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Watching your startup grow from a seedling to a flourishing company is a dream come true for many. This is what has fuelled the meteoric rise of the startup culture in India. The youth have taken to entrepreneurship like fish to water, nudging the country to become the third-largest startup ecosystem globally, with over 120,000 startups registered in India in the last decade alone. Despite this, fundraising continues to be a challenge for startups to navigate.

The startup ecosystem has turned into a dinner-table conversation owing to India’s vast consumer base and growing digital adoption. Increasing internet and smartphone penetration, a surge in young talent with specialised skills, improved infrastructure, and disruptive business models have all contributed to India’s innovation-led growth. In fact, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has recognized 1,40,803 startups, that has led to the creation of 15.5 lakh direct jobs.

Why do startups need funding?

Fundraising is the very elixir of a startup’s life. Whether it is from closed ones, networks and connections, incubators, accelerators, crowdfunding, angel investors, or venture capitalists, a decent check can help in market research, product development, building a team, marketing, and staying afloat.

However, securing funds to fuel their growth and sustain themselves is where these startups struggle the most. Fundraising for startups is a lengthy process. And for it to thrive from the bootstrapped stage to the IPO, startups really have to gear up for the long haul.

Fundraising challenges that Indian startups face

1. Myopic growth space: 

While the country boasts the third-highest number of startup unicorns, the ecosystem is majorly concentrated in the top metropolitan cities. Therefore, for India to meet its ambition of a $55 trillion economy by 2047, the need to democratize entrepreneurship is more important now than ever.

2. Too many fish in the sea: 

The market is saturated with new ventures. Therefore, in such a fiercely competitive space, it all depends on how you make your startup idea stand out from the crowd to gain investor attention and stand a chance at fundraising.

3. Lack of product-market fit: 

If your product lacks demand or is unable to solve a consumer problem, there will be no takers or investors to fund your startup. Therefore, creating a value-driven product that addresses a specific pain point matters. 

4. Sector bias: 

Investors in India are mostly concentrated in the fintech, technology, and e-commerce industries. Therefore, niche or traditional industries often face hurdles in attracting capital.

5. Building trust and credibility: 

It takes investors many years to build a stellar reputation, and one bad investment can jeopardize that. Create a startup with a robust structure, immense market potential, a stellar pitch deck, and a solid revenue model to convince investors and gain their trust.

6. Lack of momentum: 

Say you do secure funding or clear the initial funding stages. What next? The investors are closely watching for any tangible sign of customer retention, revenue growth, and user adoption. Without these signs of market validation, raising funds could be a tricky task.

7. Regulatory and compliance hiccups – 

The fundraising process doesn’t end after the pitching stage. A common gap in understanding due diligence and compliance, causing delays, can be a stumbling block in the fundraising process. 

8. Market fluctuations: 

Change is the only constant when it comes to the economic market. And investor confidence is hinged on market volatility and uncertainty. Therefore, startups need to make their strategy bulletproof to withstand and adapt in the face of these fluctuations.

How can startups overcome fundraising challenges?

1. Set a great first impression: 

First impression is the last impression. So, when you get that warm introduction from your referrer, make it count! Prepare a pitch that would leave the investors in awe, so they have no other option but to invest.

2. Build relationships that last: 

You are your startup’s voice; make it heard in conferences, seminars, and investor meetings because networking is key. 

3. Market research: 

Do a thorough market and target audience research before you set out on your startup journey. Create a minimum viable product that adds value to the customer’s life and is worth investing in.

4. Negotiating a valid valuation: 

Overvaluation may repulse investors, and undervaluation may result in losses. So, reach a mutually beneficial solution that aligns with your vision and the investor’s. 

5. Leverage government initiatives: 

Government support programs, such as Make In India and Startup India, are also designed to foster a startup ecosystem. You can kickstart your research and development to lay the groundwork for your foundation with Startup India Seed Fund Schemes (SISFS).

Each startup’s journey is unique, requiring them to adapt, plan, and navigate their way through the complex landscape of fundraising in India. The answer is to remain proactive, persistent and determined to learn at every stage to turn your startup into a successful one.

Binged episodes after episodes of a gripping series on OTT?

Guilty as charged!

These platforms club multiple genres together to become a holistic entertainment package. That’s precisely how ETFs (Exchange-Traded Funds) work in the world of investing!

The investment landscape in India has witnessed a significant shift recently, with passive investing gaining traction among new investors and financial experts. Sensex and Nifty are India’s two most widely traded benchmarks, and the latter represents the country’s 50 largest companies by market capitalization. Investors seeking exposure to the market often wonder: What’s the most structured and efficient way to invest?

Exchange-traded funds are the answer!

What is an Exchange-Traded Fund?

What started in Canada in 1990 cascaded into India in 2002 with the launch of NiftyBeES. It was the first ETF tracking the Nifty 50 index, which is now under the purview of the Nippon India Mutual Fund. 

An ETF is an investment fund that holds multiple underlying securities, such as equities or bonds. These assets can be bought and sold in exchange, much like any other individual stock. This investment vehicle enables investors to gain exposure to a broad range of assets without having to buy multiple individual assets.

Combining the flexibility of stocks and the portfolio-diversifying strengths of mutual funds, ETFs enhance liquidity compared to traditional funds with relative cost efficiency. 

 How do Exchange-Traded Funds Work?

Just like stocks, you can trade ETFs on stock exchange platforms (National Stock Exchange and Bombay Stock Exchange) during market hours. A fund provider owns the underlying assets, forms a fund to track their performance, and offers shares in that fund to investors. Shareholders own a part of an ETF but not the fund’s assets. 

In short:

• An ETF provider analyzes and creates a basket of securities, including stocks, bonds, commodities, and currencies.
• Investors can buy a share of that basket using their brokerage account or through Stack’D.
• Buyers and sellers trade the ETF throughout the day, much like stocks.

Why Should You Invest in Exchange-Traded Funds?

Now that you know what ETFs are, here’s why you should invest in them:

• Diversification: Exchange-traded funds enable instant diversification across a mix of asset classes, reduce risks, and maximize returns.
• Transparency: Most ETFs are required to disclose their daily holdings, providing investors with clear visibility into the various underlying assets.
• Accessibility: Foreign market ETFs, Commodity ETFs or Fixed Income exchange-traded funds allow investors to invest in emerging markets.
• Matches index performance: ETFs track indexes and match the performance of underlying assets, thereby eliminating the guesswork in investing.
• Trading Flexibility: Swiftly move across asset classes and simply buy and sell an ETF anytime during market hours through your broker at the market price with no minimum purchase requirement.
• Cost-efficiency: Operating expense ratios for ETFs tend to be lower than actively managed mutual funds.
• Tax efficiency: ETFs have lower turnover rates than actively managed funds. Therefore, they result in fewer capital gains and lower tax implications for investors.
• Stability: You know exactly what index returns to expect. So, your portfolio is stable, especially during volatile market periods when active funds may suffer a heavier blow.

Potential Risks of Exchange-Traded Funds

However, ETFs, like any other financial product, are not a one-size-fits-all solution. They also contain risks.

• Non-efficiency: While some ETFs closely mirror their underlying index, technical difficulties can cause inconsistencies. 
• Lower liquidity: Some unpopular ETFs have wider bid-ask spreads, which indicates you buy at a higher price and sell at a lower price.
• Settlement dates: ETF sales are not settled for two days after the transaction. This implies that, as the seller, your money from the ETF sale will be unavailable for reinvestment for two days.

Exchange-traded funds have captured significant global market interest. According to the J.P. Morgan Equity Derivatives Strategy report, as of the end of May 2024, there were around 12,000 ETFs listed globally. The report also stated that total assets under management (AUM) were around $13 trillion, up from $10.1 trillion the previous year. 

Whether you are a beginner looking to invest or a seasoned financial professional, ETFs are a powerful investment option to help you meet your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions –

1. Do ETFs pay dividends?

Dividends are a portion of money allocated to investors. ETF shareholders are entitled to a share of earned interests as long as the underlying stock held within the ETF pays dividends. These dividends are distributed to investors quarterly, based on the number of shares one owns in the ETF.

2. How do ETFs differ from mutual funds?

While both ETFs and mutual funds provide diversification and exposure at low costs, they differ in other respects:

• ETFs are passive investments, whereas mutual funds are often actively managed.
• Some brokers charge commissions while buying or selling mutual funds; ETFs typically have no commission.
• Mutual funds are priced at the fund’s net asset value (NAV), calculated at the end of each day. However, exchange-traded funds are traded during market hours.
• Mutual funds are forced to distribute capital gains, which can increase your tax bill, whereas ETFs offer better tax efficiency.

How do ETFs differ from stocks?

While ETFs are traded like individual stocks, there’s a fine line of difference between the two:

• An ETF is composed of a mixed bag of stocks and bonds. Individual stocks are more volatile than a collection of stocks.
• Since ETFs include multiple assets, they provide better diversification than a single stock, further reducing your portfolio’s exposure to risk.
• Individual stocks don’t charge an expense ratio. In contrast, exchange-traded funds charge an ongoing expense ratio.
• An individual stock requires more analysis before trading. It is also riskier as its value is directly proportional to the company.

Disclaimer: Mutual Funds investments are subject to market risk. Please read all the scheme-related documents carefully. 

Equity fund? Exit load? Net asset value? Expense ratio?

Confused by this financial mumbo-jumbo?

We hear you.

Investing can be a daunting task, especially if you are new to the financial world. But it is one of the key assets to have in your kitty if you want to grow your wealth exponentially. So, what if you could invest your savings and have someone else manage them wisely and professionally on your behalf? That’s exactly what mutual funds do. 

What are Mutual Funds?

At its core, an Asset Management Company (AMC) pools money from multiple investors with common investment objectives. Financial experts, also known as fund managers, invest this money in a diversified portfolio of assets, like stocks, bonds, or money market instruments. Investing in these securities can create growth opportunities or appreciate the amount for investors. The AMCs charge an annual maintenance fee (expense ratio) to manage individual investments. 

Essentially, it allows you to invest in diverse assets without having to pick and manage them individually. Think of it as a road trip with your friends – Everyone pools money to hire an expert driver (fund manager) who decides the best route to take and ensures everyone reaches the destination (investment goals).

The ‘Fun’ in Mutual Funds: Why Should You Invest Here?

As per the Association of Mutual Funds in India, assets under management (AUM) of the Indian mutual fund industry have grown from 10.96 trillion as of October 31, 2014, to 67.26 trillion as of October 31, 2024, witnessing a more than 6-fold increase in 10 years. This showcases an upward trajectory in individuals’ approach to wealth management, making mutual funds a vital investment strategy. 

Many people wish to invest in stock markets, but factors like market volatility and their individual risk appetite deter them. Therefore, mutual funds investments are a perfect solution, as they are a well-diversified, cost-effective, and tax-saving way to grow your savings. Here are some compelling reasons to invest in them:

• Diversification: Mutual funds invest in a mix of assets, spreading your risk across different investments. Even if one asset doesn’t do well, others in the portfolio can balance it.
• Affordability: Establish a foundation for long-term investments with Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) as low as Rs. 500 each month. You can also take the reigns of investing in direct plans to save money on brokerage and commission costs.
• Expert management: These are managed by investment specialists who closely monitor market movements. They pick the right stocks for you and invest them at the right time to yield profitable results.
• Disciplined investment habits: Mutual funds like SIPs encourage regular investing. Investors can set up an auto-debit feature on Stack’D to debit a specified amount from their account.
• Seamless: The world is at your fingertips, and mutual funds investments are no different. Complete your KYC process online, and invest in mutual funds with only one click.

Best Strategies Before Investing in Mutual Funds

• Create a diversified portfolio: To obtain more lucrative returns, have a combination of equity and debt funds in your portfolio.
• Define your financial goals: Be certain about what you want to achieve with your investment. Is it early retirement planning, buying a house, funding your child’s education, or simply wealth creation? Once your goal is defined, you can invest accordingly.
• Consider investing through SIPs: Leverage the Rupee Cost-Averaging method to buy more units when the market is down and fewer units when it is up. Therefore, investing through SIPs is advisable to ride out the market’s erratic periods.
• Buy-and-hold strategy: A good rule of thumb is to look for consistent returns over longer time horizons. This technique involves purchasing investments and holding them for an extended period regardless of whether markets are rising or falling.
• Choose the right mutual fund: Investors need to complete their due diligence before opting for the right mutual fund. This includes risk profiling, analyzing your investment objectives, fund manager’s expertise, and expense ratio.

Mutual funds are a great starting point for beginners looking to grow their wealth over time. With Stack’D, mutual fund investments are simple, smart, and easy. Remember, the key to successful wealth creation is patience and consistency. 

Frequently Asked Questions –

1. Do I need to pay tax on mutual funds?

Yes, income tax authorities tax capital gains on mutual funds, as the fund has appreciated since you bought it. However, taxation depends on the type of mutual fund and the holding period. 

However, one way around this is to own the funds in tax-advantaged accounts, such as traditional or Roth IRA (Individual Retirement Arrangement). Herein, your funds grow tax-free even when you sell them. However, you will eventually pay taxes when withdrawing from a traditional IRA, whereas Roth IRA withdrawals are tax-free. 

2. Can I withdraw mutual funds anytime?

Yes, their flexible nature allows you to redeem your investment anytime before the maturity period. However, certain funds, like the Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS), come with a lock-in period of three years from the  investment date.

3. Are mutual funds safer than stocks?

Yes, mutual funds are safer than stocks for various reasons:

• They inherently diversify your portfolio, thereby reducing any risk. They are also managed by investment experts who analyze market trends and make informed decisions. Investing in stocks can be risky unless you are well aware of its nitty-gritty.
• Mutual funds, such as a debt fund, are less volatile, whereas stocks are subject to market fluctuations. 

However, mutual funds are not entirely risk-free. For instance, equity mutual funds are subject to similar risks as individual stock investments. Therefore, choose a relevant mutual fund depending on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.

Disclaimer: Mutual Funds investments are subject to market risk. Please read all the scheme-related documents carefully. 

In a world increasingly driven by social media, which incessantly taps into the fear of missing out (FOMO), it is easy to get caught up in the vortex of keeping up with trends. Gen Z, born into this digital era, is no stranger to this psychological impulse. However, a growing segment of this population has flipped the script on FOMO. Instead of opting for fleeting moments of gratification, they channel their energy into investments that promise long-term growth and financial security.

From the 2008 financial crisis, demonetization, and the 2020 health crisis to the recessionary years that spanned the next three years, including the high-speed UPI transition, this generation has seen it all. Despite this economic roller-coaster ride, as per a CAMS study, about 52% of first-time mutual fund investors are Gen Zoomers. This makes them investors among the key growth drivers of the Indian economy.

Navigating the risks of FOMO-driven investments

Many young investors enter the financial market, not out of a deep understanding of the fundamentals, but rather due to a fear of being left behind. While terms like FOMO or YOLO (you only live once) give an adrenaline rush and fuel excitement, they are not without inherent risks, and vital financial decisions cannot be made on their account. This psyche can trick you into impulsive decision-making and make you susceptible to market volatility.

How is Gen Z embracing FOMO and making responsible investments?

Gen Z does not only doom scroll on Instagram, but they are sitting on a goldmine of information and financial insights. According to a study conducted by the CFA Institute and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority Investor Education Foundation (FINRA), 48% of Gen Zers named social media, and 30% named ‘finfluencers’ (financial influencers) as their primary go-to source for investment advice. 

In the context of investing, the human psyche of FOMO has drawn individuals to high-risk, high-reward assets like stocks and cryptocurrencies. This motivates them to leverage investing apps like Stack’D to invest small amounts and watch it accrue compound interest. This generation of aspiring investors is navigating the challenges of the modern investment landscape responsibly. They are – 

• Resisting the tunnel vision of short-term market hype 
• Focusing on time-tested investment principles forging a long-term mindset
• Diversifying portfolios for wider market exposure
• Taking a disciplined approach to regular investing

How do Gen Z’s investment patterns differ from those of previous generations?

As with any generation, Gen Zers have a different perspective on investing. While the millennial generation prioritizes necessity and savings over expenses, Gen Z focuses on wealth creation and early retirement. This is a generation of risk-takers and experimenters who dive headfirst into capital markets and stocks. They are all about living life to the fullest while being mindful of their finances.

Investment strategies 101: A guide to making smart financial decisions for the Gen Z

Stepping up the financial game can be complex, especially for Gen Z, amid rising living costs and unprecedented economic shifts. Let’s take a peek into Gen Z’s guide to securing their future:

Start investing early to enable your money to compound. Even modest investments can grow and form substantial wealth over time. You can simply start by setting up SIPs on Stack’D and watch your wealth grow on autopilot mode.

Embrace ‘Loud Budgeting’, a concept that frees you from the societal pressure of spending money and gain control over your finances.

Diversify your portfolio across stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs via SIPs to limit the influence of market volatility.

Stay financially literate and keep your finger on the pulse of emerging investment opportunities and changes in financial laws.

While Gen Z leads an experience-oriented and dynamic lifestyle, find a balance between living in the moment and building a strong financial foundation.

Choose JOMO (joy of missing out) over FOMO, because impulsive purchases only create short-lived gratification and financial burnout over time. On the other hand, investing in Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) can pave the path for goal-oriented investments and financial discipline. 

No matter the avenue, this generation is determined to chart their territory toward wealth accumulation. Gen Z is rewriting the rules of financial success by prioritizing investments over splurges. So, what would your move be: keeping up with the fleeting trends or investing in a future that sets you apart?  

Disclaimer: Mutual Funds investments are subject to market risk. Please read all the scheme-related documents carefully. 

Frequently Asked Questions –

1. What are some common challenges you might face while starting your investment journey?

While young investors are keen on investing, the investment journey is not without its hurdles: 

• Risk Aversion: Given the volatile nature of the markets and the lack of a holistic understanding of risk management, the fear of losing money can deter first-time investors. 
• Financial Literacy Gap: A lack of financial knowledge and investment-centric conversations can cause a gap in understanding. 
• Limited Financial Resources: Student loans, debts, entry-level salaries, and tight budgets are factors that leave little room for investments. It can also create a misconception that investing is only for the wealthy, causing young adults to delay starting their investment journey.
• Influence Of Social Media: Social media can create unrealistic expectations of quick wealth, leading to impulsive and uninformed investment decisions.
• Navigating Tax Implications: Understanding the complexities of how investment impacts taxes, capital gains, or deductions can be confusing for first-timers, leading to unexpected liabilities.

2. How does technology empower Gen Z to make smarter financial decisions?

The tech-savvy generation largely depends on technology to make informed financial decisions. 

• Technology has lowered the entry barrier and increased accessibility to investments.
• Technology has democratized access to financial knowledge, offering engaging lessons on personal finance, investments, taxes, budgeting, and other financial concepts while also enabling individuals to learn at their own pace. 
• User-friendly financial apps like Stack’D help in simplifying complex financial processes.
• The marriage of finance and technology has led to data-driven decisions, providing users with insights into spending habits, credit health, and investment opportunities.

Benjamin Franklin said – “Time is money.” Truer words have never been spoken!

Getting that OTT subscription, buying those concert tickets, shopping online—the common thread connecting these analogies is that you would spend on these expenses without a second thought. So why would you put off investing in your future security while waiting for a higher income or the ‘right time’?

When it comes to financial growth, the right time is now. In fact, the earlier you start, the better. For every novice investor faced with the dilemma of making a lumpsum investment, that is not the only option. When you start investing on Stack’D, you can set aside a small amount of money and watch it grow slowly and steadily, thanks to Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). 

SIPs offer a simple yet powerful way to build your wealth over time. They enable investors to invest a fixed sum of money in a fund scheme at predefined intervals, which can be monthly, quarterly or annually. This form of investment supports a structured investing approach, fostering financial discipline and yielding significant returns over a long time.

Benefits of starting your SIP today

Note that while the SIP amount is fixed, the net asset value (NAV) of mutual fund units varies on a daily basis. Here’s why you should take the plunge and start your SIP journey today – 

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• Power Of Compounding – Compounding is like planting a seed; the earlier you plant it, the more time it gets to grow. Investing is the same – when you invest in your 20s, your wealth gets a good headstart to earn returns and multiply. With regular investments through SIPs, your returns can again be reinvested, resulting in exponential growth.
• Rupee Cost Averaging – Inspired by Dollar Cost Averaging, the principle of Rupee Cost Averaging allows you to purchase a higher number of units when a fund’s NAV is low and a lesser number of units when the NAV is high, reducing the impact of market volatility. This benefit of SIP ensures the cost of purchasing mutual fund units averages out the SIP’s tenure. An ideal way to maximize your gains is to invest for an extended period.
• Flexible Investment Amount – When investing in SIPs, you have the liberty to choose the amount you want to invest. It doesn’t have to pinch your pocket. You can start with just Rs. 500 every month. Some mutual fund companies have even reduced the minimum Daily Systematic Investment Plan amount to Rs. 100. SIPs are affordable to investors with varied budgets. 
• Convenience And Flexibility – SIPs are hassle-free, automated, and can be tailored based on your goals and budget. You can also easily modify the SIP amount, pause it, or stop it at any time, giving you complete control over your investments.
• Diversification – You don’t have to put all your eggs in one basket. There is no limit to the number of SIPs or mutual funds you can invest in at the same time. You can invest in different mutual fund schemes. 
• Financial Discipline – When you start investing at an early age, it makes you more financially disciplined. This means you are developing a habit of saving money and are better placed to make your money grow. The fact that SIPs are automated ensures you put aside some money every month, even if your income fluctuates. 

Your 20s are a golden decade to invest in dreams, security, and freedom. It is also the best time to work towards financial independence and start an SIP. Wondering why? Because your financial responsibilities are fewer compared to later stages, and waiting will only make your goals more expensive. 

Utilize this phase to create a strong financial foundation. The earlier you start, the bigger the rewards. Taking small, consistent steps to build your wealth is the key.

Disclaimer: Mutual Funds investments are subject to market risk. Please read all the scheme-related documents carefully. 

Frequently Asked Questions –

1. How does SIP work?

Setting up your SIP mandate is an easy process. 

• Do your research on mutual fund schemes and choose one that aligns with your long-term financial goals and risk tolerance. 
• Fill out a form and provide the personal information and bank details required for automatic deductions. 
• Decide the amount you want to invest every month, which will be automatically deducted from your bank account and invested in the chosen mutual fund.
• You can also track your mutual funds investments through the Stack’D app or through the fund’s website.

2. What is the difference between SIPs and lumpsum investments?

SIPs and lumpsum investments are two different approaches to investing in mutual funds. 

SIPs constitute investing a small fixed amount into a mutual fund. The investment amount and frequency can be changed over time, but the investment duration remains fixed. SIPs play a key role in instilling financial discipline and saving habits with long-term investments.

Lumpsum investments, on the other hand, require a one-time investment of a large sum of money into a mutual fund. This type of investment is ideal for individuals who have a large sum of money available or those who want to invest in one go. While a lumpsum investment has the potential to yield higher returns, there is also a higher risk associated with it, as it is subject to market fluctuations. 

3. Things to consider before investing in SIPs?

It is essential to do your research before you start investing to ensure you make the right financial decision. Here are a few things to consider before you invest in SIPs:

• Establish your investment goals in advance. Whether it is funding education, buying a home, or planning your retirement, list down your financial goals.
• Different mutual funds have varying risks and returns. Determine your risk appetite accordingly. For instance, Equity funds are riskier but yield higher returns, whereas conservative funds like debt funds are more stable with moderate returns.
• Since SIPs are affordable and flexible, you can determine your investment amount without compromising your financial stability. You can even increase that amount based on a rise in your earnings.
• The expense ratio is the annual fee that mutual funds charge for managing your investments. Therefore, before you opt for a mutual fund, it is wise to consider the expense ratio, as high fees can often eat into your returns.
• Beware of taxation on mutual funds. The tax liability on mutual fund investments varied depending on its type and duration. It is advisable to consult a financial advisor or tax professional to understand the best approach.