Diversify your investments to reduce risk without compromising on returns

 





We've all heard the old proverb "Don't put all your eggs in one basket," which suggests that instead of relying on one plan or resource, diversify.

The fundamental principles of constructing an investment portfolio are based on this age-old adage.


The Modern Portfolio Theory was pioneered by American economist Harry Markowitz. He first introduced this theory in his paper "Portfolio Selection". He was later awarded the Nobel Prize for his work.


The modern portfolio theory argues that a portfolio of multiple assets (diversified) will result in greater returns without a higher level of risk. Refer to link to read more on modern portfolio theory.


Key Principles of Diversification

When you choose to have multiple assets in your portfolio, you are achieving diversification of risk and returns, i.e. all your money is not invested in one asset. Diversification can be further enhanced by putting together a portfolio of assets that are uncorrelated in terms of risk and return characteristics.

Example –

  1. Ram achieves no diversification if he invests all his money in fixed deposits.

  2. If Ram invests all his money in fixed deposits but distributes it evenly among several banks, he obtains diversification. However, the benefits are limited because the risk and return characteristics are identical.

  3. If Ram invests his money in a variety of assets, he gains a better level of diversification in his portfolio (mix of Fixed deposits, Mutual Funds, Gold, Real estate). Such a diversified portfolio's risk and return characteristics are far superior. Superior implies more return for the same risk.


Factors to consider while constructing multi asset portfolio


Investment time horizon

The investor's investment time horizon is the amount of time he or she anticipates to keep their money in the market. In comparison to low-risk fixed income products like fixed deposits and money market instruments, high-risk investments in stock or equities mutual funds demand a longer holding period. Choose assets that fit your investing horizon when building up your portfolio.


Maximize your post-tax returns

The after-tax returns to investors are the real returns. When deciding whether to add an asset to a portfolio, investors should consider the after-tax returns. For long-term investing, fixed income mutual funds, for example, are more tax-efficient than fixed deposits. Remember that investment is about maximizing returns, not lowering taxes.


Diversification

Select a portfolio of assets having a minimal correlation to one another. The low or negative correlation will boost portfolio diversification while lowering risk.


Risk tolerance of the Investor

Investor risk tolerance should be considered while making asset allocation decisions.


Cost/Expense of investment

Choosing assets that have low operating expense ratios maximizes the real returns of the investor. Direct mutual funds, for example, offer a lower expense ratio than regular mutual funds. Although the gross returns earned by a product or fund are the same, higher costs reduce your net returns.


Investment Products That Are Regulated

Always go for financial products and structures that are regulated by the RBI or SEBI, as these regulated companies will protect investors' interests.


At India P2P we endevour to create rigorously diversified investment products. Check out more on www.indiap2p.com
Author: Ravinder Voomidisingh

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