ONLINE investment platforms have made it easier to invest in financial products like mutual funds, bonds and insurance. While the process of registration is simple and is standardised across all platforms—all one has to do is setup a login ID and register PAN and Aadhaar information for a KYC—there are a few differences in terms of ease of access and products available with each of these. The platforms will link your bank account using ECS and chalk out a future plan for you. You can also build your own portfolio.
We take a look at three platforms that can come in handy for your investment needs.
Scripbox
Scripbox is an easy-to-use platform with a dashboard interface which is suitable for both mobile and desktop versions. While the service does come with advice via chat or phone, the platform in itself only throws up recommendations based on your income and age. Scripbox lets you diversify your portfolio between long-term debt, equity, tax savings and any time cash debt fund. There is no goal setting like in others, but if you are a do-it-yourself investor and do not need much help with selecting funds, Scripbox is the way to go.
ArthaYantra
ArthaYantra has one of the most comprehensive dashboards across all platforms and provides a lot of options for you to select from. The platform allows you to set goals and preferences including an emergency fund. For advice, one has to upgrade to a paid service which is a one time fee of R1,000. It also takes into account your family income, expenses and assets and liabilities before giving you financial advice. One of the best services, available with ArthaYantra, is life insurance and medical insurance advice. Though ArthaYantra requires users to get used to the interface, it is suitable for those who have some idea about their financial goals and want advice on everything from mutual funds to insurance.
FundsIndia
This online platform is available as mobile app and desktop version, which makes it a convenient on-the-go service. Simple and easy to use, the best feature is the calculator, which allows you to determine how much money you would need in future. FundsIndia also comes with one of the most comprehensive list of mutual funds and provides advice based on one’s goal. It also tells how much you need to invest in equity and debt to achieve your goal. While the app is easy to use, the registration requires some effort given that it does not recognise the PAN number easily. The service would also determine your risk appetite based on a certain set of questions. FundsIndia is a good service for beginners as well as do-it-yourself investors.
A smart way to meet your financial goals
- Investors have to set up a login id and register PAN and Aadhaar number for KYC
- Most online investment platforms offer desktop as well as mobile versions
- These platforms offer advice on various investment options, usually for a fee
- Investment in mutual funds, equity, long-term debt is facilitated by these platforms
- Some offer life and medical insurance advice besides help in creating an emergency fund
