In India, there are many safe and reliable options to grow your money with minimal risk. Whether you are new to investing or prefer stable returns, options like Fixed Deposits (FDs), Public Provident Fund (PPF), and Debt Mutual Funds are great choices. These options offer safety and consistent returns, making them ideal for those who want to avoid risk. Let us look at the best investment options in India available today.
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Investment Plans
Generate wealthEarn 1 Cr# in maturity with Zero LTCG tax¶
Double tax savings^On premiums (under 80C) and on maturity (under
10(10D))
Investment options in India offer a wide range of financial instruments to help you grow your wealth over time. From traditional choices like savings accounts, fixed deposits, PPF, and government bonds to more dynamic options such as ULIPs, stocks, mutual funds, and real estate, there is something for every investor.
By assessing your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment time horizon, you can align your investment strategy with your long-term objectives. This ensures better returns and strengthens your financial security. Make informed decisions today and choose the right investment plan to secure your future and achieve your financial goals.
30 Best Investment Options in India in 2025
Policybazaar offers information on various investment options in India, including the following based on the risk category:
Low Risk Options:They are suitable for those with a low-risk tolerance and prioritize capital preservation over high returns.
The following sections list the best investment plans in India 2024 based on different risk categories that you can consider adding to your financial portfolio.
Medium Risk Options:These investments offer the potential for higher returns than low-risk options but come with some degree of volatility.
High-Risk Options: These investments have the potential for substantial returns but also carry a s significant risk of loss.
The following sections list the best investment plans in India 2025 based on different risk categories that you can consider adding to your financial portfolio.
Low Risk Investment
Medium Risk Investment
High Risk Investment
Low-Risk Best Investment Options in India:
Best Investment Options
Period of Investment (Minimum)
Investment Objective
Returns Offered
Investment Amount Limit
Tax Benefits under
Annuity Plans
Whole Life
Regular income post-retirement
5-7% p.a.
₹1500—No Limit
Section 80C, Section 10
Guaranteed Return Plans
Chosen Policy Term
Assured return on invested amount
5-6% p.a.
Varies by plan
Section 80C and 10(10D)
Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)
5 years (extendable by 3 years)
Age >60 years; Age 55-60 years for Retired Personnel
8.2% p.a.
₹1000-- ₹30 lakhs
Section 80 C
Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS)
5 years
Indian Citizen
7.4% p.a.
Single Life: ₹1000-- ₹9 lakhs; Joint Life: ₹1000—₹15 lakhs
Nil
Public Provident Fund (PPF)
15 years (extendable by 5 years)
Indian Citizens
7.1% p.a.
₹500 - ₹1.5 lakhs yearly
Section 80 C and Section 10
Gold
As per the investment Profile
Anyone
(13% Avg. Returns in 2023)
Decided by the investor
Taxable for LTCG and STCG
RBI Floating Rate Savings Bonds (FRSB)
7 years
Indian Resident Citizens/ HUF
8.05% p.a.
₹1000—No Limit
Taxable income
Bank Fixed Deposits (FDs)
7 days to 10 years
Market risk-averse
4-7% p.a.
₹500-- ₹5 Crores
Section 80C
National Savings Certificate (NSC)
5 years
Secure savings with fixed returns
7.7% p.a.
₹100—No Limit
Section 80C
Treasury Bills
91 days, 182 days, or 364 days
Safe short-term government-backed investment
Returns as per auction rates
₹25,000—No Limit
Taxable for LTCG and STCG
Municipal Bonds
Varies by issue
Invest in municipal projects
6% - 10% p.a.
Decided by the investor
Interest taxable
Details of Best Low-Risk Best Investment Options in 2025:
Annuity Plans
Annuity plans are the best investment option for retirees seeking a regular, lifelong income. You pay a lump sum or regular premiums, for which the plan pays you a regular income immediately or later.
Insurance-based investment, which offers regular income after retirement.
Provides a steady, lifelong income stream, as per chosen immediate or deferred pay-outs.
Payments continue until death or for a specified period, depending on the plan.
Guaranteed Return Plans
Guaranteed return plans are the best investment options that promise you a fixed amount of money at the end of a set period.
Low-risk investment option, which ensures a fixed return over a specified period.
Combines life insurance with guaranteed returns that offer both protection and savings.
Returns are pre-defined and unaffected by market fluctuations.
Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)
Senior Citizens’ Saving Scheme (SCSS) is a risk-free tax-saving investment option for senior citizens (>60 years of age) available in India. It is one of the best investment options in India for saving for old people as it offers a regular income.
Government-backed SCSS ensures a safe investment for senior citizens.
Investment Amount: ₹1,000 - ₹30 lakhs.
Eligible for tax deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakhs under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS)
The Post Office Monthly Income Scheme is another of the government-sponsored best investment options that offers you a guaranteed monthly income. It is a popular scheme for investors looking for a steady income stream.
Fixed tenure of 5 years, extendable up to 15 years.
Start with ₹1,000 up to ₹9 lakhs (Single) or ₹15 lakhs (Joint).
Interest is taxable but claims up to ₹1.5 lakhs deduction under Section 80C.
Public Provident Fund (PPF)
The Public Provident Fund (PPF) is the best investment option in India for the long-term. It offers tax-exempt contributions, interest, and withdrawals, ensuring tax efficiency.
It is a government-backed plan that offers guaranteed PPF interest rates, making it a secure investment option.
The minimum PPF account duration is 15 years, extendable in 5-year increments.
You can start investing with just ₹500 annually, up to ₹1.5 lakhs.
Gold
Gold has a long and rich cultural significance in India. It is often seen as a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and good luck, making gold and gold assets the best investment option for many Indians.
Gold investment options in India: Physical gold, Gold ETFs, Gold funds, and Gold bonds.
Gold can be pledged for instant loans, easily bought and sold in markets and exchanges, which enhances its investment appeal.
Acts as a hedge against inflation, its value rises when currency value falls.
RBI Floating Rate Savings Bonds (FRSB)
RBI Floating Rate Savings Bonds are issued by the RBI on behalf of the Government of India. These are safe investment options with high returns offering guaranteed and risk-free returns. They are available to all citizens except Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
The returns are linked to the NSC rate plus 35 basis points, with a half-yearly interest reset.
The interest rate is floating, subject to possible up or down revisions, and investors receive regular income through half-yearly payments in January and July.
The bonds are non-tradable, non-transferable, and offer a secure investment option for regular income.
Bank Fixed Deposits (FDs)
Bank Fixed Deposits offer fixed returns over a specific investment tenure. These are the best investment options for offering guaranteed returns for a chosen tenure.
Offer stability with fixed FD interest rates, higher FD rates for Senior Citizens, and a predetermined maturity period.
FDs are available for tenures from 7 days to 10 years and allow for loan facilities against the FD scheme.
Tax-Saver FDs offer deductions under Section 80C.
National Savings Certificate (NSC)
The National Savings Certificate (NSC) is a government-backed savings scheme offering fixed interest rates and tax benefits.
It is a government-backed best investment option, offering a fixed maturity period of 5 or 10 years, with interest compounded annually.
The investment is eligible for tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
It can be purchased from post offices and is available in various denominations.
Treasury Bills
Treasury Bills (T-Bills) are short-term government securities with maturities of up to one year ranging from 91 days to 1 year. They are issued at a discount and redeemed at face value, offering the best investment option with guaranteed returns and low risk.
They are sold at a discount to their face value and pay the full face value at maturity.
They offer liquidity and can be easily bought and sold in the money market.
The returns on T-Bills are determined by the difference between the purchase price and the face value at maturity.
Municipal Bonds
Municipal bonds are debt securities issued by local governments or municipalities to fund public projects. They offer tax-exempt interest income and are considered low-risk best investment options.
Municipal bonds can be classified into general obligation bonds (backed by the issuer's credit) and revenue bonds (backed by specific project revenues).
They often provide tax-exempt interest income, making them attractive to investors in higher tax brackets.
They typically offer lower yields compared to corporate bonds due to their tax advantages.
Medium Risk Best Investment Options in India:
Best Investment Options
Period of Investment(Minimum)
Investment Objective
Returns Offered
Investment Amount Limit
Tax Benefits under
Pension Plans
5 years
Low risk tolerance + Long-term investment
9% - 15% p.a.
₹1000—No Limit
Section 80C and 10(10D)
Child Plans
5 years
Save for your child’s future
up to 17% p.a.
₹1000—No Limit
Section 80C and 10(10D)
Capital Guarantee Plans
5 years
Wealth creation + protection
Guaranteed Principal + Market-linked Returns
Varies by plan
Section 80C and 10(10D)
National Pension Scheme (NPS)
Up to 60- 70 years of age (extendable by 5 years)
All Resident Citizens/ NRIs/ OCIs/ PIOs (18-70 year age)
Market-linked (9-15% p.a.)
Tier I: ₹500 - No Limit (Min. ₹1000 per year) Tier II: ₹250 – No Limit
Details of Moderate-Risk Best Investment Options in 2025
Pension Plans
Pension plans are the best investment option for retirement planning, combining the benefits of investment with life insurance protection. These plans provide you with a regular income after retirement when you are no longer working.
Provide a guaranteed income after retirement, either immediately or deferred.
Allows regular contributions for a lump sum or annuity pay-outs.
Provides deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakhs under Section 80C and additional tax-free maturity benefits under Section 10(10D).
Child Plans
Child plans are also one of the best investment options to save for your child's future by offering the benefits of both life insurance and investment. They allow partial withdrawals to your child in emergencies.
This long-term investment offers a lump sum payout on maturity, which can be used to meet your child’s financial needs, such as education, marriage, or starting a business.
Your child also gets a death benefit in case of your premature death.
Offers tax deductions under Section 80C and tax-free maturity under Section 10(10D) of the IT Act, 1961.
Capital Guarantee Plans
Capital Guarantee Plans are a type of best investment option that offers a guarantee that your initial investment will be returned to you, regardless of market performance.
Invests part of your premium in low-risk funds for guaranteed fixed returns and the rest into market-linked funds for higher potential returns.
Ensure financial security for your family with life coverage.
Customize investments based on your risk appetite and goals.
Capital guarantee plans are eligible for tax benefits under Section 80C and Section 10(10D).
National Pension Scheme (NPS)
NPS is one of the government-backed best investment options that offer guaranteed pension benefits. The NPS fund invests in bonds, government securities, equity, and other market-linked assets.
NPS has two types of accounts:
Tier I Account: Mandatory long-term savings account without premature withdrawals
Tier II Account: Optional account with more flexibility for withdrawals
National Pension Scheme (NPS) offers two fund options:
Auto Choice Funds: Automatic asset allocation based on your age
Active Choice Funds: Customize asset allocation in equity, debt, and government securities
Real estate is a physical and tangible best investment option, including land, homes, and commercial buildings. Over time, real estate can appreciate in value, offering potential capital gains.
Real estate in India has historically appreciated, making it a top choice for long-term capital gains.
Offers steady rental income for passive earnings and is usable for personal or commercial purposes.
Indian government provides tax benefits under the Income Tax Act of 1961:
Section 24(b): Deduction for interest paid on home loans.
Section 80C: Deductions on principal repayment of home loans.
Section 54: Exemptions on capital gains tax from sale of residential property.
Corporate Bonds
Corporate bonds are debt securities issued by corporations to raise capital. In India, corporate bonds are the best investment options that provide you with an opportunity to lend money to companies in exchange for regular interest payments.
The principal amount is returned at the end of the bond's maturity, offering fixed income through interest payments.
Available in various maturities and credit ratings for flexibility.
Subject to credit risk, with a chance of issuer default.
Index Funds
Index funds are mutual funds or ETFs that aim to replicate the performance of a specific market index, like the Nifty 50 or S&P 500. They offer diversification, lower fees, and are best investment options for long-term, passive investors looking for steady market returns.
They offer broad market exposure, allowing you to diversify across many stocks or bonds.
These funds typically have lower fees compared to actively managed funds due to their passive management style.
They usually provide steady, long-term returns that mirror the index they track.
Debt Mutual Funds
Debt mutual funds invest primarily in fixed-income securities like bonds, debentures, and government securities.
Debt mutual funds invest primarily in fixed-income securities like bonds and debentures.
These best investment options offer regular income and lower risk compared to equity funds.
Suitable for conservative investors looking for stable returns and capital preservation.
Balanced Mutual Funds
Balanced mutual funds invest in a mix of equities and fixed-income securities. These best investment options aim to balance growth and income, offering both capital appreciation and stability.
Balanced mutual funds invest in a mix of equities and fixed-income securities to balance risk and return.
These funds aim for moderate growth by combining stock market exposure with stable income from bonds.
They are suitable for investors seeking a blend of growth potential and income stability.
High-Risk Best Investment Options:
Best Investment Options
Period of Investment (Minimum)
Investment Objective
Returns Offered
Investment Amount Limit
Tax Benefits under
Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIP)
5 years
Wealth + Life cover
9% - 15% p.a.
₹1000—No Limit
Section 80C and 10(10D)
Initial Public Offerings (IPO)
As per the investment profile
Long-term outlook with risk-taking
Returns vary widely
Decided by the investor
Taxable for LTCG and STCG
Stock Market Trading
As per the investment profile
Balances risk and return
Returns vary widely
Decided by the investor
Taxable for LTCG and STCG
Equity Mutual Funds
Min. 3 years for ELSS
Risk-taking appetite
up to 20% p.a.
₹500—No Limit
Section 80C under ELSS
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)
As per risk tolerance
Balances the risk and return
Returns vary widely
Decided by the investor
Taxable for LTCG and STCG
Money Market Funds
Short-term (usually less than a year)
Safe with minimal risk
4% - 6% p.a.
Decided by the investor
Taxable
Forex Trading
As per investor strategy
High risk, high reward potential
Returns vary widely
Decided by the investor
Taxable
Hedge Funds
Typically long-term
High risk, high reward potential
Returns vary widely
High minimum investment
Taxable
Angel Investment
Long-term
High growth potential
Returns vary widely
High minimum investment
Taxable
Cryptocurrencies
NA
Anyone
Returns vary widely
NA
Profits taxable at 30% p.a.
Details of High-Risk Best Investment Options in 2025
Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIP)
ULIP stands for Unit Linked Insurance Plans. These best investment options offer the dual benefits of market-linked investments and life insurance cover.
Flexibility to choose from various investment funds, like Equity, Debt, Hybrid, Index funds, and New Fund Offerings (NFOs).
ULIP plan provides deductions of up to ₹1.5 lakhs under Section 80C of the IT Act, 1961.
The payouts received at the end of the policy term are also tax-free under Section 10(10D).
Initial Public Offerings (IPO)
An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is considered among the best investment options for investors looking to buy shares in a company at its early stages. It is the first sale of company shares to the public when a company transitions from private to public ownership.
IPOs let companies raise funds by selling shares to the public on stock exchanges.
It is a high risk, high return investment option.
Investing early allows founders and investors to support new ventures.
Stock Market Trading
Stock Market Trading involves selling or purchasing the market-linked units of publicly traded companies or commodities. These companies are listed on secondary markets/ stock exchanges like the NSE, BSE, and NASDAQ.
Stock market investments are volatile, influenced by economic news and investor sentiment.
A Demat account is necessary to start trading on a stock exchange.
Stock market trading remains one of the best investment options for individuals comfortable with risk and market fluctuations.
Equity Mutual Funds
Equity-oriented Mutual Funds are the best investment options with high returns, allowing multiple investors to pool money and invest in a diversified portfolio of equity-linked instruments.
They are managed by professional fund managers who make investment decisions on your behalf.
The risk factor and returns depend on the type of fund selected.
ELSS mutual funds provide tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs)
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) are the best investment options that offer a balanced approach to investing with the flexibility of stock-like trading and the benefits of diversification.
They are generally passively managed, as they track a specific index, commodity, or sector like NIFTY 50, gold, and healthcare.
Compared to mutual funds, ETFs typically have lower fees, leading to savings.
ETFs are usually easy to trade, with minimal impact on price when buying or selling shares.
Money Market Funds
Money Market Funds invest in short-term, low-risk instruments like treasury bills and provide stable returns with high liquidity. They are the best investment options for low-risk, short-term investors.
Money market funds are low risk because they invest in high-quality, short-term debt securities.
They provide steady and modest returns, usually higher than those from savings accounts.
Financial experts manage these funds to ensure safety and liquidity.
Forex Trading
Forex trading involves buying and selling currencies to profit from changes in exchange rates. It is a high-risk, high-reward best investment option that is suitable for experienced investors.
Forex trading involves buying and selling currencies to profit from their exchange rate fluctuations.
It operates 24 hours a day, five days a week, allowing traders to participate at almost any time.
It can be complex and volatile, requiring a good understanding of global economic factors and market trends.
Hedge Funds
Hedge funds are private investment funds that aim for aggressive growth. These best investment options use a range of strategies, like short-selling, leverage, and derivatives.
Hedge funds are typically open only to wealthy individuals or institutional investors due to their higher risk and larger minimum investment requirements.
These funds aim to generate positive returns in both rising and falling markets through flexible investment approaches.
Hedge funds are less regulated than traditional investments, allowing more freedom in their trading and investment practices.
Angel Investment
Angel investment is often viewed as one of the best investment options for those interested in supporting early-stage startups.
Investors earn interest on the loans, while borrowers often get loans at competitive rates.
In exchange for equity, angel investors can earn substantial returns if the business succeeds.
While risky, this investment option appeals to investors looking to combine financial gain with innovation.
Cryptocurrencies
Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, are digital or virtual currencies stored on an online ledger or blockchain. They are the best investment options in the modern world because they are decentralized, meaning that any government, financial institution, or external entity cannot control the transaction.
Income from cryptocurrency and Virtual Digital Assets (VDAs) will be taxed at 30% p.a. from Apr 1, 2022.
Cryptocurrencies offer global trading 24/7.
Crypto-trading is not illegal, but the regulatory framework is still uncertain in India.
How to Start Investing in Best Investment Options in India in 2025?
Policybazaar is a financial marketplace that can connect you with various investment options. You can get started on the Policybazaar website through the following steps:
Step 1: Assess Your Needs and Risk Tolerance: Before choosing an investment, understand your financial goals (short-term vs. long-term) and risk tolerance (how comfortable you are with potential losses).
Step 2: Explore Best Investment Options: Policybazaar offers information on various investment plans in India, including:
Low-Risk: Guaranteed Return Plans, Fixed Deposits (FDs), Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY), Public Provident Fund (PPF), Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS)
Medium-Risk: Capital Guarantee Plans, Debt-based Mutual Funds (SIP or lump sum)
High-Risk: Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs), Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS), Stocks, Real Estate
Step 3: Choose Based on Your Risk Profile: Policybazaar can help you compare different options based on their features and returns. Choose the option that aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.
Points to Consider Before Investing in Best Investment Options in India in 2025
You can consider the following factors while choosing the right investment options and making financial decisions for the future:
Financial Goals: Determine your investment goals, whether it is saving for retirement, buying a house, or education.
Risk Tolerance: Understand how much risk you can handle. Riskier investments can offer higher returns but also carry more uncertainty.
Time Horizon: Consider how long you plan to invest. Longer time horizons may allow you to take more risks.
Asset Diversification: Spread your investments across different assets to reduce risk. Do not put all your money in one place.
Costs: Be aware of fees and expenses associated with investing. High costs can eat into your returns.
Research: Research different best investment options thoroughly before making decisions. Understand their potential returns and risks.
Tax Implications: Consider the tax implications of your investments. Some investments may offer tax benefits.
Estimate Returns from Your Best Investment Options in India
To determine if your investment plans will yield high returns, consider various factors such as the investment type, duration, and market conditions. While predicting exact returns is impossible, tools like the SIP calculator, Income Tax Calculator, and Child Plan Calculator will help you estimate potential returns based on your investment amount, duration, and other required factors.
Conclusion
You get a diverse range of the best investment options in India, which cater to various risk appetites and financial goals. It is essential to assess your individual objectives, risk tolerance, and market conditions before making investment decisions. With careful planning and diligence, you can harness the potential of India's dynamic economy to achieve long-term financial growth.
FAQs
Should I invest in gold or real estate?
Gold is easier to buy and sell quickly, while real estate can give you better long-term returns but needs more money upfront.
What is a good option if I want to invest for the long term?
Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIP), Child Plans, Public Provident Fund (PPF), Equity Mutual Funds, and the National Pension Scheme (NPS) are the best investment options for long-term.
How do I start investing in stocks in India?
You will need to open a Demat and trading account with a broker, do some research on companies, and start buying shares through your account.
Which investments help save on taxes?
Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIP), Child Plans, Guaranteed Return Plans, Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS), Public Provident Fund (PPF), and the National Pension Scheme (NPS) are the best investment options that can help you save on taxes.
The Annuity Plans, Pension Plans, National Pension Scheme (NPS), Public Provident Fund (PPF), and retirement-focused Mutual Funds are all the best investment options for retirement.
Can I invest in international markets from India?
Yes, you can invest in international markets through global mutual funds or by opening a foreign trading account with a broker.
What are some high-risk, high-return investment options?
Some of the high-risk and high-return best investment options in India are- Direct equity (stocks), Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIP), and small-cap mutual funds offer potentially higher returns but come with greater risk.
Is investing in gold a good idea?
Gold can be a hedge against inflation, but its price fluctuates. You can consider Sovereign Gold Bonds and ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds) for indirect gold investment.
What are some investment options for retirement planning?
Some of the safest best investment options in India include:
Capital Guarantee Plans
Guaranteed Return Plans
Public Provident Fund (PPF)
National Pension Scheme (NPS)
Bank fixed deposits (FDs)
Government bonds
Are bonds a good investment right now?
Whether or not bonds are good investment options right now depends on your individual circumstances and financial goals. If you are looking for a low-risk investment with relatively average returns, bonds may be a good option for you. However, it is important to understand the risks involved before investing in bonds.
˜Top 5 plans based on annualized premium, for bookings made in the first 6 months of FY 24-25. Policybazaar does not endorse, rate or recommend any particular insurer or insurance product offered by any insurer. This list of plans listed here comprise of insurance products offered by all the insurance partners of Policybazaar. For a complete list of insurers in India refer to the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India website, www.irdai.gov.in
Past 10 Years' annualised returns as on 01-04-2025
^The tax benefits under Section 80C allow a deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakhs from the taxable income per year and 10(10D) tax benefits are for investments made up to ₹2.5 Lakhs/ year for policies bought after 1 Feb 2021. Tax benefits and savings are subject to changes in tax laws.
*All savings are provided by the insurer as per the IRDAI approved insurance plan.
Tax benefit is subject to changes in tax laws. Standard T&C Apply
++Source - Google Review Rating available on:- http://bit.ly/3J20bXZ
^^The information relating to mutual funds presented in this article is for educational purpose only and is not meant for sale. Investment is subject to market risks and the risk is borne by the investor. Please consult your financial advisor before planning your investments.
#The investment risk in the portfolio is borne by the policyholder. Life insurance is available in this product. The maturity amount of Rs 1 Cr. is for a 30 year old healthy individual investing Rs 10,000/- per month for 30 years, with assumed rates of returns @ 8% p.a. that is not guaranteed and is not the upper or lower limits as the value of your policy depends on a number of factors including future investment performance. In Unit Linked Insurance Plans, the investment risk in the investment portfolio is borne by the policyholder and the returns are not guaranteed. Maturity Value: ₹1,05,02,174 @ CARG 8%; ₹50,45,591 @ CAGR 4%
¶Long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax (12.5%) is exempted on annual premiums up to 2.5 lacs.
**Returns are based on past 10 years’ fund performance data (Fund Data Source: Value Research).