Vishal Dhawan

Sizes that outsize! It is not uncommon to find concerns around fund sizes and hence their commensurate performance. This ostensible concern makes us look for sleeker options backed by relatively recent performances (due to their low ageing) and with the rationale that these have a long runway to cover before their chopper like structure turns into a Boeing! So till then, it's all good Going! Though what gets conveniently ignored is the velocity of market expansion that vindicates outsized funds. However, the overarching statistic that reflects the fund's ability to stomach market oscillations over decades and yet deliver outsized returns gets masked by fancier and newer names. Lest I forget the commercials. Many a times what is clinical in theory doesn't work in entirety, when it comes to hitting the ground hard and running. This is not to say that smaller sized funds haven't delivered or do not old the promise to swell into Boeings tomorrow. Hence it is prudent to have a mix of schemes based on sustainable performances. 'What has worked thus far will continue to work far!' And if it doesn't as an exception, there is always a recourse available in the form of reviews. Therefore, the challenge is in staying away from half found truths that translate into biases. A cursory glance at the table below by Value Research shows the kind of exceptional performance rendered by select schemes over time periods. Of course this is just the gist. The actual list of relatively larger schemes that boast of outsized returns runs much longer.

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Today SEBI notified Accredited Investor only AIFs. This class of funds can not only take investors at a lower minimum (10 lakhs?) but will also not have a cap on 1,000 investors. Together these rules create a huge opportunity for retail investors to access alternative investments across venture capital, infrastructure, private equity and credit It is a SIF like moment once again.

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HNIs often buy expensive art and wine collections thinking they are diversifying, but end up stuck with assets they cannot sell when they need cash. After working with high-net-worth families, I have noticed a pattern. People who are disciplined with traditional investments often become irrational with alternatives. They buy ₹50 lakh paintings, vintage wine collections, and rare watches believing these assets will outperform markets. Years later, they find themselves holding illiquid collections that are difficult to sell for anywhere near the purchase price unless the items are truly investment grade with strong secondary market demand. The main risks: 1. Illiquidity when you need cash A ₹2 crore art collection might be valued at ₹3 crores on paper, but finding a buyer quickly is tough. Auctions take months and charge up to 25% in commissions; private sales can be even slower. 2. Dealer influence and inflated expectations Sellers highlight selective success stories while downplaying costs. Transaction fees, storage, and insurance quietly erode any potential gains. 3. High ongoing costs Vintage wine requires climate-controlled storage (₹2,000+ per month in India). Art needs insurance, restoration, and controlled display. Over time, these expenses compound and eat into appreciation. When can alternatives make sense? - You already have substantial liquid wealth in traditional assets. Alternatives should be no more than 5 to 10 percent of your portfolio. - You genuinely enjoy and understand the category. Buy art because you love it, wine because you drink it. Financial upside should be secondary to personal enjoyment. - You can afford to lose the entire investment without it affecting your lifestyle or core financial goals. True diversification comes from spreading risk across sectors, and asset classes, not from owning illiquid collectibles that only create the appearance of sophistication. What has been your experience with alternative investments? P.S. Ready to transform your relationship with money? Follow me for financial insights and stories that create lasting change. Disclaimer: Every situation is unique. These insights are shared for educational purposes only.

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People often make one big mistake with term insurance: They buy a term plan… but forget to check if it actually works outside India. Last week, a client told me: “I already have a ₹3 crore term cover in India, so I’m sorted.” I asked him one question: “Does your policy cover you if something happens in Dubai?” He froze. He didn’t had a clue. Here’s the truth: Many families get shocked at claim stage because of territorial limits and fine print. 3 key takeaways if you’re buying term insurance: 1️⃣ Global Coverage Matters Make sure your policy pays out irrespective of where you live, work, or travel. Peace of mind shouldn’t have borders. 2️⃣ Premiums are cheaper in India Compared to Dubai/Singapore, Indian term premiums can be 30–50% lower. But only worth it if the claim is hassle-free globally. 3️⃣ Claim settlement is important Don’t chase the lowest premium blindly. A rejected claim defeats the entire purpose. Always check insurer’s track record. Bonus tip: Start with cover = 10–12x your annual income. That’s usually a good starting point to protect your family’s lifestyle + liabilities. Don’t just buy the “cheapest” plan. Buy the right one. Because at the end of the day, you won’t remember how much premium you saved. Your family would experience whether the claim was paid. sanjeev sinha did a story for Business Standard on same and SahajMoney® shared its view. If you’re an NRI, have you checked if your policy offers global coverage? ⸻ I make personal finance simple. My goal is to help you understand your money so that you can grow your savings with confidence and peace of mind. 🔄 Repost this to help someone take control of their finances. ➕ Follow me for clear, jargon-free tips on investing, insurance, and taxes. Have a personal finance question you wish someone would answer simply? DM me your question. I’ll answer it clearly and keep your privacy 100% protected. LinkedIn Guide to Creating LinkedIn News India

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