How to invest in SIP’s or Systematic Investment Plan

Mutual Fund SIP’s (Systematic Investment Plans) have caught the fancy of many an investor in recent times. According to industry estimates, the total SIP book has recently crossed the Rs. 6,000 Crore- mark – and the trend is showing no signs of slowing down. If you’re a first-time investor who is confused about how to invest in SIP’s, here are a few simple pointers to get you started.

The First Step: KYC Compliance

If you’ve never invested into Mutual Funds before, you’ll need to complete your KYC (Know Your Customer) formalities at first. If you have an Aadhar card, this process is now extremely simple, as you can complete your Aadhar based e-KYC on the website of any asset management company without the need for paperwork. Previously, e-KYC was done using an OTP, and had an investment limit of just Rs. 50,000. Alternatively, you may fill out a physical KYC form, along with a passport size photo and an address/ID proof, and submit it at your closest registrar’s office (CAMS or KARVY). If you’re dealing with a professional Financial Advisor, he or she can greatly simplify this process for you.

Next – Fund Selection

Having completed your KYC formalities, you’ll now need to decide upon which mutual fund is ‘sahi’ for your SIP investment! This can be quite a tricky affair, and its best to consult with a professional financial advisor on which Mutual Fund SIP investment is most in sync with your unique financial goals, risk profile and time horizon. If you’re looking to invest into Mutual Fund SIP’s for a goal that’s only a couple of years away (for example, a car purchase), stick to low risk debt funds only. On the other hand, if you’re looking to start a Mutual Fund SIP for a goal that’s far out (say, your retirement), start it in a high risk, volatile fund such as a small & midcap oriented fund.

Getting Started

Getting started with your Mutual Fund SIP is extremely simple. You have the choice of starting your SIP using a physical form which will involve a signing a NACH form, or investing in an SIP without any paperwork - directly on the website of the Asset Management Company that you’ve chosen, or through an online transaction platform such as BSE’s Star MF or NSE’s NMF. Most Advisors provide both options to their clients, and you may decide which one you’re most comfortable with. The latter option will involve an XSIP or ISIP mandate that doesn’t require any paperwork, but can be initiated directly on your behalf by a licensed intermediary.

Continuity

While it’s true that ‘well begun is half done’, its critical to continue running your Mutual Fund SIP in an unbroken manner for the stipulated time horizon that’s been prescribed by your Financial Advisor. Make sure you invest into SIP’s with the same discipline and intent that you’d employ while running an EMI. After all, as the ad jingle of a leading asset management company goes – “a SIP is like a good EMI!”