FD Vs Mutual Funds – Where to Invest Your Hard-Earned Money

Confused between fixed deposits and mutual funds? Discover which one is better suited for your financial goals and risk appetite.
FD vs MF
4 mins
25-August-2025

Every investor faces the age-old question: FD or Mutual Fund? Both have their place in a financial plan, but the right choice depends on your risk appetite, goals, and timeline. Fixed Deposits bring peace of mind with guaranteed returns, while Mutual Funds provide diversification and the chance for higher growth—though with added volatility.

If stability is your priority, Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits give you assured returns up to 7.30% p.a. for senior citizens and 6.95% p.a. for general investors—among the highest in the industry. Open FD account.

Difference between fixed deposits and mutual funds

FDs and Mutual Funds are often compared because both are popular investment tools. However, they serve very different purposes.

  • Fixed Deposits (FDs): Safe, predictable, and unaffected by market ups and downs.
  • Mutual Funds: Professionally managed, market-linked investments that offer potential for higher returns but also carry risks.

Not sure where to start? With Bajaj Finance, you can invest in FDs starting from just Rs. 15,000, making it easy to begin your financial journey. Check latest FD rates.

What is a fixed deposit?

A Fixed Deposit is one of the most secure ways to grow your money. You deposit a lump sum for a chosen tenure and earn a fixed interest rate throughout. Since FD returns are not linked to the market, your money grows steadily and risk-free.

What are mutual funds?

Mutual Funds pool money from multiple investors to create a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other assets. These funds are managed by professionals, but returns fluctuate with market conditions. While they can deliver higher gains over the long term, they also carry higher risks compared to FDs.

Fixed Deposit

  1. Trusted by over 5 lakh customers
  2. Fixed Deposits worth more than Rs. 50,000 crore booked
  3. Rated CRISIL AAA/STABLE and [ICRA]AAA(STABLE)
  4. Up to 0.35% p.a. extra interest offered for senior citizens
  5. Flexible interest payout options available - Monthly, Quarterly, Half-yearly, Annually or at Maturity

By proceeding, you agree to our Terms and Conditions

Benefits of investing in fixed deposits and mutual funds

Both options come with unique advantages:

  • Mutual Funds: Higher potential returns, liquidity, and diversification across assets.
  • Fixed Deposits: Stability, assured returns, and complete immunity from market risks.

While mutual funds are subject to market swings, Bajaj Finance FDs offer AAA/STABLE ratings by CRISIL and ICRA, ensuring your investment is one of the safest in the country. Open FD.

Difference between fixed deposit and mutual funds

  • FDs: Guaranteed returns, pre-decided interest rate, unaffected by volatility.
  • Mutual Funds: Market-dependent, returns are variable and come with risk.

This means FDs are better suited for conservative investors, while mutual funds appeal to those with higher risk tolerance.

Debt Mutual Funds vs Fixed Deposits

Here is a comparison between debt mutual funds which are considered safer options as compared to hybrid or equity funds and FDs:

Particulars

Debt Funds

Fixed Deposits

Rate of Returns

7% – 9%

3% – 10%

Dividend Option

Yes

No

Risk

Low to Moderate

Very Low

Liquidity

High

Moderate

Investment Mode

SIP or Lumpsum

Lumpsum

Early Withdrawal

With exit load

Yes (with conditions)

Expenses

Expense ratio

None


Want to avoid hidden costs? Unlike mutual funds that charge expense ratios, Bajaj Finance FDs come with zero additional charges—you get what you’re promised. Check eligibility and invest in FDs now!

FDs vs Mutual Funds: Which is better?

It all depends on your goals and risk tolerance.

  • If you want safety, guaranteed growth, and no surprises, choose Fixed Deposits.
  • If you’re ready to take risks for potentially higher long-term gains, mutual funds may suit you.
  • Many investors balance both—FDs for stability and liquidity, and mutual funds for wealth creation.

Conclusion

Both FDs and mutual funds have their place in your financial plan. But if you want an investment that guarantees growth, keeps your money safe, and offers complete flexibility, Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits are a smarter choice. With high safety ratings, competitive returns, and easy online booking, you can invest confidently and watch your savings grow. Open FD.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum amount needed to start a Bajaj Finance FD?

You can start your investment journey with just Rs. 15,000, making it accessible and easy to build disciplined savings.

Is it possible to withdraw the FD amount before maturity?

Yes, you can withdraw the FD amount before maturity. However, most financial institutions charge a penalty for early withdrawal.

Can I open my FD online?

Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposit offers each customer a chance to open their FD without any hassle online through their website. You can register on the website, complete the KYC, and start your Fixed Deposit in just a few minutes.

Is FD better than sip?

In a fixed deposit, you invest a lump sum amount at once. However, with SIP, you make small monthly investments. However, SIP is a risky investment, while a fixed deposit offers profitable returns without any risk.

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Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-qualified limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

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.