The distinct features of CDs are:
- CD is a document of title to a time deposit and is distinct from conventional time deposit with respect to negotiability and marketability.
- CDs are considered as virtually riskless instruments as the default risk is almost nil, and investors are sure of receiving the invested amount with interest.
- The liquidity and marketability features are considered as the hallmarks of CDs.
- CDs are issued at a discount to face value.
- CDs are maturity-dated obligations of banks forming a part of time liabilities, and are subjected to usual reserve requirements.
- CDs may be either registered or in a bearer form. The latter form, however, is considered better for secondary market operations.
- CDs attract stamp duty and there is no grace period, as in the case of bill financing.
- CDs are freely transferable by endorsement and delivery.
- The CDs issued are within the limit as specified by Reserve Bank of India.
- CDs are also issued in demat forms only. Only the request of Investors they can be issued in physical form.
- CDs held in the demat form can be transferred as per the procedure applicable to other demat securities.
- The trade settlement will take place on T + 1 day basis; however, the settlement period will be subject to the ceiling of T + 5 days or such period of settlement as specified by the exchanges, whenever the trade is done on a recognized stock exchange.