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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2636 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 08, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
M Question by M on Apr 30, 2024Hindi
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Sir I am new to Gold investment through digi locker. Will it be safe to invest. M V shivaram

Ans: Investing in gold through digital platforms like DigiLocker can offer convenience and accessibility. However, it's essential to consider various factors before making any investment decision, including safety and security.
1. Safety of DigiLocker: DigiLocker is a government-owned digital platform designed to store and share documents securely. While it provides a safe environment for storing important documents digitally, it's crucial to verify the credibility and security measures of any gold investment options available through the platform.
2. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that the gold investment option available on DigiLocker complies with regulatory standards and is authorized by relevant authorities. Look for certifications or approvals from regulatory bodies to ensure the legitimacy of the investment.
3. Risk Assessment: Evaluate the risks associated with investing in gold through digital platforms. Consider factors such as counterparty risk, liquidity risk, and market volatility. Assess whether the investment aligns with your risk tolerance and investment objectives.
4. Research and Due Diligence: Conduct thorough research on the gold investment option available on DigiLocker. Understand the terms and conditions, fees, and charges associated with the investment. Verify the reputation and track record of the service provider offering the investment opportunity.
5. Alternative Investment Options: Consider exploring alternative avenues for investing in gold, such as gold ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds), sovereign gold bonds, or digital gold platforms operated by reputable financial institutions. Compare the features, costs, and security measures of different investment options before making a decision.
6. Consultation with Financial Professionals: Seek advice from Certified Financial Planners (CFPs) or investment professionals who can provide guidance tailored to your financial situation and goals. They can help you assess the suitability of investing in gold through DigiLocker and provide recommendations based on your individual needs.
In summary, while investing in gold through DigiLocker may offer convenience, it's essential to prioritize safety and security. Conduct thorough due diligence, assess the risks involved, and consider consulting with financial professionals before making any investment decisions. By taking a cautious approach and staying informed, you can make well-informed investment choices that align with your financial objectives.
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Sanjeev

Sanjeev Govila  |458 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Sep 20, 2023

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@Anil Rego ji Namaskar - Intend to invest in gold bond, how should i proceed and which way is better to invest in gold bond ! i intend to invest in paper gold bond rather then purchasing gold physically. plz advise.
Ans: Gold can be a valuable addition to your portfolio. It has always been considered an asset that can hedge against inflation and other economic uncertainties. There are three popular ways to invest in gold.

Gold ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds): Gold ETFs offer easy liquidity, as they are traded on stock exchanges just like stocks. They provide a direct exposure to the price of gold.
Taxation - Profits on the sale/redemption of Gold ETFs or units of gold saving funds bought after 31st March 2013 will be taxed as short capital gains irrespective of the holding period. So, this will be taxed as per an individual’s current tax slab.

Gold Mutual Funds: Gold mutual funds pool investments from multiple investors and provide professional fund management. They are an excellent choice for those who prefer a diversified approach.
Expense ratios and load fees can vary.
It is advisable to keep the investment in gold within 5% to 10% of one’s total investment portfolio.
Taxability is similar to that of Gold ETFs.

Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs): SGBs are issued by the Government of India and they provide an additional annual interest income. SGBs are suited for long-term investors who are looking for a safe haven asset and are willing to hold on to their investment for at least 5 years, preferably full 8 years to get the tax advantage of Zero capital gains tax on gains made.
The returns on SGBs are not guaranteed, and they depend on the prevailing market price of gold at the time of sale. There is a lock-in period of 5 years, so you cannot exit your investment before then.

SGBs may be the right choice. If liquidity and trading flexibility are important, consider Gold ETFs. Gold mutual funds are suitable for diversification, doing SIPs and professional management.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2636 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 17, 2024

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Sir I would like to know whether securing Gold through digi locker is safe investment or not.
Ans: Here's a breakdown of DigiLocker gold investment to help you decide if it's safe for you:

Safety Aspects of DigiLocker Gold:

Reduced Theft Risk: Unlike physical gold, DigiLocker gold is stored electronically, eliminating the risk of theft from your home or locker.

Government Backing (Partially): While DigiLocker itself is a government initiative, the safety of your gold investment depends on the platform you use to buy and store it. Choose a reputable platform with strong security measures.

Things to Consider:

Not Directly Held by Government: The gold you buy through DigiLocker isn't directly held by the government. It's held by the partnered custodian bank or MMTC-PAMP (metals & minerals trading corporation).

Regulation Concerns: DigiLocker gold investment is a relatively new concept, and specific regulations might still be evolving.

Alternatives to Consider:

Physical Gold: Offers complete control but comes with storage risks.
Gold ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds): Traded on stock exchanges, reflecting gold prices, but without physical possession.
Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs): Backed by the government, offering interest and tax benefits.
Recommendation:

DigiLocker gold can be a convenient and secure way to invest in gold, especially considering the reduced theft risk. However, it's crucial to:

Choose a trusted platform with a good reputation for security.
Understand that the gold isn't directly government-held.
Consider alternative gold investment options like ETFs or SGBs depending on your goals.
Do more research:

Research the specific platform you're considering for DigiLocker gold investment.
Explore other gold investment options to compare safety, returns, and liquidity.
By carefully considering these factors, you can decide if DigiLocker gold aligns with your investment strategy.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |2636 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 04, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 04, 2024Hindi
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Hi Sir, Please advise, I want to invest 2 lakhs in gold (and not physical gold). How do I go about it? (Process, any tax?, and do you suggest a better amount) This is for my child's future and not planning to liquidate atleast for 10 years. FYI, I already have some FD, 20k invested in various MF's, LIC and SSY. I might have to bear home loan now or sooner in time. I am 35 year old working in private firm.
Ans: As a Certified Financial Planner, I recommend investing in gold through gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) or gold mutual funds.

To begin, you'll need a demat account to invest in gold ETFs, while for gold mutual funds, a regular mutual fund account suffices. Both options provide easy access to gold without the hassle of physical ownership.

Tax implications on gains from gold investments depend on the holding period. Long-term gains (held for over three years) are subject to capital gains tax, while short-term gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.

Considering your child's future and a 10-year investment horizon, allocating 2 lakhs to gold is prudent. This diversifies your portfolio, reducing risk while potentially enhancing returns over the long term.

Given your existing investments and the possibility of a home loan, it's crucial to strike a balance between various investment avenues. Assess your risk tolerance, liquidity needs, and financial goals before making any investment decisions.

By investing in gold through ETFs or mutual funds, you gain exposure to the precious metal's potential upside without the concerns of storage or security associated with physical gold. Regularly review your portfolio and consult with a Certified Financial Planner to ensure it remains aligned with your evolving financial objectives.

..Read more

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Archana Deshpande  |37 Answers  |Ask -

Image Coach, Soft Skills Trainer - Answered on May 19, 2024

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I have completed my B.E in Mechanical in 2021. But jobless till now due to many factors such as following: 1)Due to family issues 2)Low Salary packages inspite of longer distance travelling to office 3) Slow growth in the establishment 4) preparing for govt jobs No I am fed up with all above things... What to do ?
Ans: Hi!!
Syed, you are asking me what to do, here are my suggestions-
1. have clear goals with respect to your job
2. you have listed so may reasons for not taking up a job, now find a few reasons to take a job - your self respect, your own money to spend are some I can think of
3. it's very easy to quit a job, find reasons to stay
4. invest in your physical and mental well being, a clam and collected mind will take better decisions
5. I really won't say slow growth in an organisation, if I had finished engineering in 2021 and it is middle of 2024 now
6. preparing for Govt Jobs is a good idea, look into doing this thing well if you are really serious about it
7. give your 100% in everything you do Syed!! Let there be energy, enthusiasm and excitement in your search for a job, it's your life, take charge of it and see how you want it to unfold. Do all that which is in your control
8.you get fed up when you don't see progress and not celebrate your wins however small they may be! Every step you take towards your goal, pat yourself on the back, be your greatest cheer leader
9.do not compare yourself with others, compare only if you feel inspired
10. focus on your well being and happiness
11. take up a job and do well there, it is better to do a job than to sit idle or
12. look to upskill in an area you want to work, look for job oriented courses
13. seek help if need be

All the very best!!

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DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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