Investing your hard-earned money is a pivotal financial choice, often accompanied by specific terms, such as a lock-in period. A lock-in period signifies a pre-established duration where investors cannot withdraw their investments without incurring penalties. This article explores the significance of lock-in periods across different investment avenues and offers guidance on actions to take once the lock-in period concludes.
What is a lock-in period?
A lock-in period is a specific duration during which an investment, usually in financial instruments like mutual funds or fixed deposits, cannot be redeemed, withdrawn, or sold. Investors are obligated to keep their money invested for the entire lock-in period, and they cannot access the funds until this period expires. The purpose of a lock-in period varies depending on the investment type but can serve to ensure commitment, discourage short-term trading, and promote long-term investing. Once the lock-in period ends, investors gain the freedom to make withdrawals or exit their investments without penalties or restrictions.
What is the Lock-In Period in Different Types of Investments?
- Mutual Funds: Typically, close-ended mutual funds come with a 3-year lock-up period. In contrast, ELSS Funds (tax-saving investments under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961) are the sole open-ended fund that imposes a lock-up period, applicable to both SIP and lump-sum investments. This tenure is shorter compared to other tax-saving investments, making ELSS a popular choice for tax planning.
- Tax-Saving Fixed Deposits: Tax-saving fixed deposits usually come with a lock-in period of five years. Investors cannot withdraw the invested amount during this period without incurring penalties.
- Government Bonds: The lock-in period for government bonds varies depending on the type of bond. For instance, National Savings Certificate (NSC) has a lock-in period of five years, while Public Provident Fund (PPF) has a lock-in period of 15 years.
- ULIP Funds: Unit Linked Insurance Plans (ULIPs) typically have a lock-in period of five years. This restriction ensures that investors stay invested for a reasonable duration to benefit from market-linked returns.
Why is Lock-In Period Important?
Lock-in periods serve several important purposes:
- Encouraging Long-Term Investing: Lock-in periods discourage impulsive decisions and promote a long-term investment approach. This can help investors accumulate wealth over time.
- Tax Benefits: In the case of ELSS and certain other tax-saving investments, the lock-in period is essential for claiming tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
- Stability: For fund managers, knowing that investors are locked in for a specific period allows them to manage the fund's assets more efficiently.
What is Lock-In Period in ELSS Mutual Funds?
ELSS mutual funds have a lock-in period of three years, which is the shortest among tax-saving investment options in India. This lock-in period ensures that investors remain invested in equities for a reasonable duration, potentially reaping the benefits of market growth.
You can invest in ELSS funds on Bajaj Finserv platform and save tax on up to 1.5 Lakh rupees under section 80C.
Method of Investing in ELSS Funds
SIP (Systematic Investment Plan)
- Risk Mitigation and Discipline: SIP is a preferred mode for investors seeking risk mitigation and financial discipline. By spreading investments over regular intervals, it minimises the impact of market volatility. This systematic approach helps navigate market fluctuations without the need for precise market timing.
- Rupee Cost Averaging: SIP incorporates the concept of rupee cost averaging, allowing investors to buy more units when prices are lower and fewer units when prices are higher. Over time, this strategy helps in achieving a lower average cost per unit, potentially maximizing returns in the long run.
- Affordability and Accessibility: SIP offers affordability, allowing investors to start with small amounts regularly. It enhances accessibility for a broader investor base, including those with limited funds. This makes SIP an inclusive investment option suitable for various income brackets.
Lumpsum
- Market Timing and Capital Deployment: Lumpsum investment is ideal for investors who believe in market timing or have a significant sum available for deployment. It allows capital to be deployed at once, capturing potential market upswings and optimising returns, especially during favorable market conditions.
- Potential for Higher Returns: Lumpsum investments carry the potential for higher returns, particularly in bullish market phases. Since the entire amount is invested upfront, any subsequent market appreciation directly impacts the overall investment, leading to the possibility of capitalizing on market upturns.
- Suitable for Specific Goals: Lumpsum investments are well-suited for specific financial goals or scenarios where a substantial amount is needed upfront. This could include goals such as buying a home, funding education, or other one-time financial requirements.
