Finance Ministry Notifies Zero Coupon Bond (ZCB) for Power Finance Corporation

The Finance Ministry has notified the issuance of Zero Coupon Bonds (ZCBs) by Power Finance Corporation (PFC). The company has been authorized to raise up to ₹10,000 crore through these bonds, which will be issued at a discount and redeemed at full face value upon maturity.

What is a Zero Coupon Bond (ZCB)?

A Zero Coupon Bond (ZCB) is a financial instrument that does not pay periodic interest (coupon) during its tenure. Instead, it is issued at a discount and redeemed at its face value upon maturity. The difference between the issue price and face value represents the return for investors.

Key Features of PFC’s Zero Coupon Bond

• Issuance and Maturity: These bonds will be issued on or before March 31, 2027, with a maturity period of 121 months (10 years and 1 month).
• Discounted Issue Price: The bonds will be issued at ₹50,454 per unit, with a face value of ₹1 lakh at maturity.
• Number of Bonds: The total issuance has been capped at 10 lakh bonds.
• Fixed Returns: If held until maturity, the investor will receive ₹1 lakh per bond.

Who Should Invest in Zero Coupon Bonds?

These bonds are designed for long-term investors who seek a lump sum payout at maturity rather than periodic interest payments. They are ideal for:

• Investors planning for future financial obligations like children’s education, marriage, or retirement.
• Conservative investors who prefer low-risk investments over equities or variable-rate bonds.
• Portfolio diversification, as adding ZCBs can help balance a high-growth investment portfolio with a guaranteed return.

Advantages of Investing in Zero Coupon Bonds

1. Guaranteed Returns: Since the bonds are issued at a discount and redeemed at full-face value, investors can secure a fixed return over a definite period.
2. Lower Risk than Equities: Unlike stocks or variable-rate bonds, ZCBs provide stable returns if held till maturity.
3. Diversification: Investors with growth-oriented portfolios can use ZCBs to add a low-risk, fixed-income element to their investments.
4. Tax Benefits on Long-Term Holding: If held for more than 12 months, the gains attract a long-term capital gains tax (LTCG) of 12.5%, which is lower than many other investment options.

Risks Associated with Zero Coupon Bonds

1. Interest Rate Risk: The value of ZCBs is inversely related to interest rates. If interest rates rise, the demand for previously issued bonds decreases, potentially affecting resale value.
2. Duration Risk: Since ZCBs have long maturity periods, their price is highly sensitive to changes in interest rates. A 1% change in interest rates can lead to a significant price fluctuation.
3. Liquidity Risk: If an investor needs to sell the bond before maturity, they may not get the expected return due to market price fluctuations.

Tax Implications of Zero Coupon Bonds

• Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG): If sold before 12 months, the gains will be taxed as per the bondholder’s income tax slab.
• Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG): If held beyond 12 months, the gains will attract a 12.5% tax rate, which is lower than STCG taxes.

Summary of Zero Coupon Bond Issuance by Power Finance Corporation

LTCG (if held for more than 12 months): 12.5% tax rate. | | Advantages | Guaranteed returns, low risk, portfolio diversification, and tax benefits. | | Risks | Interest rate risk, duration risk, and liquidity risk. |