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Should I Invest in Gold and PPF?

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  |879 Answers  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Jan 22, 2025

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
satish Question by satish on Jan 22, 2025Hindi
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Why we invest in gold and ppf. For ppf no guaranty of interest rate. Year by year interest rate reducing the Government...

Ans: Hello;

1. Gold(precious metals) is considered a relatively stable asset class having a negative correlation with equities. So it is advisable to have 10-15% allocation to Gold in your portfolio preferably through SGBs or gold mutual funds.


2. PPF is a social security scheme designed for people not covered under EPF/GPF. Ofcourse anybody can invest in it.

It's an E-E-E type of scheme. Tax exempt at the stage of investment (1.5 L max in a FY), interest earned and withdrawal.

Tax free and risk free 7.1% return is quite decent. Also since it's a social security scheme if suppose it's investor goes bankrupt even in that case the creditors cannot touch PPF money for recovery.

Having said this, it is your choice whether to invest in them or somewhere else.

Best wishes;
X: @mars_invest
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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I availed loan of Rs. 15 lacs for business. Interest Rate is 10.5% PA. Due to some reasons, the investment getting delayed. Can l invest in GOLD and take OD against it as and when needed? The logic applied is appreciation of gold helps in interest cost.
Ans: While using gold as collateral to obtain an overdraft (OD) facility may seem like a viable option to manage your interest costs, there are several factors to consider before proceeding with this strategy:

Interest Rate Differential: The interest rate on your OD facility against gold needs to be significantly lower than the interest rate on your business loan for this strategy to be beneficial. Ensure that the cost of borrowing against gold is lower than the 10.5% interest rate on your business loan.

Risk of Fluctuating Gold Prices: Gold prices are subject to market volatility and can fluctuate over time. If the value of gold decreases, you may face challenges in maintaining the required collateral value for your OD facility. This could potentially lead to margin calls or the need to pledge additional assets.

Liquidity Constraints: While gold can be a valuable asset, it may not provide the same level of liquidity as cash or cash equivalents. If you require immediate access to funds, selling gold or obtaining an OD against it may not be as straightforward as withdrawing from a bank account.

Loan Repayment Considerations: Using gold as collateral for an OD does not eliminate your obligation to repay the original business loan. Ensure that you have a clear repayment plan in place to address both the business loan and any outstanding amounts on the OD facility.

Regulatory and Lender Requirements: Check with your lender regarding their policies on using gold as collateral and obtaining an OD facility. There may be specific eligibility criteria, loan-to-value ratios, and documentation requirements that you need to fulfill.

Before proceeding with this strategy, it's advisable to consult with a financial advisor or banking professional who can assess your specific situation and provide guidance tailored to your needs and objectives. Additionally, consider exploring alternative options for managing your interest costs and addressing any delays in your investment plans.

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Asked by Anonymous - Apr 20, 2024Hindi
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Hi sir i am investigating ppfas in 6k per month and i am paying gold chit 12k per month and also recently bought land arount 9l now i am paying emi per month 30k still i have 10k per month in which way I invest that 10k
Ans: It sounds like you're already making some significant investments in PPFA, gold chit, and land, which is commendable. Since you have an additional 10k per month to invest, here are some suggestions:
1. Emergency Fund: Ensure you have an adequate emergency fund set aside in a liquid and easily accessible account. Aim to have at least 3-6 months' worth of living expenses saved up to cover any unforeseen expenses or financial emergencies.
2. Debt Repayment: Evaluate if there are any high-interest debts, apart from your existing EMI for the land purchase, that you could pay off faster. Prioritize debts with high-interest rates to reduce your overall interest payments and improve your financial health.
3. Diversified Mutual Funds: Consider diversifying your investment portfolio by allocating some of the additional 10k per month to mutual funds. Look for funds that align with your risk tolerance, investment goals, and time horizon. Diversification helps spread risk and potentially enhance returns.
4. Retirement Savings: Allocate a portion of the 10k towards retirement savings, especially if you don't have other retirement accounts or pension plans. Retirement funds invested early can benefit from the power of compounding over time, helping you build a substantial nest egg for your future.
5. Health Insurance: Invest in comprehensive health insurance coverage for yourself and your family, if you haven't already done so. Adequate health insurance can provide financial protection against unexpected medical expenses and ensure access to quality healthcare when needed.
6. Education or Skill Development: Invest in furthering your education or acquiring new skills that could enhance your career prospects and earning potential in the long run. Consider courses, certifications, or workshops relevant to your field or areas of interest.
7. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): Explore the option of investing in REITs, which offer exposure to the real estate sector without the need for direct property ownership. REITs typically distribute rental income to investors as dividends, providing a source of passive income.
Remember to review your financial goals periodically and adjust your investment strategy accordingly. It's also advisable to consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to tailor an investment plan that suits your specific needs and circumstances.

Best Regards,
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www.holisticinvestment.in

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Namaste Sir, Can Purchasing Gold of 15000 from now, give good return in next 5/6 years.
Ans: Investing in gold is a popular choice. It provides a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties.

Historical Performance of Gold
Stability and Growth
Gold has shown consistent growth over long periods.

It tends to perform well during economic downturns.

Volatility
Gold prices can be volatile in the short term.

Over 5-6 years, it usually stabilizes and provides decent returns.

Analyzing Gold's Potential
Economic Factors
Global economic conditions affect gold prices.

Geopolitical tensions often drive gold prices up.

Inflation Hedge
Gold is an excellent hedge against inflation.

It retains value even when the currency value drops.

Comparing Gold with Other Investments
Equity Mutual Funds
Higher Growth Potential: Equity funds can provide higher returns.

Active Management: Managed by professionals for optimal returns.

Debt Funds
Stability: Lower risk compared to equities.

Fixed Income: Provides steady, albeit lower, returns.

Investing in Gold: Methods
Physical Gold
Tangible Asset: Can be held in the form of jewellery or coins.

Storage Costs: Requires secure storage, which may incur costs.

Gold ETFs
Ease of Trading: Traded on the stock exchange.

No Storage Costs: Eliminates the need for physical storage.

Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs)
Interest Income: Offers annual interest apart from capital appreciation.

Tax Benefits: Tax exemptions on redemption after maturity.

Disadvantages of Direct Gold Investment
Physical Gold
Making Charges: Adds to the cost when buying jewellery.

Security Concerns: Risk of theft or loss.

Gold ETFs
Market Dependent: Prices can fluctuate based on market conditions.

No Tangible Asset: Lacks the physical ownership aspect.

Diversifying Your Portfolio
Balanced Approach: Combine gold with equity and debt funds.

Risk Management: Diversification reduces overall investment risk.

Assessing Your Investment Horizon
5-6 Years Perspective
Gold can be a good investment for 5-6 years.

It may not offer the highest returns but provides stability.

Best Practices for Investing in Gold
Regular Investment
Invest regularly to average out the cost.

Consider a systematic investment plan for gold ETFs or SGBs.

Monitoring Market Conditions
Keep an eye on economic indicators.

Adjust your investments based on market trends.

Final Insights
Investing Rs. 15,000 in gold regularly can yield good returns over 5-6 years. Gold acts as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties. While it may not provide the highest returns compared to equities, it offers stability. Diversify your portfolio by combining gold with equity and debt funds. Regularly monitor your investments and adjust based on market conditions.

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K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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What should I do after my bsc in medical
Ans: Hello Priyanka.
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Where should I invest Rs. 50000 in Index mutual fund or in ETF?
Ans: When deciding between Index Mutual Funds, ETFs, and actively managed diversified equity funds, actively managed funds often stand out. Let’s analyse why active diversified equity funds are a better option for your Rs. 50,000 investment.

Understanding Index Funds and ETFs
Index Funds: These passively replicate an index like NIFTY 50 or SENSEX. They aim to match the market’s performance, not beat it.

ETFs (Exchange Traded Funds): Similar to index funds but trade like stocks on exchanges. They require a Demat account.

Disadvantages of Index Funds and ETFs
Limited Returns Potential
Index funds and ETFs only track the market.
They cannot outperform the benchmark, even when market conditions allow for superior performance.
No Protection in Market Downturns
Index funds replicate the index, so they fall equally during market downturns.
Active funds may reduce losses with better sector and stock allocation.
Lack of Professional Judgment
Index funds follow pre-set rules, ignoring company-specific fundamentals.
Actively managed funds use professional fund managers who adjust portfolios to maximise gains.
Hidden Costs in ETFs
ETFs may seem cost-effective but involve additional brokerage and Demat account charges.
Liquidity issues can lead to price variations between the market price and NAV.
Benefits of Active Diversified Equity Funds
Potential for Superior Returns
Experienced fund managers aim to outperform the benchmark.
They carefully select high-potential stocks across sectors and market caps.
Flexibility in Stock Selection
Active funds are not restricted to index stocks.
They pick companies with strong fundamentals, growth prospects, and attractive valuations.
Downside Protection
Fund managers can reduce exposure to risky sectors during market downturns.
This minimises losses compared to passive funds.
Tax Efficiency with Strategic Planning
Gains can be optimised with periodic review and rebalancing.
Active funds often deliver better after-tax returns over the long term.
Why Rs. 50,000 Fits Well in Active Diversified Equity Funds
A one-time investment of Rs. 50,000 deserves active management for maximised growth.
Over 5–10 years, active funds are better positioned to beat inflation and create wealth.
Suggested Allocation for Active Diversified Equity Funds
Large-Cap Equity Funds (30%-40%): Stability and consistent returns.
Flexi-Cap Equity Funds (40%-50%): Flexibility to invest across market caps.
Mid-Cap Equity Funds (20%-30%): Higher growth potential with moderate risk.
Key Considerations
Stay invested for at least 7–10 years for compounding benefits.
Review performance annually and rebalance if needed.
Avoid chasing short-term trends or reacting to market noise.
Final Insights
Index funds and ETFs are suitable for certain scenarios, but they lack active management benefits. By investing Rs. 50,000 in actively managed diversified equity funds, you can maximise returns, minimise risks, and benefit from professional expertise.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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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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