Tips on Investing Money in Mutual Funds

 Mutual Funds are the cynosure of the financial world. And rightly so! These investment havens pool in money from multiple investors and then invest the corpus across asset categories in line with the scheme’s objective. They are a great option for retail investors who would otherwise find it difficult to get exposure to such varied investment opportunities.

What makes Mutual Funds a good investment tool?

·         Professional Management

The USP of Mutual Funds is that they are managed by a team of experts. They are equipped with the necessary resources and information to continuously monitor the markets, analyze market trends and conduct in-depth research. As a result, the fund managers can devise the best investment strategy for the investors and guide them regarding the best mutual funds to invest in.

·         Financial Discipline

One of the common problems faced by investors is that they lack the rigour or discipline to stick to their financial resolutions. Mutual Funds take care of this issue easily. Systematic Investment Plans ensure that investors continue to invest regularly.

·         Flexibility

Mutual Funds offer a great deal of flexibility to investors. You can choose the frequency of contribution as well as opt to increase or reduce the investment amount as per cash flows.

·         Affordable

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) facility makes Mutual Funds affordable to everyone. One can start mutual fund investments with just Rs. 500. That is basically the cost of one pizza these days! They are perfect for novice investors who are overwhelmed or scared of equities but still want some exposure.

·         Tax savings

ELSS are tax-saving Mutual Funds. Investment in these mutual funds qualifies for tax deductions (till Rs. 1.5 Lakhs) as per Section 80C. Owing to their potential of higher returns and shorter lock-in period, as compared to other tax-saving alternatives, ELSS have become a preferred choice for many investors.

 

Mutual Fund investment tips

Now that you know what makes Mutual Funds a great investment tool, here are some mutual fund investment tips to help you make the most out of your hard-earned money.

·         Set a goal

It is rightly said that “Dreams do not come true. Goals do”. The same rationale applies to investments too. Investments bring the best results when they have a purpose. So, the first step in mutual fund investments should be setting an investment goal. You should consider factors like budget, investment horizon, financial ambitions and most importantly your risk appetite. 

·         Select the right fund type

When it comes to mutual fund investments, one size does not fit all. Just because your friend is investing in a fund does not mean it will benefit you as well.

 Mutual Funds invest across a range of asset classes. Hence deciding which mutual fund to invest in can be slightly tricky. It is important to choose a scheme that is in sync with your needs and risk profile. For instance, if you are an experienced investor and can afford to take risks, you can easily go for equity funds. However, if you are a novice then most mutual fund tips for beginners will suggest going for debt or balanced funds. It is important to understand the risk-return relationship inherent in each asset category before making a decision. Rule of thumb being – higher the risk, higher the return! The asset allocation should be in sync with your risk appetite.

Also, ask yourselves why you are investing in mutual funds. Is it to save taxes? Then ELSS Funds are your best bet. If you have a short investment horizon and want a fund type with high liquidity, then you can go with Liquid Funds.

·         AMC Credibility Check

The right fund house can not only help you decide which mutual fund to invest in but optimize the potential of your overall portfolio. It is important to look at factors such as the credentials of the fund managers, expense ratio, components of the portfolio and AUM (Assets Under Management) of the Fund House.

·         Diversification is the key

You should not put all your eggs in the same basket. Diversification across asset categories and investment styles is important. It helps to lower the risk quotient as it gets spread over different investments. Even if one fund underperforms, the other can compensate for it. The value of the entire portfolio is not at risk.

·         SIPs vs Lump-sum

One of the best mutual fund tips for beginners is choose the SIP way. Especially if you are venturing into equity or equity oriented mutual funds. A SIP will allow you to spread out your investments over a longer duration of time. You will invest at different points in the market cycle and hence even out the associated risk.

Also, the power of rupee-cost averaging in SIPs helps to generate higher returns in the long-term.

·         KYC

KYC has become a necessity these days. Government of India has mandated KYC for most of the financial transactions including mutual fund investments. So, ensure that you have documents such as PAN Card, valid address proof, etc. before you venture into mutual fund investments.

·         Have a long-term view

Mutual Funds are like a committed relationship and not a one-night stand. You need to remain invested for a longer duration in order to get the best rewards. Especially in the case of equity funds. This is because markets tend to be volatile in the short run but tend to move up in the long-term. The best combination is to invest in a mix of debt and equity to get best of both the worlds. Debt Funds would help to lower the overall risk of the portfolio and could help meet emergency fund requirements in the short run. While your equity funds work on wealth appreciation in the long run.

·         Ask the Expert

Just like KBC, Mutual Funds also come with a helpline – Ask the Expert! There are so many options available in Mutual Funds. It can become rather overwhelming for a new investor to select the right mutual fund to invest in. A professional expert will not only help to select the right funds and schemes but will also constantly monitor the market on your behalf.

One such expert is IndiaNivesh. They offer a wide variety of financial solutions related to broking and distribution, strategic investments, institutional equities, corporate advisory, investment banking and private wealth management. The team at IndiaNivesh has a combined experience of more than 300 years. With their cutting-edge technological and research capabilities, competent team and “client-first” approach, you can be rest assured that you are in safe hands.

 

Final Words

Now that the mystery is solved about how you can select the best mutual funds to invest in, what are you waiting for? Especially when you know that you have a guide like IndiaNivesh available at the click of a button.