If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to be considered a High Net-Worth Individual (HNI), it’s all about the assets. An HNI is someone with substantial financial assets, usually over ₹5 crores. These individuals often play a big role in the stock market, especially when it comes to IPOs, where a portion of shares is reserved just for them. Getting to know how HNIs invest and how they influence the market can be eye-opening for anyone looking to grow their wealth.
HNI Meaning in the Stock Market
In the stock market, high net-worth individuals are those with a net worth exceeding ₹5 crores in liquid assets. They typically hold a variety of assets like stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate. Even though SEBI doesn’t officially define HNIs, they’re classified as Non-Institutional Investors (NIIs) when they invest over ₹2 lakhs in an IPO. Since high net-worth individuals have more capital to invest, their actions can significantly impact stock prices and overall market sentiment.
Types of High-Net-Worth Individuals
Now that you know what HNI is, let’s try to understand some common categories of high net-worth individuals in the market:
Type
| Description
| Net Worth Range
|
Affluent Investors
| These are the up-and-coming high net-worth individuals with assets ranging from ₹1 crore to ₹5 crore. They’re often professionals or entrepreneurs aiming to grow their wealth.
| ₹1 crore – ₹5 crore
|
Mid-Level HNIs
| These investors hold assets between ₹5 crore and ₹50 crore. They tend to invest in premium products like private equity and high-end properties.
| ₹5 crore – ₹50 crore
|
Ultra-HNIs (UHNI)
| With assets above ₹50 crore, these individuals invest in luxury real estate, global markets, and exclusive investment funds.
| ₹50 crore and above
|
Affluent investors are those just starting on their HNI journey, building a diverse asset base to grow their wealth. Mid-level high net-worth individuals are more established and often look for sophisticated investments to upscale their portfolios. Ultra-HNIs, at the highest tier, focus on wealth preservation and accessing global markets and high-value assets.
Investment Strategies for HNIs
Stocks
High net-worth individuals often invest in a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks. This helps spread risk and capture growth potential across different market segments.
Bonds
Corporate and government bonds are common HNI investments. They provide regular income and add stability to the portfolio.
Mutual Funds
To grow wealth over the long term, HNIs allocate funds to equity, debt, or hybrid mutual funds, depending on their financial goals and risk tolerance.
Private Equity
For better gains, some high net-worth individuals invest in private equity by buying shares in unlisted companies. They may hold these investments until the company goes public.
Private Debt
HNIs may lend money to private companies, earning interest income. This option carries higher risk but can generate steady cash flow.
Real Estate
Many high net-worth individuals invest in real estate directly or through REITs, aiming for rental income and capital appreciation.
Role of HNIs in IPOs and Market Movements
When it comes to IPOs, HNIs play a crucial role by investing hefty sums. SEBI reserves 15% of IPO shares for Non-Institutional Investors (NIIs), which include HNIs. To apply as a high net-worth individual, you need to invest over ₹2,00,000 in one go. This gives you a shot at securing a larger share allocation. Since HNIs can pump in significant funds, they can drive demand and influence the stock’s performance on listing day.
Benefits and Challenges Faced by HNIs
Benefits:
- Access to Exclusive Investments: Private equity, hedge funds, and structured products are more accessible to high net-worth individuals.
- Personalised Wealth Management: Banks offer tailored investment advice, tax planning, and estate management.
- Better Rates and Fees: HNIs often get preferential treatment, including lower fees and higher interest rates.
Challenges:
- Market Volatility: Larger investments can mean bigger losses during downturns.
- Liquidity Issues: Private equity or real estate investments may not be easy to exit quickly.
- Regulatory Risks: Unregulated investments, like private debt, carry higher risks of fraud and default.
How to Become an HNI Investor
Step 1: Build Your Asset Base
Start by setting aside at least ₹2,00,000. You can do this by investing in stocks, mutual funds, or real estate. The goal is to have enough funds ready for your IPO application as a high net-worth individual.
Step 2: Check Bank Access
Make sure you have internet banking access. HNIs can’t use UPI for IPO applications. Alternatively, you can apply through a physical form at your bank.
Step 3: Log In and Apply
Once logged in to your bank’s internet banking portal, go to the IPO section. Look for the 'IPO Application' tab.
Step 4: Select the HNI Category
Choose the HNI category. This step is crucial to be considered under the HNI quota for the IPO.
Step 5: Place Your Bid
Enter the number of lots you want to bid for. Your total investment must be over ₹2,00,000. The highest bid price will be automatically blocked, as per IPO rules.
Step 6: Block Funds via ASBA
The ASBA (Application Supported by Blocked Amount) facility will hold the bid amount in your bank account. The money stays blocked until IPO allotment is confirmed.
Step 7: Wait for Allotment
If shares are allotted, the blocked amount will be debited. If the IPO is oversubscribed, you might get a partial allotment and the remaining funds will be released.
Conclusion
High Net-Worth Individuals can influence the financial markets to a great extent. They often get access to exclusive investment options, sway IPO allocations, and can even impact stock prices through bulk trades. But the risks are just as high. To make it as an HNI, you need a solid investment plan, smart risk management, and a steady focus on growing your assets.