Equity mutual funds offer the potential for high returns over the long term by investing in a diversified portfolio of stocks. They are suitable for investors with a longer investment horizon, such as those saving for their child's education. However, they also carry higher market risk.
PPF is a long-term investment scheme offered by the Indian government with attractive interest rates and tax benefits. It has a lock-in period of 15 years, making it suitable for building a corpus for your child's education.
SSY is a government-backed savings scheme specifically designed for the girl child. It offers attractive interest rates, tax benefits, and a longer maturity period, making it an excellent option for saving for a daughter's education.
ULIPs offer a combination of investment and insurance benefits. They allow you to invest in equity, debt, or hybrid funds while providing life cover. ULIPs come with a lock-in period and offer the flexibility to switch between funds based on market conditions.
SIPs allow you to invest small amounts regularly in mutual funds, helping you benefit from rupee-cost averaging and the power of compounding. They offer flexibility and convenience in building a corpus for your child's education over time.
Some financial institutions offer dedicated education savings plans or child education insurance policies that provide guaranteed returns or a lump sum payout at maturity to fund your child's education expenses.
Direct investment in equities can potentially offer high returns over the long term. However, it requires knowledge of the stock market and diligent research to select the right stocks. Direct equity investment carries higher risk compared to mutual funds.
While not an investment plan per se, education loans can be considered as a financial tool to bridge the gap between the funds you have saved and the total cost of your child's education. It's essential to evaluate the terms and conditions of education loans offered by various financial institutions.