Traditional Investments
These are well-known, low-risk, and generally stable investment options :
1. Fixed Deposits (FDs)
What it is: Fixed Deposits are savings tools offered by banks where you invest a lump sum for a fixed tenure and earn a guaranteed return.
Why consider: Ideal for risk-averse investors looking for stable returns.
Typical Interest Rate: 6% – 7.5% annually.
2. Recurring Deposits (RDs)
What it is: RDs allow you to deposit a fixed amount monthly and earn interest similar to FDs.
Why consider: Suitable for disciplined monthly savers.
Tenure: 6 months to 10 years.
3. Public Provident Fund (PPF)
What it is: A long-term, government-backed savings scheme with tax benefits.
Why consider: Offers tax-free interest and is great for retirement planning.
Lock-in: 15 years | Interest: Around 7.1% (updated quarterly).
4. National Savings Certificate (NSC)
What it is: A fixed-income investment scheme backed by the Indian Government.
Why consider: Safe option with tax benefits under Section 80C.
Tenure: 5 years | Interest: ~7.7% (compounded annually).
5. Post Office Savings Schemes
What it is: Includes various safe investment schemes like MIS, SCSS, and RD run by India Post.
Why consider: Government-backed, accessible, and ideal for senior citizens.
Varieties: Monthly Income Scheme, Senior Citizen Saving Scheme, etc.
6. Gold / Silver
What it is: Traditional assets like jewelry, coins, or digital gold used for both investment and cultural purposes.
Why consider: Acts as a hedge against inflation and currency devaluation.
Options: Physical gold, Digital Gold, Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs).