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Corporate Bond Fund


Investing in debt instruments can be a reliable way to balance risk and return in your portfolio. Among various debt investment options, Corporate Bond Funds stand out for their ability to offer better yields than traditional Read more..fixed deposits and government securities, while maintaining relatively lower risk. These funds are particularly attractive for investors seeking steady income with moderate risk exposure. Let’s take a closer look at what Corporate Bond Funds are and how they work Read less

 

Corporate Bond Fund List

Name
AUM
1Y Returns

ICICI Pru Corporate Bond Fund - Regular (IDCW-Q) - Reinvestment

Debt|Corporate Bond Fund

Buy

₹31212.31 cr. 9.43%

ICICI Pru Corporate Bond Fund - Regular (IDCW-M)

Debt|Corporate Bond Fund

Buy

₹31212.31 cr. 9.42%

ICICI Pru Corporate Bond Fund - Regular (IDCW-M)

Debt|Corporate Bond Fund

Buy

₹31212.31 cr. 9.42%

ICICI Pru Corporate Bond Fund - Regular (IDCW-Q)

Debt|Corporate Bond Fund

Buy

₹31212.31 cr. 9.43%

Tata Corporate Bond Fund (G)

Debt|Corporate Bond Fund

Buy

₹3902.34 cr. 9.98%

ICICI Pru Corporate Bond Fund - Regular (G)

Debt|Corporate Bond Fund

Buy

₹31212.31 cr. 9.45%

Tata Corporate Bond Fund (IDCW-Q) RI - Reinvestment

Debt|Corporate Bond Fund

Buy

₹3902.34 cr. 9.98%

Tata Corporate Bond Fund (IDCW-Periodic) RI

Debt|Corporate Bond Fund

Buy

₹3902.34 cr. 9.98%

Tata Corporate Bond Fund (IDCW-Periodic) RI - Reinvestment

Debt|Corporate Bond Fund

Buy

₹3902.34 cr. 9.98%

Tata Corporate Bond Fund (IDCW-M) RI - Reinvestment

Debt|Corporate Bond Fund

Buy

₹3902.34 cr. 9.98%
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What is a Corporate Bond Fund?

A Corporate Bond Fund is a type of debt mutual fund that primarily invests in high-quality corporate bonds. These bonds are issued by companies to raise capital for expansion, operations, or debt refinancing. To ensure lower credit risk, Corporate Bond Funds typically allocate at least 80% of their assets to bonds rated AA+ and above, making them a safer choice compared to lower-rated debt instruments.

These funds are an ideal choice for investors looking for regular income and capital preservation over the medium to long term. The interest earned on the underlying bonds generates returns, and investors can benefit from both periodic payouts and capital appreciation, depending on the fund’s structure.
 

How does a Corporate Bond Fund work?

Corporate Bond Funds operate by pooling money from multiple investors and investing it in a diversified portfolio of corporate bonds. The fund manager actively selects high-quality bonds issued by reputed companies, ensuring that the portfolio remains stable and offers attractive returns. The key factors influencing a Corporate Bond Fund’s performance include interest rate movements, credit quality of issuers, and market conditions.

When interest rates fall, the price of existing bonds rises, leading to capital appreciation for investors. Conversely, rising interest rates can impact bond prices negatively. However, fund managers adjust the portfolio dynamically to minimise risk and optimise returns.

Investors can enter and exit Corporate Bond Funds as per their liquidity needs, making them a flexible investment option compared to fixed deposits.

By investing in a Corporate Bond Fund, individuals can benefit from higher yields than traditional savings instruments while maintaining a balance between risk and return.
 

What are the Features of a Corporate Bond Fund?

Corporate bond funds are investment instruments that primarily invest in corporate bonds issued by companies. These funds offer a stable and predictable income stream with varying degrees of risk based on the creditworthiness of the issuing company. Below are the key features of a corporate bond fund:

1. Fixed Interest Payments - Corporate bond funds generate returns through regular interest payments from the bonds they hold. These interest payments, also known as coupons, are usually paid at fixed intervals until the bond matures.

2. Diversification - Investing in a corporate bond fund provides diversification since the fund consists of multiple bonds from different companies across various sectors. This helps in spreading risk and improving stability in returns.

3. Credit Ratings & Risk - Corporate bonds are rated by credit agencies based on the issuing company's financial strength and ability to repay. Higher-rated bonds (AAA or AA) indicate lower risk, while lower-rated bonds offer higher returns but come with increased credit risk.

4. Liquidity - Corporate bond funds offer more liquidity compared to direct bond investments. Investors can buy or sell fund units on the stock exchange or through mutual fund platforms like Bajaj Broking, making them a flexible investment option.

5. Market-Linked Returns - The performance of corporate bond funds is influenced by market conditions, interest rates, and the credit ratings of underlying bonds. While they generally offer steady returns, fluctuations in market interest rates can impact the bond prices and overall returns.

6. Maturity Profile - Corporate bond funds can have varying maturity periods, ranging from short-term to long-term. Investors can choose a fund based on their investment horizon and financial goals.

 

Types of Corporate Bond Fund

Corporate bond funds can be classified based on their structure, risk level, and investment strategy. Below are the common types of corporate bond funds:

1. Short-Term Corporate Bond Funds - These funds invest in corporate bonds with shorter maturity periods, typically ranging from one to three years. They are suitable for investors looking for lower risk and quick returns.

2. Long-Term Corporate Bond Funds - Long-term bond funds invest in corporate bonds with maturities exceeding five years. They offer higher returns but are more sensitive to interest rate fluctuations.

3. High-Yield Corporate Bond Funds - These funds invest in lower-rated corporate bonds that provide higher interest rates. While they offer better returns, they carry a higher credit risk compared to investment-grade corporate bond funds.

4. Investment-Grade Corporate Bond Funds - These funds focus on bonds with high credit ratings (AAA, AA) issued by financially stable companies. They offer moderate returns with lower default risk, making them a preferred choice for conservative investors.

5. Dynamic Bond Funds - Dynamic bond funds invest in corporate bonds of varying maturities and credit ratings, adjusting their portfolios based on market conditions. They aim to maximise returns while managing interest rate risk effectively.

6. Corporate Bond ETFs - Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that track corporate bond indices provide a diversified exposure to corporate bonds while offering the liquidity of stock market trading. They are ideal for passive investors looking for a hassle-free way to invest in corporate bonds.

 

Who should invest in a Corporate Bond Fund?

Corporate Bond Funds are ideal for investors looking for stable returns with relatively lower risk compared to equity investments. You may consider investing in a Corporate Bond Fund if you:

  • Seek stable returns – These funds primarily invest in high-rated corporate bonds, offering predictable income.
  • Have a moderate risk appetite – While they carry some credit and interest rate risk, they are generally safer than equity funds.
  • Want better returns than fixed deposits – Corporate Bond Funds typically provide higher returns than traditional fixed deposits, making them a suitable option for those seeking better yields.
  • Prefer a medium-term investment horizon – These funds work best for investors with a time horizon of three to five years.
  • Are looking for diversification – Adding corporate bonds to your portfolio can balance risk and returns, complementing equity and other asset classes.
     

How to invest in a Corporate Bond Fund?

Investing in a Corporate Bond Fund is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to get started:

Step 1: Research and Select a Fund

  • Compare different Corporate Bond Funds based on their past performance, credit quality, and expense ratio.
  • Consider funds with a strong track record and high-rated corporate bonds for better stability.

 

Step 2: Choose an Investment Platform

  • You can invest through a mutual fund house, a bank, or an authorised brokerage firm like Bajaj Broking.
  • Ensure the platform offers easy access, tracking, and withdrawal options.

 

Step 3: Complete Your KYC Process

  • If you're a first-time investor, you need to complete Know Your Customer (KYC) verification.
  • Submit necessary documents such as PAN, Aadhaar, and bank details.

 

Step 4: Decide Your Investment Amount and Mode

  • Choose between lump sum investment (one-time investment) or Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) for regular contributions.
  • SIPs are a good option for mitigating interest rate fluctuations.

 

Step 5: Make the Investment

  • Proceed with the payment and purchase the units of the Corporate Bond Fund.
  • You will receive confirmation of your investment, and units will be credited to your account.

 

Step 6: Monitor and Review Your Investment

  • Keep track of your fund’s performance periodically.
  • Reassess your financial goals and make adjustments if necessary.

 

Advantages of Investing in Corporate Bond Funds

Investing in corporate bond funds offers several benefits, making them an attractive option for investors seeking stable returns. Here are the key advantages:

1. Regular Income Generation - Corporate bond funds provide a steady stream of income through interest payments, making them ideal for investors looking for predictable cash flows.

2. Diversification Benefits - These funds invest in a mix of corporate bonds from different industries, reducing the overall risk compared to investing in individual bonds.

3. Professional Management - Experienced fund managers actively manage corporate bond funds, selecting high-quality bonds and optimising returns while managing risks.

4. Liquidity Compared to Direct Bond Investments - Unlike direct bond investments, corporate bond funds offer higher liquidity, allowing investors to redeem their units as per their financial needs.

5. Potential for Higher Returns than Fixed Deposits - Corporate bonds often provide better yields than traditional fixed deposits, making them a suitable option for investors looking to enhance their returns.

6. Credit Rating-Based Selection - Funds invest in bonds based on credit ratings, helping investors gain exposure to high-rated, reliable corporate debt instruments.

7. Tax Efficiency - Corporate bond funds may offer tax benefits, especially when held for the long term, making them a more tax-efficient option compared to some other fixed-income investments.

 

Risks Involved in Corporate Bond Funds

While corporate bond funds provide attractive benefits, they also come with inherent risks that investors should be aware of:

  • Credit Risk – The risk of bond issuers defaulting on interest or principal payments, particularly with lower-rated bonds.
  • Interest Rate Risk – Bond prices fluctuate with changes in interest rates, potentially affecting returns negatively.
  • Liquidity Risk – Some bonds may have lower liquidity, making it difficult to sell them at favourable prices during market downturns.
  • Market Risk – Economic and financial market fluctuations can impact corporate bond prices and overall fund performance.
  • Reinvestment Risk – If interest rates fall, reinvesting the interest income or matured bonds at lower rates may reduce overall returns.
  • Inflation Risk – Rising inflation can erode the purchasing power of fixed-interest income from corporate bonds.
  • Concentration Risk – Investing in a limited number of corporate bonds or sectors increases exposure to specific market conditions.
     

Factors to Consider Before Investing in Corporate Bond Funds

Before investing in corporate bond funds, it is essential to evaluate key factors to make informed decisions. Here are the most important aspects to consider:

1. Credit Quality of Bonds - Assess the credit ratings of the bonds in the fund’s portfolio. Higher-rated bonds (AAA or AA) indicate lower credit risk, whereas lower-rated bonds offer higher yields but come with increased default risk.

2. Interest Rate Sensitivity - Corporate bond funds are impacted by interest rate movements. When interest rates rise, bond prices fall, and vice versa. Investors should consider their risk appetite and investment horizon accordingly.

3. Investment Horizon - These funds are best suited for medium to long-term investors. Short-term investors may face volatility due to market fluctuations.

4. Liquidity of the Fund - Evaluate the fund’s liquidity to ensure ease of redemption when needed. Funds with higher liquidity allow investors to exit without significant price impact.

5. Expense Ratio - The expense ratio affects net returns. Choosing a fund with a reasonable expense ratio ensures cost-efficient investing.

6. Yield to Maturity (YTM) - YTM indicates the potential return from the fund’s bond holdings. A higher YTM suggests better returns, but it may also imply higher risk.

7. Tax Implications - Understand the tax treatment of corporate bond funds, including capital gains tax and dividend distribution tax, to optimise post-tax returns.

8. Diversification of Portfolio - A well-diversified corporate bond fund reduces exposure to any single company or sector, lowering overall investment risk.

9. Fund Manager’s Track Record - Review the experience and past performance of the fund manager, as their expertise plays a crucial role in fund returns.

 

Taxability of Corporate Bond Funds

Understanding the tax implications of corporate bond funds is crucial for optimising returns. The tax treatment is as follows:

  • Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG) – If units are redeemed within three years, gains are taxed as per the investor’s income tax slab.
  • Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) – Gains from investments held for more than three years are taxed at 20% with indexation benefits, which helps reduce tax liability.
  • Dividend Taxation – Dividends received from corporate bond funds are taxed as per the investor’s income tax slab. The fund house deducts Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) at 10% if the dividend payout exceeds a specified threshold.
  • Securities Transaction Tax (STT) – Unlike equity investments, no STT is levied on corporate bond funds.
     

Popular Corporate Bond Funds in India

Corporate bond funds primarily invest in high-rated corporate debt securities, offering stability and predictable returns. Below is a comparison of some of the top-performing corporate bond funds in India:

Comparison of Popular Corporate Bond Funds

Fund Name

AUM (₹ Cr)

Expense Ratio

Average YTM

Category YTM

CAGR 3Y

CAGR 5Y

HDFC Corporate Bond Fund

32,373.58

0.36%

7.47%

7.44%

6.84%

7.18%

ICICI Pru Corporate Bond Fund

29,117.59

0.35%

7.65%

7.44%

7.21%

7.16%

Aditya Birla SL Corporate Bond Fund

24,978.52

0.33%

7.51%

7.44%

7.01%

7.29%

SBI Corporate Bond Fund

20,414.80

0.34%

7.54%

7.44%

6.54%

6.65%

Kotak Corporate Bond Fund

14,149.79

0.34%

7.47%

7.44%

6.76%

6.75%

These funds are known for their stable returns and moderate risk profile.

HDFC Corporate Bond Fund

The HDFC Corporate Bond Fund has the largest Assets Under Management (AUM) among the listed funds, standing at ₹32,373.58 crore. It also carries the highest expense ratio of 0.36%.

The fund's average YTM is 7.47%, aligning with the category YTM of 7.44%. Over three years, it has achieved a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.84%, placing it fourth in this category. Over five years, its CAGR of 7.18% ranks it third among the five funds.

ICICI Prudential Corporate Bond Fund

With an AUM of ₹29,117.59 crore, the ICICI Prudential Corporate Bond Fund has an expense ratio of 0.35%.

It holds the highest average YTM of 7.65% among the funds listed, while the category YTM remains at 7.44%. Over the past three years, it has recorded the highest CAGR at 7.21%, while its five-year CAGR of 7.16% ranks it fourth in the list.

Aditya Birla Sun Life Corporate Bond Fund

The Aditya Birla Sun Life Corporate Bond Fund has an AUM of ₹24,978.52 crore and the lowest expense ratio of 0.33% among the five funds.

Its average YTM stands at 7.51%, slightly exceeding the category YTM of 7.44%. Over three years, this fund has delivered a CAGR of 7.01%, securing second place in this category. Over a five-year horizon, its CAGR of 7.29% is the highest among the five funds.

SBI Corporate Bond Fund

The SBI Corporate Bond Fund holds an AUM of ₹20,414.80 crore with an expense ratio of 0.34%.

Its average YTM is 7.54%, slightly surpassing the category YTM of 7.44%. However, its three-year CAGR of 6.54% is the lowest in the list, and its five-year CAGR of 6.65% also places it fifth among the funds.

Kotak Corporate Bond Fund

Among the five funds, the Kotak Corporate Bond Fund has the smallest AUM, valued at ₹14,149.79 crore, with an expense ratio of 0.34%.

The fund's average YTM is 7.47%, in line with the category YTM of 7.44%. Over the past three years, it has attained a CAGR of 6.76%, securing third place in the category. Over five years, its CAGR of 6.75% ranks it fourth in the list.
 

Conclusion

Corporate bond funds offer a balanced investment option for those seeking stable returns with relatively lower risk compared to equity funds. They provide a mix of security and moderate growth potential, making them suitable for conservative investors. However, factors such as interest rate movements, credit quality, and taxation should be carefully considered before investing.

By understanding the risks and expected returns, investors can make informed decisions that align with their financial goals. Consulting experts, like those at Bajaj Broking, can help tailor investment strategies to optimise returns while managing risks effectively.

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