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Having a good retirement plan is essential for making sure that you do not have to worry about money in your later years. Given the evolving pattern of the Indian economy and the unpredictability of life, a strong retirement plan is all the more imperative. However, the sooner they start and the more carefully they invest, the bigger the amount they will be able to save to afford the life of their dreams after retirement.
The following are the investment strategies targeted for retirement planning –
Read on to understand some of the best pension scheme in India and other financial products for retirement corpus creation –
Employee Provident Fund (EPF)
The Employee Provident Fund (EPF) is a compulsory retirement savings scheme for salaried individuals in India. As part of the employee’s monthly income, a certain amount is diverted to the EPF account along with a matching contribution from the employer. The EPF is tax exempted under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act by which individuals can save taxes as they build a retirement fund for themselves. Additionally, the EPF has a fixed government-set interest rate that gives a smooth rise of the funds for a longer time.
Public Provident Fund (PPF)
The PPF (Public Provident Fund) is a long-term investment scheme sponsored by the Indian government. Investors can put a fixed amount at the end of every year in their PPF account which will be tax exempted on both contributions and interest. The PPF is a compounding one where the interest is calculated on the total amount invested, instead of calculating it only on the principal amount. The PPF lock-in period of 15 years encourages disciplined savings and gives a stable platform for long-term wealth generation.
National Pension Scheme (NPS)
The National Pension System (NPS) is a voluntary retirement savings system that combines equity and debt assets. NPS allows consumers to tailor their asset allocation based on their risk tolerance and retirement goals. Contributions to the NPS are eligible for tax breaks under Sections 80C and 80CCD of the Income Tax Act. Individuals may diversify their retirement portfolios by investing in NPS, which provides tax benefits and the possibility for high long-term returns.
Senior Citizen Saving Scheme (SCSS)
The Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) is designed for anyone over the age of 60 who wants to create a steady income after retirement. SCSS provides set interest rates, assuring a consistent flow of income for seniors. This programme offers both financial security and liquidity, making it an appealing alternative for retirees looking for a safe place to put their assets.
Mutual Funds
A mutual fund is an investment vehicle that combines the funds of several investors to create a diversified portfolio of securities. Investing in Mutual Funds provides individuals with professional fund management, liquidity, and the opportunity to acquire higher returns than with conventional investment means. Mutual Funds provide numerous kinds of fund categories that are suitable for those who want to diversify their risk profiles and investors with different investment goals.
Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs)
Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) uniquely combine insurance and investment in a single plan. ULIPs allow policyholders to invest in equity, and debt funds and also provide life insurance cover. Furthermore, ULIPs provide flexibility in allocating assets, tax benefits under Section 80C and Section 10(10D) of the Income Tax Act, and the chance of wealth creation in the long run. Use the online ULIPs calculator to understand your earnings within a particular investment horizon.
Real Estate
Real estate investments are a combination of property capitalisation and rental income returns. Though real estate may be a profitable investment class, it is crucial to assess risks, market conditions, location features, and legal matters before investing. Real estate investments have the potential to provide long-term growth and diversification of the investment portfolio; however, they need to be thoroughly researched and due diligence to minimise risks and optimise returns.
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) are a systematic method of investing in a Mutual Fund on a regular basis. Through SIPs, investors can invest a certain amount at fixed intervals, usually monthly, to accumulate wealth over time. SIPs allow one to average the cost of investments, protect against market fluctuations, and promote a culture of regular saving and investment. SIPs can cater for investors with differing risk appetites and investment durations, allowing them to systematically reach their financial objectives.
Annuity Plans
Annuity Plans are financial plans that offer a steady income stream after retirement in return for a lump sum investment. Annuities are meant to provide individuals with pension-like payments, assuring consistent financial flow during retirement. Annuity plans allow retirees to ensure a consistent source of income, reduce longevity risk, and preserve financial security in their later years.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is an essential part of retirement planning to protect against escalating medical expenditures and unexpected health issues. Individuals who invest in comprehensive health insurance coverage can safeguard themselves and their families from the financial burden of medical bills. Health insurance covers hospitalisation, medical treatments, surgeries, and other healthcare-related expenses, enabling access to quality care without depleting retirement funds.
Term Insurance
The term insurance is a pure life insurance product which provides death coverage to the policyholder’s family when the death occurs unexpectedly. Purchase of Term Insurance policy, on the other hand, will help an individual to rest assured that their family will not only be taken care of but will also be able to meet their expenses, liabilities and future goals even without their breadwinner. Term Life Insurance provides customers with a large lump sum amount at a very low cost, which makes it a necessary insurance policy for retirement plans.
Fixed Deposits
Fixed deposits are a safe investment option provided by banks and other financial institutions that ensure return stability, liquidity, and capital preservation. Investors may get a fixed interest rate on the funds they invest in Fixed Deposits over a given period which can range from a few months to several years. Fixed deposits may be an option for conservative investors as they provide safety and a steady income stream which can be relied upon.
Gold Investments
Gold Investments assure investors safety against inflation and market risks, providing stability and long-term value. Gold can be bought through several forms which include physical gold, gold ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) and sovereign gold bonds. By including gold in the investment portfolio, one can reduce the risk, protect the wealth, and enjoy the increase in gold price in the time coming. The gold investment is considered a safe-haven asset that allows you to enjoy safety during economic uncertainties and currency fluctuations.
Regular Review and Adjustment
Keeping an eye on your investments, revisiting the retirement plan from time to time, and making the necessary adjustments as per the changing goals and market conditions are critical parts of the retirement planning process. Through regular evaluation of investment performance, revising financial objectives, and adapting the plan to suit the changing circumstances better, an individual can optimise his/her retirement portfolio, maximise returns, and become financially prepared for retirement.
Individuals who understand and apply these investing techniques in detail may improve their retirement planning efforts, lay a solid financial foundation, and ensure a pleasant and financially stable future after retirement.
