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Ultra Short Term Funds Vs Liquid Funds

Updated on January 19, 2026 , 29844 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 (%)2024 (%)Debt Yield (YTM)Mod. DurationEff. Maturity
BOI AXA Liquid Fund Growth ₹3,104.48
↑ 0.39
₹1,1070.51.42.96.46.65.94%2M 1D1M 20D
Axis Liquid Fund Growth ₹3,000.94
↑ 0.39
₹35,6530.51.42.96.46.66.06%1M 28D2M 2D
Edelweiss Liquid Fund Growth ₹3,446.57
↑ 0.43
₹10,4140.51.42.96.46.56.03%2M 1D2M 1D
UTI Liquid Cash Plan Growth ₹4,421.22
↑ 0.56
₹23,4800.51.42.96.46.56.04%1M 26D1M 26D
Tata Liquid Fund Growth ₹4,244.47
↑ 0.53
₹18,9460.51.42.96.46.56.08%1M 28D1M 28D
Note: Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR basis. as on 21 Jan 26

Research Highlights & Commentary of 5 Funds showcased

CommentaryBOI AXA Liquid FundAxis Liquid FundEdelweiss Liquid FundUTI Liquid Cash PlanTata Liquid Fund
Point 1Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,107 Cr).Highest AUM (₹35,653 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹10,414 Cr).Upper mid AUM (₹23,480 Cr).Lower mid AUM (₹18,946 Cr).
Point 2Established history (17+ yrs).Established history (16+ yrs).Established history (18+ yrs).Oldest track record among peers (22 yrs).Established history (21+ yrs).
Point 3Rating: 3★ (lower mid).Top rated.Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).Rating: 4★ (upper mid).
Point 4Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Low.
Point 51Y return: 6.45% (top quartile).1Y return: 6.43% (upper mid).1Y return: 6.41% (lower mid).1Y return: 6.40% (bottom quartile).1Y return: 6.40% (bottom quartile).
Point 61M return: 0.48% (top quartile).1M return: 0.47% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.46% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.47% (lower mid).1M return: 0.47% (upper mid).
Point 7Sharpe: 4.02 (top quartile).Sharpe: 3.47 (lower mid).Sharpe: 3.82 (upper mid).Sharpe: 3.28 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 3.23 (bottom quartile).
Point 8Information ratio: 1.26 (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): 5.94% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.06% (upper mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.03% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.04% (lower mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.08% (top quartile).
Point 10Modified duration: 0.17 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.16 yrs (upper mid).Modified duration: 0.17 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.16 yrs (top quartile).Modified duration: 0.16 yrs (lower mid).

BOI AXA Liquid Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,107 Cr).
  • Established history (17+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.45% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.48% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 4.02 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 1.26 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 5.94% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.17 yrs (bottom quartile).

Axis Liquid Fund

  • Highest AUM (₹35,653 Cr).
  • Established history (16+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.43% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.47% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 3.47 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.06% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.16 yrs (upper mid).

Edelweiss Liquid Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹10,414 Cr).
  • Established history (18+ yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.41% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.46% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 3.82 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.03% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.17 yrs (bottom quartile).

UTI Liquid Cash Plan

  • Upper mid AUM (₹23,480 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (22 yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.40% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.47% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 3.28 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.04% (lower mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.16 yrs (top quartile).

Tata Liquid Fund

  • Lower mid AUM (₹18,946 Cr).
  • Established history (21+ yrs).
  • Rating: 4★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.40% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.47% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 3.23 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.08% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.16 yrs (lower mid).

Best Ultra Short Term Funds

FundNAVNet Assets (Cr)3 MO (%)6 MO (%)1 YR (%)3 YR (%)2024 (%)Debt Yield (YTM)Mod. DurationEff. Maturity
Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund Growth ₹566.732
↑ 0.03
₹23,6151.22.87.17.47.46.81%5M 19D6M 11D
ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund Growth ₹28.6094
↑ 0.00
₹16,9071.32.86.87.17.16.82%5M 19D7M 10D
SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund Growth ₹6,169.61
↑ 0.57
₹14,6391.32.86.87.176.49%5M 5D5M 23D
Invesco India Ultra Short Term Fund Growth ₹2,780.52
↑ 0.43
₹1,2341.22.66.66.96.86.57%5M 16D5M 24D
Kotak Savings Fund Growth ₹44.2212
↑ 0.00
₹14,2431.22.66.66.96.86.66%5M 26D6M 25D
Note: Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR basis. as on 21 Jan 26

Research Highlights & Commentary of 5 Funds showcased

CommentaryAditya Birla Sun Life Savings FundICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term FundSBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration FundInvesco India Ultra Short Term FundKotak Savings Fund
Point 1Highest AUM (₹23,615 Cr).Upper mid AUM (₹16,907 Cr).Lower mid AUM (₹14,639 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,234 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹14,243 Cr).
Point 2Established history (22+ yrs).Established history (14+ yrs).Oldest track record among peers (26 yrs).Established history (15+ yrs).Established history (21+ yrs).
Point 3Top rated.Rating: 3★ (upper mid).Rating: 3★ (lower mid).Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
Point 4Risk profile: Moderately Low.Risk profile: Moderate.Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Moderate.Risk profile: Moderately Low.
Point 51Y return: 7.07% (top quartile).1Y return: 6.84% (upper mid).1Y return: 6.75% (lower mid).1Y return: 6.60% (bottom quartile).1Y return: 6.60% (bottom quartile).
Point 61M return: 0.32% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.35% (lower mid).1M return: 0.39% (top quartile).1M return: 0.35% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.36% (upper mid).
Point 7Sharpe: 3.14 (top quartile).Sharpe: 2.94 (upper mid).Sharpe: 2.90 (lower mid).Sharpe: 2.41 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 2.06 (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): 6.81% (upper mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.82% (top quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.49% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.57% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.66% (lower mid).
Point 10Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (lower mid).Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.43 yrs (top quartile).Modified duration: 0.46 yrs (upper mid).Modified duration: 0.49 yrs (bottom quartile).

Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund

  • Highest AUM (₹23,615 Cr).
  • Established history (22+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 7.07% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.32% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 3.14 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.81% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (lower mid).

ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund

  • Upper mid AUM (₹16,907 Cr).
  • Established history (14+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderate.
  • 1Y return: 6.84% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.35% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 2.94 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.82% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (bottom quartile).

SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund

  • Lower mid AUM (₹14,639 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (26 yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.75% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.39% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 2.90 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.49% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.43 yrs (top quartile).

Invesco India Ultra Short Term Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,234 Cr).
  • Established history (15+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Moderate.
  • 1Y return: 6.60% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.35% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 2.41 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.57% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.46 yrs (upper mid).

Kotak Savings Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹14,243 Cr).
  • Established history (21+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.60% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.36% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 2.06 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.66% (lower mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.49 yrs (bottom quartile).

*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. Nippon India Liquid Fund 

(Erstwhile Reliance Liquid Fund - Treasury 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 Liquid Fund 

  • Highest AUM (₹27,591 Cr).
  • Established history (22+ yrs).
  • Rating: 4★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.36% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.46% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 3.05 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 8.73% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 2.07 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Average maturity: 2.45 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Top sector: Financial Services.
  • Higher exposure to Cash Equivalent (bond sector) vs peer median.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~100%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding Net Current Assets (~4.7%).

Below is the key information for Nippon India Liquid Fund 

Nippon India Liquid Fund 
Growth
Launch Date 9 Dec 03
NAV (21 Jan 26) ₹6,575.44 ↑ 0.83   (0.01 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹27,591 on 31 Dec 25
Category Debt - Liquid Fund
AMC Nippon Life Asset Management Ltd.
Rating
Risk Low
Expense Ratio 0.33
Sharpe Ratio 3.05
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 100
Min SIP Investment 100
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 8.73%
Effective Maturity 2 Years 5 Months 12 Days
Modified Duration 2 Years 25 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Dec 20₹10,000
31 Dec 21₹10,322
31 Dec 22₹10,815
31 Dec 23₹11,568
31 Dec 24₹12,415
31 Dec 25₹13,221

Nippon India Liquid 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 Nippon India Liquid Fund 

Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) basis. as on 21 Jan 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.5%
3 Month 1.4%
6 Month 2.8%
1 Year 6.4%
3 Year 6.9%
5 Year 5.8%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 6.8%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2024 6.5%
2023 7.3%
2022 7%
2021 4.8%
2020 3.2%
2019 4.3%
2018 6.7%
2017 7.4%
2016 6.7%
2015 7.7%
Fund Manager information for Nippon India Liquid Fund 
NameSinceTenure
Kinjal Desai25 May 187.61 Yr.
Vikash Agarwal14 Sep 241.3 Yr.
Lokesh Maru5 Sep 250.32 Yr.
Divya Sharma5 Sep 250.32 Yr.

Data below for Nippon India Liquid Fund  as on 31 Dec 25

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash99.66%
Other0.34%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Cash Equivalent68.84%
Corporate24.07%
Government6.74%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AAA100%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
Net Current Assets
Net Current Assets | -
5%-₹1,298 Cr
Treasury Bill
Sovereign Bonds | -
4%₹1,146 Cr115,319,500
Bank Of Baroda
Certificate of Deposit | -
3%₹941 Cr19,000
T-Bill
Sovereign Bonds | -
3%₹745 Cr75,000,000
Treasury Bill
Sovereign Bonds | -
3%₹744 Cr75,000,000
India (Republic of)
- | -
3%₹693 Cr70,000,000
↑ 70,000,000
HDFC Bank Ltd
Certificate of Deposit | -
2%₹642 Cr13,000
↑ 13,000
Canara Bank
Domestic Bonds | -
2%₹592 Cr12,000
↑ 12,000
Tata Communications Limited (Vsnl)
Commercial Paper | -
2%₹499 Cr10,000
Tata Power Co Ltd.
Commercial Paper | -
2%₹497 Cr10,000

2. 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 (₹11,060 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (24 yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.54% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.35% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 2.30 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.00% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 3.55 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Average maturity: 4.69 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Top sector: Financial Services.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~46%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development (~4.4%).

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 (21 Jan 26) ₹4,154.85 ↑ 0.50   (0.01 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹11,060 on 31 Dec 25
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC Nippon Life Asset Management Ltd.
Rating
Risk Low
Expense Ratio 1.12
Sharpe Ratio 2.3
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 100
Min SIP Investment 100
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7%
Effective Maturity 4 Years 8 Months 8 Days
Modified Duration 3 Years 6 Months 18 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Dec 20₹10,000
31 Dec 21₹10,778
31 Dec 22₹11,272
31 Dec 23₹12,026
31 Dec 24₹12,897
31 Dec 25₹13,773

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 21 Jan 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.4%
3 Month 1.2%
6 Month 2.7%
1 Year 6.5%
3 Year 6.8%
5 Year 6.6%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 6.1%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2024 6.8%
2023 7.2%
2022 6.7%
2021 4.6%
2020 7.8%
2019 4.9%
2018 0.9%
2017 7.3%
2016 5.8%
2015 6.8%
Fund Manager information for Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund
NameSinceTenure
Vivek Sharma1 Oct 1312.26 Yr.
Kinjal Desai25 May 187.61 Yr.
Akshay Sharma1 Dec 223.09 Yr.
Lokesh Maru5 Sep 250.32 Yr.
Divya Sharma5 Sep 250.32 Yr.

Data below for Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund as on 31 Dec 25

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash45.53%
Debt54.22%
Other0.25%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate57.04%
Cash Equivalent27.04%
Government15.68%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA28.52%
AAA71.48%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
4%₹486 Cr48,500
India (Republic of)
- | -
3%₹296 Cr30,000,000
JSW Energy Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹250 Cr25,000
Small Industries Development Bank Of India
Debentures | -
2%₹250 Cr2,500
Treasury Bills
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹246 Cr25,000,000
Vedanta Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹241 Cr24,000
TATA Communications Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹226 Cr22,500
India (Republic of)
- | -
2%₹211 Cr21,500,000
Aadhar Housing Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹201 Cr20,000
Embassy Office Parks Reit
Debentures | -
2%₹201 Cr2,000

3. 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 (₹16,907 Cr).
  • Established history (14+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Moderate.
  • 1Y return: 6.84% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.35% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 2.94 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.82% (lower mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (top quartile).
  • Average maturity: 0.61 yrs (lower mid).
  • Exit load: 0-1 Months (0.5%),1 Months and above(NIL).
  • Top sector: Energy.
  • Higher exposure to Corporate (bond sector) vs peer median.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~64%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development (~3.9%).

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 (21 Jan 26) ₹28.6094 ↑ 0.00   (0.01 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹16,907 on 31 Dec 25
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company Limited
Rating
Risk Moderate
Expense Ratio 0.8
Sharpe Ratio 2.94
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 6.82%
Effective Maturity 7 Months 10 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 19 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Dec 20₹10,000
31 Dec 21₹10,400
31 Dec 22₹10,873
31 Dec 23₹11,624
31 Dec 24₹12,495
31 Dec 25₹13,380

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 ₹197,169.
Net Profit of ₹17,169
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 21 Jan 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.4%
3 Month 1.3%
6 Month 2.8%
1 Year 6.8%
3 Year 7.1%
5 Year 6%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 7.4%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2024 7.1%
2023 7.5%
2022 6.9%
2021 4.5%
2020 4%
2019 6.5%
2018 8.4%
2017 7.5%
2016 6.9%
2015 9.8%
Fund Manager information for ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund
NameSinceTenure
Manish Banthia15 Nov 169.13 Yr.
Ritesh Lunawat15 Jun 178.55 Yr.

Data below for ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund as on 31 Dec 25

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash63.83%
Debt35.9%
Other0.27%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate64.79%
Cash Equivalent31.87%
Government3.07%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA17.57%
AAA82.43%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
4%₹662 Cr66,000
6.22% Govt Stock 2028
Sovereign Bonds | -
4%₹613 Cr60,843,000
↓ -1,842,100
364 DTB 15012026
Sovereign Bonds | -
3%₹499 Cr50,000,000
RADHAKRISHNA SECURITISATION TRUST
Unlisted bonds | -
3%₹450 Cr450
Vedanta Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹352 Cr35,000
↑ 5,000
Small Industries Development Bank Of India
Debentures | -
2%₹351 Cr35,000
Piramal Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹277 Cr27,500
AU Small Finance Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
1%₹234 Cr5,000
↑ 5,000
Power Finance Corporation Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹230 Cr2,300
LIC Housing Finance Ltd
Debentures | -
1%₹225 Cr2,250

4. 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

  • Upper mid AUM (₹23,615 Cr).
  • Established history (22+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 7.07% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.32% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 3.14 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.81% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (upper mid).
  • Average maturity: 0.53 yrs (top quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Higher exposure to Financial Services vs peer median.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~48%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding Shriram Finance Limited (~2.6%).

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 (21 Jan 26) ₹566.732 ↑ 0.03   (0.01 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹23,615 on 31 Dec 25
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC Birla Sun Life Asset Management Co Ltd
Rating
Risk Moderately Low
Expense Ratio 0.55
Sharpe Ratio 3.14
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 1,000
Min SIP Investment 1,000
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 6.81%
Effective Maturity 6 Months 11 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 19 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Dec 20₹10,000
31 Dec 21₹10,389
31 Dec 22₹10,884
31 Dec 23₹11,664
31 Dec 24₹12,580
31 Dec 25₹13,510

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 21 Jan 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.3%
3 Month 1.2%
6 Month 2.8%
1 Year 7.1%
3 Year 7.4%
5 Year 6.2%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 7.4%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2024 7.4%
2023 7.9%
2022 7.2%
2021 4.8%
2020 3.9%
2019 7%
2018 8.5%
2017 7.6%
2016 7.2%
2015 9.2%
Fund Manager information for Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund
NameSinceTenure
Sunaina Cunha20 Jun 1411.54 Yr.
Kaustubh Gupta15 Jul 1114.48 Yr.
Monika Gandhi22 Mar 214.78 Yr.

Data below for Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund as on 31 Dec 25

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash47.86%
Debt51.91%
Other0.24%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate53.86%
Cash Equivalent29.6%
Government16.31%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA25.17%
AAA74.83%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
Shriram Finance Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹615 Cr60,000
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
2%₹547 Cr54,000
Nirma Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹486 Cr48,500
Bharti Telecom Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹399 Cr40,000
↑ 5,000
07.22 GJ Sdl 2028
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹376 Cr37,500,000
Muthoot Finance Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹352 Cr35,000
Mankind Pharma Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹347 Cr34,500
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
1%₹304 Cr30,000
Avanse Financial Services Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹301 Cr30,000
Power Finance Corporation Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹298 Cr30,000

5. UTI Ultra Short Term Fund

(Erstwhile UTI - Floating Rate Fund - Short Term Plan)

To generate regular income through investment in a portfolio comprising substantially of floating rate debt / money market instruments, fixed rate debt / money market instruments swapped for floating rate returns. The Scheme may also invest a portion of its net assets in fixed rate debt securities and money market instruments .However there can be no assurance that the investment objective of the Scheme will be achieved. The Scheme does not guarantee / indicate any returns.

Research Highlights for UTI Ultra Short Term Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹3,655 Cr).
  • Established history (22+ yrs).
  • Rating: 4★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.40% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.35% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 1.85 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.78% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (lower mid).
  • Average maturity: 0.57 yrs (upper mid).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Higher exposure to Financial Services vs peer median.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~42%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding India (Republic of) (~8.0%).

Below is the key information for UTI Ultra Short Term Fund

UTI Ultra Short Term Fund
Growth
Launch Date 29 Aug 03
NAV (21 Jan 26) ₹4,368.21 ↑ 0.24   (0.01 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹3,655 on 31 Dec 25
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC UTI Asset Management Company Ltd
Rating
Risk Moderately Low
Expense Ratio 0.93
Sharpe Ratio 1.85
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 5,000
Min SIP Investment 500
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 6.78%
Effective Maturity 6 Months 24 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 21 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Dec 20₹10,000
31 Dec 21₹10,610
31 Dec 22₹11,058
31 Dec 23₹11,802
31 Dec 24₹12,653
31 Dec 25₹13,495

UTI 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 UTI 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 21 Jan 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.3%
3 Month 1.2%
6 Month 2.6%
1 Year 6.4%
3 Year 6.8%
5 Year 6.2%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 6.8%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2024 6.6%
2023 7.2%
2022 6.7%
2021 4.2%
2020 6.1%
2019 5.3%
2018 3.3%
2017 7%
2016 6.6%
2015 8.9%
Fund Manager information for UTI Ultra Short Term Fund
NameSinceTenure
Abhishek Sonthalia10 Nov 250.14 Yr.

Data below for UTI Ultra Short Term Fund as on 31 Dec 25

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash41.94%
Debt57.71%
Other0.35%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate60.02%
Government22.37%
Cash Equivalent17.26%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AAA100%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
India (Republic of)
- | -
8%₹293 Cr3,000,000,000
↑ 3,000,000,000
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
5%₹201 Cr20,000
Tbill
Sovereign Bonds | -
4%₹148 Cr1,500,000,000
↑ 1,500,000,000
Shriram Finance Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹101 Cr10,000
TATA Communications Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹100 Cr10,000
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
3%₹100 Cr10,000
DBS Bank India Ltd.
Debentures | -
3%₹99 Cr1,000,000,000
Piramal Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹86 Cr8,500
↑ 3,500
Piramal Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹75 Cr7,500
Jamnagar Utilities & Power Private Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹75 Cr750

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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