My father is a senior citizen and wants to invest around Rs 3 lakh in mutual funds. He wants to derive monthly returns from the investment, like through pension. Please suggest some funds that do not carry risk.
-Sreenivasu Patibandla
Retired people, with a low risk appetite, are advised to invest in debt funds that provide stable monthly income that helps in meeting their recurring expenses. These funds are less risky than equity funds. Identify the duration of the investments and invest in debt funds like Fortis Flexi Debt, Birla Sun Life Dynamic Bond and Canara Robeco Income.
You may also invest in Post Office Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS), with a maturity of five years. It gives an interest of nine per cent, payable quarterly and is risk-free.
I want to invest in an equity-linked savings scheme (ELSS). Which one is better: BSL Tax Relief 96 or Canara Robeco Equity Tax Saver?
-Ravi Nagrani
Both funds are good performers. However, in 2008, Birla Sun Life Tax Relief 96 stumbled, while Canara Robeco Equity Tax Saver flourished. Based on recent history, Canara Robeco scores higher. But, Canara Robeco bets more on mid-cap stocks, while BSL Tax Relief 96 limits itself to large-caps.
I want to invest Rs 1,000-1,500 a month for 5-7 years. Which fund must I invest in?
-Sanjay Dhar
On the assumption that you are a first-time investor, we suggest balanced funds like Franklin Templeton India Balanced, HDFC Prudence or DSP BlackRock Balanced.
I am 29 year old, married. I plan to invest equal amounts via systematic investment plans (SIPs) in HDFC Top 200, DSPBR Equity, Magnum Contra Tax Saver - Sundaram BNP Paribas Taxsaver/Magnum Taxgain Aggressive Fund and Reliance Growth. I also plan to add Kotak Flexi Debt next year for balancing the portfolio. Is it a good portfolio for long-term?
-Indranil Dutta
Your portfolio seems well diversified. HDFC Top 200, DSPBR Equity, Magnum Contra and Reliance Growth are good picks, with 4/5 star rating. Sundaram BNP Paribas Taxsaver and Magnum Taxgain are also well rated, choose either of the two. Your plan to include Kotak Flexi Debt to provide income stability is also a good option.
I have just started two SIPs of Rs 1,000 a month in Magnum Contra (Dividend Reinvestment) and UTI Opportunities (Dividend Reinvestment). Is this a good decision? How much return should I expect in 20 years?
-Ajai
Both funds are worth investing in, as they have a good history to bank upon. However, monitor your investments regularly and replace these funds if they continually underperform their peer-set.
I would like to invest about Rs 1 lakh in mutual funds via SIPs. Which fund would give the best return if invested in for a year?
-Anu
For a year's time frame, you can park your money in debt funds. Choose between Fortis Flexi Debt and JM Money Manager Super.
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