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Ultra Short Term Funds Vs Liquid Funds

Updated on August 31, 2026 , 30374 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 ₹3,126.42
↑ 1.06
₹56,4380.61.73.56.56.66.47%2M 5D2M 5D
Edelweiss Liquid Fund Growth ₹3,590.26
↑ 1.23
₹13,7960.61.73.46.56.56.33%2M 2D2M 2D
BOI AXA Liquid Fund Growth ₹3,233.23
↑ 1.18
₹1,7280.61.73.46.56.66.26%1M 13D1M 13D
DSP Liquidity Fund Growth ₹4,007.34
↑ 1.22
₹22,9620.61.73.46.46.56.45%2M 5D2M 8D
Aditya Birla Sun Life Liquid Fund Growth ₹452.222
↑ 0.14
₹68,8000.61.73.46.46.56.49%2M 5D2M 5D
Note: Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR basis. as on 2 Sep 26

Research Highlights & Commentary of 5 Funds showcased

CommentaryAxis Liquid FundEdelweiss Liquid FundBOI AXA Liquid FundDSP Liquidity FundAditya Birla Sun Life Liquid Fund
Point 1Upper mid AUM (₹56,438 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹13,796 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,728 Cr).Lower mid AUM (₹22,962 Cr).Highest AUM (₹68,800 Cr).
Point 2Established history (16+ yrs).Established history (18+ yrs).Established history (18+ yrs).Established history (20+ yrs).Oldest track record among peers (22 yrs).
Point 3Top rated.Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).Rating: 3★ (lower mid).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: 6.48% (top quartile).1Y return: 6.47% (upper mid).1Y return: 6.46% (lower mid).1Y return: 6.44% (bottom quartile).1Y return: 6.43% (bottom quartile).
Point 61M return: 0.56% (upper mid).1M return: 0.56% (lower mid).1M return: 0.57% (top quartile).1M return: 0.56% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.56% (bottom quartile).
Point 7Sharpe: 2.57 (upper mid).Sharpe: 2.51 (lower mid).Sharpe: 2.77 (top quartile).Sharpe: 2.50 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 2.40 (bottom quartile).
Point 8Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).Information ratio: 2.18 (top quartile).Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
Point 9Yield to maturity (debt): 6.47% (upper mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.33% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.26% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.45% (lower mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.49% (top quartile).
Point 10Modified duration: 0.18 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.17 yrs (upper mid).Modified duration: 0.12 yrs (top quartile).Modified duration: 0.18 yrs (lower mid).Modified duration: 0.18 yrs (bottom quartile).

Axis Liquid Fund

  • Upper mid AUM (₹56,438 Cr).
  • Established history (16+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.48% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.56% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 2.57 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.47% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.18 yrs (bottom quartile).

Edelweiss Liquid Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹13,796 Cr).
  • Established history (18+ yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.47% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.56% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 2.51 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.33% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.17 yrs (upper mid).

BOI AXA Liquid Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,728 Cr).
  • Established history (18+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.46% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.57% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 2.77 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 2.18 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.26% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.12 yrs (top quartile).

DSP Liquidity Fund

  • Lower mid AUM (₹22,962 Cr).
  • Established history (20+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.44% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.56% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 2.50 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.45% (lower mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.18 yrs (lower mid).

Aditya Birla Sun Life Liquid Fund

  • Highest AUM (₹68,800 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (22 yrs).
  • Rating: 4★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.43% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.56% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 2.40 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.49% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.18 yrs (bottom quartile).

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 ₹590.629
↑ 0.48
₹18,1892.13.46.47.37.47.45%5M 26D6M 18D
ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund Growth ₹29.7961
↑ 0.02
₹15,45523.46.377.17.17%5M 8D6M 18D
SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund Growth ₹6,421.59
↑ 4.85
₹11,16523.36.3777%4M 28D8M 5D
Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund Growth ₹4,326.73
↑ 2.92
₹11,6591.93.36.36.86.87.31%5M 18D7M 18D
Invesco India Ultra Short Term Fund Growth ₹2,896.77
↑ 2.22
₹1,07323.46.26.96.87.03%5M 3D5M 7D
Note: Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR basis. as on 2 Sep 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 (₹18,189 Cr).Upper mid AUM (₹15,455 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹11,165 Cr).Lower mid AUM (₹11,659 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,073 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: 6.42% (top quartile).1Y return: 6.35% (upper mid).1Y return: 6.31% (lower mid).1Y return: 6.25% (bottom quartile).1Y return: 6.24% (bottom quartile).
Point 61M return: 0.64% (lower mid).1M return: 0.63% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.65% (upper mid).1M return: 0.62% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.69% (top quartile).
Point 7Sharpe: 0.81 (top quartile).Sharpe: 0.81 (upper mid).Sharpe: 0.71 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 0.72 (lower mid).Sharpe: 0.56 (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): 7.45% (top quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 7.17% (lower mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 7.00% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 7.31% (upper mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 7.03% (bottom quartile).
Point 10Modified duration: 0.49 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.44 yrs (lower mid).Modified duration: 0.41 yrs (top quartile).Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.42 yrs (upper mid).

Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund

  • Highest AUM (₹18,189 Cr).
  • Established history (23+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.42% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.64% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 0.81 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.45% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.49 yrs (bottom quartile).

ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund

  • Upper mid AUM (₹15,455 Cr).
  • Established history (15+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderate.
  • 1Y return: 6.35% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.63% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.81 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.17% (lower mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.44 yrs (lower mid).

SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹11,165 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (27 yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.31% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.65% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 0.71 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.00% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.41 yrs (top quartile).

Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund

  • Lower mid AUM (₹11,659 Cr).
  • Established history (24+ yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.25% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.62% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.72 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.31% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (bottom quartile).

Invesco India Ultra Short Term Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,073 Cr).
  • Established history (15+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Moderate.
  • 1Y return: 6.24% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.69% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.56 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.03% (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 (₹18,189 Cr).
  • Established history (23+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.42% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.64% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.81 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.45% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.49 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Average maturity: 0.55 yrs (top quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Top sector: Financial Services.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~45%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding India (Republic of) (~4.2%).

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 (02 Sep 26) ₹590.629 ↑ 0.48   (0.08 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹18,189 on 31 Jul 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC Birla Sun Life Asset Management Co Ltd
Rating
Risk Moderately Low
Expense Ratio 0.57
Sharpe Ratio 0.81
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 1,000
Min SIP Investment 1,000
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.45%
Effective Maturity 6 Months 18 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 26 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Aug 21₹10,000
31 Aug 22₹10,392
31 Aug 23₹11,106
31 Aug 24₹11,931
31 Aug 25₹12,877
31 Aug 26₹13,697

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 2 Sep 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.6%
3 Month 2.1%
6 Month 3.4%
1 Year 6.4%
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 1412.12 Yr.
Kaustubh Gupta15 Jul 1115.06 Yr.
Monika Gandhi22 Mar 215.36 Yr.

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

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash44.74%
Debt55.26%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate62.79%
Cash Equivalent21.61%
Government15.59%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA33.23%
AAA66.77%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
India (Republic of)
- | -
4%₹846 Cr85,000,000
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development
Domestic Bonds | -
4%₹736 Cr15,300
Shriram Finance Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹532 Cr52,500
Vedanta Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹451 Cr44,500
↑ 12,000
HDFC Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
2%₹447 Cr9,000
↑ 9,000
Bharti Telecom Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹397 Cr40,000
Muthoot Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹324 Cr32,500
↓ -2,500
Mankind Pharma Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹321 Cr32,000
Avanse Financial Services Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹299 Cr30,000
Piramal Finance Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹281 Cr28,000
↓ -500

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 (₹11,659 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (24 yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.25% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.62% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.72 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.31% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (lower mid).
  • Average maturity: 0.63 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Top sector: Financial Services.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~49%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding Tbill (~3.3%).

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 (02 Sep 26) ₹4,326.73 ↑ 2.92   (0.07 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹11,659 on 31 Jul 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC Nippon Life Asset Management Ltd.
Rating
Risk Low
Expense Ratio 1.12
Sharpe Ratio 0.72
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 100
Min SIP Investment 100
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.31%
Effective Maturity 7 Months 18 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 18 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Aug 21₹10,000
31 Aug 22₹10,393
31 Aug 23₹11,057
31 Aug 24₹11,832
31 Aug 25₹12,682
31 Aug 26₹13,469

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 2 Sep 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.6%
3 Month 1.9%
6 Month 3.3%
1 Year 6.3%
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 1312.84 Yr.
Kinjal Desai25 May 188.19 Yr.
Akshay Sharma1 Dec 223.67 Yr.
Amber Singhania11 Mar 260.39 Yr.

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

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash49.18%
Debt50.56%
Other0.26%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate63.53%
Cash Equivalent25.76%
Government10.46%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA32.64%
AAA67.36%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
Tbill
Sovereign Bonds | -
3%₹399 Cr40,000,000
Nirma Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹347 Cr34,600
Vedanta Aluminium Metal Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹291 Cr29,000
↑ 5,000
Aditya Birla Renewables Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹251 Cr25,000
Tbill
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹249 Cr25,000,000
Indian Bank
Domestic Bonds | -
2%₹247 Cr5,000
Indigrid Infrastructure Trust
Debentures | -
2%₹240 Cr2,400
Small Industries Development Bank of India
Debentures | -
2%₹233 Cr5,000
↑ 5,000
Embassy Office Parks Reit
Debentures | -
2%₹200 Cr2,000
HDFC Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
2%₹199 Cr4,000

3. 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 (₹15,708 Cr).
  • Established history (22+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.10% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.60% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.40 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.23% (lower mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.43 yrs (top quartile).
  • Average maturity: 0.56 yrs (lower mid).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Higher exposure to Financial Services vs peer median.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~57%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development (~3.6%).

Below is the key information for Kotak Savings Fund

Kotak Savings Fund
Growth
Launch Date 13 Aug 04
NAV (02 Sep 26) ₹45.9795 ↑ 0.04   (0.08 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹15,708 on 31 Jul 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Co Ltd
Rating
Risk Moderately Low
Expense Ratio 0.81
Sharpe Ratio 0.4
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 5,000
Min SIP Investment 1,000
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.23%
Effective Maturity 6 Months 22 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 5 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Aug 21₹10,000
31 Aug 22₹10,357
31 Aug 23₹11,036
31 Aug 24₹11,807
31 Aug 25₹12,658
31 Aug 26₹13,421

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 ₹200,132.
Net Profit of ₹20,132
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 2 Sep 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.6%
3 Month 2%
6 Month 3.2%
1 Year 6.1%
3 Year 6.8%
5 Year 6.1%
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 Agrawal3 Aug 260 Yr.
Manu Sharma3 Aug 260 Yr.

Data below for Kotak Savings Fund as on 31 Jul 26

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash57.22%
Debt42.48%
Other0.3%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate56.74%
Cash Equivalent23.7%
Government19.27%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA18.26%
AAA81.74%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
4%₹577 Cr57,500
India (Republic of)
- | -
3%₹511 Cr52,490,600
↑ 52,490,600
Tamil Nadu (Government of) 0.0654%
- | -
3%₹448 Cr45,000,000
6.9% Maharashtra Sgs 2030
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹301 Cr30,000,000
Mankind Pharma Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹301 Cr30,000
Muthoot Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹299 Cr30,000
RADHAKRISHNA SECURITISATION TRUST
Unlisted bonds | -
1%₹205 Cr210
Vedanta Aluminium Metal Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹201 Cr20,000
TATA Projects Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹200 Cr20,000
↑ 20,000
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
1%₹200 Cr20,000

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 (₹15,455 Cr).
  • Established history (15+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Moderate.
  • 1Y return: 6.35% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.63% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 0.81 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.17% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.44 yrs (upper mid).
  • Average maturity: 0.55 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 (~84%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding India (Republic of) (~3.1%).

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 (02 Sep 26) ₹29.7961 ↑ 0.02   (0.08 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹15,455 on 31 Jul 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company Limited
Rating
Risk Moderate
Expense Ratio 0.8
Sharpe Ratio 0.81
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 7.17%
Effective Maturity 6 Months 18 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 8 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Aug 21₹10,000
31 Aug 22₹10,380
31 Aug 23₹11,069
31 Aug 24₹11,869
31 Aug 25₹12,755
31 Aug 26₹13,556

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 2 Sep 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.6%
3 Month 2%
6 Month 3.4%
1 Year 6.3%
3 Year 7%
5 Year 6.3%
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 169.71 Yr.
Ritesh Lunawat15 Jun 179.13 Yr.

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

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash83.62%
Debt16.07%
Other0.31%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate61.01%
Cash Equivalent48.58%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA19.81%
AAA80.19%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
India (Republic of)
- | -
3%₹497 Cr50,000,000
Small Industries Development Bank Of India
Debentures | -
2%₹351 Cr35,000
Vedanta Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹343 Cr34,000
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
2%₹326 Cr32,500
6.17% Govt Stock 2028
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹310 Cr30,773,600
India (Republic of)
- | -
2%₹297 Cr30,000,000
RADHAKRISHNA SECURITISATION TRUST
Unlisted bonds | -
2%₹271 Cr275
Muthoot Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹251 Cr25,000
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
2%₹251 Cr25,000
↑ 10,000
AU Small Finance Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
2%₹244 Cr5,000

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 (₹3,444 Cr).
  • Established history (23+ yrs).
  • Rating: 4★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.05% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.64% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 0.35 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.13% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Average maturity: 0.56 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Higher exposure to Financial Services vs peer median.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~56%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding 26/11/2026 Maturing 364 DTB (~5.6%).

Below is the key information for UTI Ultra Short Term Fund

UTI Ultra Short Term Fund
Growth
Launch Date 29 Aug 03
NAV (02 Sep 26) ₹4,542.75 ↑ 3.36   (0.07 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹3,444 on 31 Jul 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC UTI Asset Management Company Ltd
Rating
Risk Moderately Low
Expense Ratio 0.93
Sharpe Ratio 0.35
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 5,000
Min SIP Investment 500
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.13%
Effective Maturity 6 Months 23 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 20 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Aug 21₹10,000
31 Aug 22₹10,623
31 Aug 23₹11,302
31 Aug 24₹12,090
31 Aug 25₹12,952
31 Aug 26₹13,727

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 2 Sep 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.6%
3 Month 1.9%
6 Month 3.3%
1 Year 6%
3 Year 6.7%
5 Year 6.6%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 6.8%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2025 6.6%
2024 7.2%
2023 6.7%
2022 4.2%
2021 6.1%
2020 5.3%
2019 3.3%
2018 7%
2017 6.6%
2016 8.9%
Fund Manager information for UTI Ultra Short Term Fund
NameSinceTenure
Anurag Mittal21 Jul 260.03 Yr.

Data below for UTI Ultra Short Term Fund as on 31 Jul 26

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash56.15%
Debt43.47%
Other0.38%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate65.09%
Government20.3%
Cash Equivalent14.23%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA27.31%
AAA72.69%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
26/11/2026 Maturing 364 DTB
Sovereign Bonds | -
6%₹197 Cr2,000,000,000
Axis Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
4%₹145 Cr1,500,000,000
Godrej Properties Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹100 Cr10,000
Piramal Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹85 Cr8,500
Nuvama Wealth Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹76 Cr7,500
Piramal Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹75 Cr7,500
360 One Prime Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹75 Cr7,500
Poonawalla Fincorp Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹75 Cr7,500
↑ 7,500
Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹73 Cr750,000,000
Aditya Birla Renewables Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹65 Cr6,500

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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