, and banks offer the option to auto-renew the FD upon maturity.
Regular Income Option:
FDs offer the option to receive interest payouts at regular intervals (monthly, quarterly, etc.), making them a good source of steady income, especially for retirees.
No Maintenance Fees:
Unlike some other investments, FDs do not have maintenance fees or charges, so the returns are not diminished by additional costs.
Overall, FDs are ideal for conservative investors looking for a safe, stable, and predictable investment option.