Top Corporate Bonds to Watch in 2025
10 November 2025
Understanding Corporate Bonds
Corporate bonds have emerged as a preferred fixed-income option for investors seeking stable returns with relatively lower risk compared to equities. In 2025, as India’s economy continues to expand and corporate credit profiles strengthen, the demand for high-yield corporate bonds is expected to rise steadily.
This article by BondScanner, a SEBI-registered Online Bond Platform Provider (OBPP), explores some of the top corporate bonds to watch in 2025 and highlights key trends shaping the Indian bond market.
A corporate bond is a debt instrument issued by a company to raise capital for business operations, expansion, or refinancing. In return, the issuer promises to pay investors regular interest (known as the coupon rate) and repay the principal at maturity.
Key terms you should know:
Coupon Rate: The annual interest rate paid on the bond.
Yield: The effective rate of return an investor earns.
Credit Rating: Indicates the issuer’s ability to repay debt; higher ratings suggest lower risk.
Tenure: The time until the bond matures and the principal is repaid.
Corporate bonds are traded both on exchanges and in the over-the-counter market, offering flexibility and liquidity to investors.
Why Corporate Bonds Are Gaining Attention in 2025
Several factors make 2025 an interesting year for corporate bond investors:
Rising Institutional Participation:
Mutual funds, pension funds, and insurance companies are increasingly investing in AAA-rated and AA-rated corporate bonds for steady income.
2. Diversification Benefits:
Corporate bonds offer portfolio diversification, especially for investors balancing equity exposure with fixed-income securities.
3. Policy Stability and Inflation Moderation:
With the RBI maintaining a calibrated monetary policy, the interest rate environment has stabilized, making long-duration bonds more attractive.
4. Technological Accessibility:
Platforms like BondScanner make bond investing transparent, enabling retail investors to explore bonds directly with verified issuers.
Balancing Risk with Expected Return
| Investment Type | Risk Level | Return Potential (Annualized) | Liquidity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed Deposits | Low | 5–7% | High |
| Listed Bonds | Moderate | 7–9% | Medium |
| Invoice Discounting | Moderate | 9–12% | Moderate |
| Private Debt / NCDs | Moderate to High | 10–14% | Low to Medium |
| Structured Debt / Credit | High | 12–16%+ | Low |
How to Buy Corporate Bonds in India
Investors can buy corporate bonds in India through multiple channels:
Online Bond Platforms :
Registered OBPPs (Online Bond Platform Providers) like facilitate transparent and exchange-based bond transactions.
Stock Exchanges (NSE/BSE):
Listed corporate bonds can be purchased directly via your demat account through exchange platforms.
Mutual Funds:
Investors who prefer diversification and professional management can invest through corporate bond mutual funds.
Direct Placement:
Accredited investors may also participate in private placements, typically for higher-ticket investments.
Corporate Bonds vs. Corporate Bond Funds
| Parameter | Corporate Bonds | Corporate Bond Funds |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Direct ownership of specific bonds | Pooled investment managed by a fund manager |
| Returns | Fixed coupon payments | Variable, depending on fund portfolio |
| Liquidity | Moderate (exchange-traded or OTC) | High (redeemable daily in most cases) |
| Control | Investor chooses issuer and tenure | Fund manager decides asset allocation |
Key Trends to Watch in 2025
Sustainable and Green Bonds:
Growing investor interest in ESG-compliant bonds is driving the issuance of green and sustainable corporate bonds.
Higher Yield Offerings from NBFCs:
Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) may continue offering slightly higher yields to attract investors.
Improved Credit Outlook:
With India’s improving credit environment, more issuers are expected to achieve upgraded credit ratings, enhancing bond market stability.
Rising Retail Participation:
Online Platforms enabling more individual investors to participate in India’s bond market seamlessly.
Risks Involved in Corporate Bonds
While corporate bonds are relatively stable, investors should be aware of potential risks:
Credit Risk: The issuer may default on interest or principal payments.
Interest Rate Risk: Bond prices may fall if interest rates rise.
Liquidity Risk: Certain bonds may not have an active secondary market.
Reinvestment Risk: Coupons received may have to be reinvested at lower rates.
Understanding these risks helps investors align their expectations and choose bonds wisely.
Conclusion
Corporate bonds continue to play a pivotal role in India’s evolving financial landscape. With the right understanding of credit risk, yield, and issuer credibility, investors can diversify their portfolios effectively.
Platforms like BondScanner enhance transparency and accessibility, helping investors make informed decisions in the corporate bond market without intermediaries.
Disclaimer
This blog is intended solely for educational and informational purposes. The bonds and securities mentioned herein are illustrative examples and should not be construed as investment advice or personal recommendations. BondScanner, as a SEBI-registered Online Bond Platform Provider (OBPP), does not provide personalized investment advice through this content.
Readers are advised to independently evaluate investment options and seek professional guidance before making financial decisions. Investments in bonds and other securities are subject to market risks, including the possible loss of principal. Please read all offer documents and risk disclosures carefully before investing.