Shibani Kurian, senior vice president, fund manager and head of equity research at Kotak Mahindra Asset Management, said women can reduce risk and optimize long-term returns while keeping their investment objectives in mind. In order to achieve this goal, it is necessary to consider a diversified investment portfolio.
In an interview with mint genieKurian said customized investment education programs, mentorship opportunities and success stories of women investors can inspire and boost confidence.
Edited excerpt:
What do you think should be done to attract more women into stock investing?
Economic freedom is paramount for women to take control of their own destiny and live a life of empowerment and independence. You can't achieve financial freedom without investing in your future. Therefore, there is a growing need for women to understand asset allocation, including stock investments. Investing in stocks is often thought of as something unrelated to women. But on the contrary, women naturally embody the very characteristics needed to succeed in stock investing.
Encouraging more women to invest in stocks requires a focus on accessible and relatable financial education. Customized investment education programs, mentorship opportunities, and success stories of women investors can inspire and boost confidence. Building a platform that provides a supportive community where women can share their experiences and learnings can have a huge impact on their investment journey.
What do you think about the role of mutual funds in building women's financial knowledge and ensuring a secure financial future?
Mutual funds are critical to helping women build their financial knowledge and secure a secure financial future. These provide a simplified entry point into the world of investing, allowing women to benefit from a professionally managed portfolio. Mutual funds also offer educational resources that make the investment process easy to understand and approachable for beginners.
What are the benefits of investing through SIP?
Investing through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) gives investors discipline, offers the benefit of rupee cost averaging, and the flexibility of starting small. SIPs make it easier to address long-term financial goals and are particularly advantageous for building wealth over time without the pressure of timing the market.
Why and how should women choose a diversified investment portfolio?
Women should consider a diversified investment portfolio to reduce risk and optimize returns over the long term, keeping their investment objectives in mind. Diversification across asset classes, regions, and sectors can help dampen market volatility. This approach aligns with the principle of not putting all your eggs in one basket, thereby securing your investment against unexpected market downturns.
The presence of women in the financial industry is increasing. Do you think it had the necessary influence on shaping your investment strategy?
The increasing presence of women in the financial industry is certainly having a major impact. Women supporting women creates a far greater impact encouraging others to join them on the path to financial freedom. Women often bring diverse perspectives and innovation to investment strategies, contributing to more holistic and balanced decision-making. Their increased influence could also promote gender diversity and inclusion, leading to more tailored financial products and services that cater to a wider range of investors.
How can women work to build a robust retirement portfolio?
Women can help build a robust retirement portfolio by starting early, making informed investment choices, and continually reviewing and adjusting their portfolios as financial goals and market conditions change. You can work on it. Focusing on investing in a mix of stocks, bonds, and other asset classes, depending on your risk tolerance and time horizon, is key to building a retirement wealth that can withstand inflation and provide stability in your golden years.
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