The biggest misconception about FDs is that they are "safe." While your principal amount is protected, your purchasing power is often at risk. This is due to Inflation.

If an FD offers 7% interest but inflation is at 6%, your real gain is only 1%. After you factor in income tax on that interest, you might actually be losing money in real terms. Investing (in equities or gold) aims for returns that significantly outpace inflation, allowing your wealth to actually grow rather than just "keep pace." Investing is the difference between surviving the future and owning it.