Dear sir I not started any investment till today kindly guide which investment scheme is better for me @ infant level

Ans: Investing for your children's future is commendable, and it's essential to choose the right investment option based on your financial goals and preferences. Here's a comparison between HDFC Children's Gift Fund and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) to help you make an informed decision:

HDFC Children's Gift Fund:

Offers the flexibility of investing in equity and debt instruments, providing the potential for higher returns over the long term.
Returns are subject to market risks but may outperform traditional fixed-income investments like SSY, especially over a 15-year horizon.
Taxation: Long-term capital gains (if any) are taxed at 10% without indexation benefit, applicable if gains exceed Rs 1 lakh in a financial year.
Not specifically designed for tax benefits, but potential returns could outweigh tax implications.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY):

Specifically designed for the girl child's education and marriage expenses, offering guaranteed returns and tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
Currently offers a higher interest rate compared to most fixed-income instruments, providing assured returns.
Taxation: Contributions qualify for tax deductions under Section 80C, and interest income and maturity proceeds are tax-free.
The scheme has a lock-in period until the girl child turns 21, which may restrict liquidity compared to mutual funds.
Considering your investment horizon of 15 years and the desire for tax-free returns, SSY could be a suitable option for your daughter. However, if you prefer potential higher returns and are comfortable with market risks, HDFC Children's Gift Fund may be worth considering for your son's investments.

Consult with a Certified Financial Planner to assess your risk tolerance, financial goals, and tax implications before making a decision. They can provide personalized advice based on your unique circumstances and help you create a comprehensive investment plan for your children's future.

Ans: Invest in a good small cap fund for atleast 15yrs for your daughter.

Ans: Considering your situation, investing in SIPs for your child's education is a thoughtful move. Look for diversified equity or balanced funds with a proven track record. Start with an SIP amount that comfortably fits your budget and gradually increase it as your financial situation improves. Focus on long-term growth and consider seeking advice from a financial advisor.

Ans: Planning for Your Baby Boy's Future
Understanding Your Goal
Congratulations on taking the first step towards securing your child's future. Investing for your child's future is a thoughtful and responsible decision.

Evaluating Investment Options
Several investment options cater specifically to children's financial planning, offering growth potential and flexibility.

Assessing Risk Appetite
Given your child's young age, you have a long investment horizon, allowing you to consider a mix of equity and debt instruments.

Considering Child-Specific Investment Products
Various investment avenues, such as children's education plans and mutual funds, are designed to meet the future financial needs of your child.

Benefits of Children's Education Plans
Children's education plans offer features like guaranteed returns, life insurance coverage, and maturity benefits tailored to fulfill your child's educational aspirations.

Exploring Mutual Funds for Long-Term Growth
Mutual funds provide the potential for wealth creation over the long term. Opting for equity-oriented mutual funds can harness the power of compounding to build a substantial corpus.

Analyzing Investment Horizon and Goals
Since your child is just one year old, you have a significant investment horizon, allowing you to select growth-oriented investment options.

Importance of Regular Reviews and Monitoring
Regularly reviewing your investment portfolio and making necessary adjustments ensures that you stay on track to achieve your financial goals for your child.

Disadvantages of Direct Stock Investing
Direct stock investing requires in-depth research, time, and expertise. Additionally, it exposes your investment to market volatility and individual company risks.

Benefits of Regular Funds Investing through MFDs with CFP Credentials
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) accredited Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) offers personalized advice and access to a diverse range of funds. This approach ensures that your investment strategy aligns with your child's future needs.

Conclusion
By investing ?5,000 per month in a well-diversified portfolio comprising children's education plans and growth-oriented mutual funds, you can lay a strong financial foundation for your baby boy's future. Remember to review your investments regularly and make adjustments as needed to stay on track towards achieving your goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: You want to invest Rs 2.5 lakhs lump sum for 25-30 years. Here's a detailed analysis of suitable investment instruments:

Equity Mutual Funds
Potential Returns:

Equity mutual funds can provide high returns.
Historically, they offer 12-15% annual returns over the long term.
Benefits:

Diversification across various sectors.
Professional fund management.
Flexibility to switch between funds.
Risks:

Market volatility can impact short-term performance.
Requires a long-term horizon to mitigate risks.
Public Provident Fund (PPF)
Potential Returns:

PPF offers 7-8% annual returns.
Returns are compounded annually.
Benefits:

Government-backed and risk-free.
Tax benefits under Section 80C.
Long lock-in period aligns with your investment horizon.
Risks:

Lower returns compared to equity mutual funds.
Limited liquidity due to a 15-year lock-in period.
National Pension System (NPS)
Potential Returns:

NPS offers 8-10% annual returns.
Combines equity, corporate bonds, and government securities.
Benefits:

Tax benefits under Section 80C and Section 80CCD(1B).
Flexibility to choose asset allocation.
Low management fees.
Risks:

Returns depend on market performance.
Partial withdrawal restrictions until retirement.
Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGB)
Potential Returns:

SGBs offer 2.5% annual interest plus capital gains linked to gold prices.
Historically, gold has provided 8-10% annual returns.
Benefits:

Government-backed with no storage issues.
Tax benefits if held till maturity.
Hedge against inflation and currency risks.
Risks:

Gold prices can be volatile.
Long tenure of 8 years may not align perfectly with your horizon.
Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIP)
Potential Returns:

ULIPs can offer 8-10% annual returns.
Combines investment with insurance.
Benefits:

Dual benefit of investment and insurance.
Tax benefits under Section 80C.
Flexibility in switching between equity, debt, and balanced funds.
Risks:

High charges in initial years.
Returns depend on fund performance and market conditions.
Final Insights
For a long-term horizon, equity mutual funds are the best option. They offer high returns and professional management. Diversify your investments for risk management. Regularly review and adjust your portfolio with a Certified Financial Planner.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in