Picking up the right stocks at the right time remains the biggest challenge for investors. In this regard, your annual ranking of stocks is very useful (Most Wanted Stocks, 27 December). The compilation of stocks with smallest share in funds' corpuses but spectacular returns was a pleasant surprise.
— Vyom Shaw, Shimla
There are opinions and research galore on devising a foolproof method of investing in stocks. But market unpredictability beats them all. Ranking stocks on the basis of fund managers’ preferences is useful in giving an idea of what the experts are betting on. Readers can then take more informed investment decisions.
I have been subscribing to your magazine for the past six months. I am researching on Sebi's role in protecting the interests of retail investors. How can I access past issues of MONEY TODAY to read stories on equities?
— Nirmala Shah, Tirupati
All past issues are available on our website. The cover story: "Blind to Fine Print" (issue dated 3 May) may be useful on the subject. The story had exposed how investors are misled and how inadequate is the regulatory protection.
Please suggest the names of some good mutual fund schemes for both the short and long term.
— S Malakar, Shillong
It will be incorrect to suggest names of mutual funds without ascertaining their suitability to your investor profile and financial goals. For detailed advice on financial planning please send your investment details to our Portfolio Doctor section. To identify high-performing funds across all categories, you can refer to the data pages regularly published in our magazine. You can also read the special issue on mutual funds available on our website. For detailed analysis of more than 800 mutual fund schemes please visit the website www.valueresearchonline.com.
Pooling money for buying a house (Big House Small Price, 27 December) is a very good idea. But problems may arise while actually living together with relatives or friends. If relationships sour, the jointly owned house can lead to court disputes. So those interested in this option must be careful.
— Bal Govind, Bareilly
Joint ownership of property is becoming popular. But those opting for this must be aware of the possibility of future disputes.
The government is planning to extend the benefits of Section 80C to include post office time deposits and senior citizen savings scheme. Also, a 5% bonus will be paid on the post office monthly income account at the time of maturity. These steps will be beneficial for senior citizens. But there should be more sops for the elderly.
— Mahesh Kapasi, Delhi
Post office schemes lost sheen after fixed deposit rates were increased. But because of guaranteed returns they were still popular with senior citizens.
