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Fixed-Rate of Interest Vs Floating Rate of Interest- Which is Better?

Updated on July 22, 2026 , 7155 views

After much debate on the location and area of convenience, Satish and his wife Mihika finally planned to buy an apartment in suburban Mumbai. While Satish was looking for travel convenience, Mihika was looking for instant access to all house-hold necessities.

Fixed-Rate of Interest Vs Floating Rate of Interest

The couple decided on a 2-BHK apartment that fit both their expectations. Both are extremely excited about this huge venture. However, they are yet to make a big decision, ie., financing, so ended up on taking a Home Loan. While Satish feels taking a home loan based on a Fixed Rate of Interest would be a safer option, Mihika feels a Floating Rate of Interest is much better.

Satish and Mihika are in a fix and are trying to figure out the best option to choose and opt for a home loan.

Let’s help them decide on the best interest rate option by looking at the differences between the fixed rate and floating rate of interest on the home loan.

What is Fixed Rate of Interest & Floating Rate of Interest?

Fixed-rate of interest is exactly as it sounds- it’s a fixed rate. This means that the rate of interest will remain unchanged on the loan you have opted for. This rate of interest remains fixed for the tenure of the loan or at least a part of the tenure.

The floating rate of interest is when the interest rate is subject to change over the course of the loan opted for. These changes occur due to the difference in market rates. This is also known as ‘adjustable rates’.

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Fixed-Rate of Interest Vs Floating Rate of Interest

1. Market Conditions

A fixed-rate of interest is not affected by the fluctuations in the financial market. The interest rate remains constant throughout the loan tenure. Whereas, a floating rate of interest is affected by changes in the financial market. Therefore, the rate may change based on market fluctuations.

2. Rate of Interest

The fixed rate of interest is higher than the floating rate of interest. Fixed-rate of interest is usually 1% to 2% higher than the floating rate of interest.

3. EMI

In case of a fixed interest rate, the monthly EMI remains constant throughout the loan tenure. This is due it the fact that the interest rate is fixed in nature. When it comes to floating rate of interest, the EMI is affected by changes in the interest rate or MCLR.

4. Budget

With a fixed rate of interest, you can plan your budget and how much you need to cash out every month and also manage your monthly expenses. Due to fluctuation in market conditions, the interest rate if affected which in turn leads to changes in EMI every month. This also makes budget planning a little difficult.

5. Nature of Interest Rate

Fixed-rate of interest provides security because it is constant in nature. Market changes do not affect the loan interest rate.

The floating rate of interest allows increased savings. This is because changes in the market affect the interest rate. If market records a downward trend, the interest rate automatically dips and you will have to cash out less money in EMIs and total repayment.

6. Loan Term

Fixed-rate of interest is advisable for short or medium-term loan period like 3-10 years. This is because the changes in market conditions don’t affect the interest rate. If the market undergoes recession, you will still have to pay the fixed rate of interest. This will take away the advantage of cashing out a lesser amount of money.

The floating rate of interest is advisable for long term period like 20-30 years. Since the market keeps changing, a downward trend would be beneficial due to changes that will occur in total repayment.

7. Penalty on Prepayment of Loan

With a fixed rate of interest, you will have to pay if you are prepaying the loan amount. There are no prepayment charges with a floating rate of interest.

8. Age Group

Fixed interest rate is suitable for people aged 50 years and above. Floating rate of interest is suitable for people aged 20 years and above.

Fixed Rate of Interest Floating Rate of Interest
Fixed rate of interest remains unaffected by changes in market conditions Floating rate of interest is affected by changes in market conditions
Fixed rate of interest is higher Floating rate of interest is lower
Monthly EMI remains constant in case of fixed rate of interest Monthly EMI changes as per interest rate or MCLR
You can easily plan a budget for the whole of loan repayment tenure You have to be flexible with budget planning
Provides security Allows increased savings
This is suitable for a loan period of 3-10 years This is suitable for a loan period of 20-30 years
Prepayment charges applied No prepayment charges
This is suitable for individuals aged 50 and above This is suitable for individuals aged 20 and above

Fixed-Rate of Interest Vs Floating Rate of Interest

Well, both the interest rate options are the best. They are articulated in such a way that will suit people’s individual’s needs, preference and even financial profile. You can re-read everything mentioned above and make a choice as to which will suit you the best. If you are a risk-taker and are below the age of 50, you can opt for a floating rate of interest. If you are under the age of 50, but are looking for security when it comes to planning finances, you can go for a fixed rate of interest on home loans.

It is totally your choice!

Fund Selection Methodology used to find 10 funds

  • Investment Option: SIP
  • AUM Range: 500 to 100000 Cr
  • Minimum fund age: 3 years
  • Sorted On : 3-year return (high to low)
  • Tags: SmartSip, fcpro
  • No Of Funds: 10

Save for a Home the SIP Way!

If you don’t wish to opt for a home loan, you can still save money and buy the house of your dreams with the Systematic Investment plan (SIP). SIP gives you the freedom to save money regularly with ease. You can plan your budget and savings with SIP and also expect great returns. Save monthly and buy your dream home with SIP today!

FundNAVNet Assets (Cr)Min SIP Investment3 MO (%)6 MO (%)1 YR (%)3 YR (%)5 YR (%)2025 (%)
DSP World Gold Fund Growth ₹50.1271
↓ -1.40
₹1,433 500 -16.7-23.557.542.323.2167.1
SBI Gold Fund Growth ₹41.5386
↓ -0.29
₹15,294 500 -4.9-7.643.232.323.171.5
Aditya Birla Sun Life Gold Fund Growth ₹41.2433
↓ -0.31
₹1,648 100 -4.8-7.743.432.222.872
ICICI Prudential Regular Gold Savings Fund Growth ₹43.8748
↓ -0.31
₹6,265 100 -5-7.942.832.22372
HDFC Gold Fund Growth ₹42.3273
↓ -0.31
₹11,019 300 -4.9-7.942.732.222.971.3
Nippon India Gold Savings Fund Growth ₹54.233
↓ -0.36
₹6,854 100 -4.9-7.642.732.122.971.2
Kotak Gold Fund Growth ₹54.3324
↓ -0.57
₹6,422 1,000 -5.2-8.242.53222.570.4
IDBI Gold Fund Growth ₹36.8274
↓ -0.23
₹757 500 -4.3-8.342.6322379
Axis Gold Fund Growth ₹41.1825
↓ -0.31
₹2,828 1,000 -4.9-7.842.831.822.969.8
DSP US Flexible Equity Fund Growth ₹92.839
↓ -1.09
₹1,291 500 7.516.844.526.41833.8
Note: Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR basis. as on 23 Jul 26

Research Highlights & Commentary of 10 Funds showcased

CommentaryDSP World Gold FundSBI Gold FundAditya Birla Sun Life Gold FundICICI Prudential Regular Gold Savings FundHDFC Gold FundNippon India Gold Savings FundKotak Gold FundIDBI Gold FundAxis Gold FundDSP US Flexible Equity Fund
Point 1Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,433 Cr).Highest AUM (₹15,294 Cr).Lower mid AUM (₹1,648 Cr).Upper mid AUM (₹6,265 Cr).Top quartile AUM (₹11,019 Cr).Upper mid AUM (₹6,854 Cr).Upper mid AUM (₹6,422 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹757 Cr).Lower mid AUM (₹2,828 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,291 Cr).
Point 2Oldest track record among peers (18 yrs).Established history (14+ yrs).Established history (14+ yrs).Established history (14+ yrs).Established history (14+ yrs).Established history (15+ yrs).Established history (15+ yrs).Established history (13+ yrs).Established history (14+ yrs).Established history (13+ yrs).
Point 3Rating: 3★ (top quartile).Rating: 2★ (upper mid).Rating: 3★ (upper mid).Rating: 1★ (lower mid).Rating: 1★ (lower mid).Rating: 2★ (upper mid).Rating: 1★ (bottom quartile).Not Rated.Rating: 1★ (bottom quartile).Top rated.
Point 4Risk profile: High.Risk profile: Moderately High.Risk profile: Moderately High.Risk profile: Moderately High.Risk profile: Moderately High.Risk profile: Moderately High.Risk profile: Moderately High.Risk profile: Moderately High.Risk profile: Moderately High.Risk profile: High.
Point 55Y return: 23.23% (top quartile).5Y return: 23.10% (top quartile).5Y return: 22.79% (bottom quartile).5Y return: 22.98% (upper mid).5Y return: 22.89% (lower mid).5Y return: 22.85% (lower mid).5Y return: 22.47% (bottom quartile).5Y return: 22.98% (upper mid).5Y return: 22.93% (upper mid).5Y return: 17.97% (bottom quartile).
Point 63Y return: 42.34% (top quartile).3Y return: 32.32% (top quartile).3Y return: 32.23% (upper mid).3Y return: 32.20% (upper mid).3Y return: 32.18% (upper mid).3Y return: 32.06% (lower mid).3Y return: 32.00% (lower mid).3Y return: 31.97% (bottom quartile).3Y return: 31.83% (bottom quartile).3Y return: 26.40% (bottom quartile).
Point 71Y return: 57.48% (top quartile).1Y return: 43.17% (upper mid).1Y return: 43.43% (upper mid).1Y return: 42.83% (upper mid).1Y return: 42.66% (bottom quartile).1Y return: 42.72% (lower mid).1Y return: 42.51% (bottom quartile).1Y return: 42.56% (bottom quartile).1Y return: 42.80% (lower mid).1Y return: 44.48% (top quartile).
Point 8Alpha: 2.12 (top quartile).1M return: 0.28% (upper mid).1M return: 0.25% (lower mid).1M return: 0.33% (upper mid).1M return: 0.27% (lower mid).1M return: 0.28% (upper mid).1M return: 0.03% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.53% (top quartile).1M return: 0.38% (top quartile).Alpha: -4.10 (bottom quartile).
Point 9Sharpe: 1.22 (bottom quartile).Alpha: 0.00 (top quartile).Alpha: 0.00 (upper mid).Alpha: 0.00 (upper mid).Alpha: 0.00 (upper mid).Alpha: 0.00 (lower mid).Alpha: 0.00 (lower mid).Alpha: 0.00 (bottom quartile).Alpha: 0.00 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 1.93 (top quartile).
Point 10Information ratio: -0.50 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 1.29 (upper mid).Sharpe: 1.20 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 1.22 (lower mid).Sharpe: 1.28 (upper mid).Sharpe: 1.19 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 1.38 (top quartile).Sharpe: 1.22 (lower mid).Sharpe: 1.35 (upper mid).Information ratio: 0.15 (top quartile).

DSP World Gold Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,433 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (18 yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (top quartile).
  • Risk profile: High.
  • 5Y return: 23.23% (top quartile).
  • 3Y return: 42.34% (top quartile).
  • 1Y return: 57.48% (top quartile).
  • Alpha: 2.12 (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 1.22 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: -0.50 (bottom quartile).

SBI Gold Fund

  • Highest AUM (₹15,294 Cr).
  • Established history (14+ yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderately High.
  • 5Y return: 23.10% (top quartile).
  • 3Y return: 32.32% (top quartile).
  • 1Y return: 43.17% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.28% (upper mid).
  • Alpha: 0.00 (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 1.29 (upper mid).

Aditya Birla Sun Life Gold Fund

  • Lower mid AUM (₹1,648 Cr).
  • Established history (14+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderately High.
  • 5Y return: 22.79% (bottom quartile).
  • 3Y return: 32.23% (upper mid).
  • 1Y return: 43.43% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.25% (lower mid).
  • Alpha: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 1.20 (bottom quartile).

ICICI Prudential Regular Gold Savings Fund

  • Upper mid AUM (₹6,265 Cr).
  • Established history (14+ yrs).
  • Rating: 1★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderately High.
  • 5Y return: 22.98% (upper mid).
  • 3Y return: 32.20% (upper mid).
  • 1Y return: 42.83% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.33% (upper mid).
  • Alpha: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 1.22 (lower mid).

HDFC Gold Fund

  • Top quartile AUM (₹11,019 Cr).
  • Established history (14+ yrs).
  • Rating: 1★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderately High.
  • 5Y return: 22.89% (lower mid).
  • 3Y return: 32.18% (upper mid).
  • 1Y return: 42.66% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.27% (lower mid).
  • Alpha: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 1.28 (upper mid).

Nippon India Gold Savings Fund

  • Upper mid AUM (₹6,854 Cr).
  • Established history (15+ yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderately High.
  • 5Y return: 22.85% (lower mid).
  • 3Y return: 32.06% (lower mid).
  • 1Y return: 42.72% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.28% (upper mid).
  • Alpha: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 1.19 (bottom quartile).

Kotak Gold Fund

  • Upper mid AUM (₹6,422 Cr).
  • Established history (15+ yrs).
  • Rating: 1★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Moderately High.
  • 5Y return: 22.47% (bottom quartile).
  • 3Y return: 32.00% (lower mid).
  • 1Y return: 42.51% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.03% (bottom quartile).
  • Alpha: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 1.38 (top quartile).

IDBI Gold Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹757 Cr).
  • Established history (13+ yrs).
  • Not Rated.
  • Risk profile: Moderately High.
  • 5Y return: 22.98% (upper mid).
  • 3Y return: 31.97% (bottom quartile).
  • 1Y return: 42.56% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.53% (top quartile).
  • Alpha: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 1.22 (lower mid).

Axis Gold Fund

  • Lower mid AUM (₹2,828 Cr).
  • Established history (14+ yrs).
  • Rating: 1★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Moderately High.
  • 5Y return: 22.93% (upper mid).
  • 3Y return: 31.83% (bottom quartile).
  • 1Y return: 42.80% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.38% (top quartile).
  • Alpha: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 1.35 (upper mid).

DSP US Flexible Equity Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,291 Cr).
  • Established history (13+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: High.
  • 5Y return: 17.97% (bottom quartile).
  • 3Y return: 26.40% (bottom quartile).
  • 1Y return: 44.48% (top quartile).
  • Alpha: -4.10 (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 1.93 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.15 (top quartile).

Funds mentioned are considering best CAGR returns for over 3 years and fund having atleast have market history (Fund age) of 3 year and have minimum 500 Crore of asset under management.

Disclaimer:
All efforts have been made to ensure the information provided here is accurate. However, no guarantees are made regarding correctness of data. Please verify with scheme information document before making any investment.
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