One of a top stock markets in India is the Bombay Stock Exchange. Investing in the BSE indices like SENSEX as well as NIFTY 50 can be a good way to get exposure to the Indian equity markets. Here are 5 tips for investing in bse index:
1. Understand How the Indices Work
The SENSEX is comprised of 30 major stocks representing various sectors of the Indian economy. The top 50 firms registered on the NSE are represented by the NIFTY 50. These are market capitalization weighted indices, meaning the stocks with the highest market caps have the most influence on the index. Before investing, understand what companies are included and their weightings. This will help you gauge the broad exposure you will get.
2. Use Index Funds and ETFs
The simplest way to invest in BSE indices is through index mutual funds and exchange traded funds (ETFs). These provide diversified exposure to the underlying index while minimizing costs. Index funds like UTI Nifty Index Fund and Motilal Oswal Nifty 50 Index Fund are good options for the NIFTY 50. For SENSEX exposure, you can consider SBI Sensex Index Fund or IDFC Sensex ETF. Evaluate historical returns and expenses before selecting a fund.
3. Employ Passive Investing Approach
The BSE indices like SENSEX as well as NIFTY 50 are market capitalization weighted, meaning the largest companies have the most influence. Actively picking individual stocks to try and beat the index is difficult. Instead, use a passive approach of buying as well as holding index mutual funds or ETFs tracking the BSE indices for the long term. This allows you to match the overall returns of the index efficiently at low cost, without requiring stock research or market timing. Passively investing in index funds helps capture broad market performance over time through steady compounding.
4. Allocate Portion of Equity Portfolio
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Have a diversified equity portfolio with allocation to BSE indices through index funds/ETFs. Recommended allocation can be 20-40% of equity portfolio. Balance with active funds investing in sectors or stocks outside the index, as well as mid/small-cap funds for higher return potential. Monitor as well as rebalance allocations periodically.
5. Invest with Long-Term Horizon
Equity investments aimed at BSE index exposure work best when undertaken with a long-term investment horizon of 5-7 years or more. The broader market moves in cycles as well as owning index funds for extended periods helps ride out short-term volatility. Use systematic investment plans to invest regularly in small amounts. The longer you stay invested, the higher the potential for index returns to compound.
Conclusion
The BSE indices give you an opportunity to participate in India’s growth story. By prudently investing in 5paisa index funds and ETFs tracking these indices over the long-term, retail investors can benefit. Maintain realistic return expectations, manage risks and costs, and invest for the long haul. With patience and discipline, BSE index investing can aid your wealth creation journey.
