Shares

This is for individuals who have a penchant for risk. Take a look at some beaten down stocks. Shares like Wipro and Infosys are very close to their 52-week lows.

We keep suggesting a whole lot of shares and you can see some of the broker recommendation on stocks that we have made.

In fact, shares like Wipro and Infosys may not be a bad bet at all.

Systematic Investment Plan

If you are looking at Systematic Investment Plans  or SIPs, we suggest taking a look at the SBI Blue Chip Fund. You can invest small amounts of as little as Rs 500.

This fund has given returns of a phenomenal 28 per cent on an average each year, in the last three years.

This has to be the best in its class and is rated No 1 by Crisil for the period ending June 30, 2016.

PPF

If you require safety with returns, this has to be it. You get tax benefits under Sec 80C of Rs 1.5 lakhs. Apart from this, the interest income is tax free.

The interest rate at 8.1% is much higher than banks who are offering an interest rate of just 7.% per cent. It is guaranteed by the government, so no worries on safety.

It also helps to build money for your retirement.

Company FD

If you are looking at superior interest on Fds that beat bank FD interest rates, try the Bajaj Finserv fixed deposit. You get an interest rate of 8.55 per cent on a 12-17 month deposit. This is a good 1 per cent over and above what banks are offering. Senior citizens are entitled to an extra 0.25 per cent.

Bank Fds

If you are looking at a secure Bank FD, try the Bandhan Bank FD. Bandhan Bank is the newest private sector bank and offers an interest rate of 8.25 per cent for individuals. Senior citizens are entitled to an interest rate of 8.75 per cent.

Government banks are at best offering 7.5 per cent interest.

Gold investment

If you are looking to invest in gold, try the various gold schemes on offer, including the schemes offered by various jewelers. In case you are unhappy, try the Gold ETFs. They are the best for investors in gold, because there are no bank locker charges that you incur, nor is there any worries over theft.

Other post office schemes

If you are looking to invest in other schemes, we suggest you try the various other post office schemes, which offer better returns than bank Fds.