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I Invested In A Term Plan; Was My Math Right?

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  |710 Answers  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Oct 01, 2024

Milind Vadjikar is an independent MF distributor registered with Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) and a retirement financial planning advisor registered with Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).
He has a mechanical engineering degree from Government Engineering College, Sambhajinagar, and an MBA in international business from the Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune.
With over 16 years of experience in stock investments, and over six year experience in investment guidance and support, he believes that balanced asset allocation and goal-focused disciplined investing is the key to achieving investor goals.... more
Visu Question by Visu on Oct 01, 2024Hindi
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I have a term plan life insurance. I understand that term plan with lower premium and higher coverage. I also understand that I will not get anything in return if I survive after the policy term. Therefore I have decided and invested one time lump sum at 2 lacs per 1 Cr (2 lacs investment for 1 cr coverage) for an quality amount of policy term say 30 years(undisturbed). So that I will the amount of sum assured in case I survive for the policy term not from insurance company but as return from mutual fund Now the question is 2 lacs per 1 cr formulae is correct or is there any thumb rule for this calculation.

Ans: Hello;

You need to put minimum 2.6 L lumpsum in a pure equity mutual fund now so that it grows to 1 Cr after 30 years assuming modest return of 13%.

Happy Investing!!

*Investments in mutual funds are subject to market risks. Please read all scheme related documents carefully before investing.
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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Milind

Milind Vadjikar  |710 Answers  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Sep 04, 2024

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I am having a term policy whose annual premium is Rs.25000; I understand that I will not get back the premium or maturity benefit. Therefore, I am planning to invest Rs.2,50,000 lumpsum or say Rs.5000 a day over a period of 50 days under STP from my liquid fund. I will not disturb the amount for 30 years and I will take the dividend assuming @ 10% on Rs.250000 to pay off the premium commitment. I also understand, in case of no dividend in any particular year, I need to honour the premium commitment out of pocket. Will this Rs.2.50 lacs investment will get me Rs.50 lacs after 30 years; in case of my survival, the maturity amount of Rs.2.50 lacs is Rs.50 lacs (presumed) or in case of death , within this 30 years, the nominee will get this 50 lacs from term plan and also get Rs.50 lacs from the mutual fund investment after 30 years. Is my idea is correct and investment of Rs.2.50lacs in equity fund will be suffice or should I need to invest more.? please guide and advise.
Ans: Never plan periodic payouts thru dividend mutual funds because their is no assurance about it.

Consider 25K per yr as a protection money(term plan premium) and invest the balance into equity mutual funds.

Had you opted for traditional endowment policy then your annual premium outgo would have been much higher with less surplus available for investing in mutual funds.

Alternatively you can invest lumpsum of 50 L in an conservative hybrid fund, let it grow for 3 years and then plan SWP to meet your premium payment needs.

*Investments in mutual funds are subjected to market risks. Read all scheme related documents carefully before investing

You may follow us on X at @mars_invest for more updates

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7163 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 06, 2024

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I hold term plan for life insurance. I understand that, the amount of premium paid on term plan Will not be return back or accrue bonus. I have a premium commitment of Rs.25 k per year. To augment the premium commitment and to get back a lump sum at maturity, i am planning to set aside and invest Rs.3 lacs in equity mutual fund say HDFC capital builder fund under dividend plan which pays average dividend of 10% pa. to take care of life insurance term plan premium commitment, and this I will not disturb for next 30 years allowing it to grow. So that I will get 50 lacs after 30 years. I also understand the dividend is uncertain and I will honour the premium commitment if not available by dividend. Please suggest me, whether this option of investing lump sum investment in equity mutual fund allowing it to grow for 30 years.
Ans: You’ve made a wise decision by choosing a term plan for life insurance. Term plans provide high coverage at low premiums, ensuring financial protection for your family. The main drawback of a term plan is the absence of maturity benefits or bonuses. However, the primary goal is protection, and you’ve rightly focused on ensuring that commitment. Your Rs. 25,000 annual premium is manageable, but setting aside a larger lump sum to generate returns for the future is an interesting strategy.

Let’s analyze your approach of investing Rs. 3 lakhs in equity mutual funds to fund your premium commitment.

Assessing the Investment Strategy
You are considering investing Rs. 3 lakhs in an equity mutual fund. Equity funds have historically provided long-term growth, which is aligned with your 30-year investment horizon. The plan to leave this investment undisturbed is ideal, as equity investments require time to overcome market volatility and generate meaningful returns.

However, the dividend option in mutual funds, especially under an equity scheme, may not be the most reliable source for annual income to cover your premium.

Here’s why:

Dividend payouts are uncertain: As you mentioned, dividends are not guaranteed. Mutual funds do not promise a fixed percentage of dividends annually. Even if a fund has paid dividends in the past, future payouts can vary significantly based on market performance and fund decisions.

Dividend plans vs. Growth plans: In dividend plans, the mutual fund distributes a portion of the profits as dividends, which means less capital is left in the fund to grow. In a growth plan, all profits are reinvested, potentially allowing for more significant long-term compounding.

Taxation of dividends: Dividends are now taxable in your hands as per your tax slab. This could reduce your net return from dividends, making it less efficient than initially anticipated.

While dividends could supplement your premium payments in some years, it’s important to have a backup plan for years when dividends are lower than expected. You’ve acknowledged this uncertainty and your intention to honor the premium payments, which is a sound approach.

Evaluating the 30-Year Investment Horizon
Your 30-year time horizon is excellent for equity investments. Over such a long period, equity mutual funds have the potential to generate substantial returns through the power of compounding. While market fluctuations will happen, they generally even out over extended periods, favoring patient investors.

However, you’ve set a goal of achieving Rs. 50 lakhs after 30 years, which is possible but not guaranteed. Let’s review the factors that could affect this goal:

Market conditions: Over 30 years, markets go through cycles of ups and downs. Historically, equity markets have grown, but predicting exact returns is difficult. You may need to review your investment periodically to ensure it’s on track to meet your goals.

Fund performance: Actively managed mutual funds can outperform or underperform based on the fund manager’s decisions. It’s essential to pick a consistent performer and periodically evaluate its performance against benchmarks.

Inflation: Don’t forget inflation. Over 30 years, the purchasing power of money can decrease significantly. The Rs. 50 lakhs you’re targeting may not have the same value in the future. Therefore, aiming for a higher corpus may be wise to maintain the same purchasing power.

Why Equity Mutual Funds are a Good Choice
You’ve opted for equity mutual funds, which is a good decision for long-term wealth creation. Here are some key benefits:

High potential returns: Equity funds, especially diversified ones, have historically provided higher returns than debt or fixed-income options. This makes them suitable for long-term goals like yours.

Professional management: By investing in an actively managed mutual fund, you’re relying on a professional fund manager to make investment decisions on your behalf. This can be beneficial, as they have the expertise and resources to make informed choices.

Diversification: Equity mutual funds invest in a variety of stocks across sectors, reducing the risk of poor performance from any one sector or company affecting your overall investment.

However, it’s important to avoid relying solely on historical dividends as a source of income. Dividends are not guaranteed, and equity funds are primarily designed for growth rather than regular income.

Alternative Strategies to Consider
Given that dividends from mutual funds can be unpredictable, it’s wise to consider a growth plan instead of a dividend plan. Here’s why:

Power of compounding: In a growth plan, the returns are reinvested, allowing your investment to grow more effectively over time. The compounding effect is amplified over 30 years, giving you a better chance of reaching your Rs. 50 lakh goal.

Tax efficiency: Growth plans are also more tax-efficient than dividend plans. You won’t have to worry about paying tax on dividends each year. Instead, you’ll only pay capital gains tax when you redeem your investment, and long-term capital gains on equity are taxed at a lower rate.

Greater flexibility: With a growth plan, you can choose when to redeem your investment, giving you more control over when you pay taxes and use the money.

Consider setting aside the Rs. 3 lakhs in a growth plan and reviewing it every few years. This will allow you to adjust your investment strategy if necessary, ensuring that you stay on track for your Rs. 50 lakh goal.

Backup Plan for Premium Commitments
Since dividends are uncertain, it’s wise to have a backup plan for covering your Rs. 25,000 annual premium. Here are a few options:

Use surplus income: If you have surplus income from other sources, set aside a portion of it each year to cover the premium. This ensures that your premium payments are covered, even if the dividends fall short.

SIP in a debt fund: You can consider starting a small Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) in a debt fund or liquid fund. This can act as a safety net in case dividends are insufficient in any year. Debt funds are more stable and can provide moderate returns with lower risk than equity funds.

Emergency fund: If you don’t already have one, consider building an emergency fund. This can provide you with liquidity to meet your insurance premium payments in case of a financial shortfall in any given year.

Regular Review of Investments
Investing with a long-term horizon is excellent, but it’s equally important to review your investments regularly. Here’s what you should do:

Annual performance review: Check your mutual fund’s performance every year. If the fund is consistently underperforming, consider switching to another fund with better prospects.

Rebalance if necessary: Over time, your risk profile might change, or market conditions might shift. In such cases, you may need to rebalance your portfolio to align with your goals.

Stay updated with your financial goals: As time passes, your financial goals may change. You might decide you need more than Rs. 50 lakhs, or you might achieve this goal sooner than expected. Be flexible and adjust your strategy accordingly.

Building a Diversified Portfolio
While equity mutual funds are a good choice for long-term growth, it’s important not to put all your eggs in one basket. Diversification can help reduce risk and improve the stability of your portfolio. Here’s how you can diversify:

Equity funds: Continue to invest in equity funds for long-term growth. However, consider diversifying across different types of equity funds (large-cap, mid-cap, multi-cap) to reduce risk.

Debt funds: You can allocate a small portion of your portfolio to debt funds for stability. These funds are less volatile and provide more predictable returns than equity funds.

Gold: Gold is often considered a hedge against inflation and market volatility. You could allocate a small percentage of your portfolio to gold to add an element of safety.

PPF or EPF: If you aren’t already contributing to a Public Provident Fund (PPF) or Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), consider these options. They provide a fixed return and can act as a stable part of your long-term financial plan.

Final Insights
Your idea of investing Rs. 3 lakhs in equity mutual funds for 30 years is a sound one, provided you manage expectations around dividends and market performance. A growth plan might be a more efficient option, allowing you to build a corpus through the power of compounding. At the same time, ensure you have a backup plan for premium payments, such as using surplus income or maintaining an emergency fund.

Remember, the key to successful investing is patience, regular review, and staying adaptable to changing circumstances.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |3935 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Nov 27, 2024

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7163 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 27, 2024Hindi
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Hi, sir I am a an 30 year old (single) engineer working with a MNC in Chennai, unfortunately till this day i haven't had any savings at all for my future (retirement, other short term or long term goals). Currently my take home salary after EPF and parental insurance is 53k ( EPF is about 4900/month - employee+employer) i haven't opted for Corporate NPS but is provided by the company without any additional contribution from company. I have company health insurance policy and have planned to take my own health insurance and term insurance plan. Adding to above I have zero emergency fund with me. How should I proceed with my investments?
Ans: You have taken the first step by recognising the need to plan. It’s essential to appreciate your intention to secure your financial future. Let’s look at how you can proceed to achieve your short-term and long-term goals.

Your current take-home salary is Rs 53,000, and your EPF contribution is Rs 4,900. However, you lack savings, investments, and an emergency fund. Here's a step-by-step strategy:

Build an Emergency Fund
Set aside funds to cover at least six months' expenses.

Start by saving 10-15% of your salary monthly into a high-interest savings account.

Use Recurring Deposits or Liquid Mutual Funds to maintain this fund for emergencies.

Secure Yourself with Insurance
Health insurance: Maintain your company health policy but add a personal health policy. Choose a policy offering a sum insured of Rs 10-15 lakh.

Term insurance: Buy a term plan covering 10-15 times your annual income. Keep the policy simple and avoid investment-linked insurance.

Budget Your Income
Allocate your income carefully for expenses, savings, and investments.

Use the 50-30-20 rule: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings and investments.

Avoid unnecessary expenses to increase your saving capacity.

Start Investing Gradually
Short-term goals (1-5 years): Invest in debt funds or recurring deposits. Debt mutual funds are good for stable returns.

Long-term goals (5+ years): Invest in equity mutual funds for higher returns. Choose actively managed funds with consistent performance.

Avoid index funds. Actively managed funds have a better potential for higher returns through professional fund management.

Retirement Planning
Utilise the EPF for retirement. Your current contribution will grow over time with compounding.

Consider investing in diversified equity mutual funds for additional retirement savings.

Corporate NPS: You can explore NPS for its tax-saving benefits. However, don’t rely solely on it for retirement.

Tax-Saving Investments
Use Section 80C to save taxes up to Rs 1.5 lakh.

EPF, PPF, ELSS mutual funds, and life insurance premiums can qualify under this section.

Opt for ELSS funds for tax saving and wealth creation.

Review Existing Expenses
Evaluate and minimise unnecessary expenditures.

Avoid loans for discretionary spending like vacations or gadgets.

Advantages of Using a Certified Financial Planner
A CFP can help you plan holistically and ensure you stick to your goals.

They provide tailored strategies, ensuring proper fund allocation and monitoring.

Invest through a Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP credentials to access professional advice.

Key Steps for Discipline
Automate investments through SIPs in mutual funds.

Track your monthly budget and investment progress regularly.

Avoid direct funds. Regular funds offer professional guidance and fund distributor support.

Tax Implications
For equity mutual funds, LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh attracts 12.5% tax.

STCG on equity funds is taxed at 20%.

Debt fund gains are taxed as per your income slab. Consider these while investing.

Final Insights
You are in the right direction by seeking advice now. Build a solid foundation with savings, insurance, and investments. Take small steps toward financial independence.

Remain consistent with your investments, and review your financial plan annually.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Mayank

Mayank Chandel  |1940 Answers  |Ask -

IIT-JEE, NEET-UG, SAT, CLAT, CA, CS Exam Expert - Answered on Nov 27, 2024

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Hello, i really have a serious issue regarding my studies as i am 24 yrs now and gave NEET 4times and i am still preparing for nxt year 2025 but at the back of my mind i am really tensed what if the same thing repeats in the neet 2025 also like paper leak and all, So now i am confused that should i take a full drop or partial drop. The mental pressure is really hitting hard and also its almost been 4years that i am still 12th pass only and my classmates have already completed their college and some are flight attendant and earning well, So this all things just hits so hard and also the hope in parents eyes as my father is already proud that i studied science so i would definitely become doctor. I wasted a lot of money in pg and coaching (fastrack) and this all things are hitting so hard that i really feel sad and have no ways to go.
Ans: Hi Bhima
I must say you have got perseverance & I appreciate your parent's trust in you. You have already appeared multiple times and you are going to appear again in 2025. By the time you will be 25 years old. They say there is no age to learn. But after getting admission you need another 10 years to practice as a qualified specialist. Make sure you take admission in the next session.

If higher cutoff & high fees of private colleges are an issue for you, then try exploring the MBBS abroad option, I can help with that too. Since NEXT is compulsory for Indian & Foreign graduates too it won't make a difference if you study in India or Abroad.

For time forget all the societal pressure and give your 100% and make your parents proud.

...Read more

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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