What is a Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration?
A Gilt Fund with a 10-year constant duration is a type of debt mutual fund that invests primarily in government securities with a fixed maturity period of 10 years. These funds allocate at least 80% of their portfolio to government-issued bonds, ensuring a high level of security.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issues government securities to raise funds for central and state government operations. These securities offer fixed interest rates and are considered one of the safest investment options.
A Gilt Fund with a 10-year constant duration does not actively adjust its maturity duration based on market conditions. Instead, it maintains a fixed 10-year Macaulay duration, making it an attractive option for long-term investors seeking stable returns with minimal credit risk.
How Does a Gilt Fund with a 10-Year Constant Duration Work?
The performance of a Gilt Fund with a 10-year constant duration is closely tied to interest rate movements. The RBI periodically adjusts repo rates, influencing market interest rates.
- Falling Interest Rates - When interest rates decline, bond prices rise, leading to higher returns for investors in gilt funds. Investing in such a fund during a falling interest rate scenario can be beneficial.
- Rising Interest Rates - Conversely, when interest rates increase, bond prices drop, potentially reducing returns. Since gilt funds do not actively trade securities to manage duration, they may experience short-term volatility.
Despite these fluctuations, a Gilt Fund with a 10-year constant duration remains a low-risk investment since it is backed by government securities. Investors should be prepared for short-term market movements while focusing on long-term wealth preservation.
What are the Features of Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration?
A Gilt Fund with a 10-year constant duration has several distinct features that make it a unique and stable investment option for investors looking for long-term exposure to government-backed securities. Below are its key characteristics:
- Fixed Duration of 10 Years - Unlike actively managed debt funds, a gilt fund with a 10-year constant duration maintains a fixed maturity period of 10 years. This ensures that the Macaulay duration of the portfolio remains constant, providing a predictable investment horizon for investors.
- Investment in Government Securities - These funds allocate at least 80% of their portfolio to government-issued securities, ensuring a high level of safety. As these securities are backed by the central and state governments, the risk of default is almost negligible.
- No Credit Risk - Since gilt funds invest exclusively in government bonds, they do not carry credit risk like corporate debt funds. The government is obligated to pay both the principal and interest on the investments, making these funds one of the safest options for conservative investors.
- Sensitivity to Interest Rate Movements - Gilt funds with a 10-year constant duration are highly sensitive to interest rate changes. When interest rates fall, bond prices rise, leading to higher returns for investors. Conversely, rising interest rates can negatively impact returns in the short term.
- Taxation Similar to Debt Mutual Funds - Investments in gilt funds are subject to capital gains tax based on the holding period:
- Short-term capital gains (STCG) - If redeemed within three years, gains are taxed as per the investor’s income tax slab.
- Long-term capital gains (LTCG) - If held for more than three years, a 20% tax with indexation benefits is applicable for investments made before April 2023. For investments made after April 2023, LTCG is taxed according to the investor’s income tax slab.
- Ideal for Long-Term Investors - Due to their fixed 10-year duration, these funds are suitable for investors with a long-term investment horizon. They work well for those who seek stable, sovereign-backed investments with potentially higher returns than traditional fixed deposits.
For those looking to invest in Gilt Funds with a 10-year constant duration, Bajaj Broking provides a seamless platform to explore and invest in these funds.
Types of Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration
Gilt funds with a 10-year constant duration are classified based on their investment strategies and risk exposure. Below are the key types:
- Regular Gilt Funds with 10-Year Constant Duration - These funds invest in government securities with a fixed 10-year duration. The fund manager ensures that the overall portfolio duration remains constant at 10 years, without frequently adjusting the holdings based on interest rate fluctuations.
- Actively Managed Gilt Funds - While maintaining a focus on government securities, actively managed gilt funds may adjust their portfolio allocation based on interest rate forecasts. However, they still adhere to the 10-year constant duration mandate.
- Passive Gilt Funds (Index-Based) - These funds function similarly to index funds, mirroring the performance of a benchmark index comprising 10-year government bonds. They do not engage in frequent buying or selling of securities, maintaining a consistent duration of 10 years.
- Target Maturity Gilt Funds - Target maturity gilt funds invest in specific government bonds that mature around a predetermined date (e.g., 10 years from inception). These funds are ideal for investors who prefer a fixed investment term with a clearly defined maturity date.
Each type of gilt fund with a 10-year constant duration offers a different approach to government securities investment, catering to various investor preferences.
Who Should Invest in Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration?
Gilt funds with a 10-year constant duration are ideal for investors seeking a secure, long-term debt investment with minimal credit risk. These funds primarily suit:
- Conservative Investors - Those looking for a stable investment with government-backed security and lower default risk.
- Long-Term Investors - Individuals willing to stay invested for a decade to benefit from consistent, risk-free returns.
- Portfolio Diversification Seekers - Investors aiming to balance their portfolios with a secure, fixed-income option.
- Investors Expecting a Decline in Interest Rates - Since bond prices rise when interest rates fall, those anticipating a reduction in repo rates may benefit from potential capital appreciation.
- Individuals Seeking Better Tax-Efficient Returns than Fixed Deposits - Gilt funds offer indexation benefits when held for more than three years, potentially leading to lower tax liabilities compared to traditional fixed deposits.
While these funds provide safety due to government backing, they are still subject to interest rate risks. Investors should not be concerned by short-term volatility and should align their investments with a long-term financial strategy.
How to Invest in Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration?
Investing in a Gilt Fund with a 10-year constant duration is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to get started:
Step 1: Open an Account with Bajaj Broking - If you don’t already have an account, you will need to open a Demat and trading account with Bajaj Broking. This involves:
- Completing the KYC (Know Your Customer) process
- Submitting necessary documents such as PAN card, Aadhaar card, and bank details
Step 2: Log in to Your Bajaj Broking Account - Once your account is active, log in using your registered credentials. Ensure you validate any required OTPs for security purposes.
Step 3: Search for Gilt Funds with 10-Year Constant Duration - Navigate to the mutual funds section in your Bajaj Broking account and search for gilt funds with a 10-year constant duration.
Step 4: Analyse Fund Options - Before investing, evaluate different fund options based on:
- Past performance and returns
- Risk profile and interest rate sensitivity
- Expense ratio and fund management strategy
Step 5: Choose Investment Mode - Decide whether you want to invest through:
- Lump Sum Investment: A one-time investment in the chosen fund
- Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): A recurring investment to average out market fluctuations
Step 6: Enter Investment Details - Enter the amount you wish to invest and select your preferred payment method, such as UPI or net banking.
Step 7: Complete the Investment Process - Confirm your investment and complete the payment. If you have opted for SIP, you can set up a mandate for seamless future instalments.
Advantages of Investing in Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration
Investing in gilt funds with a 10-year constant duration comes with several benefits, particularly for risk-averse investors looking for stability and consistent returns. Below are some key advantages:
- Secure Investment - Gilt funds invest primarily in government securities, making them one of the safest investment options. Since these funds are backed by the Government of India, they have zero default risk on principal and interest payments.
- No Credit Risk - Unlike corporate bonds or other debt funds, gilt funds carry no risk of default as the government is obligated to repay both the principal and interest.
- Long-Term Stability - These funds are ideal for investors looking for long-term stability with a predictable return profile. A 10-year duration ensures a consistent investment horizon.
- Better Returns than Fixed Deposits - Gilt funds may offer better returns compared to traditional fixed deposits (FDs). Additionally, they provide indexation benefits if held for more than three years, reducing the overall tax liability compared to FDs.
- Portfolio Diversification - Investing in a Gilt Fund with a 10-year constant duration can help diversify an investment portfolio by adding a low-risk debt component, balancing out equity exposure.
- Tax Efficiency
- If held for over three years, long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax applies with indexation benefits, making it more tax-efficient than FDs.
- If redeemed before three years, short-term capital gains (STCG) tax is applicable as per the investor’s income tax slab.
- Beneficial During Falling Interest Rate Scenarios - When interest rates decline, gilt fund prices rise, potentially leading to capital appreciation and better returns.
For a seamless investment experience in gilt funds with a 10-year constant duration, Bajaj Broking provides an easy-to-use platform to explore and invest in these funds efficiently.
Risks Involved in Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration
Investing in a Gilt Fund with a 10-year constant duration comes with specific risks that investors should be aware of before committing their funds. Below are the key risks associated with these funds:
- Interest Rate Risk
- Gilt funds are highly sensitive to interest rate fluctuations.
- A rise in interest rates leads to a decline in bond prices, reducing returns for investors.
- The longer the duration of the gilt fund, the more exposed it is to interest rate volatility.
- Market Risk
- Although government securities have no credit risk, their value can fluctuate due to changes in the economic environment.
- Market downturns or economic instability can impact gilt fund performance.
- Liquidity Risk
- Gilt funds may face difficulty in selling their holdings at favourable prices, especially in times of financial distress.
- Low demand for government securities can lead to higher transaction costs.
- Inflation Risk
- If inflation rises, the real returns on gilt funds may decrease.
- Fixed-income instruments often struggle to keep pace with inflation, impacting overall purchasing power.
- Negative Returns in Rising Rate Scenarios
- When interest rates rise, the market value of existing bonds declines.
- Gilt funds with a 10-year constant duration can experience negative returns if interest rates increase significantly.
- Long-Term Commitment
- These funds are suited for long-term investors as they have a fixed 10-year maturity.
- Short-term investors might face losses if they exit the investment before maturity due to market fluctuations.
Factors to Consider Before Investing in Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration
Before investing in a gilt fund with a 10-year constant duration, investors should carefully evaluate the following factors:
- Interest Rate Outlook
- Interest rate movements directly impact gilt funds.
- Falling interest rates can lead to capital appreciation, while rising rates can cause capital erosion.
- Inflation Trends
- Inflation can diminish the real returns of fixed-income investments.
- Consider the inflation-adjusted returns when planning long-term investments.
- Credit Quality
- Gilt funds primarily invest in government securities, which have negligible default risk.
- Ensure the fund’s portfolio maintains a high credit quality to minimise risks.
- Fund Manager Expertise
- Evaluate the fund manager’s track record and ability to manage interest rate risks.
- An experienced fund manager can make strategic decisions to optimise returns.
- Investment Horizon
- Gilt funds with a 10-year constant duration are best suited for long-term investors.
- Ensure your financial goals align with the investment’s fixed tenure.
- Risk Tolerance
- While gilt funds are considered low-risk, they are subject to interest rate volatility.
- Investors with a low-risk appetite should assess their comfort level with market fluctuations.
- Tax Implications
- Long-term capital gains on gilt funds are taxed at 20% with indexation for investments made before April 2023.
- Investments made after April 2023 are taxed as per the investor’s income tax slab.
- Dividend earnings are added to taxable income, and TDS is applicable on dividends exceeding ₹5,000 per financial year.
For investors seeking a reliable long-term investment option, Gilt Funds with a 10-year constant duration can be a good choice. However, investors should consider the associated risks and market conditions before making a decision.
Taxability of Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration
When investing in a gilt mutual fund with a 10-year constant duration, it is essential to understand the tax implications. These funds fall under the debt mutual fund category and are taxed accordingly. The tax structure depends on the duration of the investment and the type of capital gains realised.
Capital Gains Taxation
Type of Capital Gain
| Holding Period
| Tax Rate
|
Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG)
| Less than 36 months
| Taxed as per the investor’s income tax slab
|
Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG)
| 36 months or more
| - Funds purchased before 1st April 2023: Taxed at 20% with indexation benefits.
|
Funds purchased after 1st April 2023: Taxed as per the investor’s income tax slab.
Dividend Taxation
- Dividends earned from a gilt fund with a 10-year constant duration are added to the investor’s taxable income and taxed based on the applicable income tax slab.
- A 10% Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) is applicable on dividend income exceeding ₹5,000 in a financial year.
Investors should evaluate their tax liabilities before choosing between growth and dividend options in gilt funds.
Popular Gilt Funds with 10-Year Constant Duration in India
Gilt funds with a 10-year constant duration invest predominantly in government securities (G-Secs) with a fixed maturity profile, offering stability and predictable returns. These funds are suitable for risk-averse investors looking for low-credit risk and a long-term investment horizon. Below is a comparison of the top gilt funds in this category based on their performance and expense ratios.
Top 5 Gilt Funds with 10-Year Constant Duration
Fund Name
| AUM (in ₹ crores)
| CAGR 3Y (%)
| Expense Ratio (%)
| CAGR 5Y (%)
|
ICICI Pru Constant Maturity Gilt Fund
| 2,475.31
| 6.36
| 0.23
| 7.02
|
SBI Magnum Constant Maturity Fund
| 1,881.28
| 6.46
| 0.31
| 6.68
|
Bandhan G-Sec-Constant Maturity Plan
| 359.61
| 6.27
| 0.15
| 6.66
|
DSP 10Y G-Sec Fund
| 56.55
| 5.92
| 0.31
| 5.96
|
UTI Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration (H-IDCW)
| 167.82
| –
| 0.22
| –
|
Note: The above funds are for informational purposes only and not investment recommendations. Performance data is as of 9th January 2025 and is subject to change.
ICICI Pru Constant Maturity Gilt Fund
The ICICI Pru Constant Maturity Gilt Fund is a low-cost investment with an expense ratio of 0.23%, ensuring cost-efficient returns. It has a Yield to Maturity (YTM) of 6.91%, indicating competitive returns for a gilt fund. The Sharpe ratio of 2.53 highlights strong risk-adjusted performance. By investing primarily in government securities, the fund offers safety and stability to conservative investors.
SBI Magnum Constant Maturity Fund
The SBI Magnum Constant Maturity Fund balances safety and performance with an expense ratio of 0.31%. It offers a YTM of 6.93%, in line with category averages, and a Sharpe ratio of 2.61, reflecting strong risk-adjusted returns. This fund is managed by SBI Funds Management Ltd., ensuring stability for long-term investors. With no lock-in period or exit load, it offers liquidity along with secure, long-term returns.
Bandhan G-Sec-Constant Maturity Plan
The Bandhan G-Sec-Constant Maturity Plan stands out with a low expense ratio of 0.15%, making it a cost-effective choice. It offers a YTM of 6.95%, the highest in this category, and a Sharpe ratio of 2.74, indicating excellent risk-adjusted returns. Investing primarily in government securities, it ensures stability and reliability. Additionally, no lock-in period or exit load makes it a flexible investment option.
DSP 10Y G-Sec Fund
The DSP 10Y G-Sec Fund provides a balanced investment approach with an expense ratio of 0.31%. It offers a YTM of 6.86%, supported by a Sharpe ratio of 2.49, indicating solid risk-adjusted performance. The fund focuses on government securities with a 10-year maturity, making it an ideal choice for conservative investors seeking predictable returns and low credit risk.
UTI Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration
The UTI Gilt Fund with 10-Year Constant Duration has an expense ratio of 0.22%, ensuring cost-efficient investing. It offers a YTM of 6.92%, which is competitive in the category. While its Sharpe ratio of 1.66 is below the category average, it remains a reliable option for risk-averse investors. Managed by UTI AMC, the fund primarily invests in long-term government securities, ensuring safety and stability.
Conclusion
Gilt funds with 10-year constant duration are a suitable choice for investors seeking low-risk, long-term investment avenues. These funds provide stable returns with minimal credit risk due to their government security investments. Investors should carefully evaluate expense ratios, YTM, and risk-adjusted returns before investing.