Investment is considered one of the best ways to create wealth. When it comes to India’s middle class, the safety and security of investment is more important than returns.
If India’s middle class wishes to take advantage of opportunities in the investment market, then the fastest method to do this is to understand and formulate the best investment plan. Consulting an investment advisor is the safest approach to creating a plan, as a certain measure of financial literacy and clarity is required to reach targeted goals.
Meanwhile, there are some prominent investment options the middle class in India can consider to experience financial growth and stability. Some of these programs have been introduced by the government in order to benefit the middle class and are viable options for efficient financial planning and wealth management.
Life Insurance
Life insurance is not just a crucial financial tool that provides protection and financial security to individuals and their families, it’s a great investment to make as well. It provides a lump sum payout to beneficiaries, ensures financial stability, and can help cover outstanding debts. There are different types of life insurance policies available, including term life insurance, whole life insurance, and universal life insurance. Each offers distinct features and benefits, catering to different financial needs and goals. Life insurance policies often come with tax advantages as well. Consulting with an investment advisor or financial consultant can allow you to pick suitable investment options.
Public Provident Funds (PPF)
A Public Provident Fund is a long-term saving scheme that accrues returns at low risks while reducing tax liabilities. The best part is that both the individual investment and the returns through the fund are non-taxable. A PPF is set up to last for 15 years and can be extended by blocks of 5 years at a time. During this time, small deposits can be made regularly, with a minimum deposit requirement of Rs. 500 a year and a maximum of Rs. 1,50,000. The government guarantees a predetermined return on your investment, making PPF a safe, accessible, and profitable option.
Gold (Digital Gold)
The value of gold is almost always stable. This fact makes gold a suitable and safe investment option for the Indian middle class. Gold can be purchased in two forms, as items or through gold bonds. Gold items are generally bought in the form of coins, bars, ornaments, or jewellery. These can be kept safe and retain their original value. Gold bonds offer 2.5% annually on the invested amount for a duration of 1-3 years. Since the value of gold is usually stable, gold bond investments are almost always profitable. One drawback of gold bonds is that income generated from return on investments is taxable as your income.
Read More: What is Digital Real Estate and How to Invest in It?
Alternative Investment Funds
Alternative investment funds (AIFs) are investment vehicles that offer investors access to non-conventional or alternative asset classes beyond traditional stocks, bonds, and cash. AIFs provide investors with an opportunity to diversify their investment portfolios by accessing unique asset classes such as private equity, venture capital, real estate, hedge funds, commodities, and infrastructure. This diversification helps spread risk and potentially enhances overall portfolio returns.
Mutual Funds
If you are interested in the stock market and equity but are unsure of the high risks involved, then Mutual Funds are the way to go. Your investment portfolio is entirely managed and grown by trained professionals who can mitigate the risk of high-risk investments through experience and expertise. Mutual Fund managers invest in various instruments, making your investment portfolio diverse and well-planned.
National Pension Scheme (NPS)
The National Pension Scheme was introduced in 2003 by the Government of India. It is an excellent option for middle-class professionals looking to secure their future safely. Individuals can check the value of their investments on a daily basis. NPS offers tax benefits up to Rs 1,00,000 annually, making it a strong option in the short and long term. The investment can only be available when an individual turns 60.
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)
SIPs are a disciplined way of investing in mutual funds. They allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly, typically monthly, which helps in rupee cost averaging and reduces the impact of market volatility.
Real Estate
Investing in real estate properties can be an option for capital appreciation and rental income. However, ensure thorough research and due diligence before making any real estate investments.
Stock Market (with caution)
If you have a good understanding of the stock market and are willing to research and analyze companies, investing in individual stocks can offer higher returns. However, it carries higher risk, so diversification is crucial.
Gold
Gold is often considered a safe-haven asset. You can invest in physical gold, gold ETFs, or sovereign gold bonds. It acts as a hedge against inflation and economic uncertainties.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)
This scheme is designed to promote the welfare of the girl child. It offers tax benefits under Section 80C and has a higher interest rate than PPF.
Bank Fixed Deposits (FDs)
FDs are low-risk investments with fixed returns. They are suitable for short-term goals or emergency funds. However, keep in mind that the returns may be lower than inflation.
Government Bonds and Securities
Government bonds like Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) and taxable bonds can provide stable returns and are relatively safe.
Balanced Mutual Funds (Hybrid Funds)
These funds invest in both equities and debt instruments, aiming for a balance between growth and stability.
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) and Infrastructure Investment Trusts (InvITs)
REITs and InvITs are traded on the stock exchange and allow investment in real estate and infrastructure projects. They offer the potential for capital appreciation and regular income.
Conclusion
There are more investment options suited to the interests of the Indian middle class. Examples of this are Unit Linked Insurance Plans and RBI bonds, two popular options capable of providing investment stability and growth. Creating a balanced investment portfolio from your most preferred instruments is the way to formulate the best investment plan. If the high-risk and complex nature of the investment market does not seem attractive, then utilising a financial consultant would be a crucial step. Participating in the investment market is vital for financial growth and securing a comfortable future. It is an opportunity that should not be missed by those who can avail of it.
