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Ultra Short Term Funds Vs Liquid Funds

Updated on February 19, 2026 , 29884 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 ₹3,122.57
↑ 0.51
₹1,8430.61.536.46.66.42%1M 2D1M 2D
Axis Liquid Fund Growth ₹3,017.3
↑ 0.55
₹39,0280.61.536.46.66.5%27D30D
Edelweiss Liquid Fund Growth ₹3,465.36
↑ 0.61
₹10,1250.61.536.46.56.42%1M 1D1M 1D
UTI Liquid Cash Plan Growth ₹4,445.08
↑ 0.81
₹31,3340.61.536.46.56.51%1M 3D1M 3D
Tata Liquid Fund Growth ₹4,267.1
↑ 0.80
₹30,6260.51.52.96.46.56.08%1M 28D1M 28D
Note: Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR basis. as on 22 Feb 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 (₹1,843 Cr).Highest AUM (₹39,028 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹10,125 Cr).Upper mid AUM (₹31,334 Cr).Lower mid AUM (₹30,626 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: 6.40% (top quartile).1Y return: 6.38% (upper mid).1Y return: 6.37% (lower mid).1Y return: 6.36% (bottom quartile).1Y return: 6.35% (bottom quartile).
Point 61M return: 0.56% (top quartile).1M return: 0.56% (upper mid).1M return: 0.56% (lower mid).1M return: 0.55% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.55% (bottom quartile).
Point 7Sharpe: 3.73 (top quartile).Sharpe: 3.16 (lower mid).Sharpe: 3.25 (upper mid).Sharpe: 3.00 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 2.93 (bottom quartile).
Point 8Information ratio: 1.44 (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): 6.42% (lower mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.50% (upper mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.42% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.51% (top quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.08% (bottom quartile).
Point 10Modified duration: 0.09 yrs (lower mid).Modified duration: 0.07 yrs (top quartile).Modified duration: 0.09 yrs (upper mid).Modified duration: 0.09 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.16 yrs (bottom quartile).

BOI AXA Liquid Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹1,843 Cr).
  • Established history (17+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.40% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.56% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 3.73 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 1.44 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.42% (lower mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.09 yrs (lower mid).

Axis Liquid Fund

  • Highest AUM (₹39,028 Cr).
  • Established history (16+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.38% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.56% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 3.16 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.50% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.07 yrs (top quartile).

Edelweiss Liquid Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹10,125 Cr).
  • Established history (18+ yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.37% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.56% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 3.25 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.42% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.09 yrs (upper mid).

UTI Liquid Cash Plan

  • Upper mid AUM (₹31,334 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (22 yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.36% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.55% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 3.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.51% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.09 yrs (bottom quartile).

Tata Liquid Fund

  • Lower mid AUM (₹30,626 Cr).
  • Established history (21+ yrs).
  • Rating: 4★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.35% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.55% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 2.93 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.08% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.16 yrs (bottom quartile).

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 ₹570.457
↑ 0.16
₹22,8571.337.17.47.46.81%5M 19D6M 11D
ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund Growth ₹28.7812
↑ 0.01
₹17,8081.32.96.97.17.17.31%5M 5D6M 11D
SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund Growth ₹6,205.06
↑ 1.59
₹14,0321.42.96.87.176.99%4M 20D6M 7D
Kotak Savings Fund Growth ₹44.4877
↑ 0.01
₹16,7881.32.86.66.96.87.12%5M 16D6M 11D
Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund Growth ₹4,180.44
↑ 0.79
₹10,4881.42.86.66.96.87.06%5M 28D8M 3D
Note: Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR basis. as on 20 Feb 26

Research Highlights & Commentary of 5 Funds showcased

CommentaryAditya Birla Sun Life Savings FundICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term FundSBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration FundKotak Savings FundNippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund
Point 1Highest AUM (₹22,857 Cr).Upper mid AUM (₹17,808 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹14,032 Cr).Lower mid AUM (₹16,788 Cr).Bottom quartile AUM (₹10,488 Cr).
Point 2Established history (22+ yrs).Established history (14+ yrs).Oldest track record among peers (26 yrs).Established history (21+ yrs).Established history (24+ yrs).
Point 3Top rated.Rating: 3★ (upper mid).Rating: 3★ (lower mid).Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
Point 4Risk profile: Moderately Low.Risk profile: Moderate.Risk profile: Low.Risk profile: Moderately Low.Risk profile: Low.
Point 51Y return: 7.15% (top quartile).1Y return: 6.87% (upper mid).1Y return: 6.75% (lower mid).1Y return: 6.65% (bottom quartile).1Y return: 6.60% (bottom quartile).
Point 61M return: 0.66% (top quartile).1M return: 0.61% (lower mid).1M return: 0.58% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.61% (bottom quartile).1M return: 0.63% (upper mid).
Point 7Sharpe: 2.17 (top quartile).Sharpe: 2.06 (lower mid).Sharpe: 2.11 (upper mid).Sharpe: 1.52 (bottom quartile).Sharpe: 1.65 (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% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 7.31% (top quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 6.99% (bottom quartile).Yield to maturity (debt): 7.12% (upper mid).Yield to maturity (debt): 7.06% (lower mid).
Point 10Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (bottom quartile).Modified duration: 0.43 yrs (upper mid).Modified duration: 0.39 yrs (top quartile).Modified duration: 0.46 yrs (lower mid).Modified duration: 0.49 yrs (bottom quartile).

Aditya Birla Sun Life Savings Fund

  • Highest AUM (₹22,857 Cr).
  • Established history (22+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 7.15% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.66% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 2.17 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.81% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.47 yrs (bottom quartile).

ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund

  • Upper mid AUM (₹17,808 Cr).
  • Established history (14+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderate.
  • 1Y return: 6.87% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.61% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 2.06 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.31% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.43 yrs (upper mid).

SBI Magnum Ultra Short Duration Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹14,032 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (26 yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.75% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.58% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 2.11 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 6.99% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.39 yrs (top quartile).

Kotak Savings Fund

  • Lower mid AUM (₹16,788 Cr).
  • Established history (21+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.65% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.61% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 1.52 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.12% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.46 yrs (lower mid).

Nippon India Ultra Short Duration Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹10,488 Cr).
  • Established history (24+ yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.60% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.63% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 1.65 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.06% (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. DSP Money Manager Fund

"The primary investment objective of the Scheme is to seek to generate reasonable returns commensurate with low risk and a high degree of liquidity, from a portfolio constituted of money market securities and high quality debt securities. However, there can be no assurance that the investment objective of the Scheme will be realized."

Research Highlights for DSP Money Manager Fund

  • Bottom quartile AUM (₹3,547 Cr).
  • Established history (19+ yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.41% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.57% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 0.90 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (top quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.36% (top quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.45 yrs (lower mid).
  • Average maturity: 0.62 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Higher exposure to Corporate (bond sector) vs peer median.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~51%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development (~5.0%).

Below is the key information for DSP Money Manager Fund

DSP Money Manager Fund
Growth
Launch Date 31 Jul 06
NAV (20 Feb 26) ₹3,524.95 ↑ 1.00   (0.03 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹3,547 on 31 Jan 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC DSP BlackRock Invmt Managers Pvt. Ltd.
Rating
Risk Moderately Low
Expense Ratio 1.02
Sharpe Ratio 0.9
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 1,000
Min SIP Investment 500
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.36%
Effective Maturity 7 Months 13 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 12 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Jan 21₹10,000
31 Jan 22₹10,306
31 Jan 23₹10,747
31 Jan 24₹11,473
31 Jan 25₹12,266
31 Jan 26₹13,049

DSP Money Manager 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 DSP Money Manager Fund

Returns up to 1 year are on absolute basis & more than 1 year are on CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) basis. as on 20 Feb 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.6%
3 Month 1.2%
6 Month 2.6%
1 Year 6.4%
3 Year 6.7%
5 Year 5.5%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 6.7%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2024 6.7%
2023 6.9%
2022 6.7%
2021 4.1%
2020 2.9%
2019 4.7%
2018 7.3%
2017 5%
2016 6%
2015 7.5%
Fund Manager information for DSP Money Manager Fund
NameSinceTenure
Karan Mundhra31 May 214.67 Yr.
Shalini Vasanta1 Jan 251.08 Yr.

Data below for DSP Money Manager Fund as on 31 Jan 26

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash50.56%
Debt48.98%
Other0.46%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate67.98%
Cash Equivalent20.14%
Government11.42%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA19.85%
AAA80.15%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
5%₹176 Cr17,000
5.63% Gs 2026
Sovereign Bonds | -
5%₹163 Cr16,000,000
↓ -1,500,000
Godrej Properties Limited
Debentures | -
4%₹131 Cr12,500
Piramal Finance Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹103 Cr10,000
Aadhar Housing Finance Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹103 Cr9,700
Aditya Birla Renewables Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹78 Cr7,500
Rec Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹77 Cr7,500
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
2%₹77 Cr7,500
National Housing Bank
Debentures | -
1%₹52 Cr5,000
Cholamandalam Investment And Finance Company Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹52 Cr5,000

2. 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

  • Highest AUM (₹17,808 Cr).
  • Established history (14+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (upper mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderate.
  • 1Y return: 6.87% (top quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.61% (upper mid).
  • Sharpe: 2.06 (top quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (upper mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.31% (upper mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.43 yrs (upper mid).
  • 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 (~79%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding RADHAKRISHNA SECURITISATION TRUST (~2.5%).

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 (20 Feb 26) ₹28.7812 ↑ 0.01   (0.03 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹17,808 on 31 Jan 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC ICICI Prudential Asset Management Company Limited
Rating
Risk Moderate
Expense Ratio 0.8
Sharpe Ratio 2.06
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 7.31%
Effective Maturity 6 Months 11 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 5 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Jan 21₹10,000
31 Jan 22₹10,412
31 Jan 23₹10,907
31 Jan 24₹11,672
31 Jan 25₹12,538
31 Jan 26₹13,391

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 20 Feb 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.6%
3 Month 1.3%
6 Month 2.9%
1 Year 6.9%
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 169.22 Yr.
Ritesh Lunawat15 Jun 178.64 Yr.

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

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash79.06%
Debt20.67%
Other0.27%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate57.59%
Cash Equivalent51.73%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA17.57%
AAA82.43%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
RADHAKRISHNA SECURITISATION TRUST
Unlisted bonds | -
3%₹450 Cr450
Vedanta Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹351 Cr35,000
Goi Floating Rate Bond 2028
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹311 Cr30,843,000
Muthoot Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹303 Cr30,000
Axis Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
2%₹281 Cr6,000
Piramal Finance Limited
Debentures | -
1%₹247 Cr24,500
↓ -3,000
Bank of Baroda
Debentures | -
1%₹235 Cr5,000
AU Small Finance Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
1%₹234 Cr5,000
Indusind Bank Ltd.
Debentures | -
1%₹233 Cr5,000
↑ 5,000
LIC Housing Finance Ltd
Debentures | -
1%₹225 Cr2,250

3. 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 (₹3,751 Cr).
  • Established history (22+ yrs).
  • Top rated.
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.42% (bottom quartile).
  • 1M return: 0.57% (bottom quartile).
  • Sharpe: 1.15 (bottom quartile).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (lower mid).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.21% (lower mid).
  • Modified duration: 0.41 yrs (top quartile).
  • Average maturity: 0.50 yrs (top quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Higher exposure to Financial Services vs peer median.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~58%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding 18/06/2026 Maturing 182 DTB (~7.6%).

Below is the key information for UTI Ultra Short Term Fund

UTI Ultra Short Term Fund
Growth
Launch Date 29 Aug 03
NAV (20 Feb 26) ₹4,393.05 ↑ 1.28   (0.03 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹3,751 on 15 Feb 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC UTI Asset Management Company Ltd
Rating
Risk Moderately Low
Expense Ratio 0.93
Sharpe Ratio 1.15
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 5,000
Min SIP Investment 500
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.21%
Effective Maturity 5 Months 30 Days
Modified Duration 4 Months 29 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Jan 21₹10,000
31 Jan 22₹10,616
31 Jan 23₹11,089
31 Jan 24₹11,847
31 Jan 25₹12,696
31 Jan 26₹13,505

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 20 Feb 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.6%
3 Month 1.3%
6 Month 2.7%
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 250.23 Yr.

Data below for UTI Ultra Short Term Fund as on 15 Feb 26

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash58.29%
Debt41.38%
Other0.33%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate53.14%
Cash Equivalent33.69%
Government12.84%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AAA100%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
18/06/2026 Maturing 182 DTB
Sovereign Bonds | -
8%₹294 Cr3,000,000,000
↑ 3,000,000,000
09/04/2026 Maturing 182 DTB
Sovereign Bonds | -
4%₹149 Cr1,500,000,000
Shriram Finance Limited
Debentures | -
3%₹100 Cr10,000
DBS Bank India Ltd.
Debentures | -
3%₹100 Cr1,000,000,000
Piramal Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹86 Cr8,500
Piramal Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹75 Cr7,500
TATA Communications Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹75 Cr7,500
↓ -2,500
Canara Bank
Domestic Bonds | -
2%₹75 Cr750,000,000
Indian Bank
Domestic Bonds | -
2%₹74 Cr750,000,000
Aditya Birla Renewables Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹65 Cr6,500

4. 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 (₹16,788 Cr).
  • Established history (21+ yrs).
  • Rating: 3★ (lower mid).
  • Risk profile: Moderately Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.65% (upper mid).
  • 1M return: 0.61% (lower mid).
  • Sharpe: 1.52 (lower mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.12% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.46 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Average maturity: 0.53 yrs (lower mid).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Higher exposure to Financial Services vs peer median.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~61%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding Bajaj Housing Finance Limited (~3.8%).

Below is the key information for Kotak Savings Fund

Kotak Savings Fund
Growth
Launch Date 13 Aug 04
NAV (20 Feb 26) ₹44.4877 ↑ 0.01   (0.02 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹16,788 on 31 Jan 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Co Ltd
Rating
Risk Moderately Low
Expense Ratio 0.81
Sharpe Ratio 1.52
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 5,000
Min SIP Investment 1,000
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.12%
Effective Maturity 6 Months 11 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 16 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Jan 21₹10,000
31 Jan 22₹10,339
31 Jan 23₹10,818
31 Jan 24₹11,564
31 Jan 25₹12,397
31 Jan 26₹13,212

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 20 Feb 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.6%
3 Month 1.3%
6 Month 2.8%
1 Year 6.6%
3 Year 6.9%
5 Year 5.8%
10 Year
15 Year
Since launch 7.2%
Historical performance (Yearly) on absolute basis
YearReturns
2024 6.8%
2023 7.2%
2022 6.8%
2021 4.5%
2020 3.2%
2019 5.8%
2018 7.8%
2017 7.4%
2016 6.7%
2015 8.2%
Fund Manager information for Kotak Savings Fund
NameSinceTenure
Deepak Agrawal15 Apr 0817.81 Yr.
Manu Sharma1 Nov 223.25 Yr.

Data below for Kotak Savings Fund as on 31 Jan 26

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash60.85%
Debt38.88%
Other0.27%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate45.7%
Cash Equivalent41.32%
Government12.71%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA14.16%
AAA85.84%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
Bajaj Housing Finance Limited
Debentures | -
4%₹642 Cr6,420
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
3%₹578 Cr57,500
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
3%₹571 Cr57,050
Rec Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹400 Cr40,000
↓ -7,500
19/03/2026 Maturing 364 DTB
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹308 Cr31,000,000
Mankind Pharma Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹301 Cr30,000
21/05/2026 Maturing 364 DTB
Sovereign Bonds | -
1%₹246 Cr25,000,000
Bank of Baroda
Debentures | -
1%₹245 Cr25,000
Goi Floating Rate Bond 2028
Sovereign Bonds | -
1%₹227 Cr22,500,000
RADHAKRISHNA SECURITISATION TRUST
Unlisted bonds | -
1%₹209 Cr210

5. 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

  • Lower mid AUM (₹10,488 Cr).
  • Oldest track record among peers (24 yrs).
  • Rating: 2★ (bottom quartile).
  • Risk profile: Low.
  • 1Y return: 6.60% (lower mid).
  • 1M return: 0.63% (top quartile).
  • Sharpe: 1.65 (upper mid).
  • Information ratio: 0.00 (bottom quartile).
  • Yield to maturity (debt): 7.06% (bottom quartile).
  • Modified duration: 0.49 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Average maturity: 0.67 yrs (bottom quartile).
  • Exit load: NIL.
  • Top sector: Financial Services.
  • Top bond sector: Corporate.
  • Conservative stance with elevated cash (~48%).
  • High-quality debt (AAA/AA ~100%).
  • Largest holding 26/03/2026 Maturing 182 DTB (~2.8%).

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 (20 Feb 26) ₹4,180.44 ↑ 0.79   (0.02 %)
Net Assets (Cr) ₹10,488 on 31 Jan 26
Category Debt - Ultrashort Bond
AMC Nippon Life Asset Management Ltd.
Rating
Risk Low
Expense Ratio 1.12
Sharpe Ratio 1.65
Information Ratio 0
Alpha Ratio 0
Min Investment 100
Min SIP Investment 100
Exit Load NIL
Yield to Maturity 7.06%
Effective Maturity 8 Months 3 Days
Modified Duration 5 Months 28 Days

Growth of 10,000 investment over the years.

DateValue
31 Jan 21₹10,000
31 Jan 22₹10,797
31 Jan 23₹11,304
31 Jan 24₹12,070
31 Jan 25₹12,941
31 Jan 26₹13,788

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 20 Feb 26

DurationReturns
1 Month 0.6%
3 Month 1.4%
6 Month 2.8%
1 Year 6.6%
3 Year 6.9%
5 Year 6.7%
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 1312.34 Yr.
Kinjal Desai25 May 187.69 Yr.
Akshay Sharma1 Dec 223.17 Yr.
Lokesh Maru5 Sep 250.41 Yr.
Divya Sharma5 Sep 250.41 Yr.

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

Asset Allocation
Asset ClassValue
Cash47.86%
Debt51.84%
Other0.29%
Debt Sector Allocation
SectorValue
Corporate57.79%
Cash Equivalent38.01%
Government3.19%
Securitized0.72%
Credit Quality
RatingValue
AA28.52%
AAA71.48%
Top Securities Holdings / Portfolio
NameHoldingValueQuantity
26/03/2026 Maturing 182 DTB
Sovereign Bonds | -
3%₹298 Cr30,000,000
↑ 30,000,000
National Bank For Agriculture And Rural Development
Debentures | -
3%₹285 Cr28,500
↓ -20,000
JSW Energy Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹250 Cr25,000
16/04/2026 Maturing 182 DTB
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹247 Cr25,000,000
Vedanta Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹241 Cr24,000
TATA Communications Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹225 Cr22,500
30/04/2026 Maturing 182 DTB
Sovereign Bonds | -
2%₹212 Cr21,500,000
↑ 21,500,000
Aadhar Housing Finance Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹200 Cr20,000
Rec Limited
Debentures | -
2%₹200 Cr20,000
↑ 20,000
Embassy Office Parks Reit
Debentures | -
2%₹200 Cr2,000

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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