TomorrowMakers

The investment markets in India are expanding and providing new income-boosting opportunities every day. Women also desire to invest their earnings to achieve financial independence. However, women must be informed about the most suitable "investment schemes for women" and strategies to ensure their hard-earned money generates high returns and profits.

Here are 11 investment schemes for women:

Life Insurance Corporation

In India, Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) is among the most popular investments. It offers a range of insurance plans that provide life coverage and helps individuals save for their future. Women can choose from a variety of LIC policies that best suit their needs. LIC Policies interest rates usually start at 9% p.a. Read more about the policies here.

National Pension System

National Pension System (NPS) is a retirement plan that is available to all citizens of the Indian subcontinent. The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PERDA) of India oversees it. The money provided by subscribers and investors is invested in securities with a market value, such as debt and equity. The effectiveness of these assets determines the NPS's final value. NPS interest rates usually vary between 9-12% p.a. Read more about NPS.

Fixed Deposits

For every woman, a secure future is of utmost importance. Fixed Deposits (FDs) allow the money to grow without worrying about losing it to erratic market movements.

FDs provide women with a greater interest rate than other risk-free investment choices.  

For most banks, FD rates range between 2.10% p.a. to 7.50% p.a. for durations between 7 days to 10 years.

Public Provident Fund

Public Provident Fund (PPF) is a long-term investment option that offers tax benefits and a guaranteed rate of return. Women can invest in PPFs for 15 years and extend them for another 5 years. PPFs give an interest rate of about 7%.

Equity-Linked Savings Scheme

Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) offers tax benefits under Section 80C in the Income Tax Act. ELSS funds have a 3-year lock-in period, which means one cannot redeem the investments before 3 years have passed. ELSS funds usually don't have a fixed interest rate.

Also Read: Equity-Linked Savings Scheme- Learn more

Gold

Gold is considered a safe investment option and can protect against inflation. Women can invest in gold in various forms, such as physical gold, gold exchange-traded funds, and gold mutual funds. Gold bonds specifically give an interest of about 2.50% p.a.

Real Estate

Real estate is a popular investment option that can provide steady returns in the long term. Women can invest in real estate by purchasing property or investing in funds. Real estate returns vary highly on the location, economic situation, demand, and type of real estate.

Mutual Funds

Mutual funds offer a range of investment options, including debt, equity, and hybrid funds. Women can choose from mutual funds based on their risk appetite and financial goals. On average mutual fund gives nearly 10-16% returns.

Also Read: How to invest in Mutual funds for different goals?

Government Investment Schemes: National Savings Certificate (NSC)

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled a new small savings program, National Savings Certificate (NSC), specifically for women in her Budget 2023 speech. NSC is a government-backed investment option that gives tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. During the budget speech, the Finance Minister stated that the Mahila Samman Savings Certificate would have a 2-year term and a 7.5% interest rate.

Corporate Bonds

Companies issue corporate bonds to raise capital. Women can invest in corporate bonds and earn a fixed interest rate on their investments. Corporate bonds give about an 8-10% interest rate on average.

Unit Linked Insurance Plans

Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) offer both life insurance coverage and investment options. Women can invest in ULIPs and benefit from the potential returns offered by equity markets while protecting their financial future. The average returns on ULIPs are about 10-12% p.a.

Also Read: All you need to know about Unit Linked Insurance Plans

It is crucial for women to pick an investment that suits their financial goals and risk tolerance. By understanding the different options, women can make smart decisions with their money and secure a safe future for them.