Given below are few low -risk investments:
1. Index funds: As the name suggests, this is a type of fund that invests in the index (Nifty50, Sensex, sectoral indices, etc). Its performance tends to mirror that of the index it is replicating. Index funds are passively managed funds that allow investors to participate intelligently in the stock market. An index fund is the safest option for a retail investor who has little or no knowledge about the stock market.
2. Debt Mutual funds: In a debt/income scheme, a major part of the funds is invested in debentures, gilt funds, government securities, and other debt instruments. While fund holdings may appreciate in value, the primary objective of these funds is to provide a steady cash flow to investors. This is a low-risk return investment option which is ideal for investors who expect a steady income.
3. Fixed deposit: This is a good way to invest for the short term. However, they might not give sizable returns after adjusting for inflation. But this is the place to keep the money if you prioritise the safety of investment or high returns. Both debt funds and fixed deposits give similar returns, but FD guarantees capital protection and returns while the same is not applicable to debt funds.
4. Public Provident Fund (PPF): In case you are looking to benefit from tax-saving investments for the long-term and don’t mind a long lock-in period (15 years), then PPF has many benefits attached to it. PPF nearly guarantees capital protection and regular returns and also falls under the Exempt-Exempt-Exempt category.
5. National pension scheme (NPS): NPS with its unique Tax benefits, good returns, low-cost structure, is another good investment vehicle for a secured future. NPS makes a decent avenue of saving for retirement. A person who joins NPS at the age of 18 can remain invested in the system till the age of 70.
