Author
LoansJagat Team
Read Time
5 Min
12 May 2025
When it comes to growing money in India, many feel confused. Stocks, bonds, and mutual funds are big words with bigger risks. But what do they mean? How can someone from a middle-class home in Delhi or Mumbai start investing without feeling lost?
A recent market report from April 2025 shows that Indian investors pumped over ₹184 crores into financial sector stocks. This shows how people are actively looking for better returns beyond savings accounts. But still, many are unsure where to begin.
Stocks are just ownership shares in a company. You buy a stock; you own a tiny piece of that business. That’s it. If the company grows, your share becomes more valuable.
If Tata Motors is doing well, its stock price goes up. You gain.
Because fixed deposits give 5-6% returns, inflation is higher. So, savings lose value. Stocks help beat inflation if chosen wisely.
Say, you buy Tata Power shares worth ₹50,000. Stock rises 10% in 1 year.
Your gain = ₹5,000
Let’s say you also get ₹1,000 in dividends.
Total = ₹6,000 return in 1 year
That’s 12% return. Better than FD.
Read More - How to Choose Between Stocks, Bonds, and Mutual Funds in 2025?
Company | Invested (₹) | Growth (%) | 1-Year Return (₹) |
Tata Power | ₹50,000 | 10% | ₹5,000 |
Infosys | ₹70,000 | 8% | ₹5,600 |
Reliance | ₹1,00,000 | 15% | ₹15,000 |
Markets go up and down. If the company struggles, your investment falls.
You need patience. And some basic analysis.
Tips
You’re lending money to the government or a company when you buy a bond. They pay you interest every year. After 5 or 10 years, you get your full amount back.
Safer than stocks. But lower returns, too.
Because it’s safer. Especially for senior citizens or conservative investors.
As of May 2025, India’s 10-year government bond yields around 6.35% yearly.
You invest ₹1,00,000 in a 10-year bond at 6.35% interest.
Annual return = ₹6,350
In 10 years, you’ve earned ₹63,500. And get your ₹1,00,000 back.
Bond Type | Invested (₹) | Annual Return (%) | Yearly Income (₹) |
Govt. 10-year | ₹1,00,000 | 6% | ₹6,350 |
Corporate Bond | ₹75,000 | 8% | ₹6,000 |
RBI Savings Bond | ₹80,000 | 7% | ₹5,720 |
Mutual funds collect money from many investors. Fund managers invest that pool in stocks, bonds, etc. You get units of that fund.
Perfect for beginners who don’t want to pick stocks.
In 2024, Indians invested over ₹4,00,000 crores in equity mutual funds.
They balance risks and rewards. You get exposure to many companies. Professionals manage it.
SIP of ₹5,000 per month for 5 years in an equity mutual fund with 10% average return.
Returns = ~₹3,80,000
Your total investment = ₹3,00,000
Profit = ₹80,000
Monthly SIP (₹) | Duration | Avg. Return (%) | Maturity Amount (₹) |
5,000 | 5 years | 10% | 3,80,000 |
7,500 | 3 years | 12% | 3,30,000 |
10,000 | 10 years | 11% | 21,00,000 |
Parameter | Stocks | Bonds | Mutual Funds |
Risk Level | High | Low | Moderate |
Returns | High | Medium | Medium to High |
Liquidity | High | Medium | High |
Ideal For | Young, bold | Seniors | Beginners, planners |
Don’t wait for a perfect moment. Start small. Learn by doing. Keep your eyes open. Talk to experts when unsure. Avoid greed. Focus on goals.
India is changing fast. Salaries are rising, and so is the cost of living. Your money needs to grow, too. Investing right is not optional anymore. It’s survival.
1. Is it better to invest in stocks or mutual funds in 2025?
If you’re a beginner, start with mutual funds. If you know markets well, stocks can offer higher returns. But risk is more.
2. What is the minimum amount to invest in bonds in India?
Some government bonds start as low as ₹1,000. RBI bonds and 7.75% GOI bonds can be bought online.
3. Are mutual fund returns guaranteed in India?
No. Mutual fund returns depend on market performance. No guarantee. But long-term funds have given good returns.
4. Can I invest in all three: stocks, bonds, and mutual funds?
Yes. That’s smart. It reduces overall risk. It’s called asset allocation.
5. How to know which mutual fund to choose?
Use apps with comparison tools. Check 5-year CAGR, expense ratio, and AUM. Also look at fund manager history.
About the Author
LoansJagat Team
We are a team of writers, editors, and proofreaders with 15+ years of experience in the finance field. We are your personal finance gurus! But, we will explain everything in simplified language. Our aim is to make personal and business finance easier for you. While we help you upgrade your financial knowledge, why don't you read some of our blogs?
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