Which debt mutual funds are suitable for short-term and long-term goals?

A reader wants to know, “Which debt mutual funds are suitable for short-term and long-term goals?” A discussion. A related question is whether debt funds are still relevant as there is no tax advantage compared to fixed deposits. Yes, debt funds are still relevant because they are necessary for rebalancing a portfolio. Also, unlike FDs,…

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What are some tax-efficient alternatives for debt mutual funds?

A reader says, “Given the changes in debt fund indexation benefits, I come across market veterans recommending equity savings and multi-asset funds as alternatives. I have the SBI, Kotak and Parag Parikh conservative hybrid funds in three different portfolios in my family. Would you continue to recommend these conservative hybrid funds for a long term…

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An introduction to debt mutual funds for new investors

In this article, SEBI registered fee-only advisor Swapnil Kendhe explains all the things related to debt mutual funds that retail investors should understand if they want to make informed decisions appropriate for their financial goals. About the author: Swapnil Kendhe is a SEBI Registered Investment Advisor and part of my list of fee-only financial planners. You…

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Is there a place for high-interest rate fixed income products in a portfolio?

It is quite easy to see extreme reactions to many aspects of personal money management. Yield-chasing or seeking to invest in high-interest rate fixed income products is no different. Many investors vehemently believe that there is no place for risk in a portfolio. “We have enough risk from equity, so why take on more risk…

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Can I use ultra short duration funds instead for short-term goals?

A reader asks, “You usually recommend money market funds for short-term goals. Can we also consider Ultra Short Duration Funds for this purpose?’ The definition of money market funds is simple: “Investment in Money Market instruments having maturity up to 1 year”.Ultra-short duration funds are defined as “investment in Debt & Money Market instruments such…

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