Wealthy Mindset

Tag: returns

  • Weekly vs Monthly vs Quarterly SIPs: Which is the Best Option for Indian Mutual Funds?

    Investing in mutual funds through a systematic investment plan (SIP) is a popular way for many Indians to grow their money over time. One of the key decisions an investor needs to make when starting an SIP is the frequency of the investment – weekly, monthly, or quarterly. While all three options have the potential to provide similar returns over a long-term period, some investors wonder if one frequency is better than the other. Specifically, the question of whether weekly SIPs fair better compared to monthly or quarterly SIPs is a common one.

    To answer this question, let’s take a look at the returns of a few popular mutual funds over a 10-year period, with all three options of weekly, monthly, and quarterly SIPs. The HDFC Equity Fund, a popular equity-oriented mutual fund, has provided an annualized return of 14.03% over the past 10 years for a monthly SIP, 14.17% for a quarterly SIP, and 14.26% for a weekly SIP. Similarly, the ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund, another popular equity-oriented mutual fund, has provided an annualized return of 13.65% over the past 10 years for a monthly SIP, 13.74% for a quarterly SIP, and 13.83% for a weekly SIP.

    These examples indicate that over a 10-year period, there is not much difference between the returns provided by weekly, monthly, and quarterly SIPs in the case of these mutual funds. While weekly SIPs have slightly better returns than monthly or quarterly SIPs, the difference is not significant enough to make one frequency a clear winner over the others.

    It’s important to note that mutual fund returns are not guaranteed and depend on various factors such as the performance of the fund, market conditions, and the investor’s risk appetite. Additionally, the difference in returns between the different frequencies may vary depending on the mutual fund and the period of investment.

    It’s also worth noting that the returns between different frequencies of SIPs can also be affected by the timing of the investment. Investing at the right time can have a significant impact on returns, regardless of the frequency of the SIP. This is why it’s important to have a long-term perspective when investing in mutual funds and not to get too fixated on short-term returns.

    Another important factor to consider when choosing between weekly, monthly, or quarterly SIPs is the amount of money you can comfortably invest at each interval. If you can only afford to invest a small amount of money at each interval, weekly SIPs may be a better option as they allow you to start small and gradually increase your investment as you get more comfortable. On the other hand, if you have a lump sum amount of money to invest, a quarterly SIP may be more suitable.

    In summary, the frequency of SIPs you choose does not have a significant impact on the returns you can expect to receive over a long-term period. It’s important to choose the frequency that aligns best with your personal preferences and financial situation, and to have a long-term perspective when investing in mutual funds. It’s also important to consider timing of the investment and the amount of money you can afford to invest at each interval.

  • Fixed Deposits vs Treasury and Corporate Bonds: Which is the Better Investment for Indian Investors?

    When it comes to investing, fixed deposits (FDs) are often considered a safe and reliable option. However, there are other investment options available, such as treasury and corporate bonds, that can offer higher returns with an acceptable level of risk. In this article, we will take a closer look at fixed deposits, treasury bonds, and corporate bonds, comparing their returns, risks, tenure, and ticket size, so you can make an informed decision about which option is best for you.

    First, let’s take a look at fixed deposits. FDs are offered by banks and financial institutions and are considered one of the safest forms of investment. They offer a fixed rate of interest for a specific period of time, typically ranging from one to five years. The interest rate is usually higher than a savings account, and the deposit is insured by the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation. One of the main downsides of FDs is that they offer relatively low returns compared to other investment options.

    Next, let’s consider treasury bonds. These are debt securities issued by the government and are considered relatively safe because they are backed by the government. The tenure of these bonds ranges from 5 years to 40 years. Treasury bonds offer higher returns than fixed deposits and are considered safer than corporate bonds. They are also very liquid in nature, which means they can be easily bought and sold in the secondary market. However, the process of buying and selling can be complicated for retail investors who do not have a lot of experience.

    Finally, let’s look at corporate bonds. These are debt securities issued by companies to raise funds. The returns on these bonds are generally higher than fixed deposits and treasury bonds, but the risk is also higher because the company’s creditworthiness is a major factor in determining the bond’s value. Corporate bonds have a tenure between 3-10 years. These bonds are generally less liquid than treasury bonds and the process of buying and selling is also less simple.

    Retail investors can invest in treasury and corporate bonds through their banks, the NSE and BSE or through Mutual Funds that invest in bonds. It’s important to note that investors should conduct proper research and due diligence before investing in any bonds and it is recommended to consult a financial advisor to help them make a decision.

    It’s important to remember that when it comes to investing, each option has its own set of pros and cons and investors need to carefully weigh the risks and rewards before making a decision. While fixed deposits are a safe option with guaranteed returns, they may not offer the same level of returns as treasury or corporate bonds. However, it’s also important to consider one’s risk appetite and financial goals while choosing between bonds, fixed deposits and other options.

  • How to Invest in REITs in India: A Beginner’s Guide

    Real estate investment trusts (REITs) are a popular investment option for those looking to diversify their portfolio and potentially earn income through real estate ownership. However, like any investment, REITs come with their own set of risks and rewards.

    One of the major benefits of investing in REITs is the potential for passive income. REITs generate income through the rental of properties, which is then distributed to shareholders as dividends. This can be a particularly attractive option for those looking to supplement their income or for those who are unable to directly invest in physical real estate due to time or financial constraints.

    REITs also offer the potential for diversification within a portfolio, as they provide exposure to a variety of real estate sectors such as commercial, residential, and industrial. This can help to spread out risk and potentially provide a buffer against market volatility.

    However, it is important to note that REITs are subject to the same market forces as any other investment, and their value can fluctuate based on economic conditions and the performance of the underlying properties. In addition, REITs may carry higher fees than other investment options, as they are required to pay out a certain percentage of their profits to shareholders in the form of dividends.

    In India, REITs can be purchased through a broker or directly from the stock exchange. It is important to do thorough research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

    In terms of returns, REITs have historically performed well in India, with an average annual return of around 15% over the past decade. However, past performance is not indicative of future returns, and it is important to be aware of the risks involved.

    REITs also have specific tax implications in India, as the dividends received from REITs are taxed as ordinary income rather than qualified dividends. It is important to be aware of these tax implications and to consult with a financial advisor or tax professional to ensure that REITs are the right investment option for your individual situation.

    One potential pitfall to watch out for when investing in REITs is the potential for conflicts of interest between the REIT management and the shareholders. It is important to do thorough research on the management team and to ensure that their interests are aligned with those of the shareholders.

    Overall, REITs can be a viable option for those looking to earn passive income and diversify their portfolio, but it is important to be aware of the risks and to do thorough research before making any investment decisions.

  • Exploring Non-Equity Alternatives to Fixed Deposits (FDs) in India

    Fixed deposits (FDs) have long been a popular investment option in India due to their perceived safety and steady returns. However, it is important to note that FDs are not completely risk-free and there are several potential risks associated with this investment option.

    One risk is bank failure, where the bank is unable to meet its financial obligations and is unable to return the invested amount to the depositor. While depositors are covered by the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC) for up to INR 5 lakh per bank, it is still a risk that must be considered, especially for small banks that may not have the financial stability of larger banks.

    Another risk is the impact of taxes on FD returns. FDs offer tax-free returns for investments up to INR 5 lakh per financial year, but the returns may be subject to tax for higher amounts. This can significantly impact the overall returns from FDs and may result in lower post-tax returns.

    In light of these risks, it is important to consider alternative investment options that may offer potentially higher returns with varying levels of risk. Some options include corporate bonds, debt mutual funds, liquid mutual funds, treasury bonds, Public Provident Fund (PPF), National Savings Certificate (NSC), Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PPVVY), and Senior Citizens Saving Schemes.

    Corporate bonds are debt instruments issued by companies to raise capital, and offer higher returns than FDs with an average interest rate of around 8-9% per annum. However, there is a higher risk associated with corporate bonds as the issuer may default on their payments. It is important to do thorough research and invest in bonds of reputable companies with good credit ratings to minimize this risk.

    Debt mutual funds invest in a variety of fixed income securities such as corporate bonds, government securities, and money market instruments, and offer potentially higher returns than FDs. However, they also carry a higher level of risk as they are subject to market fluctuations and the credit risk of the underlying securities.

    Liquid mutual funds, also known as money market funds, invest in short-term debt instruments such as commercial papers, certificates of deposit, and treasury bills. These funds offer relatively lower returns than FDs, but also carry a lower level of risk as they invest in highly liquid and low-risk instruments.

    Treasury bonds, also known as government securities, are issued by the government and offer relatively lower returns than FDs but carry a very low level of risk.

    PPF, NSC, and PPVVY are government-backed investment options that offer tax-free returns and a higher level of safety compared to FDs. However, they also have certain drawbacks or limitations such as fixed tenure and restrictions on withdrawal.

    Senior Citizens Saving Schemes are specifically designed for senior citizens and offer higher returns than FDs, but also have a fixed tenure and restrictions on withdrawal.

    When comparing FD returns with these alternatives, it is important to consider the risk, drawbacks, and limitations associated with each option. It is advisable to consult a financial advisor or expert to ensure a well-diversified investment portfolio and minimize risk.

    In conclusion, while FDs offer a safe and steady investment option, there are several alternatives such as corporate bonds, debt mutual funds, liquid mutual funds, treasury bonds, PPF, NSC, PPVVY, and Senior Citizens Saving Schemes that offer potentially higher returns with varying levels of risk. It is important to carefully consider the risks, drawbacks, and limitations associated with these alternatives and do thorough research before investing.

  • The Eighth Wonder of the World: Understanding the Power of Compounding

    The power of compounding is a well-known concept in the world of investing, but it is often misunderstood or underappreciated by many investors. Simply put, compounding refers to the ability of an investment to generate returns not only on the initial investment, but also on the accumulated returns over time. This means that the longer an investment is held, the greater the potential for growth.

    In fact, Albert Einstein is famously quoted as saying that “compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it … he who doesn’t … pays it.” This quote highlights the importance and potential impact of compounding on an investment over time.

    One of the main reasons why it is important to start investing early in life is to take advantage of the power of compounding. The earlier an investor starts to invest, the more time they have for their investments to grow and compound. This can be especially beneficial for those who are looking to achieve long-term financial goals, such as saving for retirement or building a financial cushion for the future.

    To understand the power of compounding more clearly, let’s consider the following examples:

    • If an investor starts investing Rs. 10,000 per month for 15 years at an annualized return of 12%, their total investment would be Rs. 21,60,000, and their final corpus would be Rs. 72,06,328. This means that the investor would have earned a total return of Rs. 50,46,328, or about 134% of their initial investment.
    • If the same investor starts investing Rs. 10,000 per month for 20 years at an annualized return of 12%, their total investment would be Rs. 28,80,000, and their final corpus would be Rs. 1,35,84,906. This means that the investor would have earned a total return of Rs. 1,07,04,906, or about 372% of their initial investment.
    • If the same investor starts investing Rs. 10,000 per month for 25 years at an annualized return of 12%, their total investment would be Rs. 36,00,000, and their final corpus would be Rs. 2,61,10,504. This means that the investor would have earned a total return of Rs. 2,25,10,504, or about 625% of their initial investment.
    • If the same investor starts investing Rs. 10,000 per month for 30 years at an annualized return of 12%, their total investment would be Rs. 43,20,000, and their final corpus would be Rs. 4,15,86,836. This means that the investor would have earned a total return of Rs. 3,72,66,836, or about 862% of their initial investment.

    As these examples illustrate, the power of compounding can have a significant impact on the final corpus of an investment, especially over longer time periods. This is why it is so important to start investing early, as it gives investors more time to take advantage of compounding and potentially earn higher returns.

    It is also worth noting that the annualized return used in these examples is just an estimate and is not guaranteed. It is always important for investors to be mindful of the risks involved in investing, and to make sure that their investment portfolio is well-diversified to manage risk.

    In addition to saving for long-term financial goals, the power of compounding can also be beneficial for investors in other practical ways. For example, an investor who starts saving for their children’s education early on can potentially earn higher returns and have a larger corpus to cover the costs of tuition, books

    and other expenses. Similarly, an investor who starts saving for a down payment on a house early on can potentially earn higher returns and have a larger corpus to put towards the purchase of their home.

    In conclusion, the power of compounding is a powerful tool for investors, and starting to invest early in life can be a crucial factor in achieving long-term financial success. By taking advantage of compounding and starting to invest early, investors can potentially earn higher returns and achieve their financial goals more easily. Whether it is saving for retirement, a child’s education, or a down payment on a house, the power of compounding can be a valuable asset for investors of all types.

  • ELSS Funds vs. Other Tax-Saving Options: Which is Right for You?

    ELSS, or Equity Linked Savings Scheme, is a type of mutual fund that is designed to provide investors with tax benefits while also giving them the opportunity to participate in the growth potential of the equity markets. ELSS funds are considered to be a part of the tax-saving category of mutual funds, along with other products such as Public Provident Fund (PPF) and National Savings Certificate (NSC).

    One of the main advantages of ELSS funds is their tax benefits. Under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, investments in ELSS funds are eligible for a tax deduction of up to Rs. 1.5 lakh per year. This can be a significant benefit for investors who are in the higher tax bracket, as it can help them reduce their overall tax liability.

    In terms of returns, ELSS funds have the potential to provide higher returns compared to other tax-saving options such as PPF and NSC, as they are invested primarily in equities. However, it is important to note that ELSS funds also come with higher risk, as the returns are linked to the performance of the equity markets. This means that the returns on ELSS funds can be volatile and may fluctuate significantly in the short term.

    One of the key differences between ELSS funds and other tax-saving options is the lock-in period. While PPF and NSC have a lock-in period of 15 years and 6 years, respectively, ELSS funds have a lock-in period of only 3 years. This means that investors can withdraw their investments in ELSS funds after a period of 3 years, while they have to wait longer for other tax-saving options.

    In terms of tax treatment of returns, ELSS funds are subject to long-term capital gains tax if the investments are held for more than 3 years. This tax is levied at a rate of 10% on gains of more than Rs. 1 lakh per year. However, it is important to note that the tax treatment of ELSS fund returns may change from time to time, depending on the tax laws in place at the time.

    Who should invest in ELSS funds? ELSS funds are suitable for investors who are looking for tax benefits and are willing to take on higher risk in the pursuit of higher returns. These funds may be particularly suitable for investors who have a long-term investment horizon, as the lock-in period of 3 years may not be suitable for investors with shorter time horizons. It is also important for investors to have a moderate to high risk tolerance, as the returns on ELSS funds can be volatile.

    Some good ELSS funds that have beaten inflation and the Nifty in the past 5 to 10 years include:

    • HDFC Tax Saver Fund: This fund has consistently outperformed the Nifty and inflation in the past decade, with an annualized return of 14.9% over the past 10 years.
    • ICICI Prudential Long Term Equity Fund: This fund has delivered an annualized return of 14.6% over the past 10 years, beating both the Nifty and inflation.
    • Kotak Tax Saver Fund: This fund has delivered an annualized return of 15.2% over the past 10 years, beating both the Nifty and inflation.

    It is important to note that past performance is not indicative of future returns, and investors should consider their own risk profile and investment horizon before making any investment decisions. It is also advisable to consult a financial advisor before investing in ELSS funds or any other mutual fund.