FDs vs. NBFC FDs: Comparing Risks & Returns

Explore the key differences between Bank FDs and NBFC FDs, including interest rates, safety, liquidity, and returns, to choose the right fixed deposit option.
Bank vs NBFC FD
4 mins
02-April-2026

One of the most stable investment options is a fixed deposit (FD), which ensures the safety of your funds while producing a steady return. This finally helps you reach all of your financial objectives. Both banks and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFC) offer fixed deposits with variable interest rates. You must research and contrast the market's current FD rates before investing. You may assess the returns on your FD when budgeting your expenses by doing a little market research.

Before starting your research, you must be aware of what NBFC’s and bank FDs are and what they have for you.

1. Bank or NBFC FD, which offers higher returns?

Every individual who wants to invest ideally looks for options that offer higher returns along with the security of their funds. In the case of FD, NBFCs offer 1-2% higher interest rates than banks. Several top nationalised banks provide rates in the range of 5-6% p.a.

Private banks offer rates up to 6-6.50% p.a., and NBFCs like Bajaj Finance offer interest rates of up to 7.30% p.a. on fixed deposits.

These rates also depend on how long you are holding your funds in an FD. A longer tenure results in larger returns as the tenure you select for your investments affect the FD rates. NBFC like Bajaj Finance, offers you to start a fixed deposit with just Rs. 15,000 for tenure ranging from 12 months to 60 months. You can receive a maximum return of up to  7.30% p.a.* on Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit.

Pro tip

Bajaj Finance offers attractive Fixed Deposit interest rates of up to 6.95% p.a. for non-senior citizens, and up to 7.30% p.a. for senior citizens, inclusive of an additional rate benefit of up to 0.35% p.a.

2. Bank or NBFC, which is safe for FD?

If you are investing in a banks' or NBFC FD, you need to know how secure your funds are with them. Security is the most crucial factor for investments.

In the case of a bank FD, your investment is secured under the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) scheme by default. This means that your money will be safe even if your bank gets shut down for any reason.

The Investment Information and Credit Rating Agency (ICRA) evaluates the credit risk of all the NBFCs in India. You can confidently invest in Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit as it has the highest credit ratings— CRISIL AAA/ STABLE and [ICRA]AAA(Stable). Your investments are safe with this level of credibility, as a high rating reduces the risk of loss.

Click here to calculate your returns on FD using FD calculator.

How are NBFCs different from banks?

Banks are regulated financial institutions authorised to carry out core banking functions such as accepting deposits, offering interest, providing loans, and facilitating transactions like withdrawals and cheque clearing. They act as intermediaries between depositors and borrowers, supporting the overall financial system.

NBFCs (Non-Banking Financial Companies), on the other hand, offer financial services such as loans and investments but do not hold a banking licence. While they may provide deposit options like fixed deposits, they do not offer services like savings accounts or cheque facilities.

Should you choose an NBFC FD or a Bank FD?

Choosing between an NBFC fixed deposit and a bank fixed deposit depends on your financial goals, risk appetite, and return expectations.

  • Interest Rates
    NBFCs generally offer higher interest rates compared to banks, as they carry relatively higher credit risk.
  • Safety and Risk
    Bank FDs are perceived as safer due to stricter regulations and deposit insurance (up to applicable limits). NBFC FDs, while regulated, may carry slightly higher risk depending on the issuer’s credit rating.
  • Returns vs Stability
    If you prioritise higher returns, NBFC FDs may be suitable. However, if safety and capital protection are your main concerns, bank FDs may be a better choice.

In summary, the right option depends on whether you value higher returns or greater security.

Frequently asked questions

What is the NBFC fixed deposit interest rate?

Different NBFC fixed deposit interest rates vary, you can visit official website of each NBFC to check their current FD rates.

Which NBFC offers the highest rates on FD?

NBFC offering the highest rates on FDs may change, so regularly compare rates from different NBFCs to make an informed decision.

How does a NBFC determine the rate of interest on fixed deposits?

An NBFC determines the interest rate on fixed deposits considering various factors, such as its profitability, internal policies, repo rates, and other conditions.

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Disclaimer

As regards deposit taking activity of Bajaj Finance Ltd (BFL), the viewers may refer to the advertisement in the Indian Express (Mumbai Edition) and Loksatta (Pune Edition) furnished in the application form for soliciting public deposits or refer https://www.bajajfinserv.in/fixed-deposit-archives
The company is having a valid Certificate of Registration dated March 5, 1998 issued by the Reserve Bank of India under section 45 IA of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. However, the RBI does not accept any responsibility or guarantee about the present position as to the financial soundness of the company or for the correctness of any of the statements or representations made or opinions expressed by the company and for repayment of deposits/discharge of the liabilities by the company.

For the FD calculator the actual returns may vary slightly if the Fixed Deposit tenure includes a leap year.