Mutual Funds: Nimesh Shah

The mutual fund (MF) I am investing in had a 5-Star rating when I started. The rating has fallen. Should I stop investing and switch to another fund that is a top performer in the same category?

Use of ratings at the stage of fund selection can be a good starter but is not the only criterion. One should invest in funds that have consistent record and good pedigree, among other parameters. Before you take decision on continuing or switching to a new fund, if possible, try to understand the reasoning for the fund's underperformance. This is because there can be spells where the performance takes a hit because of the cyclical nature of holdings but over long term, their performance may be better.

I am due for retirement in two years. I am planning to invest in Post Office fixed deposits. I also want to invest some amount in MFs. What kind of funds should I invest in for regular income? I have no pension and the interest from the FDs and the MFs will be my only income.

It is heartening to see that you are considering MFs along with traditional fixed income options. Given your monthly income requirement, it may be preferable to opt for dividend option of hybrid funds like monthly income funds, which has debt taxation. While choosing the fund, remember to check the dividend payout history. In case, if there is an option to consider equity exposure, then you can consider equity income funds - monthly dividend option, which have higher allocation towards equity, and adhere to equity taxation norms.

At the same time, remember that monthly dividend income is not assured in any scheme. The payout is based on availability of distributable surplus and subject to approval from trustees. But, there are MF schemes which have a consistent track record of dividend payout . You can opt for any of those according to your requirement.

I missed one Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) payment due to lack of funds in my account. Can I pay the same before the next date? Will my MF be discontinued due to this?

There is no penalty associated with missing the monthly SIP payment and the folio won't be discontinued. However, one cannot buy the units on retrospective basis but can go for additional purchase for the same amount. NAV applicable will be date on which the additional purchase amount is received.

Separately, there is an SIP pause feature available with select fund houses, wherein an investor can pause their SIP for three months in case investor foresees any adverse situation.

My fund house sends me account statements once in three months. Can I request for statements in every month?

You can request the fund house to send across the account statement every month. You can either write to the fund house or call their helpline number and initiate the request. Account statements are generally sent to all investors who have transacted in a particular month by the 10th of the preceding month, that is, for transaction done from September 1, 2016, to September 30, 2016, consolidated account statement (CAS) will be sent by October 10, 2016. Wherever e-mail is available, account statements are being sent by e-mail with five days of the transaction and also a CAS is being sent by the 10th of every month.

The views expressed are expert's own. Send your queries to yourmoney@bsmail.in