Can you please let us know 1-2 good debt funds which can beat FD / inflation rate (8+ per cent) for 3-4 years? Less risky

Ans: I would like to suggest that in spite of putting all your eggs in one basket (that is, debt funds), you should go for diversification of funds for goods returns.

You should put 50 per cent of your investment in debt funds, and 50 per cent should go into balanced funds which is combination of debt and equity. This way you will always have 65 per cent of investment in debt only and 35 per cent in equity.

Some good debt funds can be:

1. ICICI Prudential Ultra Short Term Fund - Direct Plan - Daily IDCW Payout

2. Aditya Birla Sun Life CEF - Global Agri Plan - Growth-Direct Plan

3. IDFC Government Securities Fund - Constant Maturity Regular - Growth

4. Nippon India Gilt Securities Fund - Direct Plan Defined Maturity Date Option - Growth

Some Good balanced funds can be:

1. HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund

2. ICICI Prudential Balanced Advantage Fund

3. Nippon India Balanced Advantage Fund

4. Edelweiss Balanced Advantage Fund.

5. L&T Dynamic Equity Fund.

Ans: Assessment of Best Debt Fund for Short-Term Investment:

Analyzing the Current Scenario:

Investing for a period of up to 3 years necessitates a focus on capital preservation and generating stable returns.
Given the prevailing economic conditions, factors such as interest rate movements and credit quality are crucial considerations for selecting an appropriate debt fund.
Understanding your risk tolerance and investment horizon is essential to align your choice with your financial goals and preferences.
Assessment of Debt Fund Categories:

Liquid Funds:
Ideal for ultra-short-term investments, offering high liquidity and minimal interest rate risk.
Suitable for parking funds temporarily or meeting short-term financial obligations.
However, returns may be relatively lower compared to other debt fund categories.
Short Duration Funds:
Offer a slightly higher yield potential than liquid funds with a marginally longer investment horizon.
Invest primarily in debt securities with maturities ranging from 1 to 3 years, providing a balance between stability and yield.
Suitable for investors seeking slightly higher returns while maintaining liquidity and stability.
Corporate Bond Funds:
Invest in higher-rated corporate bonds, offering relatively higher yields compared to government securities.
Moderate credit risk associated with investments in corporate debt instruments.
Suitable for investors willing to accept slightly higher risk for potentially higher returns within the 3-year investment horizon.
Banking and PSU Funds:
Invest in debt instruments issued by banks and public sector undertakings (PSUs), typically offering higher credit quality.
Relatively lower risk compared to corporate bond funds, making them suitable for conservative investors seeking stability and income generation.
May offer slightly lower returns compared to corporate bond funds due to the higher credit quality of underlying securities.
Recommendation:

Given the investment horizon of up to 3 years, short duration funds appear to be the most suitable option.
These funds strike a balance between liquidity, stability, and yield, making them well-suited for short-term investment objectives.
While specific scheme names are not provided, it's essential to assess the track record, credit quality, and expense ratios of short duration funds before making a decision.
In conclusion, for investors seeking to invest for up to 3 years, short duration funds offer an optimal combination of liquidity, stability, and potential returns, aligning with your investment horizon and risk profile.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

Ans: i like these 2 funds :
1. Baroda BNP Paribas Credit Risk Fund Direct Growth
2. ICICI Prudential Gilt fund.

Ans: A fixed deposit (FD) provides safety but may not give inflation-beating returns. Debt mutual funds are better for short-term goals. They offer higher potential returns and tax benefits over FDs.

Why Consider Debt Mutual Funds
Debt mutual funds are suitable for a 2-3 year horizon.

They offer better post-tax returns compared to FDs.
They invest in government securities, bonds, and other low-risk instruments.
Professional fund managers ensure diversification and risk management.
Tax Advantages of Debt Mutual Funds
Taxation on debt funds depends on the holding period.

Gains are taxed as per your income slab for less than 3 years.
After 3 years, the gains are taxed as long-term and adjusted for inflation.
FDs, on the other hand, are taxed fully at your income slab.
Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed debt funds can outperform passive options.

Fund managers adjust the portfolio based on market conditions.
This enhances returns and minimises risks.
Avoid Direct Funds
Direct funds may seem cost-effective but lack advisory support.

Monitoring and managing them yourself is challenging.
Regular funds through a certified financial planner offer better results.
Suitable Debt Fund Categories
Choose funds based on your time horizon and risk tolerance:

Short-term funds: Ideal for a 2-3 year horizon. They provide stable returns.
Corporate bond funds: Invest in high-rated companies for better safety and returns.
Dynamic bond funds: Adjust duration based on interest rate movements.
These options balance safety and returns effectively.

Keep a Portion Liquid
Always maintain a portion of your investment in liquid funds.

This ensures you have immediate access to funds.
Liquid funds are safer and provide quick liquidity.
Monitoring and Reviews
Regularly review your portfolio with a certified financial planner.

Monitor performance and align it with your goals.
Rebalance the portfolio if market conditions change.
Emergency Fund Setup
Do not invest your entire FD amount in debt funds.

Keep at least 6 months’ expenses in a separate emergency fund.
Use liquid funds or high-interest savings accounts for this purpose.
Avoid Risky Investments
Do not compromise on safety for higher returns.

Avoid high-risk debt funds like credit risk funds.
Focus on funds with high credit quality and stability.
Final Insights
Debt mutual funds can optimise your returns compared to FDs. Choose the right category for your 2-3 year horizon. Work with a certified financial planner for tailored advice and portfolio management. Regular reviews will ensure you stay on track with your goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment