Bonds vs Fixed Deposit (FD)

Bonds and FDs are fixed-income options. FDs offer assured returns with DICGC cover, while bonds may deliver higher returns with market, credit, and liquidity risks.
Bonds vs Fixed Deposit
4 mins
28-January-2026

Fixed-income instruments like fixed deposits (FDs) and investment bonds are popular among investors who prioritise capital safety and predictable returns. While both fall under the low-risk investment category, they differ in structure, liquidity, taxation, and payout flexibility. Understanding these differences helps you align your investment choice with your financial goals, income needs, and risk comfort.

For investors looking to balance stability with reliable growth, fixed deposits—especially those offered by highly rated NBFCs—often provide greater clarity and ease of management.

Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits offer a combination of high safety ratings, competitive interest rates, and flexible payout options—making them a preferred choice for conservative investors. Book FD.

Should you invest in a fixed deposit or an investment bond?

The effectiveness of any investment depends on how well it fits your financial needs. Both fixed deposits and investment bonds are fixed-income instruments, but they cater to different investor preferences.

Fixed deposits generally offer higher certainty, simpler structure, and flexible payouts, while investment bonds may appeal to investors seeking specific tax efficiencies or tradability. Although some bonds provide tax advantages, they often come with lower interest rates and limited payout flexibility.

What is Fixed Deposit?

A fixed deposit (FD) is an investment where you deposit a lump sum for a predefined tenure at a fixed interest rate. The returns are guaranteed and remain unaffected by market fluctuations. Interest earned is either paid periodically or compounded and paid at maturity.

FDs are offered by banks, NBFCs, and post offices, and are considered one of the safest investment avenues for risk-averse investors.

Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits are backed by CRISIL AAA/STABLE and [ICRA]AAA(Stable) ratings, offering a high level of safety with attractive returns. Book FD.

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

Features and benefits of fixed deposit

For investors seeking stability without sacrificing growth, fixed deposits offer several advantages:

  • Predictable and guaranteed returns, insulated from market volatility
  • Higher interest rates for senior citizens, helping build steady post-retirement income
  • Issued by banks, NBFCs, and post offices—choosing highly rated institutions improves safety
  • Easy access to funds through loan-against-FD facilities during emergencies
  • Better returns than regular savings accounts
  • Flexibility to choose cumulative or non-cumulative payout options
  • Suitable for diverse goals such as education planning, asset purchase, or travel funding

Bajaj Finance FDs offer flexible tenures from 12 to 60 months, with options for monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, yearly, or maturity payouts. Book FD.

What are investment bonds?

Investment bonds are debt instruments issued by governments or corporations to raise capital. When you invest in a bond, you essentially lend money to the issuer in return for periodic interest payments and repayment of principal at maturity.

While bonds are considered relatively safe, they carry issuer risk, meaning repayment depends on the issuer’s financial strength. Bonds may also be subject to price fluctuations if traded in secondary markets.

In India, bonds can be issued by the government, PSUs, financial institutions, and private corporations. They suit investors who prioritise structured payouts and tax planning over flexibility.

Features and benefits of investment bond

Investment bonds come with certain advantages and limitations:

  • Potential capital appreciation if sold in secondary markets
  • Generally lower interest rates compared to fixed deposits
  • Some bonds offer tax benefits or tax-free interest
  • Tradable, allowing exit before maturity (subject to market conditions)
  • Fixed payout schedules with limited flexibility
  • Secured but not insured—repayment depends on collateral value and issuer health

If assured returns and predictable income matter more than market-linked price movements, Bajaj Finance FDs offer clarity without complexity. Check latest FD rates.

Fixed Deposits vs Investment Bonds

Aspect

Bonds

Fixed Deposits

Definition

Debt instruments issued to raise capital

Lump-sum deposit for a fixed tenure

Issued by

Governments, PSUs, corporates

Banks, NBFCs, post offices

Liquidity

Tradable if listed

Premature withdrawal allowed with penalty

Payout flexibility

Fixed schedule

Flexible payout options

Returns

Can vary with issuer & market

Fixed and assured


Bajaj Finance FDs allow investors to calculate exact returns upfront using an online FD calculator—no assumptions, no surprises.

Conclusion

Both fixed deposits and investment bonds cater to investors who value predictability and lower risk. However, fixed deposits stand out for their simplicity, assured returns, flexible payout options, and ease of access. Investment bonds may suit investors with specific tax strategies, but they often involve trade-offs in liquidity and interest rates.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a bond and a deposit?

Bonds are debt securities issued by entities to raise capital, while deposits typically involve individuals or institutions depositing money with a financial institution for a fixed term, usually with interest.

Is it better to invest in bonds or FD?

Whether bonds or FDs are better depends on your goals and risk appetite. Fixed deposits suit conservative investors seeking assured returns, flexible tenures, and predictable income. Bonds may offer better tax efficiency or slightly higher yields but carry interest rate and liquidity risks. For stability and simplicity, FDs are often preferred.

Which is better, RBI bonds or FD?

RBI bonds are backed by the Government of India and offer high safety with interest paid periodically, but they have a long lock-in and limited liquidity. Fixed deposits provide more flexibility, multiple payout options, and easier access to funds, making them more practical for most investors.

Are Bajaj Finance Fixed Deposits safe?

Yes. Bajaj Finance FDs carry CRISIL AAA/STABLE and [ICRA] AAA (Stable) ratings, indicating a high degree of safety. Check rates.

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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.