Fund Name Year Of inception Fund rating ( Crisil rated ) Portfolio Size ( In Cr ) Expense ratio PE ratios Exit Load Quant Multi Asset Fund (G) 2001 _ 2983.94 cr 1.88 20.42 1% for redemption within 15 days ICICI Pru Multi Asset Fund (G) 2002 _ 50495.58 cr 1.48 19.11 For units in excess of 30% of the investment, 1% will be charged for redemption within 365 days UTI Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G) 2008 _ 4059.6 cr 1.9 18.36 1% for redemption within 30 days HDFC Multi Asset Fund (G) 2005 _ 3701.65 cr 1.93 18.87 For units in excess of 15% of the investment, 1% will be charged for redemption within 365 days SBI Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G) 2005 _ 6257.72 cr 1.48 22.83 For units in excess of 10% of the investment, 1% will be charged for redemption within 365 days Axis Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G) 2010 _ 1311.75 cr 2.11 22.34 For units in excess of 10% of the investment, 1% will be charged for redemption within 365 days Nippon India Multi-Asset Allocation Fund Reg 2020 _ 4343.57 cr 1.52 19.52 For units in excess of 10% of the investment, 1% will be charged for redemption within 12 months Tata Multi Asset Opportunities Fund Reg (G) 2020 _ 3400 cr 1.87 19.16 For units in excess of 12% of the investment, 1% will be charged for redemption within 365 days Quant Multi Asset Fund (G) : The fund was launched in the year 2001, currently has a portfolio size of 2,983.94 cr. The fund has PE of 20.42. The fund has an expense ratio of 1.88. Fund has a very low exit load of 1% within 15 days of investment. ICICI Pru Multi Asset Fund (G) : The fund is the largest by size in the category with fund size of 50,495.58 cr. The fund was launched in 2002. The fund has a low expense ratio of 1.48. PE of the fund is 19.11. UTI Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G): This fund was launched in the year 2008, but still has a low fund size of 4,059.6 cr. The expense ratio of the fund is 1.9. PE of 18.36. Exit load of the fund is low at 1% within 30 days. HDFC Multi Asset Fund (G): The fund was launched in the year 2005. The fund again has a very small fund size of 3,701.65 cr. The fund has PE of 18.87. The expense ratio is 18.87. The exit load of the fund is 15% units are exit load free within 365 days , 1% for units above 15% units for 365 days. SBI Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G) : This fund was launched in the year 2005. The fund size is 6,257.72 cr. The expense ratio of 1.48%. The PE of the fund is high at 22.83 as per the category. Exit load of the fund is units exceeding the 10% would be charged at 1% within 365 days of redemption. Axis Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G): This fund was launched in the year 2010. A low fund size of 1,311.75 cr. HIgh expense ratio of the fund 2.11. The fund has a high PE of 22.34. Exit load of the fund is units exceeding the 10% would be charged at 1% within 365 days of redemption. Nippon India Multi-Asset Allocation Fund Reg : This was launched in 2020, and was able to garner a fund size of about 4,343.57 cr. The fund has an expense ratio of 1.52. The PE of the fund is stable at 19.52. Exit load of the fund is units exceeding the 10% would be charged at 1% within 365 days of redemption. Tata Multi Asset Opportunities Fund Reg (G) : Another multi asset fund to be launched in the year 2020, the current fund size is 3,400 cr. The expense ratio of the fund is 1.87. The PE of 19.16. Exit load of the fund is units exceeding the 12% would be charged at 1% within 365 days of redemption. Trailing Returns : Scheme 3 months 6 months 1 year 3 years 5 years 7 years 10 years 12 Years 15 years Quant Multi Asset Fund (G) 2.71 8.93 46.39 21.28 29.04 21.75 17.53 15.7 13.8 ICICI Pru Multi Asset Fund (G) 2.82 10.47 29.57 19.13 22.23 16.41 15.02 16.8 15.3 UTI Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G) 4 12.34 38.6 18.11 16.96 12.28 10.5 10.22 10.24 HDFC Multi Asset Fund (G) 2.6 10.17 24.67 12.57 16.4 12.3 11.16 11.39 11.06 SBI Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G) 1.79 9.68 25.17 14.16 15.2 12.22 11.51 11.7 10.91 Axis Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G) 3.63 14.36 25.99 7.39 13.97 11.78 10.78 10.22 Nippon India Multi-Asset Allocation Fund Reg 2.79 13.14 34.17 15.54 Tata Multi Asset Opportunities Fund Reg (G) 1.29 10.06 25.75 13.55 – – – – – 1 year trailing 1st quartile : 39- 47%- Quant Multi Asset Fund 2rd quartile : 31-39% – UTI Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G), Nippon India Multi-Asset Allocation Fund Reg, 3rth quartile : 23- 31% –ICICI Pru Multi Asset Fund (G), HDFC Multi Asset Fund (G), SBI Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G), Axis Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G), Tata Multi Asset Opportunities Fund Reg (G) 4th quartile : 15- 23% – Non of the funds in discussion was in the bottom 3 years trailing return 1st quartile : 18.25- 22% – Quant Multi Asset Fund , ICICI Pru Multi Asset Fund (G) 2rd quartile : 14.5 – 18.25% – UTI Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G), Nippon India Multi-Asset Allocation Fund Reg 3rth quartile : 10.75 – 14.5% – HDFC Multi Asset Fund (G), SBI Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G), Tata Multi Asset Opportunities Fund Reg (G) 4th quartile : 7- 10.75%, Axis Multi Asset Allocation Fund Reg (G) 5 years trailing returns 1st quartile : 24.5- 30% – Quant Multi Asset Fund 2rd quartile :
Inflation, the sneaky increase in prices over time, can quietly erode your hard-earned money. Let’s dive into a real-life example to see how it works. Scenario: Imagine you have ₹50 lakhs (5 million rupees) and decide to invest it in a fixed deposit (FD) with SBI Bank for 10 years. They offer you a rate of 6.50%, and you opt for a cumulative deposit (interest gets added to the principal). Without Inflation: After 10 years, SBI would pay you ₹95,27,793.77. That’s an effective return of 6.66% per year. Looks great, right? Inflation’s Impact: But here’s the catch: inflation has been steadily increasing. Using the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for FY 2023-24, we can calculate that the inflation rate was around 4.88%. Real Returns: When we factor in inflation, your effective return is reduced to 1.697%. This means that while you earned ₹95 lakhs in total, the purchasing power of that money is significantly less than it was 10 years ago. The Bottom Line: Inflation can silently steal a significant portion of your investment gains. In this example, inflation took away ₹36,11,476.97 of your potential earnings. To protect your wealth from inflation, consider investing in assets that can appreciate faster than the inflation rate, such as stocks, gold, mutual funds, real estate, or inflation-indexed bonds. Would you like to explore other investment strategies or learn more about inflation’s effects on the economy? Reach Us to help you protect your savings from inflation : https://wa.me/message/LC5W5ZNTPSJ5L1
The stock market is inherently volatile, fluctuating between periods of growth and decline. While the adage “buy low, sell high” is commonly understood, it’s essential to consider the specific context of your investment goals and risk tolerance. Traders vs. Investors Traders and investors approach the market with distinct strategies. Traders often seek short-term profits through frequent buying and selling, taking on higher risks in the process. Investors, on the other hand, focus on long-term wealth creation and are generally more patient. Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) Many investors opt for SIPs, a disciplined approach where a fixed amount is invested regularly. This strategy helps average out costs over time, reducing the impact of market fluctuations. Timing the Market: Is it Worth the Effort? While attempting to “time the market” by buying low and selling high might seem appealing, it’s often challenging and can lead to missed opportunities. Our analysis of two hypothetical investors, Mr. Lucky and Mr. Unlucky, demonstrates that even with perfect timing, the difference in returns over a long period is relatively minimal. First investor is Mr Lucky. Whatever day he choses in a month , the Sensex is the lowest day of the month. Second Investor, Mr Unlucky, Whatever day he chooses is the day the sensex is at its peak in that month. They both had agreed to invest Rs 50,000/- Every month Starting April 2014 till date , and we checked the fund value they were able to create. Mr Lucky , today value is Rs 14,092,799.41 , he grow his wealth at XIRR of 13.85% Mr Unlucky ,value stood at Rd 13,328,799.56, he grew his wealth at XIRR of 13.66% with a wealth difference of Rs 763,999.85/- or in percentage terms 0.19% over the 10 years period. The point to understand is that neither can we be Mr Lucky nor We can be Mr Unlucky, We would be somewhere between. Key Takeaways: Long-term Focus: For wealth creation, a long-term perspective is crucial. Consistent Investment: Regular investing through SIPs can be a disciplined approach. Avoid Overthinking: Excessive focus on market timing can be counterproductive. Conclusion While timing the market might provide occasional short-term gains, it’s not a reliable strategy for long-term wealth creation. Consistent investing, coupled with a well-thought-out investment plan, is often a more effective approach.
The allure of early retirement has captured the imagination of many, fueled by stories of financial independence and the freedom to pursue passions. However, the pursuit of quick returns and short-term gains often overshadows the importance of long-term financial planning. In this article, we’ll delve into the misconceptions surrounding early retirement and highlight the critical factors to consider for a secure and fulfilling financial future. The Changing Landscape of Retirement Gone are the days when people settled into their careers at a young age and worked until retirement. Today, the desire for early retirement has become increasingly prevalent, driven by factors such as increased life expectancy, technological advancements, and a desire for greater flexibility. However, this shift in mindset has also led to a focus on short-term gains and a neglect of long-term financial planning. These mind shifts have been furthered by Influence of Media and Social Media: The constant bombardment of investment news and success stories can create unrealistic expectations. People may believe that it’s easy to make quick money through investing, leading them to take unnecessary risks. Lack of Financial Knowledge: A lack of understanding about financial concepts, investment strategies, and risk management can lead to poor decision-making. People may be swayed by advertisements or tips from friends without conducting proper research. Overconfidence: Overconfidence in one’s ability to make sound investment decisions can lead to risky behavior. People may underestimate the potential for losses and believe they can consistently outperform the market. The Pitfalls of Short-Term Thinking While the pursuit of high returns can be tempting, it’s essential to consider the long-term implications. Chasing after quick profits without a solid financial plan can lead to several pitfalls: Increased Risk: The search for higher returns often involves taking on more risk, which can result in significant losses if the market turns sour. Lack of Diversification: A focus on short-term gains may lead to a lack of diversification, exposing investments to unnecessary risks. Emotional Decision-Making: The pursuit of quick profits can cloud judgment and lead to emotional decision-making, which can be detrimental to long-term financial success. The Importance of Long-Term Financial Planning To achieve a secure and fulfilling retirement, it’s crucial to adopt a long-term perspective. Here are some key factors to consider: Starting Early: The earlier you start saving for retirement, the more time your investments have to grow. Even small contributions can make a significant difference over the long term. Realistic Expectations: Set realistic expectations for your retirement income and lifestyle. Avoid making assumptions based on short-term market trends. Risk Tolerance: Assess your risk tolerance and align your investment strategy accordingly. A balanced approach that considers both growth and preservation of capital is often recommended. Diversification: Spread your investments across different asset classes to reduce risk and improve returns over time. Professional Advice: Consider seeking advice from a qualified financial advisor to help you create a personalized retirement plan. Case Study: The Impact of Early Retirement To illustrate the importance of long-term planning, let’s consider two individuals: Person A: Earlier a person used to settle around when he was 22- 23 years of age and work till his retirement at age 58. He had a total of 36 years to grow that wealth. He would eat from that corpus for the next 23 years. Lets understand this : Current age : 24 Retirement age : 58 Life expectancy : 80 Inflation: 6% Growth rate of corpus : 12% Current Monthly Expenditure : Rs 1,00,000/- Corpus Required : ₹109,857,502.92 Monthly Investment : ₹21,917.20 Person B: Starts earning at the age of 26-27. Now they want to retire early by the age of 50. So the growth period for this corpus is for 24 years,But life expectancy has increased to 85. He would eat into this corpus for 35 years. Lets understand this : Current age : 26 Retirement age : 50 Life expectancy : 85 Inflation: 6% Growth rate of corpus : 12% Current Monthly Expenditure : Rs 1,00,000/- Corpus Required : ₹74,292,841.37 Monthly Investment : ₹50,976.61 Despite similar incomes, Person A is likely to have a significantly larger retirement corpus due to the power of compound interest and a disciplined approach to saving. Also even though the requirement corpus required is high person A is able to achieve the same with low investment amount. Conclusion While the allure of early retirement may be strong, it’s essential to approach it with a long-term perspective. By understanding the pitfalls of short-term thinking and adopting a disciplined approach to financial planning, you can increase your chances of achieving a secure and fulfilling retirement. Remember, the journey to financial independence is a marathon, not a sprint. Reach us to help you planning for your retirement you can reach us : https://wa.me/message/LC5W5ZNTPSJ5L1)
Fund Name Year Of inception Portfolio Size ( In Cr ) Expense ratio PE ratios Exit Load HDFC Non-Cyclical Consumer Fund Gr 2024 764.46 Cr 2.37% 52.58 1% within 30 days Tata India Consumer Reg Gr 2015 2247.42 Cr 2.01% 50.11 0.25% for redemption within 30 days BARODA BNP PARIBAS India Consumption Fund Reg Gr 2018 1457.85 Cr 2.09% 38.13 For units in excess of 10% of the investment, 1% will be charged for redemption within 365 days Mahindra Manulife Consumption Fund Reg Gr 2018 280.75 Cr 2.3% 26.75 1% for redemption within 3 months Nippon India Consumption Reg Gr 2004 1410.64 Cr 2.14% 46.49 1% for redemption within 30 days UTI India Consumer Reg Gr 2007 700.29 Cr 2.43% 31.32 1% for redemption within 30 days Mirae Asset Great Consumer Reg Gr 2011 4069.29 Cr 1.80% 26.03 1% for redemption within 365 days ICICI Pru Bharat Consumption Gr 2019 2613.48 Cr 2.08% 36.88 1% for redemption within 90 days SBI Consumption Opportunities Reg Gr 2013 2679.47 Cr 2.01% 46.97 0.1% for redemption within 30 days Canara Robeco Consumer Trends Fund Reg Gr 2009 1694.43 Cr 2.08% 22.62 1% for redemption within 365 days HDFC Non-Cyclical Consumer Fund Gr: HDFC Non-Cyclical consumer fund is a relatively new entrant that came out in 2024, the fund aims to invest only in sectors related to consumption which are not cyclical in nature. High PE of 52.58. The fund has a small portfolio size of 707cr. High expense ratio of 2.37% Tata India Consumer Reg Gr : Launched in 2015 the fund has been able to garner 2247 cr in total AUM.The PE is high as suggested by the category of 50.11. The expense ratio is about 2.01% which is good for the category. BARODA BNP PARIBAS India Consumption Fund Reg Gr The fund was launched in the year 2018, has AUM of about 1457 cr in total AUM. The PE is around 38.13 which is in the mid range of the category. Expense Ratio of 2.08%. Mahindra Manulife Consumption Fund Reg Gr Launched in 2018, the fund has a very small size 280 cr, smallest in the category. The fund’s PE is excellent and needs to be looked at further at 26.75. The expense ratio is of 2.3% Nippon India Consumption Reg Gr Nippon India Consumption fund is one of the oldest funds in the category, launched in 2004. With AUM of 1410.64 Cr. Expense ratio of 2.14%. PE of the fund is at 46.49. UTI India Consumer Reg Gr The fund was launched in 2007, has a small AUM of 700 cr. The PE of fund is 31.32 and high expense ratio of 2.43% Mirae Asset Great Consumer Reg Gr The fund was launched in the year 2011. The AUM of the fund is 4069 cr , which is highest in the category. The fund has a great PE of 26.03. Which is lowest in the category and needs to be understood further. ICICI Pru Bharat Consumption Gr The fund was launched in the year 2019, has AUM size of 2613.48 cr, which is a decent size fund. Expense Ratio 2.08%. The fund PE is 36.88. SBI Consumption Opportunities Reg Gr The fund was launched in 2013. AUM has size 2679.47 Cr, a decent fund size. The fund PE 46.97 Canara Robeco Consumer Trends Fund Reg Gr The fund was launched in 2009. AUM of the fund 1694.43 Cr. The fund has a very low PE of 22.62 lowest in the category. Trailing Returns : 1 year trailing Quartile 1 : > 44% , HDFC Non- Cyclical consumer trends fund and Mahindra Manulife Consumption fund have starred in this category with returns above 44%. Quartile 2 : 43% -44%- Baroda BNP paribas India Consumption fund , Nippon India Consumption Fund, TATA India Consumer Fund have been the next category. Quartile 3 : 42%- 43% – Mirae Asset Great Consumer fund, UTI consumer fund make it 3rd quartile Quartile 4 : 40%-42% : Canara Robeco Consumer Trends Fund, ICICI Pru Bharat Consumption fund and SBI consumption fund are in 4th quartile. The funds have performed so close in the last 1 years it seemed futile to put any one in any quartile. But still we have put them in quartiles. 3 years trailing return Quartile 1: >28% : Only SBI India Consumption fund could make the list Quartile 2: 24-28% : ICICI Pru Bharat Consumption fund, Nippon India Consumption fund made it 2nd quartile. Quartile 3: 22-24% :Mirae Asset Great Consumer fund, Mahindra Manulife consumption fund, TATA India Consumer fund delivered in 22% range. Quartile 4: 18-22% : Baroda BNP paribas India Consumption fund, Canara Robeco Consumer Trends Fund and UTI consumer fund were in 3rd quartile , but UTI consumer fund was very low in the returns at 18% HDFC Non- Cyclical consumer did not exist 3 years before. 5 years trailing returns Quartile 1 : >26%, Nippon India Consumption fund, SBI India Consumption fund made in top in 5 years period Quartile 2: 24-26 : Canara Robeco Consumer Trends Fund, Mirae Asset Great Consumer fund Quartile 3: 22-24% : Baroda BNP paribas India Consumption fund, ICICI Pru Bharat Consumption fund, TATA India Consumer Fund Quartile 4: 20- 22%: Mahindra Manulife Consumption fund, UTI consumer fund were the lowest HDFC Non- Cyclical consumer did not exist 5 years before. 7 years trailing returns Quartile 1 : > 19%, Nippon India Consumption fund Quartile 2: 18-19%, Canara Robeco Consumer Trends Fund, Mirae Asset Great Consumer fund, SBI India Consumption fund Quartile 3: 17-18%, TATA India Consumer Fund Quartile 4: < 17% , UTI Consumer fund was at 14.42 HDFC Non- Cyclical consumer , ICICI Pru Bharat Consumption fund, Mahindra Manulife Consumption fund and Baroda BNP paribas India Consumption fund were not launched 10 years ago. 10 years trailing returns Quartile 1 : >18% Canara Robeco Consumer Trends Fund,SBI India Consumption fund Quartile 2: 17-18%, Mirae Asset Great Consumer fund Quartile 3: 16-18%, Nippon India Consumption fund Quartile 4: <16% ,UTI Consumer
As a health insurance advisor, I witness firsthand the anxieties families face regarding their senior citizens’ healthcare needs. The rising cost of medical care can be a significant burden, and the prospect of a sudden health crisis can be overwhelming. The launch of Ayushman Bharat, particularly the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), has been a welcome development. It provides a much-needed safety net for families by offering free health insurance coverage. However, in my experience, it’s crucial to view Ayushman Bharat as a stepping stone rather than the final solution, especially for senior citizens. Before discussing it further let us first understand who can apply and how Who Can Apply ? Anyone aged 70 or above with a valid Aadhaar number would be eligible for applying under the scheme and that initially there would be a pilot launch to sort out any issues that might arise How to Apply ? 1.Visit the official website of Ayushman Bharat ( https://pmjay.gov.in/) 2.Get your Aadhaar or ration card verified at a PMJAY kiosk 3.Provide family identification proofs 4.Get your e-card printed with a unique AB-PMJAY ID. 𝗘𝗻𝗿𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 The scheme is expected to be extended to all senior citizens above 70 years old. A pilot program is likely to start this week in select locations before a nationwide rollout. (The scheme offers free health insurance coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per family. Senior citizens can choose to continue with their existing public health insurance schemes or opt for Ayushman Bharat- Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). Understanding Ayushman Bharat’s Benefits and Limitations Let’s break down Ayushman Bharat: Strengths: This scheme offers cashless hospitalization services and covers a wide range of medical procedures, reducing out-of-pocket expenses. It also ensures access to quality healthcare at empanelled hospitals. Weakness : The coverage amount of Rs. 5 lakh per year may not be sufficient for senior citizens with chronic conditions requiring long-term care or expensive treatments. Additionally, the availability of quality healthcare facilities within the network, especially in remote areas, can be a concern. Why Senior Citizens Might Still Need Separate Health Insurance Here’s where separate health insurance for senior citizens comes into play: Enhanced Coverage: Separate plans can provide additional financial protection beyond the Rs. 5 lakh limit offered by Ayushman Bharat. This ensures comprehensive coverage for potentially expensive procedures. Specificity: Senior-specific health insurance plans are often designed to address the unique needs of older adults, including pre-existing conditions and age-related illnesses. Wider Network Options: These plans may offer access to a wider network of hospitals, including private institutions, which might provide specialized care or better amenities. Addressing Existing Concerns While Ayushman Bharat addresses a critical need, there are existing concerns that need to be acknowledged, as pointed out in Deccan Herald. Improving the quality of care within the network and ensuring smoother claim settlements are crucial for the scheme’s long-term success. The Bottom Line: A Tailored Approach Ayushman Bharat is a positive step towards a healthcare-secure future for senior citizens in India. However, for comprehensive protection, especially considering potential limitations and individual needs, exploring separate health insurance is highly recommended. As your health insurance advisor, I encourage you to schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation and explore the best options for your senior loved ones. Together, we can create a healthcare plan that provides peace of mind and ensures they receive the care they deserve. Click here to book a free consultation
Understanding Waiting Periods Waiting periods in health insurance can be a complex topic, but understanding them is crucial to make informed decisions about your coverage. In essence, waiting periods are specific timeframes during which certain types of claims, such as those related to pre-existing diseases or specified illnesses, are not covered. Pre-Existing Diseases (PEDs) Defined by IRDA , Pre-Existing Disease means any condition, ailment or injury or related condition(s) for which there were signs or symptoms, and I or were diagnosed, and I or for which medical advice I treatment was received within 48 months prior to the first policy issued by the insurer and renewed continuously thereafter. Simple words , A pre-existing disease is any condition diagnosed or treated within 48 months before purchasing your health insurance policy. Examples include: High blood pressure Diabetes Asthma Thyroid conditions Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) Kidney disease Impact of PEDs on Health Insurance Higher Premiums: Insurers may charge higher premiums to cover the increased risk associated with pre-existing conditions. Waiting Periods: Many policies impose waiting periods for claims related to PEDs. This means you’ll need to wait a specific period before coverage kicks in. Policy Denial: In severe cases, the insurer might deny coverage altogether. Permanent Exclusion: The insurer may permanently exclude coverage for the pre-existing disease and related conditions. Should You Hide Pre-Existing Conditions? Absolutely not! Disclosing pre-existing conditions is crucial. Hiding them can lead to claim denials later, causing significant financial hardship during a medical emergency. Specified Diseases Specified diseases are a list of pre-defined illnesses covered under a specific policy. These often include: Cancer Heart diseases Kidney diseases Liver diseases Paralysis Major organ transplants Multiple sclerosis Alzheimer’s disease Parkinson’s disease Maternity Newborn cover Impact of Specified Diseases Waiting Periods: Similar to PEDs, health policies may have waiting periods for specified diseases. Strategies for Managing Waiting Periods Start Early: Purchase health insurance when you’re young and healthy to benefit from lower premiums and shorter waiting periods. Low Waiting Period Plans: Look for policies with shorter waiting periods for PEDs and specified diseases. Plan Comparison: Carefully read the policy wording to understand how it handles waiting periods. Reduced Waiting Period: Some policies allow you to decrease the waiting period by paying an additional premium. Policy Continuation: Avoid discontinuing your existing health insurance plan to avoid starting fresh with waiting periods. Portability: If switching insurers, utilize the portability feature to transfer your existing policy. By understanding waiting periods and implementing these strategies, you can make informed decisions about your health insurance coverage and protect yourself from unexpected financial burdens. Get Expert Advice Have questions about navigating waiting periods in your specific situation? Feel free to reach out for a consultation. Book Your Free consultation
Gold, a precious metal with a lustrous yellow hue, has captivated humanity for millennia. It has lasted over civilization from Ancient Egyptian to the Aztec Civilization. Its allure extends beyond its aesthetic appeal, making it a coveted asset for both personal adornment and financial investment. As a tangible asset, gold has proven to be a reliable store of value, weathering economic storms and geopolitical upheavals throughout history. Indians particularly had an inclination towards gold. Of the available instruments for investment the two instruments which had always got the most attention had been Real estate Gold Here in this research we are going to talk about the benefit of gold investing in the current scenario. Historically Looking Gold since 1981 has delivered 9.03% the growth is represented by the chart given below. Another measure to check the growth of any investment instrument is to look at the rolling returns of the we consider 10 years rolling returns and 15 years rolling returns. Once, we combine above 3 charts for gold returns over the years here are few observations Gold as a safe asset class is established with only 1 year period in 10 years rolling returns, where it was negative. T The 15 year rolling returns year it was never negative The gold had sub par returns till 2007 -2008, where it was in range of 3-8%, below its average long term returns. It was only after the global financial crisis that gold as an asset class was established world over. Establishing Gold As hedge It was during this time that gold became an edge against the downturn and more discussion from a perspective of diversification , asset allocation started. Factors which affect the Gold prices Before moving the discussion any further lets us understand the factors that move the gold. And try to see what is the current situation and how the gold can react to that. Central bank Reserves Gold is the most important reserve that the central bank keeps to strengthen its currency. Rupee, the Indian Currency is backed by Gold, (https://www.rbi.org.in/commonperson/English/Scripts/FAQs.aspx?Id=3158#:~:text=All%20banknotes%20issued%20by%20RBI,33%20of%20RBI%20Act%2C%201934). So, more gold helps countries to have a currency which is strong as compared to other currencies for trade in the world. In recent years, we have seen more gold by 3 countries: Russia , China , India and Turkey, Which has led to an increase in the prices of Gold and what situation we are in currently . The current Situation : The gold buying by the central banks have started because of the Russia – Ukraine war. Since then the central banks have been trying to diversify their foreign reserves through Gold. Central banks are also trying to unlink currencies from US denominated trades and that can be only done through gold These situations have added to central banks buying more gold in the markets and this situation is not going to improve. US dollar : The price of the US dollar and gold are inversely related. Current Situation : The rate of Interest would lead to fall would lead to weakening of dollar , as dollar weakens the gold prices would appreciate. Increase Demand for Gold The gold is metal which has industrial uses as well as the household. India has been a buyer of physical gold for Jewelry purposes , during the festive seasons, weddings. Women Buyers have affinity for the yellow metal. Current Situations: The coming months we are heading to festivals and wedding seasons. This would lead to high gold buying and this pressure on the demand side. Rate of interests Gold as an asset class does not bear any interest, it was because most financial experts , include Mr. Warren buffet had advised against investing in gold. How does gold prices affect the rate of interest? If interest rates rise, people are interested to invest in an investment which would give higher returns like, FD , Debt instrument rises thus causing people to invest in interest bearing instruments. Whereas vice versa happens when interest rates move down. Current Situations : Since last week, US Fed chairman Jerome Powel had stated in his statement that it was time to cut the rates. This would be followed by a world over central banks rate cut. Which forms the basis that as the rate of interest would decrease instruments which are non interest bearing would lose attractiveness. Hedge Against Inflation : Inflationary pressures have reached unprecedented levels in recent decades, prompting investors to seek strategies to preserve their wealth. Savings accounts, despite offering marginally higher interest rates than in previous years, often fall short of mitigating the erosion of purchasing power caused by inflation. This disparity between interest earned and rising prices results in negative real returns. Gold, historically recognized as a reliable inflation hedge, has emerged as a compelling investment option. By offering a counterbalance to the devaluation of currency, gold helps safeguard investors’ assets from the adverse effects of inflation, ensuring that their purchasing power remains relatively intact. Gold, a tangible asset with intrinsic value, has historically served as a reliable store of wealth. While the purchasing power of fiat currencies can diminish during periods of inflation, gold maintains its value, making it a sought-after investment for those seeking to protect their assets from the eroding effects of rising prices. Current Scenario : We are definitely in a high interest rates scenario , the world over inflation was never an issue in the developed world, which is an issue they are not able to deal with. Safe haven Economic Downturn This asset class serves as safe haven in case of economic downturn , It was observed that during the years of downturn Gold have performed exceptionally , the performance of gold during the years FY 2009, FY 2012 , FY 2016 and FY 2020 . The performance of Gold has been better than the volatile asset class like equity . What Do Experts Say ? According to Thedailygold.com, Gold in FY 26 might trade in the range of $5000
What does Term insurance not mean or what it is not ? Cash Value: Unlike whole life or universal life insurance, term insurance doesn’t build cash value over time. This means you can’t borrow against the policy or receive a cash payout if you surrender it before the end of the term. Maturity Benefit: If you outlive the term of your insurance policy, you won’t receive a lump sum payment at the end. Term insurance is designed to provide coverage for a specific period, and there’s no payout if you don’t need it. Investment Returns: Term insurance isn’t an investment vehicle. While it provides protection, it doesn’t offer any potential for growth or returns. Guaranteed Premiums: While some term insurance policies offer level premiums, others may increase over time. This means your premiums could go up as you get older, even if you maintain good health. Real Life Scenario : What happens in real life scenario is people are mis selling or they themselves think since the money they have paid is not being return its not a good financial planning instrument. So two most common plans are sold in the market. Endowment plans Are a type of life insurance policy that combines life insurance coverage with an investment component. This means that in addition to providing a death benefit to your beneficiaries if you die during the policy term, endowment plans also offer a maturity benefit if you outlive the policy term and provides guaranteed returns ULIP ( Unit-Linked Insurance plans) is a type of life insurance plan that combines life insurance coverage with an investment component. They provide an opportunity to participate in the market or bonds. Unlike traditional endowment plans, ULIPs offer more flexibility and potential for higher returns. But the question is why mis-selling happens? Higher Commission: Your agent/ Bank gets a higher payout for selling. Guaranteed returns : It’s easier for agents to sell something with a guaranteed word , so they don’t have to spend a lot of time explaining Pressure : Banks sell these plans through their employees , they have a lot of pressure to sell. Is it that bad at all lets see this from the case of Endowment plans from real life scenarios Case Study : Customer who was looking to buy insurance cover was approached by bank to with the following two proposition instead of term plan The customer was pitched by his regular bankers to invest in this plan Called HDFC Sanchay plus ( this is not just limited to HDFC, it is all ICICI, LIC, Max etc. whatever policy you buy it would be the same.) His banker was really persistent on him to buy this plan that he used to call him daily , putting all tactics for him to purchase . After so many pressure calls he had almost given in when i got in discussion with him and showed him the reality. So let’s study the plan. HDFC Sanchay Plus Current age : 30 Years Policy term : 20 Years Premium payment term : 10 years Premium amount 1st year : Rs 5,22,500/- Premium 2 nd year onwards : Rs 5,11,250/- SI :Rs 64,37,500/- to Rs 1,27,58,919/- Policy Year Single/ Annualized Premium Guaranteed Non Guaranteed Survival Benefits / Loyalty Additions Other benefits (if any) Maturity Benefit Death Benefit Min Guaranteed Surrender Value Special Surrender Value 1 522500 0 0 0 64,37,500 0 0 2 511250 0 0 0 64,37,500 3,09,000 3,09,000 3 511250 0 0 0 64,37,500 5,40,750 5,40,750 4 511250 0 0 0 64,37,500 10,30,000 10,30,000 5 511250 0 0 0 64,37,500 12,87,500 6,83,148 6 511250 0 0 0 64,37,500 15,45,000 8,95,482 7 511250 0 0 0 64,37,500 18,02,500 11,41,343 8 511250 0 0 0 69,23,763 32,35,879 15,59,667 9 511250 0 0 0 74,10,026 37,68,008 20,82,332 10 511250 0 0 0 78,96,289 50,72,637 27,28,108 11 0 0 0 0 83,82,552 57,33,516 31,99,868 12 0 0 0 0 88,68,815 58,79,395 37,36,072 13 0 0 0 0 93,55,078 60,25,273 43,42,778 14 0 0 0 0 98,41,341 61,71,152 50,30,514 15 0 0 0 0 1,03,27,604 63,17,031 58,08,267 16 0 0 0 0 1,08,13,867 64,62,910 66,87,510 17 0 0 0 0 1,13,00,130 66,08,789 76,78,686 18 0 0 0 0 1,17,86,393 67,54,668 87,95,972 19 0 0 0 0 1,22,72,656 69,00,547 1,00,54,714 20 -11729523 0 0 11729523 1,27,58,919 70,46,426 1,14,71,419 Returns 5.78% The policy seemed so attractive that he would make Rs 1,17,29,523/- in 20 Years. but he forgot he had invested almost Rs 50,00,000/ and got just double the invested. A simple IRR calculation shows he would earn 5.78% IRR on this investment. Lower than your FD returns. We could argue that it was meant for protection but let’s see how much would he have paid if we just took SI of Rs 1,30,00,000/- from day one for 20 years , which in this case is applicable in 20 years. The same company offers us Term insurance plan for SI – Rs 1,30,00,000/- Payment Term : 10 Years Policy term 20 : 20 years. Premium : Rs 23,464/- And now the funny part if we take this Policy Year Single/ Annualized Premium Guaranteed Non Guaranteed Survival Benefits / Loyalty Additions Other benefits (if any) Maturity Benefit Death Benefit Min Guaranteed Surrender Value Special Surrender Value 1 499036 0 0 0 64,37,500 0 0 2 487786 0 0 0 64,37,500 3,09,000 3,09,000 3 487786 0 0 0 64,37,500 5,40,750 5,40,750 4 487786 0 0 0 64,37,500 10,30,000 10,30,000 5 487786 0 0 0 64,37,500 12,87,500 6,83,148 6 487786 0 0 0 64,37,500 15,45,000 8,95,482 7 487786 0 0 0 64,37,500 18,02,500 11,41,343 8 487786 0 0 0 69,23,763 32,35,879 15,59,667 9 487786 0 0 0 74,10,026 37,68,008 20,82,332 10 487786 0 0 0 78,96,289 50,72,637 27,28,108 11 0 0 0 0 83,82,552 57,33,516 31,99,868 12 0 0 0 0 88,68,815 58,79,395 37,36,072 13 0 0 0 0 93,55,078 60,25,273 43,42,778 14 0 0 0 0 98,41,341 61,71,152 50,30,514 15 0 0 0 0 1,03,27,604 63,17,031 58,08,267 16 0
Understand the Concept in simplest way A term insurance/ Life Insurance is a type of insurance which provides for financial cover during a set period chosen by the life insured. Why do we need term insurance ? Term insurance is a crucial financial tool that offers a safety net for you and your loved ones. Here are some key reasons why you might need it: Protection for Dependents: If you have dependents, such as children or a spouse, term insurance can provide financial support in the event of your untimely death. The death benefit can help cover expenses like mortgage payments, education costs, and living expenses. Debt Coverage: If you have significant debt, such as a mortgage or student loans, term insurance can help your family repay those debts. This can prevent financial strain and ensure a more comfortable future. Financial Planning: Term insurance can be a valuable component of your overall financial plan. It can help you protect your assets and ensure that your loved ones are financially secure, regardless of unforeseen circumstances. Affordability: Term insurance is generally more affordable than other types of life insurance, making it a good option for those on a budget. Flexibility: Term insurance offers flexibility in terms of coverage and duration. You can choose a policy that meets your specific needs and adjust it as your circumstances change. What does Term insurance not mean or what it is not ? Cash Value: Unlike whole life or universal life insurance, term insurance doesn’t build cash value over time. This means you can’t borrow against the policy or receive a cash payout if you surrender it before the end of the term. Maturity Benefit: If you outlive the term of your insurance policy, you won’t receive a lump sum payment at the end. Term insurance is designed to provide coverage for a specific period, and there’s no payout if you don’t need it. Investment Returns: Term insurance isn’t an investment vehicle. While it provides protection, it doesn’t offer any potential for growth or returns. Guaranteed Premiums: While some term insurance policies offer level premiums, others may increase over time. This means your premiums could go up as you get older, even if you maintain good health. How to Know Your Sum Insured ? By annual income method: Determine your annual income: This includes your salary, bonuses, and any other sources of income. Choose a multiplier: The multiplier is a number that determines the amount of coverage you need. Common multipliers range from 5 to 10 times your annual income. A higher multiplier provides more coverage, but also increases the premium. Calculate the sum insured: Multiply your annual income by the chosen multiplier. Human Life Value (HLV) method is another popular approach to calculating the sum insured in term insurance. This method focuses on the financial value that an individual brings to their family through their income. How HLV works: Estimate your remaining working years: Determine the number of years you expect to work before retirement. Calculate your average annual income: Estimate your average annual income over your remaining working years, considering potential salary increases and promotions. Factor in inflation: Adjust your average annual income for inflation to account for the rising cost of living over time. Determine the discount rate: This is the rate at which future income is discounted to its present value. It’s typically based on the rate of return you could achieve on your investments. Calculate the present value of your future income: Multiply your adjusted average annual income by the present value factor, which is calculated using the discount rate and the number of remaining working years. Conclusion : To consult for the best plans and understand the requirement of Term plan needs you can reach us : https://wa.me/message/LC5W5ZNTPSJ5L1)