India’s Mutual Fund AAUM Sees Strong Yearly Growth Despite March Pullback

According to ICRA Analytics, the Indian mutual fund industry’s average assets under management (AAUM) surged 21.32% year-on-year in March 2025. This marks a strong annual expansion, demonstrating robust investor interest and asset accumulation in the mutual fund space. However, a month-on-month decline of 1.25% from February 2025 was observed, indicating a short-term contraction across several categories.

Equity-Oriented Funds Maintain Dominance

Equity-oriented growth schemes continued to hold the largest share of the industry’s AAUM at 53.72%. These were followed by debt-oriented schemes with a 15.06% share and liquid schemes at 13.21%. Despite the broad-based monthly decline, these core segments continue to represent the structural backbone of the mutual fund ecosystem.

ETFs Buck the Trend with Positive Momentum

While most scheme categories witnessed a dip in March, Gold ETFs and Other ETFs registered significant monthly gains. Gold ETFs rose by 89.88%, and Other ETFs increased by 15.06%, showcasing selective investor preference amidst broader market caution. This outperformance could reflect asset reallocation strategies in light of evolving market sentiment.

Regional Distribution Highlights Concentration

Geographically, Maharashtra accounted for the largest share of AAUM at 40.64%, followed by New Delhi, Gujarat, Karnataka, and West Bengal. Together, these 5 states contributed over 65% of the industry’s total AAUM, underscoring a regional concentration in fund mobilisation.

Smaller States and UTs Show Varied Trends

Among union territories and smaller states, Lakshadweep had the highest equity-oriented AAUM share at 91.98%, with Andhra Pradesh following at 81.50%. Sikkim stood out for the highest monthly growth in AAUM at 5.19%, while Gujarat and West Bengal recorded the steepest declines of over 2%.

On a yearly basis, Lakshadweep again topped the charts with a remarkable 71.61% surge in AAUM. In contrast, Goa posted the slowest annual growth at 15.51%. Despite the monthly moderation, all regions reported positive year-on-year growth.

Read More: Mutual Fund AUM Surge: Top Fund Houses of CY 2024. 

Equity Inflows Lose Steam

A notable trend in March was the significant slowdown in net inflows into equity mutual funds. Total inflows dropped to ₹25,000 crore—the lowest in a year—compared to ₹29,000 crore in February and a high of ₹42,000 crore in October 2024. Thematic and sectoral funds bore the brunt of this slowdown, with inflows plummeting to ₹170 crore in March from a high of ₹22,400 crore in June 2024.

Conclusion

Despite a slight dip in March, the mutual fund industry’s annual growth reflects sustained investor confidence and expanding market participation.

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Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Mutual Fund investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

BSE Share Price Hits All-Time High: Surges 78% in Just 27 Sessions

The share price of BSE Ltd, India’s oldest stock exchange, reached a new lifetime high of ₹6,549.50 on April 24, 2025, up 0.85% intraday on the National Stock Exchange (NSE). This marks a substantial increase from its earlier high of ₹6,049.80 set on January 24, 2025. Notably, the stock has zoomed 71% from its recent low of ₹3,682, recorded on March 11, 2025.

As of 11:49 AM on April 24, 2025, BSE shares continued to trade strongly, quoting 0.72% higher for the day. 

78% Surge in 27 Sessions: What Drove the Momentum?

Between lows of March 11 and highs of April 24, BSE shares surged nearly 78% in just 27 trading sessions. A confluence of regulatory developments and corporate actions catalysed this sharp rise. Market confidence was bolstered after BSE announced a bonus issue, and further strengthened when rival NSE deferred a planned change in its derivatives expiry calendar. 

Bonus Issue Announcement Fuels Optimism

On March 30, BSE’s board approved a bonus issue in the ratio of 2:1 — that is, two additional equity shares for every one fully paid-up equity share held as of the record date. This corporate action led to heightened investor interest, with the stock gaining over 40% from its March 27 level following the announcement.

Read More: BSE Board to Meet on May 6 to Consider FY25 Results, Dividend; Bonus Issue Record Date Awaited

Regulatory Developments and Their Impact

A significant catalyst for the rally was regulatory clarity from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). On March 28, SEBI released a consultation paper proposing that all equity derivative contract expiries be restricted to either Tuesday or Thursday. NSE, which had earlier announced plans to shift its contract expiry to Monday, decided to defer this change following the release of the paper.

This decision worked in BSE’s favour. Its derivative contracts currently expire on Tuesday, and the prospect of NSE adopting the same day has raised concerns about a potential hit to BSE’s trading volumes. With the deferral, that threat was temporarily alleviated, restoring investor sentiment.

Conclusion

BSE’s business performance is tightly linked to trading volumes on its platform. Higher trading volumes translate to increased revenues from transaction fees, listings, and associated services. The number of active traders, new listings, and capital raised through IPOs and follow-on offerings also play a crucial role in the exchange’s financial outcomes.

Hence, any regulatory or structural change that influences market participation or trading activity can have a direct bearing on the exchange’s share price performance.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Bajaj Finance Set to Announce Its First Bonus Since 2016: A Look at Its Dividend History Ahead of the Board Meeting

Bajaj Finance Ltd. (BFL) is one of India’s most prominent non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), known for its expansive retail asset financing operations. Originally founded to support vehicle financing for Bajaj Auto’s two- and three-wheelers, the company has since evolved into a diversified financial powerhouse.

Today, Bajaj Finance operates across seven broad verticals:

  • Consumer Lending

  • Commercial Lending

  • Rural Lending

  • SME Lending

  • Deposits

  • Payments

  • Partnerships & Services

This strategic diversification has allowed the company to build a robust pan-India presence, catering to a wide range of customer segments with tailored financial solutions.

Recent Surge in Share Price

On April 24, 2025, the Bajaj Finance share price touched an all-time high of ₹9,660 on the National Stock Exchange (NSE). This notable surge followed a key announcement from the company regarding its upcoming board meeting scheduled for 29 April 2025.

In its exchange filing, the company stated that the board would consider:

  • A special interim dividend

  • A stock split

  • A bonus issue of shares

These corporate actions have drawn considerable attention from market participants, triggering heightened investor interest and contributing to the upward momentum in the stock price.

A History of Bonus Issues and Dividends

Bajaj Finance last issued bonus shares in September 2016 in a 1:1 ratio. Since then, it has consistently enhanced its dividend payouts, reflecting its strong financial performance and shareholder focus.

Here’s a quick look at recent dividend declarations:

  • June 2024: Final dividend of ₹36 per share

  • June 2023: Final dividend of ₹30 per share

  • 2022: Dividend of ₹20 per share, up from ₹10 in 2021

This trajectory signals a sustained growth in profit distribution over the years, demonstrating management’s commitment to rewarding shareholders.

Read More: Bajaj Housing Finance Share Price in Focus on Apr 24; PAT Surges 54% in Q4 FY25!

Share Price Performance

As of April 24, 2025, the share price of Bajaj Finance has delivered a 37.5% year-to-date gain. 

Upcoming Board Meeting and Expectations

The upcoming board meeting on April 29, 2025, is set to be a key event. Apart from deliberating on dividend declarations and possible corporate actions, the board will also review the company’s Q4 and full-year FY25 financial results.

Conclusion

Bajaj Finance continues to stand out in the NBFC sector, both for its operational breadth and its consistent financial performance. With major corporate actions on the horizon and a strong track record of dividend growth, the company’s upcoming board decisions are being watched closely across the financial ecosystem.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

₹10 Lakh+ Luxury Buys? Here’s What the New 1% TCS Rule Means for You

Thinking of splurging on a luxury watch, designer bag, or a rare painting? Starting April 22, 2025, you’ll pay more than just the sticker price. The Income Tax Department has implemented a 1% Tax Collected at Source (TCS) on luxury goods valued above ₹10 lakh. While this isn’t a new tax, it’s a compliance mechanism to track big-ticket purchases and enhance financial transparency.

What Items Are Covered Under the New TCS Rule?

The notification clearly defines the types of high-value items that now attract 1% TCS if sold for ₹10 lakh or more. These include:

  • Luxury handbags

  • Wrist watches

  • Designer footwear and premium sportswear

  • High-end sunglasses

  • Paintings, sculptures, and antiques

  • Collectable items like rare coins and stamps

  • Yachts and helicopters

  • Polo and race horses

  • Sophisticated home theatre systems

It’s worth noting that motor vehicles exceeding ₹10 lakh have already been under the TCS net since early 2025.

How Does the 1% TCS Mechanism Work?

Here’s how the TCS will apply to your luxury purchases:

  • Collected by the Seller: TCS is deducted by the seller at the point of sale.

  • Applicable on the Full Value: If an item costs more than ₹10 lakh, the entire sale amount is subject to 1% TCS.

  • Credited Against Your Income Tax: This isn’t an extra tax; it will reflect in your Form 26AS and be adjusted in your annual tax filing.

  • PAN is Mandatory: Ensure you provide your Permanent Account Number at the time of purchase.

Example: Buying a wristwatch worth ₹12 lakh? The seller will collect ₹12,000 as TCS, which you can later claim as a credit when filing your income tax return.

Read More: ITR Filing 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide to Using the ‘e-Pay Tax’ Feature

Why Has This Been Introduced?

The goal is not to increase tax liabilities, but to track large discretionary spends. By doing so, the government can expand the tax base and keep an eye on unreported wealth.

It’s a move towards better documentation in sectors where cash transactions and opaque financial dealings have long been prevalent.

What Luxury Buyers Should Keep in Mind

If you’re planning a luxury purchase above ₹10 lakh, here’s what you should be prepared for:

  • Enhanced KYC: Be ready for more detailed verification and paperwork.

  • PAN Requirement: Transactions above ₹10 lakh must be linked to your PAN.

  • Visible in Form 26AS: TCS paid will appear in your annual tax statement.

  • Keep Receipts: Retain bills and invoices for easier reconciliation at tax time.

  • No Extra Tax Burden: Remember, TCS is an advance—it does not add to your overall tax liability.

Conclusion

India’s move to implement 1% TCS on luxury goods over ₹10 lakh is a significant push towards formalising the economy. It helps build a clear digital trail of big-ticket purchases and encourages voluntary tax compliance, especially in segments where the lines between cash and formal payment often blur.

This change, while subtle at the point of sale, represents a larger shift in how luxury and discretionary spending are being monitored in the country.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Sahara Case: ED Attaches Fresh Assets Exceeding ₹1,500 Crore

According to the news reports, assets worth over ₹1,500 crore have been seized in a money-laundering investigation involving the Sahara Group. This includes 1,023 acres of land in 16 cities, purchased through illegal transactions using funds diverted from Sahara’s entities.

Land Locations and Value

The seized land spans across multiple states, including Gujarat, Odisha, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Jammu and Kashmir and Uttar Pradesh. The total value of these properties, based on the 2016 official circle rates, is ₹1,538 crore.

Previous Actions in the Case

Just last week, 707 acres of land in Maharashtra’s Lonavala area were also seized by ED, valued at ₹1,460 crore in the current market. This action is part of the ongoing investigation into the Sahara Group’s financial activities.

The Allegations

The ED has accused the Sahara Group of running a Ponzi scheme through several entities like HICCSL, Sahara Credit Cooperative Society and others. They allegedly misled depositors and agents, offering high returns and commissions while misusing the collected funds without proper oversight.

Read More: Sahara Refund Process: Centre Releases ₹2,314.20 Crore To 12,97,111 Depositors.

Conclusion

The ED’s ongoing investigation into the Sahara Group highlights serious allegations of financial fraud and money laundering. With further asset seizures and numerous complaints, the case is shedding light on the scale of the group’s alleged illegal activities, impacting thousands of investors.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

BluSmart Brings in Grant Thornton for Forensic Audit After SEBI Probe

According to the news reports, BluSmart, an electric cab company, has hired Grant Thornton to conduct a deep financial investigation. This decision comes after SEBI started looking into alleged misuse of company funds by co-founder Anmol Jaggi. He is accused of using money meant for buying electric vehicles for his personal benefit.

Misuse of Funds and SEBI’s Findings

SEBI found that Anmol Jaggi had taken money from his listed company, Gensol Engineering, which provides electric cars to BluSmart. Instead of using it for business purposes, he reportedly spent it on a luxury apartment worth ₹42 crore, foreign trips, expensive items and personal transfers. Out of a ₹978 crore loan meant for purchasing 6,400 EVs, only 4,704 were actually bought. The rest of the money, about ₹262 crore, is suspected to have been misused.

Impact on BluSmart Operations

Due to this scandal, BluSmart paused its cab services without prior notice. Many top employees resigned, and customers with money in their app wallets were left confused. The company hasn’t given any clear statement yet, but claims services will resume soon.

Silence from Investors, Awaiting Audit Outcome

The company’s key investor, BP Ventures (linked to British energy firm BP), hasn’t commented on the situation. The upcoming audit by Grant Thornton is expected to reveal how serious the financial mismanagement was and help decide what steps BluSmart should take next.

Read More: Gensol Shares Slide to 52-Week Low After SEBI Flags Inactivity at EV Plant.

Share Performance 

As of April 24, 2025, at 12:20  PM, Gensol Engineering share price is trading at ₹94.91 per share, reflecting a decline of 5.00% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the past month, the stock has declined by 58.09%. The stock’s 52-week high stands at ₹1,124.90 per share, while its low is ₹94.91 per share.

Conclusion

BluSmart is looking into the issue with a detailed audit. The results will help the company decide what to do next and work on gaining back trust.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Saudi Arabia Eyes Expansion in India’s Refining Sector with New Investments

In a strategic push to ensure a long-term market for its crude oil, Saudi Arabia is partnering with Indian public sector companies to establish two new refineries in India. This move marks a renewed effort by the kingdom following two earlier setbacks in similar ventures.

Refinery Plans and Investment Details

According to news reports, Saudi Aramco is in talks with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) to acquire up to a 26% equity stake in their respective refinery projects. Each refinery is expected to have a capacity of around 9 million tonnes per annum (mtpa). The total investment for such a stake could amount to ₹18,000 crore.

 

BPCL is currently preparing a feasibility report for its proposed refinery-cum-petrochemical complex in Andhra Pradesh, which is likely to have a capacity between 9-12 mtpa. A 9 mtpa facility could cost around ₹95,000 crore, and with an assumed debt-equity ratio of 65:35, the equity contribution would amount to approximately ₹33,000 crore. Aramco’s share in this project, estimated at 26%, could cost around ₹9,000 crore.

 

Similarly, ONGC is considering a refinery of comparable capacity, preferably located in Uttar Pradesh, due to the region’s high fuel demand and insufficient local refining capacity. ONGC is exploring a land parcel near Prayagraj, originally acquired by BPCL for a project that did not materialise. While ONGC is open to offering a stake between 20% and 49%, Aramco is reportedly aiming for a 26% or lower share.

Negotiations and Strategic Terms

In exchange for its equity stake, Aramco has reportedly insisted on supplying the majority of crude required by the proposed refineries over their economic life. However, Indian refiners have so far resisted this condition. As per news reports, Indian firms may consider accepting Saudi crude on a large scale only if Aramco offers favourable concessions such as price discounts, freight waivers, or extended credit terms.

 

Negotiations between Aramco and ONGC remain in early stages, and critical project details, including refinery configuration, location, and cost, are yet to be finalised. Meanwhile, both BPCL and ONGC have not commented on the ongoing discussions.

 

This marks the third major attempt by Aramco to enter India’s refining market. A 2018 deal with a consortium of Indian state-run refiners for a 60 mtpa refinery in Maharashtra was stalled due to land acquisition issues. Similarly, a $15 billion deal in 2019 with Reliance Industries for a 20% stake in its oil-to-chemical business was cancelled in 2021 over valuation differences.

Read More: Saudi Aramco Eyes Investment Plans in BPCL and ONGC Refineries.

Conclusion

Saudi Aramco’s renewed engagement with Indian public sector firms reflects its persistent strategy to secure long-term crude oil markets. While key aspects of the proposed projects remain under discussion, the collaboration marks a significant development in India-Saudi Arabia energy ties.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Vedanta Explores US Listing to Raise $1 Billion for Zambia Copper Project

According to the news reports, Vedanta Resources is considering listing its Zambian copper business, Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), in the US to raise around $1 billion. The aim is to use this money for mine development. The company has appointed Barclays and Citigroup to guide them through this possible IPO. One of the options being looked at is listing the shares in New York.

Current Situation and Background

KCM’s copper output had dropped in recent years due to a legal conflict. The previous Zambian government had taken control of the mines, accusing Vedanta of not investing enough. However, Vedanta’s chairman, Anil Agarwal, regained control last year. Since then, the company has been working to pay off debts, including electricity bills and is also increasing community investments.

Steps Already Taken

Vedanta has already created a U.S.-based company named Global Transition Resources Inc., which works in African regions producing copper, cobalt and gold. It’s unclear if this will be the exact entity used for the listing. The company had earlier tried to sell stakes to UAE-based IRH and other investors, but the deals didn’t work out due to valuation disagreements.

Future Outlook and Strategy

Vedanta aims to increase its copper production to 300,000 metric tons per year within five years. With high global demand for copper and cobalt, especially due to electric vehicles and AI data centres, the company sees strong potential. It is also restructuring its business by separating its oil-to-metals group into five independent units, which will eventually be listed separately.

 

Read More: Vedanta Promoter Group Signs $530 Million Facility Agreement; No Direct Impact on Company Management.

Share Price Performance 

As of April 24, 2025, at 10:50 AM, Vedanta Limited share price is trading at ₹425.20 per share, reflecting a surge of 1.67% from the previous day’s closing price. Over the past month, the stock has declined by 9.96%. The stock’s 52-week high stands at ₹526.95 per share, while its low is ₹363.00 per share.

Conclusion

As global demand for copper and cobalt continues to grow, Vedanta is focusing on reviving and expanding its Zambian operations. By raising funds through a U.S. listing, the company hopes to boost production, repay debts and invest in local communities. 

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Global Laptop Makers Look Beyond China: India Gains ₹17,000 Crore Boost Under PLI Scheme

India’s Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for IT hardware is rapidly reshaping the global supply chain landscape. As geopolitical tensions escalate between China and the US, global laptop manufacturers such as Asus, HP, and MSI are actively shifting parts of their production lines from China to India. The move is not only a strategic hedge against overdependence on China but also a strong indication of India’s rising manufacturing prowess.

₹17,000 Crore Push Towards Domestic Manufacturing

The second phase of India’s PLI scheme for IT hardware, launched on May 29, 2023, comes with a substantial budgetary allocation of ₹17,000 crore spread across 6 years. It offers an average incentive of 5% on net incremental sales of domestically manufactured laptops and devices, making India an increasingly attractive destination for tech production.

Currently, India’s local laptop manufacturing stands at around ₹8,517 crore (US$ 1 billion), while imports total approximately ₹93,687 crore (US$ 11 billion) in FY24. With PLI-driven investments, this gap is expected to shrink over time.

Read More: These Nifty 500 Stocks to Benefit from Change in PLI Scheme for Telecom and Networking Products

Global Brands Step Up Local Manufacturing

Several major global players have already set up operations on Indian soil. Asus has launched a new assembly line in collaboration with VVDN Technologies at Manesar, with each line capable of producing one laptop every 240 seconds.

Meanwhile, MSI has entered into a partnership with Syrma SGS, a Gurugram-based electronics manufacturer, to begin local production. HP is deepening its presence through a tie-up with Dixon Technologies, which is investing more than Rs 1,000 crore (US$ 117 million) in a new facility in Tamil Nadu. This unit will also manufacture laptops for Lenovo and Asus, strengthening India’s role as a production hub.

Local Ecosystem Strengthens with Global Backing

The PLI scheme offers more than just financial incentives. Companies meeting the scheme’s localisation thresholds—20–50% local content—can qualify for government tenders, creating further incentive for foreign firms to collaborate with Indian partners.

Indian firms also gain from reduced tariffs and a growing ecosystem that is increasingly self-reliant. At present, local production can substitute 10–20% of imports, but this figure is expected to grow as more firms shift to local sourcing and manufacturing.

Conclusion

The PLI scheme is helping India rewrite its role in the global tech manufacturing narrative. As global laptop makers seek alternatives to China, India’s combination of incentives, capacity, and market potential is drawing in increased investment. While the road ahead involves scaling capabilities and enhancing value-chain integration, India is well on its way to becoming a pivotal player in global electronics manufacturing.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Is Your Savings Account Losing You Money? A Look at Inflation, Opportunity Cost, and Low Interest Rates

Over the past few days, many banks—both public and private—have slashed the interest rates offered on savings accounts. In some cases, these rates now hover below 3%. While savings accounts are seen as a secure way to park idle money, this trend raises a critical question: Are you actually losing money by keeping funds in your savings account?

The Silent Impact of Inflation

Inflation is the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services rises, reducing purchasing power. For instance, if inflation averages 5% annually and your savings account yields just 3%, your real return is negative, precisely, a -2% return. This means that although your bank balance may increase nominally, the value of what that money can buy is shrinking over time.

In practical terms, the ₹100 in your account today may only buy goods worth ₹98 next year if inflation outpaces your interest earnings.

Opportunity Cost: The Hidden Price of Playing Safe

Another crucial concept is opportunity cost—the potential gains you forego by choosing one option over another. By holding large sums in a savings account, you’re potentially missing out on higher returns available through other low-risk financial instruments such as fixed deposits, liquid mutual funds, or even government bonds.

Although these alternatives may come with different levels of accessibility or risk, the difference in returns can compound significantly over time, especially for idle cash reserves.

Eroding Wealth in Real Terms

It is important to distinguish between nominal and real returns. Nominal returns are the interest you earn; real returns are what remain after factoring in inflation. If a savings account offers 2.5% interest and inflation stands at 6%, your real return is effectively -3.5%.

This erosion may not be immediately visible, but over the years it can result in significant loss of purchasing power, especially if substantial sums are left untouched in such accounts for prolonged periods.

Why Do People Still Park Money in Savings Accounts?

Despite low returns, savings accounts continue to attract deposits because of their convenience, liquidity, and safety. They offer instant access to funds and are insured up to a certain limit by deposit insurance schemes. For many, the peace of mind they provide outweighs the potential financial drawbacks, at least in the short term.

Read More: YES Bank Revises FD and Savings Account Interest Rates from April 21, 2025.

Conclusion

While savings accounts serve a vital role for daily transactions and emergency buffers, using them as the primary vehicle for storing short-term capital may not be the most financially sound choice. It is worth analysing the real value generated by such accounts, especially when inflation is high and interest rates are at historic lows.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions. 

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.