Are fixed deposits still worth it for a founder?

Yes, for the right job: safety and certainty, not growth. A fixed deposit gives a guaranteed return and easy access, which makes it a fine home for part of your emergency fund or money you know you will need on a set date. Its weaknesses are that the returns are modest and fully taxable, so over long periods inflation and tax eat much of the gain. The sensible use is to keep short-term, must-not-lose money safe and liquid, split across a sweep account, FDs, and a liquid or short debt fund, and to let your long-term money work harder elsewhere. Do not park your whole net worth in FDs out of fear, and do not chase yield with money you cannot afford to risk.