HDFC Equity Savings Fund

Suitability

"Equity-savings funds invest about a third of your money each in equity shares, bonds and arbitrage opportunities, though these proportions may vary a bit depending upon the market outlook of the fund manager. These funds are suitable for those who cannot withstand too much volatility in the value of their investments and are content with moderate returns which are slightly higher than fixed income options.

They may also suit those looking for a regular income from their accumulation. The debt and arbitrage portions of these funds can provide a moderate, but steady stream of income. The equity allocation, though adds a bit of volatility, but helps boost returns to keep up with the rate of inflation over the long term.

Invest only if your investment horizon is three years or more. To derive dependable income with some degree of inflation protection, invest your accumulated savings in these funds gradually over at least a few months, and then maintain a withdrawal rate in the range of 4-6 per cent of the value of your investment every year."

Taxation

Capital Gains Taxation

• If the mutual fund units are sold after 1 year from the date of investment, gains upto Rs 1 lakh in a financial year are exempt from tax. Gains over Rs 1 lakh are taxed at the rate of 10%.
• If the mutual fund units are sold within 1 year from the date of investment, entire amount of gain is taxed at the rate of 15%.
• No tax is to be paid as long as you continue to hold the units.

Dividend Taxation

• Dividends are added to the income of the investors and taxed according to their respective tax slabs. Further, if an investor's dividend income exceeds Rs. 5,000 in a financial year, the fund house also deducts a TDS of 10% before distributing the dividend.