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Financial Planner - Answered on Jun 19, 2024

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Asked by Anonymous - Jun 08, 2024Hindi

I have a HDFC SL Youngstar Super Policy since 2010 and I have been paying Rs 25000 annually. Is it okay to continue or can you suggest a better option? Please suggest few names.

Ans: Deciding whether to continue with your current HDFC SL Youngstar Super Policy or to switch to a different option depends on several factors, including your financial goals, the policy's performance, and the benefits it provides. Here are a few steps you can take to make an informed decision:

1. Evaluate Your Current Policy:

• Performance: Review the policy’s performance since 2010. How has it grown? Is it meeting your expectations in terms of returns?
• Benefits: What are the key benefits of the HDFC SL Youngstar Super Policy? Does it provide life insurance, investment benefits, and other features you need?
• Charges and Fees: Understand the charges associated with the policy (e.g., premium allocation charges, policy administration charges, fund management charges).

2. Compare with Other Options:

Consider comparing your current policy with other financial products that can offer similar or better benefits. Here are a few alternatives:

Term Insurance + Mutual Funds:

• Term Insurance: Provides pure risk cover without any investment component. It's usually cheaper than ULIPs (Unit Linked Insurance Plans).
• Examples: HDFC Click 2 Protect, ICICI Prudential iProtect Smart, Max Life Online Term Plan Plus.

• Mutual Funds: For investment purposes, consider investing in mutual funds for potentially higher returns.
• Examples: Axis Bluechip Fund, Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund, SBI Small Cap Fund, HDFC Hybrid Equity Fund.

Public Provident Fund (PPF):

• A long-term investment option with tax benefits and guaranteed returns. It's a good option for risk-averse investors.

National Pension System (NPS):

• A government-backed retirement savings scheme with tax benefits and market-linked returns. Suitable for long-term retirement planning.

Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS):

• Mutual funds that offer tax benefits under Section 80C and have the potential for high returns.
• Examples: Axis Long Term Equity Fund, Mirae Asset Tax Saver Fund, Aditya Birla Sun Life Tax Relief 96.

3. Assess Your Risk Appetite and Goals:

• Risk Tolerance: Are you comfortable with market-linked products (mutual funds, ULIPs) or do you prefer guaranteed returns (PPF, fixed deposits)?
• Financial Goals: What are your financial goals (e.g., child’s education, retirement)? Choose products that align with these goals.

4. Consult a Financial Advisor:

It’s always a good idea to consult with a financial advisor who can provide personalised advice based on your entire financial situation.

Summary:

• If your HDFC SL Youngstar Super Policy has not performed well or if the charges are high, consider alternatives like term insurance combined with mutual funds for better returns and flexibility.
• For risk-averse investors, PPF or NPS might be suitable options.
• Always align your investments with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
• Carefully assess these factors before making a decision. If needed, get professional advice to ensure your financial plans are on the right track.

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.