Have you considered securing your investments with guaranteed returns? Certificates of Deposit (CDs) and Fixed Deposits (FDs) are savings tools that offer fixed returns. They also provide security. However, beyond the fixed returns, there are subtle distinctions. These can significantly impact your investment and financial strategy. Understanding these tools supports your investment goals. Assessing your risk appetite helps you make better decisions.

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Certificate of Deposit vs. Fixed Deposit – Comparison

Features

Certificate of Deposit

Fixed Deposit

Minimum investment

₹1 Lakh

₹1,000

Return on investment

Offers higher returns for CDs issued by organisations

Returns differ from one issuer to another. NBFCs offer higher interest rates compared to banks

Tenor

Ranges between a few months to several years

Ranges from 7 days to 10 years

Interest payment

Payout can be monthly, annual, or as a lump sum at maturity

Payout can be monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, annual, or at maturity

Liquidity

Less liquid - Early withdrawal penalties apply

More liquid - Options for premature withdrawal with penalty

Loans Against Deposit

Cannot avail a loan 

Can avail a loan against the fixed deposit

In conclusion, CDs and FDs both offer fixed returns. However, they cater to different investor needs. CDs usually offer higher returns but need larger investments. They also lock in your money for a set period. They can be traded before maturity for some liquidity. However, this often incurs penalties.

FDs offer greater flexibility in terms of tenor and minimum investment amounts. They are insured up to ₹5 Lakhs by the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC). Some FDs also provide tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961. However, like CDs, FDs may impose penalties for early withdrawals.

You can consider CDs if you prioritise tradability and potentially higher returns. FDs help with flexibility, lower initial investment, and possible tax advantages in case of tax-saver FDs. Ultimately, investors should carefully evaluate the features of each option. This ensures they make informed investment decisions aligned with their financial goals.

Disclaimer

The information provided by BFDL is related to the rates provided by Banks and Deposit taking NBFCs as available from public domain and under no circumstances is intended to be source of advice or recommendation of any financial investment advice or endorsement of any sort. BFDL disclaims any responsibility or liability regarding inaccuracies, omissions, mistakes etc. as well as offers and use of such information set out is entirely at the User’s own risk and User should exercise due care prior taking of any decision, on the basis of information mentioned hereinabove. Display of any intellectual property along with the related product information does not imply BFDL’s partnership with the owner of the intellectual property of such products and is solely for the purpose of information, unless otherwise provided by BFDL.

FAQs

Can I trade Certificates of Deposit in the secondary market?

Yes, CDs can be traded in the secondary market before maturity, providing a degree of liquidity.

Which option is considered more liquid in case of an unforeseen need for funds?

Both CDs and FDs allow for early or premature withdrawals which may incur penalties

Are FDs insured against losses?

Bank FDs  are insured by the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) up to ₹5 Lakhs.

Do Certificates of Deposit offer tax-saving benefits?

Generally, CDs do not offer specific tax-saving benefits. On the other hand, tax-Saving FDs offer deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.

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