What are the main tax benefits of investing in ELSS compared to flexi cap funds?
ELSS may offer a Section 80C deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh. Regular flexi cap funds do not provide this tax benefit.
ELSS vs Flexi Cap fund helps investors compare a tax-saving equity fund with a flexible equity fund. ELSS may offer Section 80C benefits, but it comes with a three-year lock-in. Flexi cap funds do not usually offer this tax benefit, but they can invest across company sizes. This article explains the key differences, risks, benefits and suitability of both fund categories.
Comparison between ELSS vs flexi cap fund helps investors understand the structural differences between tax-saving equity schemes and flexible equity portfolios. Both types of funds primarily have equity as the major investment choice; however, their objectives are not the same. ELSS allows investors to get tax deduction under Section 80C, whereas the objective of flexi cap funds is allocation of assets in large cap, mid-cap and small cap stocks. ELSS vs flexi cap fund comparison should take into consideration lock-in period, liquidity, tax advantage, flexibility of portfolio allocation and risk involved. ELSS vs flexi cap fund will vary as per the requirement of the investors based on what the objective behind it is: tax saving, broad exposure in equity or wealth generation.
ELSS stands for Equity Linked Savings Scheme. It is a fund that provides investors with a choice to save tax under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, 1961. The mandatory requirement for investing through this fund is that it should keep 80% of its assets in equities or equity-linked instruments. The investor needs to stay invested in the fund for a minimum period of three years. Investments of up to ₹1.5 lakh in a financial year may qualify for deduction under Section 80C under the old tax regime. Like all equity funds, ELSS returns are market-linked and not guaranteed.
Flexi cap funds are open-ended equity mutual funds that are allowed to have their investment spread across large cap, mid cap, and small cap firms. This enables the portfolio manager of the flexi cap fund to alter its composition depending on prevailing market dynamics. Flexi cap funds enjoy greater flexibility than other funds that concentrate on a single firm or market size. However, they still carry market risk. Unlike ELSS, a regular flexi cap fund does not offer tax deduction under Section 80C.
The Difference Between ELSS and flexi cap fund mainly comes down to tax benefit, lock-in and portfolio flexibility. ELSS vs flexi cap fund should be understood before choosing between a tax-saving fund and a flexible equity fund.
| Basis of Difference | ELSS Fund | Flexi Cap Fund |
|---|---|---|
| Full form/category | ELSS means Equity Linked Savings Scheme. | Flexi cap fund is an open-ended dynamic equity scheme. |
| Main purpose | It is mainly used for tax savings along with equity investment. | It is mainly used for flexible equity investment across market caps. |
| Tax benefit | Investments of up to ₹1.5 lakh may qualify for deduction under Section 80C. | A regular flexi cap fund does not offer Section 80C deduction. |
| Lock-in period | ELSS has a compulsory lock-in period of three years. | Flexi cap funds usually do not have a compulsory lock-in period. |
| Investment portfolio | ELSS invests at least 80% in equity and equity-related instruments. | Flexi cap funds invest across large-cap, mid-cap and small-cap stocks. |
| Portfolio flexibility | The fund follows the ELSS mandate and the scheme’s stated strategy. | The fund manager can move across market-cap segments more freely. |
| Liquidity | Units cannot be redeemed before the three-year lock-in ends. | Units can usually be redeemed as per scheme rules and exit load terms. |
| Risk level | ELSS carries equity market risk. | Flexi cap funds also carry equity risk, which changes with allocation. |
| Return potential | Returns depend on equity market performance and portfolio selection. | Returns depend on stock selection and allocation across market caps. |
| Investor suitability | Suitable for investors who want tax savings with equity exposure. | Suitable for investors who want diversified and flexible equity exposure. |
| Investment mode | Investors can invest through a lump sum or an SIP. | Investors can invest through a lump sum or an SIP. |
| Tax treatment on gains | Equity mutual fund capital gains tax rules generally apply. | Equity mutual fund capital gains tax rules generally apply if it qualifies as equity-oriented. |
| Key limitation | The three-year lock-in reduces liquidity. | There is no Section 80C benefit unless the scheme is specifically eligible. |
Differences between ELSS and flexi cap fund indicate that these two schemes cater to different requirements. The ELSS scheme would be ideal when investors look for investment returns and tax savings at the same time. Flexi cap funds could be an option for investors seeking diversified equity investment with added flexibility.
Both ELSS and flexi cap funds have the potential to help achieve long-term goals. However, investors should not choose only by looking at returns. The better choice depends on tax needs, liquidity needs, risk appetite and investment horizon.
Investors can invest in ELSS and flexi cap fund schemes online after completing KYC. Before investing, they should check the fund category, lock-in, tax benefit, risk level, cost and investment objective.
Identify your investment goal
Start by asking why you are investing. ELSS may suit tax-saving goals. Flexi cap funds may suit flexible equity exposure.
Check your tax requirement
Choose ELSS if you want a Section 80C benefit under the old tax regime. Choose flexi cap funds if tax saving is not the main goal.
Evaluate your risk tolerance
Both types involve investment in stocks. One must be prepared to earn from the fluctuations of the stock market.
KYC registration
Investors must complete their mandatory Know Your Customer (KYC) registration using regulatory identity documents like a PAN card and proof of address.
Compare all the features
Consider the objectives of the scheme, portfolio, expense ratio, fund manager, performance history, risk and exit load.
SIP vs. lump sum
In a SIP, one invests money periodically. A lump sum is suitable for those who have money saved for investment.
Invest through a registered platform
Investors can invest through an AMC, registered broker, distributor or online investment platform.
Review periodically
Track the investment from time to time. Avoid changing funds only because of short-term market movements.
Additional Read: How to Invest in Mutual Funds
The choice between ELSS and flexi cap fund should be based on the goal. Investors should compare tax benefits, lock-in, liquidity, risk and time horizon before making a decision.
Choose ELSS if tax saving matters
ELSS may suit investors who want to claim a deduction under Section 80C under the old tax regime.
Choose ELSS if you are fine with a lock-in
ELSS has a three-year lock-in period. It may suit investors who do not need the money during this time.
Choose Flexi Cap Funds for wider equity exposure
Flexi cap funds may suit investors who want exposure to large-cap, mid-cap and small-cap companies through one fund.
Choose Flexi Cap Funds if liquidity is important
Flexi cap funds usually offer better liquidity than ELSS because they generally do not have a compulsory lock-in period.
Look at your risk appetite
Both categories carry equity risk. Flexi cap funds may become more volatile if the fund has higher mid-cap or small-cap exposure.
Check your time horizon
Both ELSS and flexi cap fund investments are better suited for long-term goals. Short-term investors may find equity volatility difficult.
Review portfolio allocation
ELSS funds may follow different equity strategies. Flexi cap funds can shift allocation across market caps based on the fund manager’s view.
Do not choose only by returns
Past returns should not be the only reason to invest. Investors should also check cost, risk, consistency and suitability.
Use both if they fit your goals
Some investors may use both categories. ELSS can meet tax-saving needs, while flexi cap funds can add flexible equity exposure.
ELSS may offer a Section 80C deduction of up to ₹1.5 lakh. Regular flexi cap funds do not provide this tax benefit.
Yes. Investors can invest in both if they want tax savings through ELSS and flexible equity exposure through flexi cap funds.
ELSS has a three-year lock-in. Investors cannot redeem units before this period ends, so liquidity remains limited during the lock-in.
A high turnover ratio may increase transaction costs. Its impact depends on fund strategy, market conditions and investment decisions.
ELSS has a lock-in, so early exit is not allowed. Flexi cap fund exit load depends on the scheme’s rules.
For equity-oriented funds, LTCG above ₹1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5% for transfers on or after 23 July 2024.
Disclaimer :
The information on this website is provided on "AS IS" basis. Bajaj Broking (BFSL) does not warrant the accuracy of the information given herein, either expressly or impliedly, for any particular purpose and expressly disclaims any warranties of merchantability or suitability for any particular purpose. While BFSL strives to ensure accuracy, it does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the information. Users are advised to independently verify details and stay updated with any changes.
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is subject to change without prior notice. BFSL shall not be responsible for any consequences arising from reliance on the information provided herein and shall not be held responsible for all or any actions that may subsequently result in any loss, damage and or liability. Interest rates, fees, and charges etc., are revised from time to time, for the latest details please refer to our Pricing page.
Neither the information, nor any opinion contained in this website constitutes a solicitation or offer by BFSL or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities, futures, options or other financial instruments or provide any investment advice or service.
BFSL is acting as distributor for non-broking products/ services such as IPO, Mutual Fund, Insurance, PMS, and NPS. These are not Exchange Traded Products. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions please read the sales brochure carefully before investing.
Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing. This content is for educational purposes only. Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.
For more disclaimer, check here : https://www.bajajbroking.in/disclaimer
Level up your stock market experience: Scan the QR to download the Bajaj Broking App for effortless investing and trading