Which type of investment instrument does not have a fixed rate?

Common stocks represent ownership in a company and do not come with a fixed rate of return. Unlike fixed income securities, such as bonds and fixed deposits, which promise a specific return over a defined period, common stocks generate returns primarily through appreciation in share price and dividends, which can vary widely based on the company's performance and market conditions.

The value of common stocks fluctuates significantly due to various factors, including company earnings, investor sentiment, and overall market trends. As a result, the potential return on investment through common stocks is more uncertain and dynamic compared to fixed-rate instruments, making them a more volatile and potentially higher-risk investment choice.

In contrast, fixed deposits, government bonds, and corporate debentures are all examples of fixed income instruments that guarantee a specific return upon maturity or at set intervals, thereby lacking the variability associated with common stocks.