SGB vs FD
Both Sovereign Gold Bond and Fixed Deposit are popular options for low-risk investment. In this article, we will discuss SGB vs FD as investment alternatives.
SGB & Tax Saving FD has always been one of the most reliable and popular investment options in India.
But to limit the import of gold, the Central Government initiated the Sovereign Gold Bond plan in 2015 under the Gold Monetization Scheme.
Since then, it has continued to initiate a series of this plan at regular intervals.
As compared to investing in SGB and FD options, SGB is known to offer a host of valuable benefits.
The gold bond is less risky, convenient, and one has nothing to worry about risks, and cost of storage However, there are a few drawbacks.
Also Read Sovereign Gold Bond : Best Returns on Gold Investment
On another side, FD is one of the most stable and safest investment instruments available to people.
A 5 year’s FD can act as tax savings for benefits under section 80C. In addition, there is no impact of market fluctuations on FD investments.
Here are the common points of bonds and FDs.
- Eligibility
The Bonds or Tax Saving FDs will be restricted for sale to resident individuals, HUFs, Trusts, Universities, and Charitable Institutions. - Apply
Investors can apply the SGB or Tax Saving FD online or offline as well. - Payment
Payment can be made through cash, cheques, demand draft, or electronic fund transfer. - Lock-in
5 Year - Nomination facility
Yes - Loan facility
Loans are available against FDs or SGBs. However, it depends on Bank or Financial institute.
Let us have a look at some of the most important differences between Sovereign Gold Bond and Tax Saving Fixed Deposits [ SGB vs FD ] to help you make a smart investment decision.
What is the Difference between Sovereign Gold Bond and Fixed Deposit?
| Parameter | Sovereign Gold Bond | Tax Saving Fixed Deposit |
| Tenor | 8 Years. However, one can exit at the end of 5 years onwards and can be exercised on the payment dates. | 5 Year |
| Return | The return from SGBs are in terms of interest and capital appreciation. Investors get a fixed interest rate of 2.5% per annum. Furthermore, it is over and above the gold price return. | Interest rates range from 5.5% – 7.75%. |
| Tax benefits | NA | Avail tax exemptions under section 80C of IT Act, 1961. |
| Discount | RBI has decided to offer a discount of Rs 50 per gram on the nominal value of the SGB. | NA |
| Mode of Holding | Certificate of Holding on the date of issuance of the SGB. | Immediate, issuer certificate issues. |
| Minimum | In a fiscal year, an individual and HUF can invest for minimum of 1gm. | From INR 1000/- to 5000/- |
| Maximum | Maximum of 4kgs wherein for trusts and similar entities max ceiling is 20kgs. | INR 1,50,000/- per fiscal year |
| Redemption | Redemption price will be decided on the average closing price of gold of 999 purity of last 3 Business days from the date of redemption. | Within one business day. |
| Premature withdrawal | Premature withdrawal is applicable only after 5th year onward on the coupon payment date and also tradeable if held in demat form. | NA |
| Loan facility | Yes* *Granting loan against SGB would be subject to decision of the bank/financing agency. | Loans are available against FDs as per RBI norms. |
| Purchasing Date | RBI does announce the date of SGB. | Anytime. |
| Senior Citizen Benefit | NA | Most of the banks, as well as the financial institutes, provide FD rates to senior citizens at an extra rate of 0.25% – 1.00% (approx.). |
| Tax Deducted at Source | TDS is not applicable on the bond. | TDS is applicable |
Conclusion
Overall, we can say, as we have seen in the past that the performance of SGB is excellent as compared to FD,
Therefore, we expect the same in the future as well.
FD generates a fixed return on maturity, independent of market factors to align with your financial goals.
The gold price fluctuates with the economic cycles. However. its price has always shown an upward trend.
The introduction of Sovereign Gold Bonds has made it easier to invest in paper gold and enjoy higher liquidity.
In SGB vs FD, both have generated a good return in the long run. after considering the above factors, you can select SGB or FD scheme as per your risk appetite and financial goals.
Also Read Sovereign Gold Bond – Return Calculation 2021 | Dates | FAQs