I have 1 Lac Rupees to Invest: Which Mutual Fund is Best for My One-Time Investment?

Ans: Before choosing a mutual fund, it’s important to understand your investment goal. Are you aiming for long-term growth, or do you need the money in a shorter period? Knowing your time horizon and risk appetite is crucial. If you plan to invest for more than five years, equity mutual funds are a good choice. They offer potential for high returns but come with some risk.

Why Actively Managed Funds Are Better
You might think of investing in index funds because they follow the market. However, index funds only mimic the market. They cannot outperform it. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, have the potential to beat the market. They are managed by experts who can adjust the portfolio based on market conditions. This means better opportunities for growth.

The Problem with Direct Funds
You may consider direct funds for lower expenses, but they lack professional guidance. Investing through a Certified Financial Planner ensures that your investment is regularly reviewed and aligned with your financial goals. Regular funds offer this professional service, which is especially important for first-time or less experienced investors.

Diversifying Your Rs. 1 Lakh Investment
Investing Rs. 1 lakh in a single mutual fund might seem simple, but diversification is key. You can split your investment across a few different funds to spread risk and improve returns. For example:

Equity Funds for Growth:
Allocate a portion to an actively managed large-cap or multi-cap fund. These funds invest in large and established companies, providing stability and growth over the long term.

Balanced or Hybrid Funds for Stability:
Consider investing in a balanced or hybrid fund. These funds invest in both equity and debt, offering a mix of growth and safety. This ensures your investment is not too risky.

Sectoral Funds for Higher Risk Appetite:
If you are willing to take on more risk, a small part of your investment can go into sectoral or thematic funds. These funds focus on specific sectors like technology or healthcare, which can offer high returns but are riskier.

How to Invest Wisely
Investing Rs. 1 lakh is a significant step, and it’s important to do it wisely. Here’s how you can proceed:

Consult a Certified Financial Planner:
Before investing, consult with a Certified Financial Planner. They will assess your financial situation, risk tolerance, and goals. This will help in selecting the right mix of funds.

Start with an Investment App or Through a Planner:
You can invest directly through an investment app or platform. However, investing through a planner ensures that your portfolio is well-managed and reviewed regularly.

Monitor Your Investment Regularly:
Keep track of your investment’s performance. Regular reviews ensure that your portfolio stays aligned with your goals and the market’s conditions.

Finally
Investing Rs. 1 lakh can be a great step towards building wealth. By choosing the right mix of actively managed funds and seeking professional guidance, you can make your investment work harder for you. Remember to diversify, monitor your portfolio, and stay committed to your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in