Category Archives: Mutual Fund

What is a Balanced Advantage Fund? A balanced advantage fund is a fund that can invest 0-100% in the equity market or 0-100% in the debt market dynamically as per the prevailing market condition. For example - If a fund manager finds that the price of the equity market has gone up, he will tilt the portfolio more toward the debt market. Likewise, if the equity market trades at a discount, then the fund manager can tilt/shift the portfolio toward the equity market.  The valuation is the internal process of the fund. Based on valuation, the fund manager can take the call. This way, the fund manager can take the opportunity and change the asset allocation. The fund manager can go aggressive in the equity market or can also decide to play conservatively to reduce the portfolio's volatility. The aim is to minimize the portfolio's downside risk and maximize the returns.  Who should invest? Investors who are looking for long-term wealth creation. Investors who are not comfortable with the market volatility. Investors who do not want to face high volatility and looking for equity-like returns. Investors who are unsure which type of fund they should invest in, whether in the equity or debt-oriented fund. Risk-averse equity investors with an investment horizon of more than three years. Additional read: Financial mistakes to avoid Why should you invest? A balanced advantage fund is a dynamically rebalancing fund between two asset classes, i.e. equity and debt. It has the complete flexibility of rebalancing from 0-100% in both asset classes. It provides you with better risk-adjusted returns. It manages the equity market volatility and provides stability in the portfolio by diversifying the portfolio into the debt market. It offers you equity-like returns, which help your portfolio to grow at a much faster rate than debt funds and also helps you to beat inflation. Minimizes the downside risk and provides scope for growth by investing in the equity market. When should you invest? When the volatility in the equity market increases you do not want to have such high exposure to the prevailing volatility. When you want equity-like returns but do not want to face high liquidity. First-time mutual fund investor looking for long-term wealth creation. Conclusion Try to allocate some portion of your portfolio towards a balanced advantage fund if you want to reduce the portfolio's volatility. A balanced advantage fund is like a season fund. FAQs What is a Balanced Advantage Fund? A Balanced Advantage Fund can dynamically invest 0-100% in either the equity or debt market, depending on market conditions. Who should consider investing in Balanced Advantage Funds? Investors seeking long-term wealth creation, those uncomfortable with market volatility, and those unsure about equity or debt-oriented funds can benefit. Why invest in Balanced Advantage Funds? These funds offer flexible asset allocation, better risk-adjusted returns, and stability by diversifying into the debt market. They provide equity-like returns, growth potential, and risk mitigation. When is the ideal time to invest in Balanced Advantage Funds? Consider these funds when equity market volatility increases, and you want equity-like returns without excessive risk. What is the aim of Balanced Advantage Funds? The aim is to minimize portfolio downside risk, maximize returns, and adapt to market conditions, providing both stability and growth.

A target maturity fund is a fund category with a fixed maturity date. As the maturity date gets closer, the maturity value decreases to zero, and the fund ends its existence. The maturity date of these funds is typically marked in the framework name. The regularity of target maturity funds' returns distinguishes them. Investors who maintain these funds until maturity hope for returns connected to the indicative yields when invested. Returns on target maturity debt funds According to several fund strategists and fund planners, the emergence of bond yields will likely offer the chance for wealthy investors to acquire a 6.5% return in target maturity strategies within the next five years. They genuinely think investing in a combination of such strategies that mature between 2026 and 2028 will provide investors with superior risk-adjusted returns. Target maturity funds provide investors with a predictable return if held until maturity. Such schemes have set maturity and engage passively in bonds with related maturities, which serve as the fund's market portfolio and provide visibility of returns. When the fund matures, investors receive their investment proceeds back. They have occasional liquidity because they are open-ended, and venture capitalists can purchase and sell them at Net Asset Value (NAV). The expense ratio in direct plans is 15-20 basis points and 30-40% points in regular programs, reducing the cost for venture capitalists. Investment advisors recommend target maturity funds because speculators have been having difficulties with their fixed-income investment portfolio over the last year, as bond yields have risen by 142 basis points, weakening the rate of return. Additional read: How to start investing in mutual funds? Target maturity funds are more tax-efficient With increasing and decreasing interest rates on assured financial products, numerous risk-averse speculators, who previously invested in product lines such as financial institution fixed deposits, PPFs, and NSCs, have shifted to debt funds for understandable reasons.  According to these investors, debt funds have become less volatile than general equity funds and much more tax-efficient than fixed deposits, PPFs, and NSCs, with the potential for higher returns.  However, investors are still vulnerable to the risk of default, which is the possibility of losing interest and principal payments, as well as interest rate risk, which is the risk of price volatility due to interest rate changes. TMFs offer greater liquidity than FMPs Target maturity funds (TMFs) assist investors in better exploring the risks linked to debt funds by integrating their investment portfolio with the fund's maturity date.  All those are debt funds that passively measure an underpinning bond index. Thereby, such funds' investment strategy consists of bonds that are a component of the total bond portfolio, with maturities that are close to the fund's outlined maturity. All investment returns obtained during the holding period are invested back in the fund, and the bonds in the investment are retained to maturity.  Target Maturity bond funds, like FMPs (Fixed Maturity Plans), continue operating in an accrual mode. TMFs, unlike FMPs, are open-ended and are available as target-maturity debt index funds. As a result, TMFs provide more liquidity than FMPs. TMFs have a uniform portfolio in terms of duration because all of the bonds in the fund's portfolio are deemed to be maturing as the stated maturity of the fund. The fund's duration decreases over time by holding the bonds until maturity, making investors less vulnerable to price volatility induced by shifts in interest rates Additional read: What are offshore funds? Strong interest in target maturity funds Investors have shown a strong interest in Target Maturity Funds, with maturities ranging from 2026 to 2027. Financial planners recommend this maturity portion to investors for tax indexation and optimal yields. These maturities offer yields ranging from 7.48% to 7.55%. Beyond these maturities, such as 2028 and 2029, the market is relatively illiquid. Passively-managed target maturity funds The portfolio of passively managed target maturity funds is well-known because it is linked to an index of bonds of investment promotion loans, government securities, or a composite index of the two. There is also greater return predictability because the fund aims to provide returns closer to the index's yield to maturity if the investor holds the fund until maturity. Mutual funds have initiated further index-based goal maturity funds, as all ETFs may not generate enough liquidity on stock exchanges, resulting in wider deviations between the executed price and the ETF's intraday NAV (iNav). The new SEBI regulations for passive funds aim to increase retained until maturity because they provide some predictive ability of return, which is liquidity for ETFs on exchanges by stating that no transaction under Rs 25 crore could be sorted directly with the AMC. All such transactions must go through exchanges. SEBI also wants to grow the economic ecosystem by rewarding market-makers who will provide liquidity for ETFs. Conclusion Target Maturity Funds must ideally be important for investors transitioning from long-established deposit accounts to debt funds. FAQs What are Target Maturity Funds, and how do they work? Target Maturity Funds, also known as Target Date Funds, are investment funds designed to align with an investor's target retirement date. They automatically adjust their asset allocation over time, becoming more conservative as the target date approaches. How do Target Maturity Funds choose their investments? Target Maturity Funds typically invest in a mix of stocks, bonds, and cash equivalents. The asset allocation is determined by the fund manager and adjusts over time to reduce risk as the target date nears. What's the primary benefit of investing in Target Maturity Funds? Target Maturity Funds provide a convenient, hands-off approach to investing for retirement. They automatically rebalance to manage risk, making them suitable for investors who prefer a set-and-forget strategy. Can I invest in a Target Maturity Fund for a different financial goal, not just retirement? While they're primarily designed for retirement, some investors use them for other financial goals. However, it's essential to understand that the fund's asset allocation will still follow the specified target date strategy. What happens when a Target Maturity Fund reaches its target date? When a Target Maturity Fund reaches its target date, it typically becomes more conservative, shifting towards income-generating assets. Investors can choose to redeem their shares or reinvest in a new fund.

According to a Times of India survey, single mothers head 4.5% of Indian households. Moreover, over 7% of parents are single and solely responsible for their child’s expenses. With education inflation pushing the cost of education over the roof, here is how single parents can save for higher education so that their child’s future is secure.   1. Proper budgeting  First tip on how single parents can save for higher education is Budgeting! It is extremely important for both the parent and the child. Your finances may suffer if you do not keep a track of when and where are you spending. Moreover, if you follow proper budgeting then it will help you track your monthly cash flow and analyze where you need to spend less.   You should set aside money for all your necessities as soon as you get your monthly amount. You must remember that if you follow proper budgeting and start saving early, it will help you gather a good corpus for your child.  2. Budget child expenses  The second tip is a tip on how single parents can save for higher education by budgeting child expenses! It’s important to track your child’s expenses as well. As a parent, you want to give the best to your child but it should not be beyond your monetary means. If you are a single parent responsible for pick and drop then try carpooling! Try to cut back on expenses where you can save and ensure your child gets the best of opportunities!    If you are choosing a school for your child, make sure that you make a list of them and then choose the one which provides good education and which fits your budget. Do not go for high-end schools just for the sake of the name. Make sure it’s in the neighborhood so that you don’t have to spend more money on transportation and your child can get home sooner to relax!  3. Create an emergency fund  The third tip is tip of how single parents can save for higher education is by creating an emergency fund! Emergency funds prove to be extremely handy in certain situations. If an unexpected circumstance comes up, it might as well take away all your savings which will be detrimental to your financial planning. Hence, you should focus on gathering an emergency fund for you and your child which should cover 12 to 24 months of living expenditure. It should also include loan EMIs. You have to be vigilant enough regarding any event which may come up and suck your savings. Make sure that you use this amount wisely and constructively.  You can build up an emergency fund in just three steps:  Decide the Size of the Emergency Fund  The thumb rule to generate an emergency fund is to focus on saving a corpus amount that can cover your expenses for more than 6 to 12 months.  Identify Highly Liquid Savings Product  Some of the common options for creating a contingency fund will include liquid or money market funds, short-term debt funds, savings bank accounts, floating rate funds, and so on.  Proper Financial Planning  In the final step, you have to make sure that you set aside a portion of your monthly income for generating this emergency fund. You should go for an automated procedure by setting up a SIP in a liquid fund or alternative debt fund.  4. Establish bank limits  Another tip is to set bank and credit card limits! Avoiding debt is the initial basic step that is crucial for saving up for your child. Next, you need to make sure that you are not spending more than what is required. For this purpose, you can set a limitation on your bank account. In such a scenario, you need to have a proper discussion with your child over the needs and the expenses involved.   The discussion should be candid or transparent with proper financial concerns, boundaries, and needs.   5. Invest wisely  The last tip is a tip on how single parents can save for higher education is to invest wisely. Investing in wise options is quite essential for single parents. Risk factors can lead to the demolishment of the generated corpus for your child’s education. Hence, you should invest in equity and mutual funds only if you have 10 to 15 years left for your child’s higher education. You can go for public provident funds which assure you a basic amount of interest for the amount that you put in.   There are recurring and fixed deposits in which you will get an interest based on what has been fixed by the bank. Moreover, you have options such as gold ETF where you can invest in gold.   While investing in gold ETF, make sure that you do not invest in the physical form of gold. These investment options will work really well if start with them as early as possible.  FAQs What are some practical strategies for single parents to save for their child's higher education? Single parents can save for higher education by creating a budget, exploring government aid, starting a monthly SIP to save for their child's education, and seeking scholarships and grants. How can single parents balance saving for education with other financial responsibilities? Single parents can strike a balance by setting clear financial goals, creating a budget, and prioritizing saving for education alongside other essential expenses. Can single parents benefit from education-focused scholarships and grants? Yes, many scholarships and grants are available specifically for single parents. Research and apply for these opportunities to help reduce the financial burden of education. How can single parents involve their children in the process of saving for higher education? Single parents can teach their children about financial responsibility and the importance of education by involving them in discussions about saving, setting financial goals, and exploring scholarship opportunities together. Are there community resources or organizations that provide support for single parents saving for higher education? Yes, some community organizations and non-profits offer financial literacy programs and support for single parents seeking to save for their child's education. Research local resources for assistance.

Investing in all asset classes and all categories of investments is not the right way to create your portfolio, especially if you’re starting with a small investment amount. This causes a significant overlapping of assets and over-diversification, leading to reduced and inefficient returns in the portfolio. How can you choose the right investment option that generates returns to help you meet your objectives with reasonable volatility? Do you want to know about the power of diversification? What is diversification? Diversification is the first and the most critical aspect of investing. Diversification is an investment strategy that involves investing in a mix of instruments to reduce risks and maximize portfolio returns. Mutual funds provide the best form of diversification. They offer exposure to multiple assets (stocks or debt) within a single fund. Moreover, there is a mutual fund for every investor with varying risk appetites and investment objectives. Advantages of diversification Diversification itself is one of the advantages of investing in Mutual funds. The main advantages of diversification are: - Minimize risk: Diversification in a portfolio reduces the overall risk of a portfolio. With proper diversification, there is a considerable reduction in the volatility of investment holdings. Creates a cushion: When diversified optimally, your portfolio can efficiently absorb significant, unpredictable market corrections without causing much loss to your portfolio. Better risk-adjusted returns: Diversification is not done to maximize risk solely. For example, if two portfolios generate the same percentage of returns, the diversified portfolio here takes less risk and has low volatility compared to the other portfolio. Compensating effect: The primary purpose of diversification is to prepare for all market conditions. So, when the market is highly volatile, in a well-diversified portfolio, even if one instrument has significant losses, the other instrument (for diversifying) would be chosen in such a way that it still generates returns to a certain extent to compensate for the losses incurred. Additional read: Why you should geographically diversify your portfolio? Why should you diversify? The first rule of investing is that "you should not put all eggs in one basket, " meaning you should not invest all your savings in one instrument. The primary purpose of diversification is that if one investment instrument in your portfolio tanks, the other having a negative correlation may rise, thereby reducing the overall portfolio loss. Common ways of diversification? Asset allocation can happen in several ways. Some common strategies used for portfolio diversification are: - 1. Different asset classes A portfolio should have a good balance between different asset classes as all would have a different impact when the market takes significant turns. For example, to compensate for the volatility seen in equity investments, one can invest in debt-based instruments or gold to hedge market risks. 2. Different instruments You can diversify into different instruments within the same asset class. While investing in equity mutual funds, you could choose between market cap funds like blue chip funds, mid-cap or small-cap funds, or even index funds for proper diversification. 3. International diversification Geographical diversification also helps maximize the portfolio's risk-adjusted returns. Investing in USD can take advantage of the currency movement and hedge over the currency risk. Different and diverse. What is the difference? One common mix-up investors get into is thinking that investing in different mutual funds is equivalent to diversifying. But different doesn’t necessarily mean diversifying. Even if you invest in different funds, those funds may have the same or similar holdings. This causes overlapping of asset allocation in one portfolio. Diversification does not happen when a factor similarly affects the holdings of both funds. Lastly, we’d say that holding a well-diversified portfolio is much better and more beneficial than just being invested in a single asset that is considered to be safe. In the end, just investing and generating returns is not enough. You should ensure that whatever you're saving is being optimally allocated so that your investments generate returns efficiently and effectively. Also, review your investments periodically to check whether or not they are in line with your goals and objectives. FAQs What is diversification? Diversification is an investment strategy that involves investing in a mix of instruments to reduce risks and maximize portfolio returns. Mutual Funds provide the best form of diversification. Why should you diversify? The primary purpose of diversification is that if one investment instrument in your portfolio tanks, the other having a negative correlation may rise, thereby reducing the overall portfolio loss. This strategy can help you minimize risk and protect your overall investment and capital from loss. How can I diversify my portfolio? As an investor, the best way to diversify is to distribute your investments across different asset classes. For example, to compensate for the volatility seen in equity investments, one can invest in debt-based instruments or gold to hedge market risks. A combination of these investments can help you weather the storms of bull and bear markets easily.

Overseas education can open numerous doors of growth and opportunities for a career, but it is expensive and places a huge financial burden on parents who want to send their children to foreign universities.  The covid-19 pandemic, along with other difficulties, has managed to ravage the savings of some parents to a great extent. Moreover, inflation has also led to high education costs, and it has now become difficult to ensure the education dreams of a student without proper financial planning.  If you are short on money for your child’s overseas education and have hit a roadblock, then it is important to look at options that will help in arranging the money. Tips to arrange study abroad funding 1. Installment option on fees Studying abroad is not easy as it requires a huge amount of money to meet numerous expenses. A big chunk of it goes towards the tuition fees, which have to be paid upfront, at least for a full year.  Times have changed, and educational institutes understand the difficulty of arranging bulk amounts to be paid as tuition fees.  Foreign universities are allowing the option of installment payments or deferred payments. If you are short on money for your child’s overseas education, apply for an installment option on tuition fees. Paying fees per semester is affordable compared to the yearly fees as it minimizes the burden on parents to a great extent. Foreign universities are offering financial assistance to students whose families are facing financial difficulties. In some cases, the fees of the student are reduced, and in other cases, the payments are deferred to a doable period so that the money shortfall does not impact the child’s education.  2. Fast-track your studies  Students can fast-track their study courses if they are facing a shortage of money and are unable to meet the educational expenses in full. Most foreign universities have two to three-year programs, which are subdivided into semester formats. Students have to earn a minimum number of credits during this period. When you are short on money, it is not feasible to complete the degree course by attending college for the entire period. Students can enroll for additional credits and complete the program early. This will bring down the education costs and manage the money shortfall.  3. Apply to university alumni for financial aid  Sometimes unforeseen circumstances can deplete the amount of money that the parents have saved for their child’s overseas education. They may have a considerable shortage of funds and may be unable to meet all the education expenses easily. Students can approach the university for financial assistance. Most universities have an alumni network that provides monetary aid to deserving students with exemplary records who are unable to finish their education just because of money shortages. The alumni network evaluates the student’s grades, work experience, past performances, and the reasons for money shortage and, if found satisfactory, compensates by paying the remaining fees.  Some universities have an existing fund for students who are brilliant performers but, due to circumstances, are unable to pay the fees. If the student applies for financial assistance, then the fees in such cases are either reduced or paid by the fund held by the university itself.  4. Select an education loan with care If you are short on money for your child’s overseas education, then a loan is also a viable option. Select the education loan with care. Banks and NBFCs are vital sources of loans; hence check whether any sources are calculating the interest amount on a flat rate basis or on a reducing balance.   Look at the interest rate and consider other factors like repayment tenure, margin amount, and moratorium period as they are equally important. Remember, the interest rate on a reduced amount will be considerably lower than the total loan amount, so choose wisely. The college cost calculator on the EduFund app helps in calculating the future cost of college, which gives parents time to plan and save for their child’s college expenses in the smartest possible way. Financial experts will create an education savings plan that will meet the requirements of a student’s education aspiration. It also offers an option of taking out low-interest education loans with top banks.   Conclusion The desire to educate a child abroad is natural, but it often takes a toll on the parents who find themselves short on money for their child’s overseas education. Planning the expenses in another country with another currency is a task that, if not done properly, can create serious issues later on.  FAQs What are the best ways for Indian students to arrange funding for studying abroad? Indian students can secure funding for studying abroad through scholarships, grants, education loans, part-time jobs, and assistance from family and sponsors. How can Indian students find scholarships for studying abroad? Indian students can search for scholarships through government programs, universities, private organizations, and online scholarship databases. Many countries and universities offer scholarships to international students. Are there specific scholarships available for Indian students to study abroad? Yes, several scholarships, like the Commonwealth Scholarship, Inlaks Scholarship, and Fulbright Scholarship, are specifically available for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. Can Indian students work part-time while studying abroad to support their education? Yes, many countries permit international students, including Indians, to work part-time during their studies. Students should check the work regulations of the destination country. What are the options for education loans for Indian students planning to study abroad? Indian students can avail of education loans from Indian banks and financial institutions, which offer loans designed for funding higher education abroad. The terms and conditions vary, so research different loan options.

We are always prepared for when the markets are correct. As rational investors, we know we should invest more in equity-based investments when the markets are low. But, do you know the right action to take when the markets are at a high? Traditional investor mentality Whenever the markets witness sharp extremes of high or low, investors become cautious about their next move. However, being extra cautious can often reduce the potential of the investments and make the investors take decisions that do not serve their best interests. Traditional investors usually see the market high as the perfect moment to stop their ongoing investments and sell their holdings. They then wait for market corrections to re-invest this money. This can be the right decision for investors who require money at that point in time. But liquidating your assets can create a huge speed breaker in your wealth creation journey. Investment strategies during the market boom 1. Review your portfolio This is the first step before you take any decisions related to your investments during extreme market movements. Do a thorough analysis and review of your portfolio. In this review, make sure you go fund by fund to check the performance. A detailed portfolio review will help you know what has changed in your investments from the time you invested in those market conditions. 2. Rebalance your portfolio The market volatility directly impacts your portfolio's asset allocation. E.g., when you would have begun your investment journey, your portfolio's equity: debt ratio would have been, let's take, 50:50. But when the markets boomed, the equity: debt would have increased to 70:30. This causes over-exposure to equity, which thereby increases the risk component of your portfolio. As an investor, you should periodically rebalance your portfolio or as and when the market demands so that your portfolio still performs optimally and you are way ahead of the market curve. 3. Invest in dynamic asset allocation funds A DAAF follows an intelligent asset allocation strategy depending on the market conditions. It works this way – When the markets are overvalued, this fund cuts down on its equity exposure and increases the debt allocation. In contrast, when the market is undervalued and has the potential to grow, this fund increases its asset allocation towards equity and reduces the debt exposure in its portfolio. Such funds provide the investors with the best of both worlds, that is, equity and debt, and generate steady returns regardless of market movements. This balanced fund investment is best for investors with a low to moderate risk appetite. Additional read: Importance of starting investment early 4. Give importance to value investing Even when the markets hit record highs, some stocks or shares are valued way below what they are worth. Value investing is an investment strategy that invests in stocks that are trading way below their intrinsic value and have a much higher potential for growth in the future. Investing in such stocks or funds providing exposure to such stocks helps the investor gain growth opportunities in their portfolios. 5. Avoid lump sum investments in equities The worst time to make lumpsum investments in equities is when the market is already booming and has a high P/E ratio. This means that the markets are already overvalued, and a correction is coming soon. The market movements follow a wave pattern, where every time the market goes up, it corrects to a certain level. Instead, you could make SIP investments in equities, which captures all market movements and also gives you an additional benefit of rupee cost averaging. 6. Goal-based investing Make a detailed investment plan to efficiently and effectively allocate your income. Make a set of objectives that you want to achieve with your investments. It may include buying a house, purchasing a car, planning an international holiday, or your child’s higher education abroad. When you know what you are investing for, you know what corpus you want to end up with. This helps you make your investment journey as smooth and straightforward as possible. The bottom line is, that when the markets are at a high, do not sell your investments hurriedly and re-invest entirely in the debt market. Also, putting your investments on hold can hurt your long-term goals and objectives. Follow the proper steps into rebalancing and diversifying your portfolio to ensure you are always in a comfortable position regarding your investments. Moreover, short-term volatility is not harmful to long-term investors. Always keep your goals in mind and invest systematically. FAQs What investment strategies are advisable during a market boom? The best strategy is to maintain a diversified portfolio, regularly rebalance your investments, and focus on long-term goals rather than short-term market fluctuations. Is it wise to invest aggressively during a market upswing? While it's tempting, avoid excessive risk. Stick to your risk tolerance, and consider gradual increases in equity exposure rather than abrupt shifts. How can I protect my investments during a market boom? Review and update your asset allocation, set realistic profit-taking goals, and stay informed about market trends to make informed decisions during periods of growth.

Millions of students from all over the world enroll in colleges abroad to broaden their horizons, develop their cross-cultural skills, and sharpen their language abilities. The majority of parents are devoted to paying for their child's overseas education and are ready to make personal sacrifices; this is true not only for primary and secondary school but also for postgraduate study. Even though this attitude is commendable, many parents are unaware of the costs associated with sending their children to an international university in the future. Countless students and their parents struggle to make their study abroad dream a reality due to poor or late planning and a relative lack of knowledge. Here are some financial planning strategies that parents may use to make their children's study abroad experience a little less stressful and a little more productive. With the help of these suggestions, you can assist your child in realizing their dreams while simultaneously preserving your long-term financial security. 1. Include cost forecasting in your plan Tuition is not the only cost of studying abroad. Your initial budget may increase significantly as a result of additional expenses such as student health insurance, academic materials, cost of living (housing, food, transportation), and entertainment. When creating your strategy, be sure to take these costs into account. Planning and budgeting are likely to go more smoothly if you anticipate increased prices and make additional savings as opposed to making smaller savings now in the hopes that they would be sufficient later. Adopting a pessimistic outlook will increase your prospects of building a future capital that is more than the real costs at that point. And the less you have to borrow at interest (like an education loan) when the time comes, the more you may give from your own savings or investments. This would not only reduce your overall debt load but also speed up your repayment process. 2. Consider long-term financial planning Planning is extremely important. As soon as you can, begin making plans for your child's international education. You may need to make certain personal sacrifices as a parent right now, so start looking at your spending patterns and reducing non-essential spending. Set aside money for your child's education, and do it regularly. Additionally, look at other options for saving and investing. Also, explore the places you might want to send your child as part of your financial planning in advance. Highly developed nations like the USA, Canada, the UK, Australia, and others are the most sought-after locations for higher education. The higher cost of living must be taken into account, and you must therefore include these aspects in your plan from the very beginning. 3. Consider inflation & exchange rates The US dollar has been among the strongest currencies in the world for many years, with practically all other currencies slowly losing value against it. You should anticipate that this will continue in the future for your currency as well. Therefore, regardless of when you intend to send your child abroad to study, you must account for inflation in your nation and potential depreciation of your currency in your study abroad budget. EduFund’s College Cost Calculator can help you figure out the average total amount you will require when you send your child to study abroad, factoring in inflation and exchange rates. Longer time frames provide you greater freedom to invest in high-risk assets like equity, which can assist you in the long term to fend off the impacts of inflation and currency rate fluctuations. 4. Find the best investment strategies Even though your child's international trip is years away, simply setting up an education fund with your current regular salary might not be sufficient to cover your child’s future needs. The living costs will probably increase from where it is today in the future. You need to start looking for extra sources of money right away that are separate from your (and your partner's) salary income if you want to lessen the impact of these potentially increased costs. As a result, you should look into medium- and long-term investment opportunities that you may begin making as soon as possible. Recognize your investment capacity and risk tolerance, and make investments accordingly. Our financial advisors can assist you in your search for mutual fund-based Systematic Investment Plans (SIP), education investment, or savings plans specifically designed for education. 5. Consult an expert investment advisor Most people find the process of preparing for an international study abroad to be intimidating. You can still feel completely unprepared with your action plan and strategy even if you start early, set a budget and a costing plan, and examine the many investment possibilities. Talking to a professional may be a good option if you feel stuck. You can explore your possibilities and create a more thorough and practical strategy with the assistance of our investment advisors and study abroad experts. You might even discover new choices that you hadn't previously known about or hadn't considered. Conclusion A study abroad plan for your child can include confusing aspects of financial considerations, but with systematic planning and a practical mindset, you and your child can both benefit in the long run from pursuing this desirable goal. FAQs What is the 50-30-20 rule? The 50-30-20 rule is the best budgeting hack. It means you use 50% of your income for expenses, 30% of your income for luxuries, and 20% for savings and investing. This is a disciplined way of investing and saving for your family's future as parents. What are the 5 tips for budgeting for parents? Create a monthly budget Invest a certain amount every month for future goals like a child's education or a home. Use calculators to set a goal. Use the SIP calculator to know how much to save, use the College Cost Calculator to know the future cost of education with inflation, etc Use new investment techniques like the 50-30-20 rule, the SIP method, or the lumpsum method! Create an emergency fund so your savings are not exhausted in any unfortunate event How to manage investments in 1 lakh salary? You can use the 50-30-20 rule to invest in your family's future. You can invest 20% of your income towards investments and savings like Mutual funds via SIPs or Lumpsum.

What is a mutual fund? A mutual fund is an investment vehicle or a trust wherein investors pool their savings and share a financial goal. The collected money is invested in shares, debentures, and other mutual funds. Do you want to know how mutual funds actually work and what the parties involved in it are? Continue reading to know more. The organizational structure of mutual funds in India? The structure of mutual funds in India has three tiers with few other significant components. Banks or AMCs don't just create these investment vehicles. Three main entities are involved: the Sponsor (creator of the fund), Trustees, and Asset Management Company (AMC). All the mutual funds are regulated by SEBI – Securities Exchange Board of India, and the investors who purchase or invest in these funds are termed "Unitholders". 1. A sponsor Is a person or an entity that has the right to set up a mutual fund scheme to generate returns or income through common fund management. They are for the first part of the mutual funds' structure in India. The Sponsor has to get the mutual fund scheme approved by SEBI first. The Sponsor needs to create a Public Trust under the Indian Trust Act 1882 as they cannot work alone. A Sponsor's role is crucial for a mutual fund and should have high credibility. The eligibility criteria to become a sponsor are The Sponsor must have made a profit in 3 out of the last five years, including the immediately preceding year. The Sponsor must have five years of experience in financial services. The net worth of the Sponsor must be positive for all the preceding five years. Out of the total net worth of the AMC, 40% must be participated in by the Sponsor. 2. Trust and Trustees The Trust and the Trustees form the second central part of the mutual fund structure. Trustees are also the "protectors of the fund" appointed by the Sponsor. The role of the trustees, as the name suggests, is to maintain the investors' trust and work on the fund's growth. According to the SEBI regulations, Trustees are supposed to provide a report on the fund and the functioning of the AMC on a semi-yearly basis. The Trustee is responsible for supervising the entire functioning of the AMC and regulating the mutual funds' operations. Due to the rule of transparency, the AMC cannot float a new mutual fund scheme without the permission and approval of the Trust. The Trustees are required to be registered under SEBI. SEBI further regulates their registration by either suspending or revoking the registration if found breaching any conditions. Additional read: How to choose the best mutual fund scheme? 3. Asset Management Companies (AMC) The AMC is the third part of the mutual fund structure. An AMC is responsible for floating various schemes of mutual funds in the market, keeping in mind the investors' needs and the market's nature. They take help from bankers, brokers, RTAs, auditors, etc., and get into an agreement with them while creating a new scheme. The AMC creates mutual funds, which also oversee its development along with the Trust and the Sponsor. The AMC is responsible to manage funds and provide services to the investor. 4. Custodian A Custodian is an entity responsible for the safekeeping of Securities. They are registered with SEBI and are responsible for transferring and delivering units and securities. They manage the account of investment of the Mutual Fund, wherein investors can also track their investments and update their holdings. Along with safekeeping, custodians also facilitate the collection of corporate benefits such as bonus issues, interest, dividends, etc. 5. Registered Transfer Agents RTAs act as the bridge between Fund Managers and Investors. RTAs are SEBI-registered entities that process mutual fund applications, assist with investor KYC, manage and deliver periodic investment statements or reports, update records of investors, and process investor requests. 6. Other Participants Some other typical participants in the mutual fund structure are bankers, auditors, brokers, mutual fund distributors, etc. Brokers and distributors usually sell mutual fund units to prospective investors. Brokers also provide financial and investment advice after a thorough analysis, study, and prediction of market movements. Auditors are independent internal watchdogs who audit and scrutinize account records and annual reports of various schemes. Bankers play an essential role in collecting agents on behalf of the Fund Managers. Overall, India's mutual fund's structure is very well organized and highly regulated by SEBI. Moreover, the rule of transparency boosts the safeguarding of Investors' money. Nobody in the structure of mutual funds in India can misuse investors' money and utilize it for anything other than what is specified in the investment objective of that fund. FAQs What role does SEBI play in the structure of mutual funds in India? SEBI, or the Securities and Exchange Board of India, regulates, formulates, and supervises mutual fund policies in India to protect investors' interests. What part do AMCs play in mutual fund structure? AMCs, or Asset Management Companies, pool money from various investors and invest them in different securities like bonds, stock, commodities, govt. securities, etc. How do I invest in mutual funds online? You can simply download the EduFund App ➡️ sign up ➡️ explore saving options based on your goal, risk levels, time horizon, etc. ➡️ pick a plan ➡️ start investing. What is a mutual fund? A mutual fund is an investment vehicle or a trust wherein investors pool their savings and share a financial goal. The collected money is invested in shares, debentures, and other mutual funds. What are some ways to invest in a mutual fund? There are two ways to invest in a mutual fund - Lumpsum and SIP. Lumpsum is one-time investment while SIP is a recurring investment strategy where the user pays a set amount every month. Both are effective ways to invest and create wealth for your family's welfare. What is the organizational structure of the mutual fund? The structure of mutual funds in India has three tiers with few other significant components. Banks or AMCs don’t just create these investment vehicles. Three main entities are involved: the Sponsor (creator of the fund), Trustees, and Asset Management Company (AMC). All the mutual funds are regulated by SEBI – Securities Exchange Board of India, and the investors who purchase or invest in these funds are termed “Unitholders”.

Did you know that only 0.18% of people in India invest in equities? Our parents, grandparents, and grand grandparents have been taught to invest in FDs, real estate, gold, LIC, and PPFs. This tradition of investing in safe assets is hard to break. Ways to educate your parents about the investment scenario in India 1. Tell them about the benefits  The biggest benefit of investing is the opportunity of growing your wealth. Investing in a disciplined manner can help investors grow their savings and reach financial goals. You might not be able to duplicate the net worth and investment of growth of stalwarts like Rakesh Jhunjhunwala but investing small amounts of money in equity-based markets can yield significant returns over the years. It can help your parents build a retirement fund and beat the inflationary prices of general goods and services.   Other benefits of investing in stocks, mutual funds, and ETFs are liquidity (which means you can withdraw your money anytime you want), diversify your wealth (you can invest in a number of stocks that belong to different industries), opportunity to get dividends (some stocks and companies give dividends to their long-term investors) and interests that beat inflation. Another benefit is that you can start with a small sum and scale up after gaining a better understanding. Markets have enough space for small and big investors to meet their financial goals!  2. Spread awareness about Inflation   Inflation has broken the projections given by RBI at the beginning of 2022! It has remained uncomfortably high across the globe and pushing the prices of goods and services to an all-time high. The only way to protect your purchasing power is to start investing and making your money work for you. Consider this, money in your bank account gets an average interest rate of 2-3%, FDs have an interest rate of 5-6% while inflation is raging at the rate of 6-7% in India alone.   Inflation attacks your money in savings and FDs, which is why exploring newer investments is a smart way to beat inflation and protect your money in the long run.     3. Accessibility to investing and tracking   Investing is becoming easier and easier due to the bloom of fintech start-ups and financial influencers in India. The wealth of knowledge about investing, saving, and financial planning can be overwhelming but is a great way to educate a country that has traditionally shied away from investing. There are thousands of apps that help Indians invest in a number of financial instruments. As investors in India, all you need is a PAN card, an Aadhar card, and a banking account to get started on any investment app.   From investing in Mutual funds, and digital gold to US stocks and ETFs, the opportunities are endless! You can track your investment with no brokerage fees, and absolute transparency and get professional guidance from experts on how to start investing based on your financial goals.   However, it's important to be aware of where you are investing your money and to check that the App or platform is SEBI registered. Make sure to take all the precautions and understand the risks that are associated with investing.    4. Encourage them to secure their savings   While money in your bank account or FD is safe, it is not enough to keep up with the growing prices. The cost of products like oil, vegetables, transport, and education is growing at a higher rate than the average income across India. To bridge the gap, you can start exploring the investment market and diversify your funds. The market has enough opportunities for risk-averse investors, retired individuals, and newcomers! With proper guidance and an abundance of information, you can protect your savings via investing.   These are some ways to educate your parents about the investment scenario in India. Over the years, millions of Indians have entered the investment market of India. You and your parents could also benefit from the market if you start investing properly and in a disciplined manner. Don’t start randomly, study the market, do your research, and consult a professional to minimize risks and protect your savings!  FAQs What are some of the most preferred investment options in India? Gold, Real Estate, and Fixed deposits are the three most preferred investment options in India. How much does an average Indian invest? The average India invests nearly INR 5000 monthly according to a survey by AMFI. At what age can Indians start investing? Indians can start investing by the age of 18 years.

Once you have a clear understanding of the benefits of mutual funds and have decided to begin investing, you may look for the appropriate mutual fund schemes to help in your financial growth. Various mutual fund categories are suitable for different investment horizons, assume multiple amounts of risk, and seek different rates of return. So, the first thing you should do is decide clearly on specifics like how long you would like to invest, how much risk you would be able to face, and what type of profits you want. When you are certain of these basic points, it will be easier for you to choose the category of mutual fund scheme that is best for you. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYlrsx9_yog&pp=ygUHZWR1ZnVuZA%3D%3D 1. Your mutual fund KYC According to the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (2002), the Know Your Customer (KYC) procedure is required for all financial institutions, including banks, insurance companies, and mutual fund firms. Simply put, the KYC procedure involves checking the background of anyone who wants to sign up as a client of these financial organizations. Establishing authenticity and making sure that the investments or deposits are made by a real person with valid identification is important. KYC can also assist in tracing any fraudulent transactions. 2. Start investing in mutual funds You can begin investing in any mutual fund company's schemes after your KYC is complete. You don't need to do many KYCs for various mutual fund companies. You can invest using either the offline mode or the online option Start Investing in Mutual Funds 3. Investing in mutual funds offline The majority of options for investing in mutual funds in offline mode only offer regular plans of the schemes. A portion of your gains is removed from your investments in a mutual fund’s Regular Plan and paid to the agent. However, there is no broker engaged if you invest in a mutual fund scheme's Direct Plans. As a result, there is no commission to pay, which lowers the expense ratio. The difference between an equity fund's Direct Plan and Regular Plan returns often stays at or below 1%. Over time, this 1% difference may add up to a significant sum. You can invest in mutual funds offline through distributors, banks, and NBFCs by going to the offices of RTAs like CAMS and Fintech, mutual fund companies, etc. Details are as follows: Registered Investment Advisors: To invest in mutual funds offline, you can also get in touch with SEBI-registered financial advisors in your area. You can invest in Direct Plans with them. However, there will be a price. This fee may be up to 2.5% of your capital investment or a predetermined sum of up to Rs. 1.25 lakh. Banks & NBFCs: Mutual fund programs are also offered offline by several banks and non-banking financial companies (NBFCs). To begin your investment journey, you must go to their office and speak with a representative, often known as a Relationship Manager (RM). They do, however, place your money in a Regular Plan so they can profit from your investments for the rest of your life. Therefore, even if the mutual fund schemes are not right for you, the RMs and agents may try to convince you to invest in them so they may earn a bigger fee. Mutual funds Distributors: Reaching out to a specific distributor of mutual funds is an additional offline option for investing in mutual funds. However, your money will be placed in a Regular Plan. Mutual Fund Companies: You could also invest offline by visiting the office of the mutual fund company and investing in the schemes there. The difficulty is that you must complete all the paperwork by yourself. Additionally, you have to go to each company's offices separately if you would like to invest in a few of the best plans offered by various mutual fund businesses. RTA Offices: By visiting the offices of SEBI-registered RTAs like CAMS and Fintech, you can invest in mutual funds in the offline form as well. A group of fund houses is served by CAMS and Fintech alike. As a result, if you go to the CAMS office, you can only invest in the fund firms they work with. How to Track the Performance of Mutual Funds? Read More 4. Investing in mutual funds online Online investing will be significantly quicker and less laborious than offline investing. You can choose a mutual fund that suits your goals by visiting the website of your chosen fund house. Enter the required information and wait for the OTP to arrive on your registered mobile number. After that, you may enter the amount and choose whether you wish to invest via SIP or lump sum. You have two options for making the transaction: using your UPI ID or online banking. For most fund houses, this is standard procedure. However, you will need to sign up to each fund house's website separately if you would want to invest in a few of their plans. However, the EduFund app has a number of mutual fund schemes offered by different asset management companies all in one app. You can choose the option that suits you and begin investing. To go with it, you can also talk to financial experts on the app who will guide you to invest in the right schemes that suit your risk profile and investment strategy. Conclusion The mutual fund market has been working hard to attract additional investors ever since it began. Earlier, completing the documentation for mutual fund investments used to be a laborious process, and completing your KYC required you to travel to an AMC or RTA office. But thanks to the introduction of technology, all of these inconveniences are now gone. It can still be tough to choose the right plan for you. FAQs What are mutual funds, and how do they work for beginners? Mutual funds are investment vehicles that pool money from multiple investors to buy a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other assets. To start, research, choose a fund, and invest through a brokerage or directly with the fund company. How much money do I need to start investing in mutual funds? Many mutual funds have low minimum investment requirements, some as low as $100. However, the minimum amount can vary, so check with the fund company for specific details. Where can I buy mutual funds? You can buy mutual funds through brokerage accounts, online platforms, or directly from the fund company. Consider factors like fees and convenience when choosing where to invest. What should I consider when selecting a mutual fund to invest in? Consider factors like your financial goals, risk tolerance, fees, historical performance, and the fund's investment strategy when choosing a mutual fund. Are there tax implications when investing in mutual funds? Yes, there can be tax implications, such as capital gains and dividends. It's important to be aware of tax consequences and consult with a tax advisor for guidance.

Kings College London is one of the most reputed colleges in the whole world. The cost of attendance varies significantly based on your child’s course and can go up to 48 - 50 lakhs in total. Let’s find out how you need to save to send your child to King’s College London.   Tuition fees for courses in King's College, London  The tuition fees for the courses offered at Kings College London are quite high compared to the adjacent colleges. Let’s look at some of the popular courses chosen by students and their corresponding tuition fees.  MBBS: Rs 41 to Rs 43 lakhs per annum  MIM: Rs 23 Rs 36 lakhs per annum  BE: Rs 27 to Rs 29 lakhs per annum  MA: Rs 19 to Rs 28 lakhs per annum  BBA: Rs 21 to Rs 28 lakhs per annum  With the data mentioned above, we can conclude that getting a degree from Kings College London can be heavy on your pocket. Hence, if you would want your child to get admission here, you must start preparing for it early on.  Saving and Investment Options for a Child’s College Education  1. Find out the Cost of Attendance  Suppose you want to buy a house in 10 years, what is the first thing you do? You will find the house you like and the cost of buying it. Similarly, before you start saving to send your child to King’s College London, you need to figure out what will be the cost of attendance in the next 10 years of your child’s course and figure out the solution.   You can look at the past and data to estimate the average tuition fees or simply use the College Cost Calculator to find out how much you need to save after putting in just a few details. The calculator tells you precisely how much it can cost to send your child to a college anywhere in the world.   On average, it costs Rs. 48-50 lakhs to study master's while the cost of attendance for a bachelor is Rs.70-80 lakhs in total.   2. Mutual Funds  Mutual funds are considered to be one of the best options to invest in if you have a child who is still quite young.  You can start a SIP for Rs. 1000 or more and scale your child’s education fund by the time they are ready to fly off to college. Mutual funds offer professional investment management, diversification, and liquidity. At a nominal price, you get access to different industries, companies as well as different markets. Always check with a professional financial advisor before pooling your money in any investments and read the fine print to stay updated.   Start Investing in Mutual Funds 3. Public Provident Fund  Public Provident Fund is a tried and tested way to save to send your child to Kings College London. PPF is one of the most reliable savings schemes opted for by parents for their child’s education. This scheme requires a 15-year-long commitment for the corpus. As of now, the interest rate offered here is 7.1% which is more than what is offered by banks. Presently, banks offer an interest rate of around 5% per annum. Parents can choose to increase the tenure of investment in blocks of five years. After the extension of the PPF account, the subscriber is allowed to make one partial withdrawal every year. However, a restriction is imposed here which says that the total withdrawals during those particular five years should not be more than 60% of the total account balance.  4. Gold Savings  Gold savings is one such option that has existed for so long now. Gold is said to have an ever-increasing value. While investing in gold savings, you should make sure that you do not invest in physical gold. As a parent, it would be best if you invest in Gold ETFs and Digital Gold.   You can follow a strategy where you can buy a small amount of gold every month. Once you have collected enough, you can build up a sizeable one with those small amounts. It has been observed that investing in gold has provided much better returns when compared to other assets.   Gold is a hedge against inflation and works with it. In times when the prices of all goods rise due to high inflation, gold also rises, making your investments diversified and inflation-proof!   Additional read: Why should you consider the UK for your child's higher education? 5. US Stocks  Investing in US stocks to send your child to King’s College London is an underutilized tool! Saving in dollars has dual benefits, you not only benefit from your initial investment as the US market grows but also when the rupee falls against the dollar. Investing in US stocks also increases your purchasing power abroad, it helps you tackle the increasing costs and not lose out more money in currency exchange.    6. Unit Linked Insurance Plan  The Unit Linked Insurance Plan is said to be the best fit for individuals who are looking for both investment returns and insurance protection. It has been observed that ULIPs have been able to provide better returns than many traditional investment options. It helps to beat education inflation and save up effectively for your child’s college education. In this scenario, the chance of getting better returns is higher because a portion of the premium that is being paid is invested in the funds operated in the capital market.   These are some ways to save to send your child to King’s College London. TALK TO AN EXPERT FAQs What are the estimated tuition fees for courses at King's College London? Tuition fees vary based on the course, ranging from approximately Rs 19 lakhs to Rs 43 lakhs per annum. The total cost of attendance can be substantial. How can I estimate the future cost of my child's education at King's College London? You can use a College Cost Calculator or refer to historical data to estimate the average tuition fees for the next 10 years. On average, it costs Rs. 48-50 lakhs for a master's degree and Rs. 70-80 lakhs for a bachelor's degree. What are some investment options for saving for a child's education? Investment options include Mutual Funds, Public Provident Funds (PPF), Gold Savings (Gold ETFs and Digital Gold), US Stocks, and Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs). Each option offers unique benefits and should be considered based on your financial goals and risk tolerance. Are there any recommended investment strategies for saving for education at King's College London? Starting a SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) in Mutual Funds is a popular strategy for long-term savings. Diversification, professional management, and liquidity are some advantages. Additionally, consider PPF for a reliable and tax-efficient savings option. How can investing in US stocks benefit saving for education abroad? Investing in US stocks can offer dual benefits. As the US market grows, you can benefit from investment returns. Additionally, when the rupee falls against the dollar, your investments gain value. This strategy can help you manage increasing costs and currency exchange risks when sending your child to King's College London.

The simplest and straightforward answer to that question would be that offshore Funds are open-ended investment schemes that invest in mutual funds, stocks, real estate assets, equities, fixed-income securities, etc. in the overseas market.  Understanding Offshore funds Offshore funds are often referred to as international funds or foreign funds as they are based on offshore locations and have non-residents as investors. These types of funds provide investment exposure to global markets but they have to comply with the rules and regulations of that country. In India, both Indian residents and NRIs can invest in offshore funds either directly or through other funds under the purview of SEBI and RBI guidelines. The fund house has to comply with the set provisions and guidelines of the foreign country where they are registered. The Indian resident can invest only in Indian currency just like any other investment scheme.  You can: Select the offshore fund, Write a cheque for the amount due, Submit the cheque along with the application form to the fund house or online app you are applying through. Types of Offshore Funds “What are offshore funds?” is one of the most common queries of investors. In simple terms, it refers to investments that exist and operate abroad.  The different types of offshore fund schemes are -  Theme-based (real estate, power, energy, agriculture, etc.)  Region-specific (Asia, Europe, etc.), and  Country-specific funds (USA, India, UK, Australia etc.). Additional read: What are international funds? Advantages of Investing in Offshore Funds Investors can diversify their funds across geographical boundaries and choose the best available location for investing purposes. It is a golden opportunity to invest in global brands and business houses. The exchange rate difference will yield higher returns. Sometimes, the home economy is not so great but another country might be facing an economic boom. Investing in offshore funds will garner higher returns on investments at such times. Offshore funds are globally incorporated with lower regulation levels. As the income is tax-free it is profitable to reinvest the investment gains.  The operating costs and management fees associated with offshore funds are comparatively lower and financially beneficial. Offshore funds can safeguard the capital from the burden of high taxes in the home country Disadvantages of Investing in Offshore Funds Offshore funds require higher investments, which every investor cannot afford. If the offshore currency is facing a downward trend then it will lead to lower returns. The risk factor associated is greater compared to domestic investments. Investors have to trust the foreign fund houses to explain the terms and conditions. In case of any discrepancy or fraud, it can result in a loss of capital. Tax laws, economic policies, and market fluctuations of both the home country and the foreign country will harm the returns. Things to consider before investing in Offshore funds Research the economic and political conditions of the foreign country where you want to invest. Start with a small investment and gradually increase the investment.  Opt for financially stable investment funds at the onset. Check the fund's reputation, the background of the fund house, and historical returns thoroughly. Choose funds that will help to cash in global opportunities. Consider the currency risk while dealing with international funds. Any currency fluctuation will impact the Net Asset Value of the fund directly because if the value of the rupee depreciates against the dollar NAV will be higher and in case it appreciates earnings will become less. Invest in developed and emerging markets only. Choose long-term investment as it is considered best for minimizing the impact of inflation. Foreign funds are treated under debt thus taxes are levied as per the tax rules in the home country. In India, residents have to pay tax on overall income even if it was generated in a foreign country.  Invest in funds with utmost security and transparency in the transaction process. Challenges associated with Offshore funds in India The RBI and SEBI guidelines do not allow fund managers based in India to manage offshore funds. The investment inflows to India are now managed by offshore authorities and this poses a serious challenge to the growth of offshore funds in India. According to new guidelines REITs and AIFs are allowed to receive investments from foreign investors.  Conclusion By now the concept of what are offshore funds will be clear and you must have realized that these funds follow a different path in terms of rules and regulations compared to the standard investment journey.  It is imperative to sound a word of caution for investors of offshore funds as these are prone to fraud and high risk quite often because of relaxed regulations. Beware and take the help of reputed platforms like EduFund App which will act as a guiding tool in securing safe transactions in overseas markets. FAQs What are offshore funds? Offshore funds are open-ended investment schemes that invest in overseas markets, including mutual funds, stocks, real estate, equities, and fixed-income securities. Who can invest in offshore funds in India? Indian residents and NRIs can invest in offshore funds, complying with SEBI and RBI guidelines. Investments are made in Indian currency. What are the advantages of investing in offshore funds? Benefits include global diversification, investing in global brands, potential for higher returns, tax advantages, and lower operating costs. What are the disadvantages of investing in offshore funds? Disadvantages include higher initial investments, currency risk, increased risk compared to domestic investments, reliance on foreign fund houses, and exposure to changing tax laws and market fluctuations. What should investors consider before investing in offshore funds? Factors to consider include economic and political conditions of the foreign country, starting with small investments, choosing reputable funds, understanding currency risk, and ensuring transparency in transactions. TALK TO AN EXPERT

As the name suggests, the fund invests in the international market except in the country the investor is residing. International funds invest in foreign companies not listed in the investor’s country. Like we have different funds based on market cap, i.e. large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. Similarly, international funds invest in different sizes of companies. Types of International Funds International funds are available for Indian investors to invest in. And these funds could have a different approach to investing in the international market. Let’s see the categories: 1. Regional fund These funds invest in the stock market of a specific country or region. Some funds may offer investment in the US market only, and others may offer investment in Asian markets only. The main objective is to gain the maximum benefit from investments in the developing stock market of a specific county or region. 2. Thematic funds These funds invest in a specific theme around the global stock market like artificial intelligence, infrastructure, semi-conductor, etc. The companies in these funds are foreign companies. 3. Global sector funds These funds invest in the focused sector foreign companies to benefit from its development. 4. Global funds Though the international and global funds sound similar, they are not. International funds invest in the world stock market except for the country the investor is residing. On the other hand, global funds invest around the world stock market, including the country the investor resides. Invest in US Market Advantages of International funds 1. Geographical Diversification By investing in these funds, your portfolio can benefit from geographical diversification. There are chances that some countries may outperform other countries. If such a scenario happens, your portfolio will benefit from it. 2. Currency benefit International funds give you the benefit of currency depreciation. Over the period currency, INR has depreciated against the USD. For instance, in 2008, USD to INR was at Rs.40 against $1, but in 2022, USD to INR is at Rs.80 against $1. If you had invested $1 in 2008, you could have only gained 100% on currency depreciation. That’s how currency depreciation helps your portfolio to grow. 3. Global Opportunity The opportunity worldwide is immense, and some world-leading companies have products and services in almost every country. Companies like Apple, Google (Alphabet), Facebook (Meta), etc. International funds provide the opportunity to invest in these companies. Invest in Mutual Funds Factors to consider before investing in international funds There are some essential points that you need to consider before investing: 1. Global exposure  If you want your portfolio to get global exposure, you can consider investing in these funds.  2. Risk International funds are exposed to high-risk factors like currency risk, policy risk, trade risk, etc. All these factors could increase the volatility of the portfolio.  3. Expense ratio International funds could have a higher expense ratio which funds can charge for maintaining the fund. 4. Economy risk Each country’s economy works differently, and all the macroeconomic factors could impact your portfolio returns in both ways, positively and negatively. Who should invest? Investors with a high-risk appetite looking for an opportunity with extra returns and who want to hedge their portfolio against the currency risk should consider investing in these funds. Example of International Fund Name: iShares Core S&P 500 ETF Launch Date: May 15, 2000 Ticker: IVV Index Tracked: S&P 500 Index Performance:  IVVETF Database Category Average1 Month Return11.09%11.05%3 Month Return5.21%5.37%YTD Return-9.26%-14.58%1 Year Return-1.20%-9.01%3 Year Return55.85%34.96%5 Year Return92.84%44.48%Source: etfbd.com Top 5 sectors SectorWeightageTechnology17.70%Electronic Technology15.42%Finance13.21%Health Technology10.44%Retail Trade7.54% Top 10 holdings Holdings% AssetsApple Inc.7.32Microsoft Corporation6.04Amazon.com Inc.3.48Tesla2.09Alphabet Inc Class A2.03Alphabet Inc Class X1.87Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Class B1.51UnitedHealth Group Incorporated1.41NVIDIA Corporation1.30Johnson & Johnson1.20 How can one invest in these funds? The process has become effortless with the EduFund app. Download the app for Android and iOS. And do the KYC process. Add funds and select the fund in which you want to invest.  And place the order. If not sure where to invest, connect with the EduFund team FAQs What are international funds? International funds invest in foreign companies outside the investor's home country, providing exposure to global markets. What types of international funds are available for Indian investors? Indian investors can choose from regional funds, thematic funds, global sector funds, and global funds, each with a unique investment focus. What are the advantages of investing in international funds? Advantages include geographical diversification, currency benefits from depreciation, and the opportunity to invest in world-leading global companies. What factors should investors consider before investing in international funds? Consider factors such as global exposure, risk (including currency and policy risk), expense ratios, and the impact of different economies on portfolio returns. Who should consider investing in international funds? Investors with a high-risk appetite seeking extra returns and looking to hedge against currency risk can benefit from investing in international funds. DisclaimerThis is not recommendation advice, use it for educational purposes only