Why Debt Mutual Funds are Better than Fixed Deposits

Fixed Deposits (FDs) have been a part of every Indian household for decades now. The present times, however, are witnessing a slump in FDs with a marked transition toward debt mutual funds. In this article, let’s explore why debt mutual funds are better than fixed deposits.

1.Shift from Conventional FDs to Mutual Funds

There was a time when every extra cash – bonus and increment – went on to be invested in bank FDs. Our grandparents and parents have all ended up putting their money in FDs at least once in their lifetime. It was the best option to earn interest while ensuring capital protection. What has changed now? Mutual funds have come to the fore in the recent few years. As a result, FDs have lost its sheen as the most popular long-term investment goal.

During the demonetisation in 2016, mutual funds were able to cash in on the opportunity that became available due to the reduced deposit return rates. Also, due to the availability of tax saving mutual funds, mutual funds rose to prominence. When debt funds started giving more returns with liquidity, many low-risk investors decided to jump ship.

2.Why Invest in Debt Mutual Funds?

Debt funds are the closest which comes to conventional FDs in terms of risk. A debt fund’s primary goal is to give investors steady income throughout the investment horizon. So, you must choose a time horizon in line with that of the fund.

You can find out about various debt funds and their duration directly from the fund houses or online or through a third-party. This will help investors understand a fund’s performance concerning interest rates. It will also make it easier for you to take advantage of the market volatility by making informed decisions.

3.Debt Mutual Funds vs Fixed Deposits

Let’s have a look at the differences between fixed deposits and debt funds. The table below helps you decide which investment is suitable for you.

Banks offer a pre-set interest rate for fixed deposits based on the tenure chosen. Debt fund returns, to a great extent, depends on the overall interest rate movement. They might generate moderate returns (relatively more than fixed deposits) in the form of capital appreciation and regular income.

One good thing about fixed deposits is that market highs and lows will not impact the returns you earn. So typically, debt funds outdo fixed deposits by a considerable margin during times of low-interest rates in the economy.

4.Taxation on Debt Mutual Funds and Fixed Deposits

Short-term gains (i.e. less than three years) on debt funds are taxable as per your tax slab rate. Long-term gains (i.e. up to three years or more) on debt funds are taxable at 20% with the benefit of indexation. As for fixed deposit returns, the gains will be taxed as per your tax slabs.

5.Inflation Adaptability of Debt Mutual Funds and FDs

Everyone knows that inflation puts a damper on savings as it leads to loss of currency value. Debt mutual funds, albeit the risk, have the potential to pace with inflation. For instance, if you have invested in an FD at 6% interest, and the inflation rate is 5%, the adjusted return would be merely 1%. Debt funds may deliver relatively higher returns.

Summing up With an Illustration

Ultimately, you should weigh your decision on your risk appetite, income tax slab, time horizon, and investment goals.