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Ultra Short Term Funds Vs Liquid Funds

Updated on July 5, 2026 , 30240 views

Whenever we think of short-term investment in Mutual Funds, we often come across the terms such as ultra short term funds and Liquid Funds. Though both of them are categories of debt funds, however, they do possess the different characteristics. Ultra Short Term fund is a Debt fund category whose Portfolio consists of fixed Income securities with a maturity period ranging between 91 days to one year. On the other hand, the liquid fund is a debt fund category whose portfolio consists of Fixed Income securities with a maturity period of less than or equal to 91 days.

ultra-short-vs-liquid-funds

So, let us understand the differences between both ultra short term funds and liquid funds with respect to various parameters.

What is an Ultra Short Term Fund?

Ultra short term fund is a category of debt fund that invests its corpus in fixed income securities. The fund’s portfolio maturity tenure extends between 91 days and normally less than 1 year. These schemes were earlier referred as Liquid Plus Funds. Ultra Short Term Funds is suitable for investors who are willing to take a marginally higher level of risk to earn higher returns. These schemes are a notch above liquid funds with respect to risk and returns.

What is a Liquid Fund?

Liquid fund refers to the Mutual Fund scheme that invests its accumulated fund money in fixed income securities having a maturity period of less than 91 days. Liquid funds are part of debt funds and are considered to be one of the safe investment avenues. People having idle funds lying in their Bank account can choose to invest in the money in liquid funds and earn more returns. These schemes have higher liquidity as compared to ultra short term fund.

Difference Between Ultra Short Term Fund Vs Liquid Fund

The different parameters that differentiate ultra short term funds and liquid funds are as follows.

Maturity Tenure of Underlying Assets

The Maturity tenure of Underlying assets in case of liquid funds is less as compared to ultra short term funds. These securities in most cases have a maturity profile of less than or equal to 91 days. However, in case of ultra short term funds, the maturity tenure of its underlying securities are more than 91 days and less than 1 year.

Liquidity

The liquidity of liquid funds is high as compared to ultra short term funds. In case liquid funds, some of the Mutual Fund companies do provide an instant Redemption Facility. By opting for this facility, one can ensure that they get their proceeds credited to the bank account within 30 minutes. However, this facility is not available in case of ultra short term funds. In ultra short term funds people get their money back on the next working day if they place their order before the cut-off time.

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Returns

The returns in case of ultra short term funds are slightly higher as compared to liquid funds. This higher return is due to the marginally higher risk which is present in ultra short term funds as compared to liquid funds.

Risk

The risk in case of liquid funds is very low as compared to ultra short term funds. This is because the underlying securities in liquid funds are mostly held till maturity instead of trading due to very low maturity tenure. However, in case of ultra short term funds, the risk is marginally higher as compared to liquid funds.

Exit Load

Most of the liquid funds do not have any exit loads attached to it due to which people get the entire redemption proceeds at the time of withdrawals. However, ultra short term funds may or may not have exit loads. Exit load in case of ultra short term fund is generally applicable if the redemption is done within a short period of time.

Taxation

Since both ultra short-term funds and liquid funds are a part of the debt funds; the taxation rules are same for both of them. If both the funds are sold within three years from the date of purchase, then Short Term Capital Gain (STCG) is applicable which is charged as per the individual’s tax slab. On the contrary, if the units are redeemed after three years then Long Term Capital Gain (LTCG) is applicable which is charged at 20% along with indexation benefits.

Cut-off Time

The cut-off time for placing an order with respect to purchase or redemption in case of the liquid fund is 2 PM, while in case of ultra short term funds the cut-off time is 3 PM.

The table given below sums up the differences between liquid funds and ultra short term funds.

Parameters Liquid Funds Ultra Short Term Funds
Maturity Profile of Underlying Assets The maturity profile of the assets is less than or equal to 91 days The maturity profile of the assets is more than 91 days and less than one year
Liquidity High liquidity Low as compared to Liquid Funds
Returns Lower as compared to ultra short term funds Slightly higher than liquid funds
Risk Very low Marginally higher in comparison to liquid funds
Exit Load Mostly does not have exit load May or may not have exit loads
Taxation Short-term: Taxed as per individual’s slab rates Long-term: Taxed at 20% and had taxation benefits Same as Liquid Funds
Cut-off Time 2 PM 3 PM

Best Funds to Invest in FY 25 - 26

After understanding the differences between liquid funds and ultra short term funds, let us have a look at some of the Best Liquid Funds and Best Ultra Short term funds which may suit your requirements.

Best Liquid Funds

FundNAVNet Assets (Cr)1 MO (%)3 MO (%)6 MO (%)1 YR (%)2025 (%)Debt Yield (YTM)Mod. DurationEff. Maturity
Axis Liquid Fund Growth ₹3,095.19
↑ 0.03
₹56,1680.61.73.36.36.66.23%1M 5D1M 5D
Edelweiss Liquid Fund Growth ₹3,554.47
↓ -0.03
₹15,2220.61.73.36.36.56.51%1M 6D1M 6D
BOI AXA Liquid Fund Growth ₹3,200.94
↓ -0.08
₹1,7200.61.63.36.36.66.11%1M 10D1M 10D
DSP Liquidity Fund Growth ₹3,967.54
↓ -0.03
₹19,0190.61.63.36.36.50%1M 1D
UTI Liquid Cash Plan Growth ₹455.859
↑ 0.01
₹33,2480.61.63.36.36.56.62%1M 5D1M 6D
Note: Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR basis. as on 7 Jul 26

Research Highlights & Commentary of 5 Funds showcased

CommentaryAxis Liquid FundEdelweiss Liquid FundBOI AXA Liquid FundDSP Liquidity FundUTI Liquid Cash Plan
Point 1Highest AUM (₹56,168 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹15,222 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,720 Cr).Lower mid AUM (₹19,019 Cr).Upper mid AUM (₹33,248 Cr).
Point 2Established history (16+ yrs).Established history (18+ yrs).Established history (17+ yrs).Established history (20+ yrs).Oldest track record among peers (22 yrs).
Point 3Top rated.Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).Rating: 3★ (upper mid).Rating: 3★ (lower mid).Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
Point 4Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Low.
Point 51Y return: 6.31% (top quartile).1Y return: 6.30% (upper mid).1Y return: 6.30% (lower mid).1Y return: 6.28% (bottom quartile).1Y return: 6.27% (bottom quartile).
Point 61M return: 0.62% (top quartile).1M return: 0.62% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.62% (upper mid).1M return: 0.62% (lower mid).1M return: 0.60% (bottom quartile).
Point 7Sharpe: 2.39 (upper mid).Sharpe: 2.22 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 2.65 (top quartile).Sharpe: 2.26 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 2.39 (lower mid).
Point 8Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).Information ratio: 2.14 (top quartile).Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
Point 9Yield to maturity (debt): 6.23% (lower mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.51% (upper mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.11% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 0.00% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.62% (top quartile).
Point 10Modified duration: 0.10 yrs (upper mid).Modified duration: 0.10 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.11 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.09 yrs (top quartile).Modified duration: 0.10 yrs (lower mid).

Axis Liquid Fund

  • Highest AUM (₹56,168 Cr).
  • Established history (16+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.31% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.62% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 2.39 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.23% (lower mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.10 yrs (upper mid).

Edelweiss Liquid Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹15,222 Cr).
  • Established history (18+ yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.30% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.62% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 2.22 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.51% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.10 yrs (bottom quartile).

BOI AXA Liquid Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,720 Cr).
  • Established history (17+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.30% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.62% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 2.65 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 2.14 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.11% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.11 yrs (bottom quartile).

DSP Liquidity Fund

  • Lower mid AUM (₹19,019 Cr).
  • Established history (20+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.28% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.62% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 2.26 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 0.00% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.09 yrs (top quartile).

UTI Liquid Cash Plan

  • Upper mid AUM (₹33,248 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (22 yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.27% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.60% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 2.39 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.62% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.10 yrs (lower mid).

Best Ultra Short Term Funds

FundNAVNet Assets (Cr)3 MO (%)6 MO (%)1 YR (%)3 YR (%)2025 (%)Debt Yield (YTM)Mod. DurationEff. Maturity
Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund Growth ₹584.556
↓ -0.29
₹19,6111.83.26.37.37.47.98%5M 16D6M 25D
ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund Growth ₹29.5028
↓ -0.01
₹16,0021.83.26.277.17.79%5M 8D6M 11D
SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund Growth ₹6,357.72
↓ -3.73
₹11,8611.83.16.1777.77%5M 5D8M 16D
Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund Growth ₹4,285.48
↓ -1.87
₹10,9381.83.26.16.86.87.83%5M 1D7M 3D
Invesco India Ultra Short Term Fund Growth ₹2,867.09
↓ -1.46
₹1,1971.83.266.96.87.53%5M 3D5M 6D
Note: Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR basis. as on 7 Jul 26

Research Highlights & Commentary of 5 Funds showcased

CommentaryAditya Birla Sun Life Savings FundICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term FundSBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration FundNippon India Ultra Short Duration FundInvesco India Ultra Short Term Fund
Point 1Highest AUM (₹19,611 Cr).Upper mid AUM (₹16,002 Cr).Lower mid AUM (₹11,861 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹10,938 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,197 Cr).
Point 2Established history (23+ yrs).Established history (15+ yrs).Oldest track record among peers (27 yrs).Established history (24+ yrs).Established history (15+ yrs).
Point 3Top rated.Rating: 3★ (upper mid).Rating: 3★ (lower mid).Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
Point 4Risk profile: Moderately Low.Risk profile: Moderate.Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Moderate.
Point 51Y return: 6.26% (top quartile).1Y return: 6.20% (upper mid).1Y return: 6.12% (lower mid).1Y return: 6.11% (bottom quartile).1Y return: 6.01% (bottom quartile).
Point 61M return: 0.87% (top quartile).1M return: 0.86% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.86% (upper mid).1M return: 0.83% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.86% (lower mid).
Point 7Sharpe: 0.52 (upper mid).Sharpe: 0.53 (top quartile).Sharpe: 0.40 (lower mid).Sharpe: 0.34 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 0.21 (bottom quartile).
Point 8Information ratio: 0.00 (top quartile).Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
Point 9Yield to maturity (debt): 7.98% (top quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 7.79% (lower mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 7.77% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 7.83% (upper mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 7.53% (bottom quartile).
Point 10Modified duration: 0.46 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.44 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.43 yrs (lower mid).Modified duration: 0.42 yrs (top quartile).Modified duration: 0.42 yrs (upper mid).

Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund

  • Highest AUM (₹19,611 Cr).
  • Established history (23+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.26% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.87% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.52 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.98% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.46 yrs (bottom quartile).

ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund

  • Upper mid AUM (₹16,002 Cr).
  • Established history (15+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderate.
  • 1Y return: 6.20% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.86% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.53 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.79% (lower mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.44 yrs (bottom quartile).

SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund

  • Lower mid AUM (₹11,861 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (27 yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.12% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.86% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 0.40 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.77% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.43 yrs (lower mid).

Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹10,938 Cr).
  • Established history (24+ yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.11% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.83% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.34 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.83% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.42 yrs (top quartile).

Invesco India Ultra Short Term Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,197 Cr).
  • Established history (15+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Moderate.
  • 1Y return: 6.01% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.86% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 0.21 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.53% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.42 yrs (upper mid).

*Above is the detailed list of Liquid / Ultrashort funds having Net Assets more than 1000 Crore and have been managing funds for atleast 3 Years. Sorted based on 1 Year returns.

*Below is the detailed list of Liquid / Ultrashort funds having Net Assets more than 1000 Crore and have been managing funds for atleast 3 Years. Sorted based on last yield to maturity.

1. Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund

The primary objective of the schemes is to generate regular income through investments in debt and money market instruments. Income maybe generated through the receipt of coupon payments or the purchase and sale of securities in the underlying portfolio. The schemes will under normal market conditions, invest its net assets in fixed income securities, money market instruments, cash and cash equivalents.

Research Highlights for Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund

  • Highest AUM (₹19,611 Cr).
  • Established history (23+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.26% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.87% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.52 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.98% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.46 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Average maturity: 0.57 yrs (lower mid).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Top sector: Financial Services.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Debt-heavy allocation (~69%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding India (Republic of) (~5.2%).

Below is the key information for Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund

Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund
Growth
Launch Date 16 Apr 03
NAV (07 Jul 26) ₹584.556 ↓ -0.29   (-0.05 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹19,611 on 31 May 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC Birla Sun Life Asset Management Co Ltd
Rating
Risk Moderately Low
Expense Ratio 0.55
Sharpe Ratio 0.52
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 1,000
Min SIP Investment 1,000
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.98%
Effective Maturity 6 Months 25 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 16 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
30 Jun 21₹10,000
30 Jun 22₹10,384
30 Jun 23₹11,065
30 Jun 24₹11,889
30 Jun 25₹12,852
30 Jun 26₹13,668

Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund SIP Returns

   
My Monthly Investment:
Investment Tenure:
Years
Expected Annual Returns:
%
Total investment amount is ₹180,000
expected amount after 3 Years is ₹200,132.
Net Profit of ₹20,132
Invest Now

Returns for Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund

Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) basis. as on 7 Jul 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.9%
3 Month 1.8%
6 Month 3.2%
1 Year 6.3%
3 Year 7.3%
5 Year 6.5%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 7.4%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2025 7.4%
2024 7.9%
2023 7.2%
2022 4.8%
2021 3.9%
2020 7%
2019 8.5%
2018 7.6%
2017 7.2%
2016 9.2%
Fund Manager information for Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund
NameSinceTenure
Sunaina Cunha20 Jun 1412.04 Yr.
Kaustubh Gupta15 Jul 1114.97 Yr.
Monika Gandhi22 Mar 215.28 Yr.

Data below for Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund as on 31 May 26

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash30.43%
Debt69.22%
Other0.36%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate68.02%
Government17.43%
Cash Equivalent14.18%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA29.9%
AAA70.1%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
India (Republic of)
- | -
5%₹987 Cr100,000,000
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
Domestic Bonds | -
4%₹748 Cr15,800
Shriram Finance Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹607 Cr60,000
HDFC Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
3%₹540 Cr11,000
Bharti Telecom Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹396 Cr40,000
Muthoot Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹348 Cr35,000
Vedanta Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹329 Cr32,500
Mankind Pharma Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹320 Cr32,000
Avanse Financial Services Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹300 Cr30,000
Power Finance Corporation Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹297 Cr30,000

2. Kotak Savings Fund

(Erstwhile Kotak Treasury Advantage Fund)

The investment objective of the Scheme is to generate returns through investments in debt and money market instruments with a view to reduce the interest rate risk. However, there is no assurance or guarantee that the investment objective of the scheme will be achieved.

Research Highlights for Kotak Savings Fund

  • Upper mid AUM (₹16,186 Cr).
  • Established history (21+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 5.89% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.82% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: -0.12 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.90% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.40 yrs (top quartile).
  • Average maturity: 0.51 yrs (top quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Higher exposure to Financial Services vs peer median.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~54%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development (~3.8%).

Below is the key information for Kotak Savings Fund

Kotak Savings Fund
Growth
Launch Date 13 Aug 04
NAV (07 Jul 26) ₹45.5339 ↓ -0.03   (-0.06 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹16,186 on 31 May 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Co Ltd
Rating
Risk Moderately Low
Expense Ratio 0.81
Sharpe Ratio -0.12
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 5,000
Min SIP Investment 1,000
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.9%
Effective Maturity 6 Months 4 Days
Modified Duration 4 Months 24 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
30 Jun 21₹10,000
30 Jun 22₹10,338
30 Jun 23₹10,986
30 Jun 24₹11,748
30 Jun 25₹12,623
30 Jun 26₹13,382

Kotak Savings Fund SIP Returns

   
My Monthly Investment:
Investment Tenure:
Years
Expected Annual Returns:
%
Total investment amount is ₹180,000
expected amount after 3 Years is ₹197,169.
Net Profit of ₹17,169
Invest Now

Returns for Kotak Savings Fund

Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) basis. as on 7 Jul 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.8%
3 Month 1.7%
6 Month 3%
1 Year 5.9%
3 Year 6.8%
5 Year 6%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 7.2%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2025 6.8%
2024 7.2%
2023 6.8%
2022 4.5%
2021 3.2%
2020 5.8%
2019 7.8%
2018 7.4%
2017 6.7%
2016 8.2%
Fund Manager information for Kotak Savings Fund
NameSinceTenure
Deepak Agrawal15 Apr 0818.22 Yr.
Manu Sharma1 Nov 223.67 Yr.

Data below for Kotak Savings Fund as on 31 May 26

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash54.36%
Debt45.33%
Other0.31%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate62.41%
Government18.78%
Cash Equivalent18.5%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA16.51%
AAA83.49%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
4%₹575 Cr57,500
Tamil Nadu (Government of) 0.0654%
- | -
3%₹447 Cr45,000,000
6.17% Govt Stock 2028
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹328 Cr32,500,000
Mankind Pharma Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹300 Cr30,000
Muthoot Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹300 Cr30,000
6.9% Maharashtra Sgs 2030
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹299 Cr30,000,000
06/08/2026 Maturing 182 DTB
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹248 Cr25,000,000
Bank of Baroda
Debentures | -
1%₹218 Cr22,500
↑ 22,500
RADHAKRISHNA SECURITISATION TRUST
Unlisted bonds | -
1%₹206 Cr210
Vedanta Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹200 Cr20,000

3. Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund

(Erstwhile Reliance Liquid Fund - Cash Plan)

The investment objective of the Scheme is to generate optimal returns consistent with moderate levels of risk and high liquidity. Accordingly, investments shall predominantly be made in Debt and Money Market Instruments.

Research Highlights for Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹10,938 Cr).
  • Established history (24+ yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.11% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.83% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.34 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.83% (lower mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.42 yrs (upper mid).
  • Average maturity: 0.59 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Top sector: Financial Services.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~54%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding Tbill (~3.7%).

Below is the key information for Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund

Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund
Growth
Launch Date 7 Dec 01
NAV (07 Jul 26) ₹4,285.48 ↓ -1.87   (-0.04 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹10,938 on 31 May 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC Nippon Life Asset Management Ltd.
Rating
Risk Low
Expense Ratio 1.12
Sharpe Ratio 0.34
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 100
Min SIP Investment 100
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.83%
Effective Maturity 7 Months 3 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 1 Day

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
30 Jun 21₹10,000
30 Jun 22₹10,630
30 Jun 23₹11,288
30 Jun 24₹12,068
30 Jun 25₹12,962
30 Jun 26₹13,764

Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund SIP Returns

   
My Monthly Investment:
Investment Tenure:
Years
Expected Annual Returns:
%
Total investment amount is ₹180,000
expected amount after 3 Years is ₹200,132.
Net Profit of ₹20,132
Invest Now

Returns for Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund

Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) basis. as on 7 Jul 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.8%
3 Month 1.8%
6 Month 3.2%
1 Year 6.1%
3 Year 6.8%
5 Year 6.1%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 6.1%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2025 6.8%
2024 7.2%
2023 6.7%
2022 4.6%
2021 7.8%
2020 4.9%
2019 0.9%
2018 7.3%
2017 5.8%
2016 6.8%
Fund Manager information for Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund
NameSinceTenure
Vivek Sharma1 Oct 1312.75 Yr.
Kinjal Desai25 May 188.1 Yr.
Akshay Sharma1 Dec 223.58 Yr.
Amber Singhania11 Mar 260.3 Yr.

Data below for Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund as on 31 May 26

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash53.89%
Debt45.82%
Other0.29%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate65.03%
Cash Equivalent27%
Government7.68%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA29.98%
AAA70.02%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
Tbill
Sovereign Bonds | -
4%₹396 Cr40,000,000
Nirma Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹297 Cr29,600
↑ 12,000
India (Republic of)
- | -
3%₹273 Cr27,500,000
Tbill
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹247 Cr25,000,000
Axis Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
2%₹242 Cr5,000
↑ 5,000
Vedanta Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹241 Cr24,000
Indigrid Infrastructure Trust
Debentures | -
2%₹240 Cr2,400
Small Industries Development Bank of India
Debentures | -
2%₹200 Cr4,300
↑ 4,300
Embassy Office Parks Reit
Debentures | -
2%₹199 Cr2,000
HDFC Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
2%₹196 Cr4,000
↑ 4,000

4. ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund

(Erstwhile ICICI Prudential Regular Income Fund)

The fund’s objective is to generate regular income through investments primarily in debt and money market instruments. As a secondary objective, the Scheme also seeks to generate long term capital appreciation from the portion of equity investments under the Scheme.

Research Highlights for ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund

  • Lower mid AUM (₹16,002 Cr).
  • Established history (15+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderate.
  • 1Y return: 6.20% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.86% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 0.53 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.79% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.44 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Average maturity: 0.53 yrs (upper mid).
  • Exit load: 0-1 Months (0.5%),1 Months and above(NIL).
  • Top sector: Energy.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~78%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding Tbill (~6.6%).

Below is the key information for ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund

ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund
Growth
Launch Date 3 May 11
NAV (07 Jul 26) ₹29.5028 ↓ -0.01   (-0.05 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹16,002 on 31 May 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company Limited
Rating
Risk Moderate
Expense Ratio 0.8
Sharpe Ratio 0.53
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 5,000
Min SIP Investment 1,000
Exit Load 0-1 Months (0.5%),1 Months and above(NIL)
Yield to Maturity 7.79%
Effective Maturity 6 Months 11 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 8 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
30 Jun 21₹10,000
30 Jun 22₹10,368
30 Jun 23₹11,029
30 Jun 24₹11,817
30 Jun 25₹12,724
30 Jun 26₹13,522

ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund SIP Returns

   
My Monthly Investment:
Investment Tenure:
Years
Expected Annual Returns:
%
Total investment amount is ₹180,000
expected amount after 3 Years is ₹200,132.
Net Profit of ₹20,132
Invest Now

Returns for ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund

Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) basis. as on 7 Jul 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.9%
3 Month 1.8%
6 Month 3.2%
1 Year 6.2%
3 Year 7%
5 Year 6.2%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 7.4%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2025 7.1%
2024 7.5%
2023 6.9%
2022 4.5%
2021 4%
2020 6.5%
2019 8.4%
2018 7.5%
2017 6.9%
2016 9.8%
Fund Manager information for ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund
NameSinceTenure
Manish Banthia15 Nov 169.63 Yr.
Ritesh Lunawat15 Jun 179.05 Yr.

Data below for ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund as on 31 May 26

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash78.41%
Debt21.26%
Other0.33%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate66.01%
Cash Equivalent43.92%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA17.96%
AAA82.04%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
Tbill
Sovereign Bonds | -
7%₹997 Cr100,000,000
HDFC Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
3%₹442 Cr9,000
Small Industries Development Bank Of India
Debentures | -
2%₹350 Cr35,000
↑ 35,000
Vedanta Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹343 Cr34,000
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
2%₹325 Cr32,500
↑ 12,500
6.17% Govt Stock 2028
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹310 Cr30,773,600
RADHAKRISHNA SECURITISATION TRUST
Unlisted bonds | -
2%₹299 Cr300
Muthoot Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹276 Cr27,500
AU Small Finance Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
2%₹241 Cr5,000
Piramal Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹232 Cr23,000

5. SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund

(Erstwhile SBI Magnum InstaCash Fund)

To provide the investors an opportunity to earn returns through investment in debt & money market securities, while having the benefit of a very high degree of liquidity.

Research Highlights for SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹11,861 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (27 yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.12% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.86% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 0.40 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.77% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.43 yrs (lower mid).
  • Average maturity: 0.71 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Higher exposure to Financial Services vs peer median.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~101%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding India (Republic of) (~8.8%).

Below is the key information for SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund

SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund
Growth
Launch Date 21 May 99
NAV (07 Jul 26) ₹6,357.72 ↓ -3.73   (-0.06 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹11,861 on 31 May 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC SBI Funds Management Private Limited
Rating
Risk Low
Expense Ratio 0.54
Sharpe Ratio 0.4
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 5,000
Min SIP Investment 500
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.77%
Effective Maturity 8 Months 16 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 5 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
30 Jun 21₹10,000
30 Jun 22₹10,336
30 Jun 23₹10,996
30 Jun 24₹11,785
30 Jun 25₹12,679
30 Jun 26₹13,467

SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund SIP Returns

   
My Monthly Investment:
Investment Tenure:
Years
Expected Annual Returns:
%
Total investment amount is ₹180,000
expected amount after 3 Years is ₹200,132.
Net Profit of ₹20,132
Invest Now

Returns for SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund

Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) basis. as on 7 Jul 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.9%
3 Month 1.8%
6 Month 3.1%
1 Year 6.1%
3 Year 7%
5 Year 6.1%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 7%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2025 7%
2024 7.4%
2023 7%
2022 4.5%
2021 3.4%
2020 5.9%
2019 8%
2018 7.9%
2017 6.6%
2016 7.7%
Fund Manager information for SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund
NameSinceTenure
Sudhir Agrawal15 May 251.13 Yr.

Data below for SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund as on 31 May 26

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash100.97%
Other0.42%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate57.6%
Cash Equivalent51.21%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA17.96%
AAA82.04%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
India (Republic of)
- | -
9%₹1,020 Cr102,500,000
TATA Communications Limited
Debentures | -
5%₹550 Cr55,000
Adani Power Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹299 Cr30,000
LIC Housing Finance Ltd
Debentures | -
2%₹275 Cr27,500
RADHAKRISHNA SECURITISATION TRUST
Unlisted bonds | -
2%₹250 Cr255
Muthoot Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹224 Cr22,500
Muthoot Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹199 Cr20,000
Oberoi Realty Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹166 Cr20,000
7.03% Chhattisgarh Sdl 2026
Sovereign Bonds | -
1%₹150 Cr15,000,000
Eris Lifesciences Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹150 Cr15,000

Conclusion

To conclude, it can be said that both ultra short term funds and liquid funds have their own set of characteristics. However, people while choosing any scheme should check and ensure whether the scheme is in-line with their determined objective. They should also check the modalities of the scheme completely. Moreover, they may even consult a financial advisor if required to ensure that their investment helps them to attain their desired objectives.

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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Harsh, posted on 3 Dec 18 1:27 AM

Great alternative for FD - Fixed Deposit Investment. Nice article explains each fund very well.

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