Hi My name is Rajan, 43 years old. Current take hime is 1.80 lakhs. Need help in building a corpus of 50 lakhs in 3 years to build a house( I already have a plot). I have invested around 12 Lakhs, current value is 15 lakhs, 10 lakhs in Equity. So i need to arrange 25 to 30 lakhs by 2028.
What is the SiP and the mf names I should consider investing.
Ans: Rajan, you're in a strong financial position at 43 with a clear goal in mind—building a house in three years. You have Rs. 15 lakhs in investments, of which Rs. 10 lakhs are in equity. With a target of Rs. 50 lakhs, you need to bridge a gap of Rs. 25-30 lakhs by 2028. Let's analyse how you can achieve this through systematic and strategic investments.
Evaluating Your Current Investments
Equity Exposure: Out of your Rs. 15 lakhs, Rs. 10 lakhs are already in equity. This means you're well-positioned for growth. However, we need to balance this with some stability as your time frame is relatively short.
Three-Year Horizon: A 3-year period is short for pure equity investments, which are more volatile in the short term. We need a combination of equity and debt to reduce risk.
Past Performance: Your Rs. 12 lakhs have grown to Rs. 15 lakhs, indicating a strong return. But now, a more cautious strategy is required since you have a definite goal in three years.
Setting Realistic Expectations for Growth
Achieving a corpus of Rs. 50 lakhs in three years requires a mix of growth from equity and the safety of debt investments. Given your current Rs. 15 lakh investment, the gap of Rs. 25 to 30 lakhs will require disciplined savings and careful fund selection.
Expected Returns: Equity mutual funds may offer returns of 10-12% annually over the next three years, though these returns are not guaranteed. Debt funds typically offer 6-8%, which is lower but more stable.
Taxation: Keep in mind that long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakh from equity funds are taxed at 12.5%, while short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%. Debt funds are taxed according to your income slab for both short- and long-term gains.
Investment Strategy to Achieve Rs. 50 Lakhs
You need a mix of equity and debt funds to reach your goal without taking excessive risk. Here’s the ideal approach:
1. Allocate for Growth (60% in Equity Funds)
Focus on Large and Mid-Cap Funds: These funds provide better stability compared to small-cap funds, which can be volatile in the short term. Since you have only three years, large-cap and mid-cap funds are suitable to balance growth and risk.
Diversified Equity Funds: These funds spread the investment across various sectors, reducing risk. Actively managed funds, in particular, can help capture opportunities in different sectors.
Disadvantages of Index Funds: While index funds are low-cost, they lack the ability to outperform the market during volatile times. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, can adjust based on market conditions, helping you achieve better returns.
Regular Funds Over Direct Funds: Direct funds may seem attractive due to lower expense ratios. However, investing through a mutual fund distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential offers personalised advice and portfolio adjustments. This support can be invaluable in a short investment horizon like yours.
2. Stabilise with Debt Funds (40% in Debt Funds)
Short-Term Debt Funds: These are ideal for a 3-year horizon. They offer better returns than FDs and lower volatility compared to equity funds. They can provide the stability your portfolio needs as you near your goal.
Hybrid Funds: A balanced fund that invests in both equity and debt can help smoothen volatility while still providing growth. This can act as a buffer during market corrections, ensuring your investments don’t fluctuate drastically.
Taxation on Debt Funds: Be mindful that gains from debt funds will be taxed as per your income slab, both for short-term and long-term gains. However, they are still more tax-efficient compared to FDs.
Monthly SIPs to Reach the Goal
To meet your target of Rs. 25-30 lakhs, you will need to start SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans). Here’s how you can structure them:
SIP in Equity Funds: Allocate about 60% of your monthly SIP towards equity funds. This will provide the necessary growth potential. The amount should be sufficient to close the gap over three years.
SIP in Debt Funds: The remaining 40% should go into short-term debt funds or hybrid funds to provide stability. This will protect your corpus from market volatility as you approach your goal.
Tracking Your Progress
Regular Reviews: Monitor your investments every 6 months. This will help you stay on track to meet your target and allow you to rebalance your portfolio if necessary. As you get closer to 2028, you may want to shift more into debt to protect your capital.
Market Corrections: Equity markets can be unpredictable. If there are market corrections, don't panic. Stick to your SIPs, as they allow you to buy more units at lower prices, averaging out the cost.
Avoid Emotional Investing: Stay focused on your goal and avoid making impulsive changes based on short-term market movements. Having a Certified Financial Planner guide you through this period can help ensure that you remain on course.
Final Insights
Balanced Allocation: Invest 60% in equity for growth and 40% in debt for stability.
SIPs: Start SIPs in both equity and debt mutual funds to systematically build your corpus.
Regular Reviews: Keep track of your progress and rebalance when necessary to meet your goal by 2028.
Taxation: Be aware of the tax implications on both equity and debt funds when withdrawing your investments.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment