As one of the most common savings and investment options used by individuals, fixed deposits are risk free and offer guaranteed returns. Fixed deposits provide investors with an interest rate that is higher than what is offered on normal savings accounts. The maturity value of a fixed deposit is based on the date of maturity chosen by the individual. Individuals opt for fixed deposits as they are not risky and also provide assured returns, even if these returns are not very high such as those provided by mutual investments and equities.