FAQ’s
What factors should investors consider before they invest money?
An individual can invest in mutual funds depending on his/her risk appetite, investment horizon and ultimate financial goal. If you have long term financial goals like retirement planning, you may consider investing in equity funds. On the other hand, if you have short term goals, these goals may be fulfilled by opting for debt oriented schemes.
What are actively managed funds and passively managed funds?
A fund can offer returns by mimicking the index. Index funds do just that. They are called passively managed funds. But there are other funds that don’t mimic the index and buy and sell basis the research of the fund manager. Thus these funds are actively managed by the fund manager as the fund manager has the discretion to buy or sell stocks of companies as per the broad guidelines that have been enumerated in the scheme offer document.
Can I "time the market" to buy low and sell high?
Consistently predicting market tops and bottoms is nearly impossible, even for seasoned professionals. Research repeatedly shows that "time in the market" (staying invested for the long term) far outweighs "timing the market." Missing even a few of the market's best days can significantly impact your overall returns.
What do you think? Investing is like gambling.
Gambling is based purely on chance and results in a zero-sum game (one person’s gain is another’s loss). Investing, especially long-term investing in diversified assets, is a calculated decision based on research, economic growth, and the underlying value creation of companies. While all investments carry some risk, it’s not random.
Do you need to monitor your investments daily?
For long-term investors, constant monitoring can lead to emotional decisions and over- trading, which often hurts returns due to transaction costs and panic selling/buying. A well-constructed, diversified portfolio usually benefits from a "set it and forget it" approach, with periodic reviews (e.g., quarterly or annually).
Should you always invest in "hot" trends or what everyone else is buying?
Following the crowd often means buying at the peak of excitement (and high prices) and selling in a panic when trends reverse. "Fear of Missing Out" (FOMO) can lead to poor decisions. Base your investments on your own financial goals, risk tolerance, and thorough research, not on hype or social media buzz.
What do you think? Do you need a very high income to achieve financial freedom?
While a higher income can accelerate the journey, it's not the sole determinant. What truly matters is your savings rate and how effectively you manage your money, regardless of your income. Many high-income earners struggle with debt and poor financial habits, while moderate earners can achieve financial freedom through disciplined saving, frugal living, and smart investing.