By Vivek Karwa Apr 11 2012
Article from mydigitalfc.com
Income levels of individuals in our country have increased, and so has the risk-taking ability of the middle class. They have now started investing in riskier products like equities, knowing very well that the markets can deliver superior returns over a period of time.
A large part of the credit for this transformation goes to the financial planners. Financial planners now-a-days are seriously focusing towards self skill development and have started giving need-based advice. The focus on asset allocation also depends on the hierarchy of needs of an investor. These needs are adding up, particularly in the middle and top-end of the hierarchy who are ready to venture into other asset classes also.
The assets which you may find in the portfolios of a regular investor today may be as under:
>> Lower level: Endowment insurance plans, fixed deposits (FDs), gold, >> Middle level: In addition to portfolio of lower level, they will have unit-linked insurance policies (Ulips), equity mutual funds systematic investment plans (SIPs), house property and equities.
>> Higher level: In addition to the above, they will surely be holding real estate, structured products, e-commodities and will be involved in equity derivatives and commodities markets.
Many equity market investors have one common doubt today, should they be involved in commodities market and the currency market. The answer is ‘yes’. But three caveat’s: 1) Unless you know how these markets work, don’t risk your money. 2) If you have no knowledge, then take advise from a qualified adviser. 3) Enter these markets with hedging in mind and not for making quick money.
Research has proved that equities, commodities and currencies have both positive correlation and negative correlation with each other. Hence, one can always hedge or may find a trading opportunity across market segments.
The biggest drawback of these markets is the lack of understanding and, hence, investors need to take the right step of going through financial planners. Since these markets are still largely unknown to the retail investors, they are often lured into schemes which promise to pay above normal returns. Clear understanding can provide a great opportunity towards better asset allocation. One cannot be sure which will be the next best performing asset in the next cycle and, thus, exposure to multiple market ensure we don’t miss out the cycle.
One such investment opportunity which not many people understand and the top-end high networth individuals (HNI) can look seriously at is investing in the startup companies. Companies like Facebook, Linkedin became big in no time, creating huge wealth for the investors. Also, we have success examples of Flipkart and Snapdeal in India.
Many entrepreneurs have ideas which can be huge success, but most of these startup are money-hungry to fuel up the growth process. These companies are initially started with promoters’ own funds.
India will be the largest consumer market in the world by the year 2025. It, at present, has around 120 million internet users and the number is rising rapidly. Most of the companies which have made big in short duration are in the field of technology and internet. Investors like Rakesh Jhunjhunwala have made big money in this way. A2Z maintenance is one of the examples.
Investing in startup is called the ‘angel funding’. These investors are termed as ‘angel investors’ since they act as the saviors when the company is requiring money. There are many angel investors (read HNI investors) who have come forward and formed groups like Mumbai angels and Chennai angels to source such opportunities where they can invest and make big money. The process is angel investors — venture capital — private equity — initial public offering (IPO). IPO is the final thing where everyone unlocks the real money if the company makes a huge success.
Right company and right valuations is the key. Many HNIs are investing in startups these days, but this requires expertise. There are advisers who have enough knowledge in this segment and can help you choose the right companies.
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Article from mydigitalfc.com
