Most people avoid mutual fund investments thinking they’re “too risky,” especially in 2025’s uncertain environment. But here’s the irony — you’re already taking bigger financial risks every single day without realizing it.
At Munafawaala, we believe the real risk lies in not investing smartly. Let’s flip the perspective and see where your money is really going.
Silent Wealth Killer: Keeping Lakhs in Savings Account
Risk You’re Taking: Letting inflation eat your money.
Savings account interest: ~3%
Inflation rate: ~6%
Real return? Negative!
📉 ₹10 lakhs in savings will grow to ₹13.4 lakhs in 10 years, but its value drops to ₹7.5 lakhs. That’s not growth — that’s decay.
Munafawaala Pro Tip: Park only emergency funds in savings, not your long-term wealth.
Insurance ≠ Investment: The Great Return Trap
What You’re Doing: Putting money in traditional LIC or endowment policies.
Locked-in returns: 5–6% over 20 years
Post-tax value? Even lower
Real growth? Doesn’t even beat inflation!
Munafawaala Pro Tip: Use insurance for protection, not wealth creation. For returns, Mutual Funds beat these hands down with 10–12% historical CAGR.
Real Estate May Not Be the “Safe Haven” You Think
The Reality Check:
Rental yield = 2–3%
High taxes, maintenance, and legal risks
Liquidity issues and unpredictable growth
Overexposure to real estate is just concentration risk in disguise.
Munafawaala Pro Tip: Diversify. A balanced fund portfolio spreads risk and earns.
FDs Aren’t Really “Fixed” When Tax Hits
Common Belief: FD is safe, guaranteed.
Hidden Truth:
Interest: 6.5%
Tax: 30%
Post-tax return? ~4.5%
Smarter Alternative: Arbitrage or Debt Mutual Funds with better post-tax returns.
Munafawaala Pro Tip: Don’t let taxation silently reduce your gains. Choose tax-smart investments.
Long-Term Planning, Short-Term Fear? Doesn’t Add Up
You’re Already Investing for the Long Term:
Child’s education
Marriage
Retirement
Emergency corpus
But then… you fear mutual funds for just 5–10 years?
Think About It: You’re not retiring in 3 years. But if you don’t invest, your retirement may suffer.
Munafawaala Pro Tip: 10 years is a blink when building wealth. Let compounding do its magic.
Playing “Safe” is Actually the Riskiest Move
The Myth: Avoid risk, stay safe
The Reality: Low returns guarantee value loss
Strategy
Return
Real Value
FD/Savings
3–6%
Declining (below inflation)
LIC / Endowment Plans
4–6%
Barely inflation-beating
Traditional Insurance
4–5%
Poor returns, not designed for growth
Real Estate(Rental Yield)
2–3% (Annually)
Low liquidity, slow capital appreciation
Mutual Funds (Balanced)
10–12%
Long-term wealth creation
Munafawaala Pro Tip: Risk ≠ bad. Uninformed risk is. We guide you toward calculated, profitable investing.
You’re Smarter Than You Think — You Just Need the Right Partner
Let us show you how you can invest with clarity — without fear, confusion, or regret.
Here’s How Munafawaala Helps:
✅ Capital safety → Liquid & Arbitrage Funds ✅ Wealth creation → SIPs in Balanced / Flexi / Large Cap Funds ✅ Retirement planning → ELSS + NPS + Strategic Equity Exposure
💬Final Thought: Fear is Expensive. Start Smart with Munafawaala.
You’ve worked hard to earn and save — now it’s time to make your money work for you. Stop letting inflation eat into your future. Start investing smartly, confidently, and fearlessly with Munafawaala by your side.
Munafawaala — Empowering You to Grow Your Money, Fearlessly.
When the stock market turns red and your portfolio shows losses, it’s natural to feel anxious. The instinct to pause or cancel your SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) might seem smart—but history proves otherwise.
At Munafawaala, we believe that understanding the market’s behavior and responding rationally—not emotionally—is the key to wealth creation. Here’s why continuing your SIP during a downturn could be your smartest move.
The Panic Is Real—But Is It Helpful?
According to AMFI, the SIP stoppage ratio hit 109% in January 2025, meaning more SIPs were discontinued than started. That’s a strong signal of panic—investors reacting emotionally to a temporary market correction.
But the markets have always bounced back—and those who held their SIPs witnessed powerful returns
Market Corrections Are Temporary, Growth Is Long-Term
From the Gulf War in 1991 to the COVID crash in 2020, India’s market has seen at least nine major corrections with over 20% dips. Yet, the post-correction 3-year returns have been phenomenal, often surpassing 100%.
This shows that downturns aren’t the end—they’re stepping stones to stronger returns.
Year
Events
Correction in Months
Correction in % (Absolute)
Post Correction 36 Months Returns (%)
1991
Gulf War / India Fin Crisis
3+
38.69%
316.53%
1992–93
Harshad Mehta Scam
12+
54.41%
84.85%
1994–96
Reliance, FII
27+
40.72%
71.73%
2000–01
Tech Bubble
19+
56.18%
115.60%
2004
BJP Lost Election
4+
27.27%
217.41%
2006
FII Selloff
1+
28.64%
70.65%
2008–09
Global Financial Crisis
14+
60.91%
114.49%
2015–16
China Slowdown
12+
22.67%
58.57%
2020
Covid-19 Crisis
2+
37.93%
122.95%
SIPs Help You Buy More When Markets Are Low
This is called rupee-cost averaging, and it’s a superpower of SIP investing.
Let’s say you invest ₹5,000 monthly:
When NAV = ₹50 → You buy 100 units
When NAV = ₹40 → You buy 125 units
When NAV = ₹25 → You buy 200 units
Total: ₹20,000 invested → 525 units Average NAV = ₹41.25 Your effective cost per unit = ₹38.10
That’s the magic. SIPs let you accumulate more when prices drop, pulling your average cost down and boosting returns when markets recover.
Time in the Market Beats Timing the Market
Trying to “buy low and sell high” sounds great, but even the best investors rarely time the market perfectly.
A case study:
Investor A always invests at market lows – impossible in real life
Investor B always invests at market highs – worst timing
Investor C uses SIPs on the 10th of every month
Over 45 years (1979 to 2025):
Investor A: 14.79% annual return
Investor B: 13.94% annual return
Investor C (SIP): 14.34% annual return
Surprising, right? Even someone with terrible timing beat inflation, and the SIP investor almost matched the perfect timer!
The takeaway: Discipline trumps prediction. Consistency beats luck.
Why You Shouldn’t Stop SIPs During a Downturn
Here’s what happens when you pause SIPs:
You miss out on buying more units at lower NAVs
You break the compounding cycle
You delay long-term goals
You react emotionally, not financially
Instead, think long term. Every rupee invested in red zones today can become a green blessing in your future portfolio.
SIPs Are Designed for Volatility
SIPs are not built for perfect market conditions. They are built to ride through the bad days so you can enjoy the good ones.
They automate discipline
They neutralize market timing stress
They accumulate wealth slowly and steadily
When markets are shaky, SIPs are your anchor. Stay the course, trust the process.
Munafawaala’s Take: Stay Invested, Stay Calm
We understand the emotions you face during corrections. But at Munafawaala, we guide our investors through these uncertain times with clarity and data-backed strategies.
Stopping your SIP = Selling low. Continuing your SIP = Buying smart.
Let volatility work in your favor—not against it.
Final Thoughts
Don’t fear the red. See it as a signal to stay invested, not withdraw. The markets have always bounced back—and rewarded those with patience and perseverance.
SIPs are your shield in uncertain markets and your engine during rallies. So the next time your screen shows red, smile. You’re buying more units. You’re building wealth. You’re winning long-term.
For most investors, the worry of “Am I investing at the right time?” lingers every month. Is it better to start an SIP when the market is low? What if I started at the top? Will it ruin my wealth creation journey?
📢 Let us bust that myth today with real data.
A recent analysis published in Economic Times (July 2025) and backed by data from Motilal Oswal Asset Management shows that over the long term, the timing of your SIP doesn’t matter as much as staying invested does.
What the Study Reveals
Motilal Oswal’s team evaluated how SIPs have performed historically over 5-year, 10-year, 15-year, 20-year, and 25-year windows, using ₹5,000 monthly SIPs.
They compared returns when SIPs started at the highest NAV of the month vs. the lowest NAV of the month, across different periods.
Here’s what they found:
SIP Returns: All’s Well That Ends…
(Source: Motilal Oswal AMC | SIP Value till March 2025)
Scenario
SIP return duration
SIP at Lowest index value of the month
SIP at highest index value of the month
Difference in returns
Apr-24
1 year
1.2
-9.9
11.0
Apr-22
3 year
16.9
13.0
3.9
Apr-20
5 year
19.3
16.2
3.1
Apr-18
7 year
17.6
15.7
1.9
Apr-15
10 year
15.8
14.7
1.1
Apr-10
15 year
14.7
14.0
0.7
Apr-05
20 year
14.0
13.3
0.7
Apr-00
25 year
15.9
15.3
0.6
🔍 SIP returns are calculated for ₹5,000/month invested till March 28, 2025. “1.22” means ₹1 invested became ₹1.22 in that span.
What Does This Mean for You as an Investor?
Even if you started your SIP at a market high, you still earned strong returns.
The maximum difference between best and worst timing was just ₹0.38 per ₹1 invested over long terms. That’s a negligible gap when your goal is long-term wealth creation.
More importantly, SIPs done over longer periods (20–25 years) smooth out any short-term market volatility or poor timing decisions.
The Real Secret: Consistency Beats Timing
Financial advisors and wealth managers always say: “It’s not about timing the market. It’s about time in the market.”
This data confirms it. The longer you stay invested through SIPs, the less impact short-term market highs and lows have on your final return.
Rather than stressing over the “perfect entry,” it’s better to start and stay consistent.
Let’s Visualize the Wisdom
Imagine you had waited for the perfect dip before starting your SIP — chances are you’d still be waiting today. Meanwhile, those who started anytime and stayed disciplined have already built significant wealth.
Even SIPs started at the worst NAV of the month delivered solid returns.
Should You Worry About Volatile Markets?
Absolutely not.
Markets move in cycles. Volatility is a part of investing. But what really matters is whether your investments are aligned with your long-term goals.
SIPs take care of that automatically — by averaging your cost and compounding your wealth.
What You Can Do Right Now
1- Start your SIP — don’t wait for a “better” time. 2- Stick to your plan — ups and downs will balance out. 3- Increase SIP amount yearly, if possible — it accelerates your goal achievement. 4- Track progress, but don’t panic with short-term news.
Final Word: Wealth Building Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint
This ET Insight backed by real market data proves that discipline beats perfection. You don’t need to find the lowest NAV or worry if you missed a dip. Just stay the course, and your wealth will take care of itself.
So, whether you’re a first-time investor or a seasoned one — don’t time your SIPs, just give them time.
Investing in sectoral mutual funds can supercharge your portfolio — if done right. These funds focus on specific industries and come with higher risk but also higher reward potential. In 2025, with evolving market dynamics, here’s a breakdown of the top 5 sectoral themes and how you can balance them wisely.
Pharma & Healthcare: Riding on India’s Growing Medical Demand
The Indian healthcare sector continues to expand due to rising medical tourism, health insurance penetration, and government spending (Ayushman Bharat).
Top Fund Example:Nippon India Pharma Fund
Strong long-term CAGR (10Y CAGR ~15%)
Defensive in market downturns
Strong export potential with global demand
R&D backed growth from Indian pharma majors
Beneficiary of government healthcare policies
Suitable for long-term risk-managed investing
Suggested SIP Allocation: ₹2,000/month
Banking & Financial Services: Backbone of Economic Growth
With India’s rapid formalization and credit growth, the BFSI sector continues to be a powerhouse.
Top Fund Example:ICICI Prudential Banking and Financial Services Fund
Exposure to leading private banks and NBFCs
Profits from rising digital and retail lending
Regulatory support (PSU consolidation, interest reforms)
Inflation-hedged long-term returns
High liquidity and stable NAV growth
Great for core equity exposure
Suggested SIP Allocation: ₹2,000/month
Technology & Digital Innovation: Future-Ready Wealth Building
India’s tech sector is evolving from just IT services to AI, SaaS, cybersecurity, and fintech. 2025 is all about digital innovation.
Top Fund Example:Tata Digital India Fund
Focus on digital infrastructure and IT services
High global exposure via Indian IT exporters
Growth in cloud computing, AI, and remote tech
Low debt companies with strong cash flows
Long-term compounding stories
Best for tech-savvy investors
Suggested SIP Allocation: ₹2,000/month
Infrastructure & Capital Goods: Backed by Government Push
With PM Gati Shakti, Smart Cities Mission, and NIP (National Infra Pipeline), infra is on a major upswing.
Top Fund Example:HDFC Infrastructure Fund
Invests in cement, construction, ports, and EPC companies
Massive capex cycles expected in FY25–28
High earnings rebound post-COVID slowdown
Reforms-driven growth (land, energy, logistics)
Cyclical but can outperform in bull runs
Good for medium-term tactical allocation
Suggested SIP Allocation: ₹1,500/month
Consumption & FMCG: Powered by India’s Middle Class
India’s consumption story is evergreen — rising income, Tier 2–3 growth, and online shopping boom.
Top Fund Example:SBI Consumption Opportunities Fund
Portfolio of high-margin FMCG, retail, and discretionary plays
When it comes to combining investment with insurance, ULIP (Unit Linked Insurance Plan) has long been marketed as the ideal “double benefit” product. And with the right plan and long-term vision, ULIPs can indeed deliver strong returns—especially when factoring in their life insurance advantage and tax efficiency for smaller investors.
In this blog, we’ll break down: – What ULIPs are – How they compare with mutual funds – What the latest amendments mean for ULIP taxation – Updated return assumptions – Realistic small-ticket example (₹2.5L investment) – Non-monetary benefits of ULIPs – Which product is right for you
What is a ULIP?
A Unit Linked Insurance Plan (ULIP) is a hybrid financial product that combines life insurance with market-linked investments. Part of your premium goes towards providing a life insurance cover, and the rest is invested in equity, debt, or a balanced portfolio, depending on your selection.
Key Features: – Life cover + investment – Lock-in period of 5 years – Choice of equity, debt, or hybrid funds – Free fund-switching options – Tax benefits under Sec 80C and, in some cases, Sec 10(10D)
What is a Mutual Fund?
Mutual Funds are pure investment products that pool money from multiple investors to invest in diversified portfolios of equity, debt, or hybrid instruments, managed by professionals.
Key Features: – No life cover – Flexible liquidity (except ELSS) – Wide fund categories – Transparent and regulated by SEBI – Taxation depends on fund type and duration held
Example Comparison – ₹2.5 Lakh Investment Annually for 10 Years
Let’s consider a disciplined small investor putting ₹2.5 lakh/year in both ULIP and MF for 10 years.
🔸 ULIP: – ₹25 lakh invested over 10 years – Assume 12% CAGR post-charges – Final corpus: ₹48.4 lakh – Tax-free maturity (since premium ≤ ₹2.5L/year) – Net Corpus = ₹48.4 lakh – Plus Life Cover (₹25–50L typical depending on age)
Mutual Fund (Corrected): – ₹25 lakh invested – Return: 12% CAGR – Final corpus: ₹48.4 lakh – LTCG = ₹23.4 lakh – ₹1 lakh exemption = ₹22.4 lakh – Tax @12.5% = ₹2.8 lakh – Net Corpus = ₹45.6 lakh – No life cover
Non-Monetary Benefits of ULIP
ULIPs offer more than just investment returns:
– ✅ Life Insurance: Beneficiary gets sum assured + fund value in case of untimely death – ✅ Tax Savings: Eligible under Sec 80C – ✅ Discipline: Lock-in helps in long-term planning – ✅ Free Switches: You can shift between debt and equity without exit load or taxes – ✅ Integrated Wealth + Protection Plan
Munafawaala’s Balanced View
For conservative investors, the comparison between ULIPs and Mutual Funds isn’t about chasing the highest returns—it’s about overall financial planning.
ULIPs are a strong choice when: – You want investment + life cover in one – Premium is within ₹2.5 lakh (for tax-free maturity) – You prefer discipline and insurance-backed investing
Mutual Funds are ideal when: – You want pure investment with liquidity – You’re okay with paying LTCG
We at Munafawaala help conservative and growth investors build custom portfolios using ULIPs, Mutual Funds, and other strategic solutions.
Final Advice
Don’t see ULIP and Mutual Fund as enemies. See them as options tailored to your risk appetite and life goals.
🔹 Want disciplined investing + tax-free returns + life cover? Choose ULIP under ₹2.5L premium. 🔹 Want flexible investing with liquidity? Choose Mutual Funds. 🔹 Want higher growth (14–20%)? We’ll help you pick smart small-cap or sectoral mutual funds as your goals demand.
When it comes to low-risk investment options in India, most people consider Fixed Deposits (FDs) their go-to choice. However, with rising financial awareness and smarter tax-saving strategies, Arbitrage Funds are gaining popularity — especially among high-net-worth individuals and those in higher tax brackets. But which one is better for you?
Let’s break it down in detail, with practical insights and numbers.
1. What is an FD and What is an Arbitrage Fund?
Fixed Deposit (FD): A fixed deposit is a savings scheme provided by banks and NBFCs where you deposit a lump sum for a fixed period at a fixed interest rate. It is considered a safe and predictable investment with guaranteed returns.
Arbitrage Fund: An arbitrage fund is a type of mutual fund that leverages the price differences in the cash and derivatives markets of stocks. It buys shares in the cash market and simultaneously sells them in the futures market to lock in risk-free profits. Though categorized as equity for taxation purposes, arbitrage funds carry very low equity risk.
2. FD vs. Arbitrage Fund: Key Differences
Parameter
Fixed Deposit (FD)
Arbitrage Fund
Returns
Fixed (e.g., 6.5%)
Market-linked (typically 6-8%)
Taxation
Taxed as per income slab (up to 30%)
12.5% Capital Gains Tax (Long-Term)
Risk
Virtually no risk
Very low risk
Liquidity
Premature withdrawal penalty
T+1/T+2 redemption, exit load if <30-90 days
TDS
Applicable
Not applicable on capital gains
Minimum Investment
As low as Rs. 1,000
Usually Rs. 500 or SIPs available
Safety of Capital
Fully secure up to Rs. 5 lakh per bank (DICGC insured)
NAV fluctuations possible but capital largely protected
Ideal Tenure
Short to medium term
3 months to 1 year
Returns Predictability
Guaranteed
Slightly variable but stable
Regulatory Body
RBI
SEBI
3. Practical Example: Rs 1 Crore Investment for 10 Years
Let’s say you invest Rs 1 crore in both options for 10 years. Assume: – FD interest rate: 6.5% p.a. – Arbitrage fund return: 7.5% p.a. – Your tax rate: 30% for FD interest – Capital gain tax on arbitrage: 12.5% effective rate over 10 years (long-term gains)
A. FD Investment (with annual taxation): Since FD interest is taxed yearly, it reduces the compounding effect. – Post-tax maturity value = Rs 1,00,00,000 compounded annually at net 4.55% after tax – Final maturity value = Rs 1,56,04,159
B. Arbitrage Fund Investment: – Pre-tax maturity = Rs 2.06 crore – Capital gain = Rs 1.06 crore – Tax = 12.5% of Rs 1.06 crore = Rs 13.25 lakh – Post-tax maturity value = Rs 1.93 crore
Difference in Post-Tax Returns: ~ Rs 37 lakh in favor of Arbitrage Funds!
In the ever-evolving world of personal finance, one concept stands tall as a proven strategy to build serious wealth over time: The Power of Compounding. It’s not a buzzword or a trick — it’s a mathematical reality. Yet, most people underestimate it because it works quietly. But when you let it work for long enough, the results are nothing short of extraordinary.
In this blog, let’s dive into how a modest ₹5,000 monthly investment can grow into over ₹1.76 crore — and why the key isn’t how much you invest, but how long you let compounding do its job.
What is Compounding — and Why Should You Care?
Compounding is the financial equivalent of a snowball rolling downhill. You start with something small, but as time passes, it picks up speed and size.
In technical terms, compounding happens when your returns start earning additional returns. The earlier you start, the more you benefit. You’re not just earning on your principal — you’re earning on your returns too.
Imagine planting a tree. For the first few years, growth seems slow.
But once the roots are strong, it shoots up — faster and stronger.
That’s exactly how wealth grows when you compound it over time.
Real Example: What ₹5,000/Month Can Become
Let’s say you commit to investing ₹5,000 every month in a mutual fund SIP with an average return of 12% annually. Here’s what happens:
📅 After 10 years → You’ve invested ₹6 lakh → You’ll have around ₹11.6 lakh
📅 After 20 years → You’ve invested ₹12 lakh → It grows to ₹49 lakh
📅 After 30 years → Total invested ₹18 lakh → It becomes ₹1.76 crore
That’s ₹1.58 crore of pure wealth growth, without needing a massive income or taking wild risks.
Time > Money: Why Starting Early Wins Every Time
Let’s take two real-life examples:
Anjali, age 25, invests ₹5,000/month for just 10 years and then stops.
Rahul, age 35, starts late and invests ₹5,000/month for 25 years.
Who ends up with more money at age 60? Surprisingly — Anjali wins, because her money had more time to grow, even though she invested for a shorter duration. That’s the magic of early compounding.
Why Most People Miss Out on Compounding
Despite being a well-known concept, many people don’t benefit from compounding. Why?
They wait for the “right time” to invest
They start late due to career or lifestyle expenses
They withdraw investments early
They chase short-term returns and skip discipline
Compounding doesn’t reward panic or timing. It rewards consistency and patience.
From Pocket Change to Portfolio: ₹5,000 is a Habit
Let’s be honest. ₹5,000/month sounds like a big ask — until you break it down:
1 dinner with friends = ₹1,500
2 OTT subscriptions = ₹800
Weekend impulse shopping = ₹2,000
It’s not about affording ₹5,000 — it’s about choosing your future over your present temptations. You won’t miss it today, but in 20 years, you’ll be glad you chose to invest.
How to Start Your Compounding Journey
You don’t need to be a financial expert. Just take these five simple steps:
Pick a goal – Retirement, house, children’s education, passive income
Open a SIP – Choose mutual funds with good track record
Set auto-debit – Automate ₹5,000/month so you never miss it
Track once a year – Don’t obsess over daily changes
Stay invested long-term – Avoid breaking the chain
At Munafawaala, we make it even easier by matching funds to your exact goals.
What About Risks?
No investment is risk-free. But with SIPs in equity mutual funds:
Risk is lower when you invest for 10+ years
SIP averages out market ups and downs
You benefit from rupee cost averaging
Equity historically beats inflation
Your capital grows faster than fixed deposits or savings
Still unsure? Start with hybrid or large-cap funds for a balance of growth and safety.
Is ₹1.76 Crore Enough?
Here’s the real question — how much is enough?
₹1.76 crore could:
Fund your retirement
Buy your dream home
Pay for your child’s global education
Create an emergency cushion for life
And this is just with ₹5,000/month. Imagine what you could achieve if you increase it over time — say by 10% annually. That number could cross ₹3 crore easily.
Why 2025 Is the Perfect Year to Begin
With inflation rising, fixed deposits falling behind, and the cost of living surging — you can’t afford to keep your money idle. SIPs are transparent, regulated by SEBI, and easy to manage online.
Most importantly, your future you needs action from present you. The longer you wait, the harder it gets.
What Makes Compounding So Powerful?
Let’s sum it up:
Growth becomes exponential over time
Requires no active effort
Works best when left untouched
Builds wealth silently in the background
Makes small investors big winners
Compounding is the only strategy where ordinary people with ordinary incomes create extraordinary wealth.
Final Words: Make Your ₹5K Count
You don’t need ₹50,000/month. You don’t need stock-picking skills. You just need to start — and stay.
The ₹5,000 you save today might feel like a sacrifice. But 30 years later, it could be your financial independence fund. That’s the return compounding offers — not just money, but peace of mind.
🎯 Ready to begin?
At Munafawaala, we help individuals design SIP plans that work around your budget, goals, and lifestyle.
India’s financial landscape conceals a quiet crisis—billions in dormant wealth scattered across forgotten bank accounts, unclaimed dividends, lapsed insurance policies, and undisclosed benami assets.
These unclaimed assets, often forgotten or inaccessible, represent a significant loss for individuals, families, and the economy.
As of 2025, the total unclaimed wealth in India exceeds ₹2.5 lakh crore, a staggering figure that underscores the urgency of addressing this issue.
This article provides a comprehensive analysis of unclaimed deposits, dividends, Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) policies, and benami properties,
backed by statistical data, exploring their causes, impacts, regulatory measures, and innovative solutions to revive this dormant wealth.
Understanding Unclaimed Wealth
Unclaimed wealth refers to financial assets that remain inactive or unaccessed for extended periods, typically 7-10 years, as defined by regulatory bodies like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA). This includes:
1-Unclaimed Deposits:
Funds in savings, current, or fixed deposit accounts that haven’t had any activity or transactions for over 10 years.
According to ‘Business Standard“, As of March 2024, unclaimed deposits in Indian banks totaled ₹78,213 crore across 14.9 crore accounts, a 26% increase from ₹62,225 crore in March 2023.
The Depositor Education and Awareness (DEAF) Fund, managed by the RBI, held ₹42,270 crore in 2023, with annual transfers growing by 13%.
Public Sector Banks (PSBs) account for 80% of unclaimed deposits, with the State Bank of India (SBI) holding ₹8,069 crore across 2.16 crore accounts as of December 2022.
Private banks like ICICI and HDFC hold ₹1,074 crore and ₹447 crore, respectively.
2- Unclaimed Dividends
Dividend payments from companies or mutual funds not claimed by shareholders.
According to “MoneyControl” As of July 2023, the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF) under the MCA held ₹6000 crore in unclaimed dividends and interest, excluding the value of unclaimed shares.
The value of unclaimed shares from 1,561 listed companies was estimated at ₹82,199 crore as of August 2024, bringing the total IEPF-held wealth to nearly ₹88,000 crore.
LIC alone reported unclaimed dividends as a significant issue, with shareholders required to update bank details with depository participants to reclaim funds.
3– Unclaimed LIC Policies
Matured insurance policies or death benefits not claimed by policyholders or nominees.
In FY24, LIC reported unclaimed maturity benefits amounting to ₹880.93 crore, linked to approximately 3.72 lakh policyholders.
As of December 2020, LIC held ₹1,19,100 crore in unclaimed insurance funds, accounting for 82% of the total unclaimed insurance amount in India, up from 69% in 2018.
Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary told the Lok Sabha in a written response that up to 3,72,282 policyholders failed to collect maturity benefits in the financial year 2024,
4-Benami Properties
Real estate held under fictitious names or without clear ownership, often untraceable by rightful owners.
According to “BusinessLine” The Income Tax Department identified benami properties worth ₹18,000 crore till july 2022 under the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988.
As of March 2023, 621 properties were provisionally attached, valued at ₹2,200 crore, with 87% in urban areas.
Estimates suggest benami properties worth ₹50,000 crore remain undetected, often tied to unclaimed or disputed ownership.
5- Total Unclaimed Wealth
As of 2025, the total unclaimed wealth, including bank deposits, dividends, insurance, provident funds (₹10,000 crore), and mutual funds (₹17,880 crore), exceeds ₹2.5 lakh crore.
This figure has grown 1.7 times since 2018, when unclaimed deposits and insurance alone totaled ₹1,30,000 crore.
This data paints a stark picture: unclaimed wealth is not just forgotten money but a colossal loss of financial potential, equivalent to funding India’s National Health Mission for three years (₹80,000 crore annually).
Causes of Unclaimed Wealth
The reasons behind unclaimed wealth are rooted in India’s socioeconomic, legal, and behavioral challenges:
1- Lack of Financial Literacy
Over 50% of rural Indians lack basic financial literacy, leading to forgotten accounts, policies, or investments.
Many fail to update nominations, with 30% of bank accounts and 25% of LIC policies lacking nominees.
2- Nomination and Succession Issues
Unclaimed dividends and insurance proceeds are often delayed due to the absence of nominated beneficiaries or ongoing legal disputes among heirs.
Benami properties, held under fictitious names, lack clear ownership, complicating recovery.
3- Migration and Digital Disconnect
India’s 139 million internal migrants (Census 2011) often relocate without updating bank or LIC details, contributing to 10% of dormant accounts.
Only 35% of Indians over 60 use digital banking, leaving older accounts unmonitored.
4- Death or Incapacitation
Families may be unaware of accounts, policies, or properties, especially if kept secret.
Elderly depositors (15% of India’s population by 2025) may forget assets due to cognitive decline.
5-Bank Mergers and Corporate Challenges
The 2019-20 merger of 10 PSBs caused confusion, with 5% of accounts becoming dormant.
After seven years, companies transfer unclaimed dividends to the Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF), though reclaiming these funds can be a lengthy and complicated process.
6- Benami Transactions
Benami properties often arise from tax evasion or illegal holdings, with owners intentionally obscuring ownership.
Lack of centralized property records hinders identification of rightful owners.
Regulatory Framework: Efforts to Curb the Crisis
India’s regulators have implemented measures to address unclaimed wealth, but gaps remain:
1- Depositor Education and Awareness Fund (DEAF)
Banks transfer unclaimed deposits to DEAF after 10 years. In 2024, DEAF held ₹78,213 crore, but only 5% of funds are reclaimed annually.
The RBI’s UDGAM portal (2023) allows users to search unclaimed deposits, recovering ₹1,000 crore by June 2025.
2- Investor Education and Protection Fund (IEPF)
Unclaimed dividends and shares are transferred to IEPF after seven years. As of July 2023, IEPF held ₹5,714 crore, with unclaimed shares valued at ₹82,199 crore.
The reclamation process requires extensive KYC and documentation, deterring 70% of claimants.
3- LIC and IRDAI Initiatives
LIC policyholders can check unclaimed amounts via the LIC website (https://licindia.in) using policy number, name, and PAN.
IRDAI mandates insurers to display unclaimed amounts above ₹1,000 and conduct media campaigns, reducing unclaimed policies by 15% since 2020.
Unclaimed LIC funds unclaimed for over 10 years are transferred to the Senior Citizen Welfare Fund (SCWF).
4- Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988
The Income Tax Department has attached 621 benami properties worth ₹2,200 crore, with ongoing investigations targeting ₹50,000 crore in undetected assets.
Lack of a centralized property registry hinders progress.
5- EPFO Digitization
EPFO’s UMANG app helped 50,000 workers reclaim ₹3,000 crore in PF balances in 2024.
Despite these efforts, only 10% of unclaimed funds are reclaimed annually, reflecting systemic inefficiencies.
How Individuals Can Claim Unclaimed Wealth
Reclaiming unclaimed wealth is straightforward with the right steps and expert guidance from Ampuesto.in and Munafawala.in
1- Unclaimed Bank Deposits
Check: Use RBI’s UDGAM portal (https://udgam.rbi.org.in) with name, Aadhaar, or mobile number.
Support: Ampuesto.in assists with KYC documentation and tax compliance for reclaimed funds. Contact: https://ampuesto.in.
2- Unclaimed Dividends
Check: Search IEPF website (https://www.iepf.gov.in) with PAN or company name. Verify with Depository Participant (DP).
Support: Ampuesto streamlines IEPF claims and Munafawala help to reinvests reclaimed dividends for wealth growth.
3- Unclaimed LIC Policies
Check: Visit https://licindia.in (“Unclaimed Amounts”) with policy number, name, and PAN.
Support: Ampuesto.in ensures tax-efficient claims for LIC payouts.
4- Benami Properties
Check: Verify records at municipal/sub-registrar offices with Aadhaar or PAN.
Support: Ampuesto offers legal advisory for property claims and Munafawala help in investment planning post-recovery.
5- Other Assets
EPF: Use EPFO’s UMANG app or portal (https://www.epfindia.gov.in) with UAN and Aadhaar.
Support: Munafawala maximizes returns on reclaimed EPF and mutual funds.
Your investments should work for you, not sit idle!
Many investors enter the mutual fund space thinking, “Let’s invest and forget about it for a few years.” They assume that mutual funds work like a time capsule—just lock them in and expect them to grow exponentially over time.
But here’s the reality: Mutual funds require attention, strategy, and timely reviews to maximize growth. They are not a set-it-and-forget-it deal. The market changes, your goals shift, and new investment opportunities emerge.
The Biggest Myth: Time Alone Guarantees Growth
A common belief among investors is that mutual funds will always give better returns over time. While it’s true that equity funds tend to perform better in the long run, the key factor isn’t just time—it’s active monitoring and smart adjustments.
Why?
1- Market Trends Change – Sectors that were once booming (like IT in the early 2000s) may slow down, while new industries (like EV and AI) take over.
2-Fund Performance Varies – Even top-rated funds can decline if the fund manager changes or if the strategy no longer works.
3-Personal Goals Evolve – The fund you invested in five years ago may no longer suit your financial objectives today.
4-Economic & Regulatory Changes – Government policies, interest rates, and taxation laws influence market performance.
Ignoring these factors can reduce your overall returns and even cause losses.
Why Ignoring Your Mutual Funds Can Cost You
Imagine buying a car and never servicing it—no oil changes, no tire rotations, nothing. What happens? The engine slows down, performance declines, and you risk a breakdown.
The same goes for mutual funds. If you haven’t reviewed your portfolio in the last 1-2 years, you might be facing issues like:
1- Holding underperforming funds – Your fund may not be keeping up with the market. 2- Missed opportunities – Newer funds with better returns may have emerged. 3-Imbalanced portfolio – Your asset allocation may no longer match your risk appetite. 4- Market shifts – Industries and economies evolve; what worked before may not work now.
What Happens If You Don’t Review Your Portfolio?
1-You might end up with low returns – A high-performing fund five years ago might now be below average. If you don’t rebalance, you could be losing potential profits.
2– You could be taking unnecessary risks – If your portfolio is too heavily invested in a single sector, any downturn in that sector could affect your entire portfolio.
3-You might not be tax-efficient – Changing tax laws might impact your net returns. For instance, long-term capital gains tax (LTCG) and short-term capital gains tax (STCG) rules vary across different fund types.
4-You could lose diversification benefits – A well-balanced portfolio should have a mix of equity, debt, and hybrid funds. If you don’t rebalance, your portfolio might become too aggressive or too conservative over time.
How Often Should You Review Your Mutual Funds?
Investors often ask, “How frequently should I check my investments?” The answer depends on your financial goals, but a semi-annual or annual review is highly recommended.
Here’s a simple roadmap to follow:
🔹 Quarterly Check-ins: Keep an eye on overall fund performance and market trends. 🔹 Annual Review: Assess whether your investments align with your long-term goals. 🔹 Major Life Changes: Review funds if you change jobs, buy property, or have new financial responsibilities. 🔹 Market Volatility: In case of drastic economic shifts, re-evaluate your portfolio.
Key Strategies to Optimize Your Mutual Fund Portfolio
To ensure your mutual funds remain in peak condition, follow these expert strategies:
✅ Monitor Performance Regularly: Compare your fund’s returns with benchmark indices. ✅ Diversify & Rebalance: Adjust allocations to reduce risk and enhance returns. ✅ Check for Expense Ratios & Fees: High costs can eat into your profits. ✅ Stay Updated on Fund Manager Changes: A new manager may impact fund strategy. ✅ Review Tax Implications: Tax laws change, and optimizing investments can save you money.
Why Choose MUNAFAWAALA?
At MUNAFAWAALA, we ensure your mutual fund investments don’t go stagnant. Our expert financial advisors track your funds, recommend timely changes, and help you switch to better opportunities when necessary.
🔹 AMFI Registered Mutual Fund Distributor 🔹 Personalized Portfolio Analysis 🔹 Expert Guidance on Fund Selection & Switching 🔹 Proactive Investment Management for Maximum Return
The Bottom Line – Don’t Let Your Portfolio Collect Dust!
Mutual funds are powerful wealth-building tools, but only if managed properly. Investing isn’t just about putting money in—it’s about making sure it works for you.
So, before your portfolio gathers dust, take action. Review, rebalance, and optimize with expert guidance from MUNAFAWAALA.
Your money deserves to grow—let’s make it happen together! 🚀
The Importance of Adding a Nominee in Investments and Insurance
When planning for the future, ensuring financial security for your loved ones is a top priority. One crucial yet often overlooked step in financial planning is adding a nominee to your investments and insurance policies. A nominee plays a vital role in ensuring that your assets reach the intended beneficiary without legal complications. In this blog, we will discuss the importance of a nominee, the consequences of not adding one, and the legal aspects associated with it in India.
What is a Nominee?
A nominee is a person designated by the investor or policyholder to receive the proceeds of an investment or insurance policy in case of their demise. While a nominee is not necessarily the legal heir, they act as a custodian of the assets until they are transferred to the rightful legal heirs.
Benefits of Adding a Nominee
Hassle-Free Transfer of Funds: If a nominee is added, the financial institution or insurance company can directly transfer the proceeds without the need for lengthy legal formalities.
Avoidance of Legal Disputes: In the absence of a nominee, multiple claimants (legal heirs) may arise, leading to disputes and delays in fund settlement.
Financial Security for Dependents: Nomination ensures that your loved ones receive the financial support they need without unnecessary hurdles.
Protection Against Fraud: Having a nominee reduces the chances of unauthorized claims or fraudulent withdrawals in the event of the investor’s death.
Ease of Claim Process: Institutions require minimal documentation if a nominee is added, making the claim settlement process smoother and faster.
Consequences of Not Adding a Nominee
Legal Complexities & Delays: Without a nominee, legal heirs must provide succession certificates or legal heir certificates, leading to prolonged claim processing.
Unclaimed Funds: Many bank accounts, insurance policies, and mutual fund investments remain unclaimed due to the lack of a nominee.
Family Disputes: Legal heirs may contest each other’s claims, leading to unnecessary financial and emotional stress.
Additional Costs: Without a nominee, legal heirs may need to hire legal professionals and bear additional costs to claim the deceased’s investments.
Why Do People Avoid Adding a Nominee?
Despite the benefits, many investors neglect to add nominees due to:
Lack of awareness about the importance of nomination.
Misconception that nomination is equivalent to legal heirship.
Procrastination or ignorance while filling out investment or insurance forms.
Family disputes or concerns about favoritism among heirs.
Legal Aspects of Nomination in India
Bank Accounts & Fixed Deposits: Governed by RBI guidelines, nomination ensures a smooth claim process but does not override succession laws.
Mutual Funds & Shares: SEBI mandates that mutual fund houses allow investors to add nominees for seamless asset transfer.
Life Insurance: As per the IRDAI, a nominee is entitled to receive the insurance proceeds, but the legal heir retains ownership rights.
Real Estate: A nominee in real estate transactions is generally considered a custodian, and the property is transferred to the legal heirs as per inheritance laws.
Steps to Add a Nominee
For Bank Accounts & Fixed Deposits: Submit a duly filled nomination form at the bank.
For Mutual Funds & Stocks: Register the nominee details through the respective fund house or depository participant.
For Life & Health Insurance: Update nominee details in your insurance policy through the insurer’s official website or by submitting a request form.
For Real Estate & Other Investments: While nomination is possible, ensuring a proper will is advisable to avoid disputes.
How to Change or Update a Nominee?
A nominee can be modified or removed at any time by submitting a fresh nomination request.
Some investments allow multiple nominees with percentage-based allocations.
Always ensure nominee details are updated in case of life events like marriage, divorce, or the passing of an earlier nominee.
Conclusion
Adding a nominee is a simple yet powerful way to secure your investments and ensure your family doesn’t face unnecessary financial or legal hurdles in your absence. It is advisable to periodically review and update nominee details across all financial assets. Taking this proactive step can make a world of difference for your loved ones during difficult times.
Secure your legacy today – add a nominee to your investments and insurance policies!