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Understanding the different types of investment options in India

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ISN Team
New Update
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When building wealth and planning for your financial future is involved, choosing the right tool becomes essential. Many people are turning to trusted insurance providers like Axis Max Life for investment plans that blend protection with savings.

Before making a financial decision, know the various investment options with their benefits, risks, and time horizons. There are many financial products available that can help you grow your money, safeguard your future, and meet both short- and long-term goals.


Why investing matters? 

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It is important to save, but investing allows you to grow your money over time. With the right planning, you can earn returns by avoiding inflation and achieving goals like buying a home, funding a child’s education, or retirement.

Some reliable insurance providers like Axis Max Life Insurance provide products that balance both security and returns, but having a diversified investment plan gives you more financial freedom.


Types of investment options in India 

There are various investment choices to choose from. Select the option that suits your goals and risk tolerance. While some options are safe and stable and provide high returns, others might be riskier. Below are the most common investment options in India:

1. Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs): In this type of plan, you not only get an investment option but also life insurance. A portion of your money goes towards insurance, while the remaining is invested in the market. With this plan, not only can you grow your wealth, but you can also protect your family. Some insurance providers like Axis Max Life offer ULIPs that can be customised to suit your goals.

2. Fixed Deposits (FDs): They are given by banks and are the safest way to grow your savings. You can earn interest from investing a lump sum for a specified length of time. The amount of interest is guaranteed, with no risk involved. It is ideal for people who want a steady and predictable income.

3. Public Provident Fund (PPF) Public Provident Fund (PPF): is a government savings scheme providing you with a long-term fund. You can invest every year and earn interest that is completely tax-free. It involves a 15-year lock-in period, which means you can't withdraw your money early.  It has a lock-in period of 15 years, which means you can’t withdraw early. It is the right choice if you are planning for retirement or want to have long-term savings.

4. Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS): They are managed by professionals like fund managers who collect money from people and invest it in shares, bonds, or both. There are no guarantees on returns, as they depend on market performance and risk.

5. National Pension System (NPS): It is a government-backed investment plan that helps you save for your retirement years. Your money gets invested in both stocks and bonds. You can withdraw some amount, but most of it is locked in until you are retired. You also get tax benefits on your investment.


Tax implications of investment options in India 

Investment Option                         

Tax Benefits on Investment

Fixed Deposits (FDs)  Under Section 80C for contributions of up to Rs 1.5 Lakh, under the old tax regime
Public Provident Fund (PPFs) Eligible for deduction under Section 80C for contributions up to Rs 1.5 Lakh Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)
Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS)     Under Section 80C, for contributions of up to Rs 1.5 Lakh
National Pension System (NPS)     Under Section 80C, for contributions of up to Rs 1.5 Lakh, and additional deduction of up to Rs 50,000 under Section 80CCD(1B) 
Unit-Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs)     Eligible under Section 10(10D). Returns are tax-free if the annual premium ≤ Rs 2.5 lakh

 


Which one to choose? 

Selecting an investment option depends upon your objective, risk tolerance, and investment holding duration. If you wish to enjoy security and assured returns, investments such as Fixed Deposit or PPF are the right choice.

However, if you have long-term objectives, such as retirement or building wealth, investments like ULIPs or NPS can provide stability along with growth for your funds.


Conclusion

Investing is an essential part of financial planning. It helps your money grow and supports your future goals, whether it's buying a house, saving for your child’s education, or building a retirement fund. Every investment option in India comes with its own benefits, risks, and time frames, so it's essential to choose wisely.

At the same time, if you're looking for both insurance protection and market returns, plans like ULIPs from trusted providers such as Axis Max Life Insurance can offer a balanced approach. On the other hand, traditional schemes like PPF suit investors looking for stable and safe returns.

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