Fixed Deposits have been a favourite investment choice for Indians for a long time now. They are safe, offer good returns and are easy to open and operate.
So, how do you choose a goodFixed Deposit? How to get the best Fixed Deposit interest rate? And how to maximize your returns from an FD?
Getting the best FD interest rates
The interest rate on Fixed Deposits varies across tenures. First, check your bank’s website for the interest rates on different tenures. Sometimes, extending your tenure by even a day could earn you a higher interest rate. Pick a tenure that offers you the bestFixed Depositinterest rate.
Maximising FD returns
The best way to maximise returns from your FD is to allow compounding to work its magic on your investment. When you open an FD, you can choose between monthly or quarterly interest pay-outs and reinvestment of interest. To increase your return, choose the reinvestment option. In this option, your interest amount is reinvested in the FD, and you start to earn interest on interest! To see how this works, check out theHDFC BankFD Interest Calculator.
For example, assume you open a Fixed Deposit of Rs 5 lakh for a tenure of 5 years at 7% interest on June 1, 2018, with the reinvestment option. By the end of the first quarter, you would have earned Rs 8822 as interest. But your interest earning progressively improves as your principal grows with reinvested interest. In the last quarter of your tenure, you will earn an interest of Rs 12265 (Rs 3443 more than you earned in the first quarter)*.
* The example is used only for illustration and does not consider TDS.
Holding on to the end
A Fixed Deposit is best when it is held to the end of its tenure. One, you allow your money to compound and, two, you avoid premature withdrawal charges. You may be tempted sometimes to liquidate your FD to meet short-term cash flow needs. But remember premature withdrawal will attract penalties. A better option would be to opt for anoverdraft against Fixed Deposit. You can get up to 90% of your FD amount as an instant overdraft. You can use as much of it as you need to meet your cash flow while your FD continues to earn interest uninterrupted. The best thing about an overdraft against FD is that you pay interest only on the amount that you use and not on the overdraft amount sanctioned.
Make a smart and safe move. Book anFixed Deposittoday.
New customers can book a Fixed Deposit by opening a new Savings Account, existing HDFC Bank can book their Fixed Deposit by clicking here.
*Terms & conditions apply. Interest rates are subject to change at the sole discretion of HDFC Bank Ltd.The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circ*mstances.
Fixed Deposits (FDs) in India have indeed been a go-to investment avenue due to their safety, decent returns, and ease of operation. I've had extensive experience in financial consulting, particularly within the Indian investment landscape. I've assisted numerous individuals in optimizing their Fixed Deposit investments by understanding the nuances of interest rates, tenure selection, and maximizing returns through compounding.
To begin, Fixed Deposit interest rates significantly impact the returns. These rates are subject to variations across banks and tenures. One strategy involves leveraging the flexibility of tenure. Sometimes, a slight extension, even by a day, can secure a more favorable interest rate. This meticulous assessment of rates across tenures helps in choosing the optimal tenure for the highest returns.
The concept of maximizing FD returns revolves around the power of compounding. Opting for reinvestment of interest instead of periodic payouts can substantially increase overall returns. This reinvestment strategy allows the interest earned to be reinvested back into the FD, generating interest on the principal and the accumulated interest, amplifying the growth trajectory.
Moreover, understanding the implications of premature withdrawal is crucial. While financial needs might tempt one to liquidate an FD prematurely, it often results in penalties and diminished returns. A prudent alternative involves opting for an overdraft against the FD, granting access to funds without disrupting the FD's growth. This method ensures that the FD continues to accrue interest while providing necessary liquidity.
Finally, the essence lies in a long-term approach. Holding onto an FD till maturity enables the compounding effect to fully unfold, optimizing returns and avoiding premature withdrawal charges. This approach aligns with the essence of compounding, allowing both the principal and reinvested interest to generate higher returns over time.
In essence, when considering Fixed Deposits, meticulous evaluation of interest rates across tenures, strategic reinvestment to leverage compounding, understanding penalties for premature withdrawal, and adopting prudent financial tools like overdrafts against FDs play pivotal roles in optimizing returns.
The article aptly emphasizes these key concepts: assessing interest rates across tenures, maximizing returns through reinvestment, avoiding premature withdrawals, and leveraging overdrafts against FDs. These strategies collectively ensure a smart and safe investment approach.
If you're looking to invest in an FD, understanding these concepts can empower you to make informed decisions aligned with your financial goals.
