ULIP vs Mutual Funds - Which One to Choose for Investment?

There are a wide range of investment avenues that can help in wealth accumulation, including ULIPs and mutual funds. While ULIPs offer the flexibility of premium payments, mutual funds provide higher liquidity.

While both come with their set of unique benefits, knowing the difference between ULIPs and mutual funds can help you choose the right one.

On Bajaj Markets, you can invest in ULIPs with a small amount starting at ₹2,500 per month. Apart from this, you have the option to choose between two investment portfolios.

Brief Overview of Mutual Funds

Mutual funds allow you to pool your funds with other investors to invest in a diversified set of securities. They offer complete transparency since Asset Management Companies (AMCs) must regularly update you regarding the fund's performance. This is in accordance with SEBI regulations.

Mutual funds work in the following way:

Each investor holds shares, and the fund calculates its total value based on the net asset value (NAV)
Skilled portfolio managers oversee these funds to enhance the expected returns and fulfil the fund's objectives
These funds invest in various stocks, bonds, or a mix of both
They generate returns through capital appreciation, interest income, and dividends
You earn returns periodically, as per the fund’s policies

How Do ULIPS Help You Secure High Returns

ULIPs are a hybrid financial instrument that combines the benefits of insurance as well as investment. They allow you to invest to meet your long-term investment goals while getting a life insurance cover.

Here is how ULIPs work:

You need to pay a premium amount via monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual instalments
The premium is divided into two parts: one is invested in a fund of your choice, and the other towards a life insurance plan
You can select the type of fund you wish to invest in, between equity, debt, or hybrid funds
Professional fund managers manage these funds based on your investment goal and risk tolerance
The returns on investment depend on the performance of the market and the chosen fund

How to Choose an Ideal Option Between ULIPs and Mutual Funds

Between ULIPs and mutual funds, choosing an ideal one depends on your investment goals and risk appetite. Understanding the benefits in detail can help you make the right choice.

ULIPs come with the following advantages:

Transparency

Issuers disclose all charges, investment values, and expected returns upfront, ensuring complete transparency

Flexible Investment Options

ULIPs offer investment options with high, medium, and low risk levels, allowing you to tailor your plan accordingly

Regular Savings

ULIPs encourage financial discipline, which helps you build wealth and meet your long-term goals

Tax Benefits

Premiums paid towards ULIPs are tax-exempt under Section 80C, and the maturity amount is also tax-free under Section 10(10D) of the ITA

Here are some benefits of mutual funds:

Portfolio Diversification

Mutual funds allow you to spread risks by investing your funds in various types of securities, based on your goals and risk appetite

Regulated by SEBI

SEBI is responsible for regulating mutual funds, ensuring that the AMCs adhere to the required mandates

Professional Management

Your funds are managed by expert fund managers who continuously adjust portfolios to meet the fund’s objectives

Tax Benefits

Equity-Linked Saving Schemes (ELSS) offer tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act of up to ₹1.5 Lakhs

Difference Between ULIPs and Mutual Funds

Gauging the difference between ULIPs and mutual funds can help you make the right choice. Refer to the following table to know how they differ:

Basis of Difference	ULIP	Mutual Fund
Objective	Wealth creation through investments along with providing life insurance cover	Wealth creation via investments in various securities
Lock-in Period	ULIPs come with a lock-in period of 5 years	Open-ended mutual funds do not come with any lock-in period
Duration	They are suitable for long-term	They are ideal for short-term, medium-term, or long-term
Regulatory Body	The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) regulates ULIPs	Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) regulates mutual funds
Tax Benefits	Premium payments are tax-exempt up to ₹1.5 Lakhs under Section 80C of the ITA. Also, the maturity amount is tax-free under Section 10(10D) of the ITA	Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS) funds are eligible for a tax deduction of up to ₹1.5 Lakhs under Section 80C of the ITA

Factors to Consider Before Deciding Between ULIPs and Mutual Funds

Investing is an essential decision that requires adequate research and consideration. Keep the following factors in mind while investing in these avenues:

Financial Objectives

Consider your investment goals to understand if these options will help you meet these requirements.

Risk Tolerance

Assess your personal risk tolerance and compare the risks associated with each investment option. This will help you see if they match your risk appetite.

Investment Duration

Based on your investment goals, check the investment duration and lock-in period for ULIPs and mutual funds. Based on this information, you can decide which option will best align with your goals.

Fees and Charges

Another key factor that influences your potential returns is the associated charges. Pay attention to the charges that come with both options and decide.

Flexibility

Analyse the level of flexibility you can enjoy with each investment option. This will help you choose an avenue based on your flexibility and liquidity preferences.