Bonds have a reputation for being the \u201csafe\u201d part of a portfolio, and for good reason. They offer a slew of benefits like predictable returns, lower volatility, and a degree of stability that equity simply cannot. But here\u2019s what most investors fail to take into account until it\u2019s too late: how much of that return actually stays with you post-taxation. Bond taxation in India isn\u2019t too complicated once you get a hang of its structure. But it has enough mechanics\u2014interest income, capital gains, TDS, and differing rules for listed and unlisted bonds\u2014that getting even one detail wrong can cost you over long tenures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n