BAJAJ BROKING

Notification close image
No new Notification messages
card image
Aegis Vopak Terminals IPO is Open!
Apply for the Aegis Vopak Terminals IPO through UPI in just minutes.
delete image
card image
Open a Free Demat Account
Pay ZERO maintenance charges for the first year, get free stock picks daily, and more.
delete image
card image
Trade Now, Pay Later with up to 4x
Never miss a good trading opportunity due to low funds with our MTF feature.
delete image
card image
Track Market Movers Instantly
Stay updated with real-time data. Get insights at your fingertips.
delete image

Retirement Fund


Retirement planning is an essential aspect of financial management that ensures individuals have a steady income even after they stop working professionally. A retirement fund, also known as a pension fund, Read more..is a structured investment plan designed to accumulate wealth over time and provide financial security during retirement. With increasing life expectancy and rising living costs, it has become crucial to set aside funds that can generate a regular income post-retirement.

Retirement funds can take various forms, including government pension schemes, life insurance-based pension plans, and mutual fund retirement plans. Mutual funds have gained popularity as a preferred retirement investment option due to their ability to generate long-term returns while offering flexibility in asset allocation. These funds typically invest in a mix of low-risk government securities, debt instruments, and limited equity exposure to balance growth and stability. Read less

Retirement Fund List

Name
AUM
1Y Returns

ICICI Pru Retirement Fund - Hybrid AP (G)

|Retirement Fund

Buy

₹789.63 cr. 6.06%

ICICI Pru Retirement Fund - Hybrid CP (G)

|Retirement Fund

Buy

₹78.72 cr. 8.02%

ICICI Pru Retirement Fund - Pure Equity (G)

|Retirement Fund

Buy

₹1128.59 cr. 6.60%

ICICI Pru Retirement Fund - Hybrid AP (IDCW) - Payout

|Retirement Fund

Buy

₹789.63 cr. 6.02%

ICICI Pru Retirement Fund - Pure Debt (G)

|Retirement Fund

Buy

₹106.56 cr. 8.64%

Tata Retirement Savings Fund - Conservative (G)

|Retirement Fund

Buy

₹176.85 cr. 7.41%

SBI Retirement Benefit Fund-Aggrs Hyb Plan (IDCW) - Payout

|Retirement Fund

Buy

₹1506.89 cr. 5.26%

ICICI Pru Retirement Fund - Pure Debt (IDCW) - Payout

|Retirement Fund

Buy

₹106.56 cr. 8.64%

Aditya Birla SL Retirement-The 30s Plan-Reg (IDCW) - Reinvestment

|Retirement Fund

Buy

₹379.55 cr. 8.79%

Aditya Birla SL Retirement-The50sPlus-Debt-R(IDCW) - Reinvestment

|Retirement Fund

Buy

₹17.84 cr. 7.14%
  • 1
  • 2
  • ...
  • 11
  • >

What is a Retirement Fund?

A retirement fund is an investment vehicle that helps individuals save a portion of their income for their post-retirement years. These funds are structured to ensure that retirees receive a stable income after they stop earning actively. Investors contribute to these funds during their working years, and upon retirement, they receive either a lump sum payout or a monthly annuity.

Retirement funds generally focus on capital preservation and stable returns, making them ideal for risk-averse investors. The investment strategy typically includes a mix of equity and debt instruments, ensuring that the fund grows over time while protecting against inflation. Pension funds often come with a lock-in period and discourage premature withdrawals to ensure disciplined savings.

 

How Does a Retirement Fund Work?

Retirement funds operate with the primary goal of creating a financial cushion that ensures a steady income stream post-retirement. The fund accumulates wealth through consistent investments, allowing it to grow over time.

1. Investment Strategy - Retirement funds primarily invest in low-risk instruments such as government securities, debt funds, and corporate bonds to provide stable returns. Some funds also include a limited portion of equities (usually between 40-50%) to ensure capital appreciation.

2. Contribution and Growth - Investors can contribute through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) or a lump sum investment. The fund grows through market-linked returns and compounding, ensuring long-term wealth accumulation.

3. Lock-in Period and Withdrawal - Most retirement mutual funds have a mandatory lock-in period of five years or until retirement age (58-60 years), whichever is earlier. Upon retirement, investors can withdraw their savings either as a lump sum amount or through a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) for regular payouts.

4. Inflation Protection - These funds are structured to combat rising inflation by ensuring that returns outpace cost-of-living increases. This is achieved by maintaining a balanced mix of fixed-income and equity instruments.

 

Features of Retirement Funds

1. Long-Term Investment Horizon - Retirement funds are structured as long-term savings instruments, typically locked in until the investor reaches retirement age. This encourages disciplined investing and wealth accumulation.

2. Capital Protection and Stability - These funds focus on low-risk, stable returns by investing in government bonds and fixed-income securities, making them a reliable investment choice for conservative investors.

3. Flexible Withdrawal Options - Upon retirement, investors can choose between a lump sum withdrawal, monthly annuity, or systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) based on their financial needs.

4. Tax Benefits - Investments in retirement funds may qualify for tax deductions under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. Additionally, long-term capital gains taxation benefits make these funds attractive for tax-efficient retirement planning.

5. Inflation-Adjusted Growth - By including equity exposure alongside debt instruments, retirement funds ensure that returns remain inflation-adjusted, helping retirees maintain their purchasing power.

 

Types of Retirement Funds

1. Government Pension Funds - These funds are backed by the government and provide a fixed pension post-retirement. They include schemes such as the National Pension System (NPS) and Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF).

2. Mutual Fund-Based Retirement Plans - Mutual fund retirement schemes invest in a mix of equity and debt instruments. These funds offer market-linked returns, ensuring better growth potential compared to traditional pension plans.

3. Life Insurance-Based Pension Plans - Some life insurance policies include pension benefits, allowing investors to accumulate wealth while ensuring financial security for their dependents in case of an untimely demise.

4. Hybrid Pension Schemes - Hybrid retirement funds invest in both equities and fixed-income securities, balancing risk and returns. Equity exposure in these funds is usually limited to 40-50% to ensure capital appreciation without excessive volatility.

 

Who Should Invest in Retirement Funds?

1. Individuals Planning for Retirement Security - Anyone who wants to ensure a stable income post-retirement should consider investing in retirement funds. These funds provide financial independence and help maintain a comfortable lifestyle.

2. Risk-Averse Investors Seeking Stability - Retirement funds offer low-risk investment options with stable returns, making them ideal for conservative investors who prioritize capital preservation over high returns.

3. Working Professionals Looking for Long-Term Wealth Creation -Individuals in their 30s and 40s who want to build a retirement corpus over time can benefit from investing early in these funds, leveraging the power of compounding.

4. Investors Looking for Tax Benefits - Those seeking tax deductions under Section 80C can invest in retirement funds to lower their taxable income while securing their future financial needs.

5. Retirees Seeking Regular Income - Investors who have already accumulated a retirement corpus can opt for Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP) in mutual fund-based retirement plans to receive a steady post-retirement income.

 

How to Invest in Retirement Funds?

Investing in retirement funds requires careful planning to ensure financial stability during post-retirement years. These funds are structured to accumulate wealth over time and provide a steady income stream after retirement. Below are the essential steps to invest in retirement funds:

Step 1: Choose a Suitable Retirement Fund - Investors should evaluate various retirement funds based on their historical performance, asset allocation, risk level, and investment strategy. Some funds primarily invest in equities for higher returns, while others focus on debt instruments for stability. Choosing the right fund depends on financial goals, risk tolerance, and expected retirement corpus.

Step 2: Open an Investment Account - To invest in a retirement mutual fund, individuals must have an investment account with a SEBI-registered mutual fund house or a brokerage platform. Completing the KYC (Know Your Customer) process by submitting identity and address proof is mandatory for first-time investors.

Step 3: Select the Investment Mode - Investors can choose between a lump sum investment, where a single large amount is invested, or a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP), where a fixed sum is invested at regular intervals. SIPs help in averaging the cost of investment and reducing market timing risks, making them an ideal choice for long-term wealth accumulation.

Step 4: Consider the Lock-in Period - Retirement funds generally come with a mandatory lock-in period of five years or until retirement age (58-60 years), whichever is earlier. Investors must be prepared for this commitment, as premature withdrawals may be restricted or taxed.

Step 5: Monitor and Adjust Investments - After investing, it is important to track the performance of the fund regularly. Investors should evaluate returns, compare them with market benchmarks, and make adjustments if needed. Portfolio rebalancing may be required as retirement approaches to shift towards lower-risk investments.

 

Advantages of Investing in Retirement Funds

1. Provides Financial Security Post-Retirement - Retirement funds help individuals accumulate wealth systematically to ensure financial independence during their retirement years. They offer a structured approach to savings, ensuring a steady income stream when active income stops.

2. Flexibility in Investment Choices - Investors can choose between equity, debt, or hybrid retirement funds depending on their risk appetite and investment horizon. Additionally, they have the option to receive post-retirement payouts as a lump sum amount or as an annuity, ensuring flexibility in financial planning.

3. Tax Benefits on Contributions - Contributions to retirement funds are tax-exempt under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act, allowing investors to lower their taxable income while saving for the future. Some pension schemes also offer tax benefits under Section 80CCC and Section 10(32).

4. Power of Compounding - Since retirement funds are long-term investments, they benefit from the compounding effect. By staying invested for decades, investors can accumulate significant wealth, as returns generated are reinvested, leading to exponential growth over time.

5. Professional Fund Management - Retirement funds are managed by professional fund managers who make strategic investment decisions based on market trends. This allows investors to benefit from expert management without actively monitoring market movements.

 

Risks Involved in Retirement Funds

  • Market Risk – The equity portion of the retirement fund is exposed to stock market volatility, which may lead to fluctuations in returns.
  • Interest Rate Risk – Debt investments within the fund may be impacted by changes in interest rates, affecting bond yields and overall returns.
  • Inflation Risk – Fixed pension payouts may lose value over time due to rising inflation, reducing purchasing power.
  • Insufficiency of Funds – There is a possibility that the retirement corpus may not be sufficient to cover future medical or living expenses if investments are not planned properly.
  • Outliving Retirement Savings – Some retirement funds provide payouts for a limited period. If the retiree outlives the fund’s payout duration, they may face financial insecurity.
     

Factors to Consider Before Investing in Retirement Funds

1. Risk Tolerance and Asset Allocation - Investors must assess their risk appetite before selecting a retirement fund. Those comfortable with market fluctuations may opt for equity-oriented funds, while risk-averse individuals may prefer debt-focused funds for stability.

2. Investment Horizon and Compounding Benefits - Since retirement planning is a long-term goal, investors should start early to maximize the benefits of compounding. The longer the investment duration, the higher the potential returns.

3. Inflation-Adjusted Returns - To ensure financial security post-retirement, returns from the fund must be higher than the rate of inflation. Investing in funds that provide inflation-protected returns is essential to maintain purchasing power.

4. Portfolio Diversification - A well-diversified portfolio across equity, debt, and alternative investments like gold ensures balanced risk exposure. Choosing hybrid retirement funds can help optimize risk and reward.

5. Withdrawal and Payout Mode - Investors must decide whether they prefer a lump sum payout or monthly annuity payments post-retirement. This choice depends on financial needs, liquidity requirements, and other sources of income.

 

Taxability of Retirement Funds

1. Tax Benefits on Contributions - Contributions made to retirement funds qualify for tax deductions up to ₹1.5 lakh under Section 80C. This includes both new investments and renewals of existing pension plans.

2. Taxation of Withdrawals - Withdrawals from retirement mutual funds are taxable. Periodic pension payments are taxed as per individual income tax slabs, similar to salary income.

3. Tax Exemptions for Government Employees - Government employees, including armed forces personnel, are fully exempt from taxes on lump sum withdrawals.

4. Partial Tax Exemptions for Non-Government Employees - If gratuity is included in the pension, one-third of the total amount is tax-free. Otherwise, half of the total amount is tax-exempt, and the remaining portion is taxable.

5. Family Pension Taxation - If a pension is received by a family member, it is taxed as income from other sources. However, up to ₹15,000 or one-third of the monthly pension (whichever is lower) is tax-exempt.

 

Popular Retirement Funds in India

Fund Name

AUM (₹ Cr.)

3Y CAGR (%)

5Y CAGR (%)

Expense Ratio (%)

ICICI Prudential Retirement Fund – Pure Equity Plan

1,050

20.68

24.91

0.72

HDFC Retirement Savings Fund – Equity Plan

6,009

19.47

24.83

0.71

HDFC Retirement Savings Fund – Hybrid Equity Plan

1,583

14.81

18.33

0.92

Nippon India Retirement Fund – Wealth Creation

3,336

16.96

17.62

0.98

Tata Retirement Savings Fund – Moderate Plan

2,108

14.16

16.90

0.60


ICICI Prudential Retirement Fund – Pure Equity Plan

ICICI Prudential Retirement Fund – Pure Equity Plan is designed for investors who seek long-term capital appreciation through aggressive equity investments. With an AUM of ₹1,050 crore, this fund primarily focuses on growth-oriented stocks, making it ideal for those with a high-risk appetite. It has delivered a five-year CAGR of 24.91 percent and a three-year CAGR of 20.68 percent, indicating strong past performance. The fund is actively managed, allowing it to navigate market cycles and optimise returns. While it offers high growth potential, investors should be prepared for short-term market volatility. The fund is suited for individuals who have a long investment horizon and can withstand market fluctuations while aiming for substantial retirement savings. Additionally, its tax benefits under Section 80C make it a suitable option for tax-efficient investing.

HDFC Retirement Savings Fund – Equity Plan

HDFC Retirement Savings Fund – Equity Plan is a retirement-focused equity mutual fund with an AUM of ₹6,009 crore, making it one of the larger retirement funds available in the market. It has delivered a five-year CAGR of 24.83 percent and a three-year CAGR of 19.47 percent, making it an attractive option for investors looking for high growth. The fund primarily invests in large-cap and mid-cap stocks, ensuring both stability and potential for wealth accumulation. Managed by HDFC Asset Management, one of India's largest AMCs, this fund benefits from active portfolio management that adapts to changing market conditions. Investors can choose between SIP and lump sum investments, allowing for flexibility in financial planning. With a lock-in period ensuring disciplined investing, it is well suited for individuals planning early retirement and seeking high equity exposure with long-term compounding benefits.

HDFC Retirement Savings Fund – Hybrid Equity Plan

HDFC Retirement Savings Fund – Hybrid Equity Plan offers a balanced mix of equity and debt investments, providing moderate growth potential with lower volatility compared to pure equity plans. With an AUM of ₹1,583 crore, this fund is an ideal choice for investors who want equity exposure but prefer a risk-controlled approach. It has provided a five-year CAGR of 18.33 percent and a three-year CAGR of 14.81 percent, ensuring steady returns over time. The fund typically maintains a 60-70 percent allocation in equities, with the remaining portion in fixed-income instruments, offering both capital appreciation and financial stability. The hybrid approach makes it suitable for investors who want to reduce risk as they near retirement age. The fund’s lock-in period ensures that investments remain intact for long-term wealth accumulation, while the systematic withdrawal option post-retirement allows for a steady stream of income.

Nippon India Retirement Fund – Wealth Creation

Nippon India Retirement Fund – Wealth Creation is a dynamic retirement fund that focuses on wealth generation through strategic equity investments, ensuring robust long-term returns. With an AUM of ₹3,336 crore, the fund has delivered a five-year CAGR of 17.62 percent and a three-year CAGR of 16.96 percent, reflecting its strong market positioning. The fund invests across multiple sectors, ensuring diversification while maintaining a growth-oriented approach. Its investment strategy includes exposure to both large-cap and mid-cap stocks, balancing stability with high return potential. The fund is suitable for investors who are willing to take on some level of risk for higher retirement corpus growth. It also provides tax benefits under Section 80C, making it an attractive option for retirement planning. Since it is equity-heavy, it is well suited for individuals with a long-term investment horizon of 10-15 years or more.

Tata Retirement Savings Fund – Moderate Plan

Tata Retirement Savings Fund – Moderate Plan is a balanced retirement fund designed for investors who want a mix of equity and debt for long-term capital preservation and steady growth. With an AUM of ₹2,108 crore, the fund has provided a five-year CAGR of 16.90 percent and a three-year CAGR of 14.16 percent, ensuring consistent returns with lower risk compared to pure equity funds. The fund's allocation to debt instruments provides stability, making it suitable for conservative investors who want predictable income post-retirement. Managed by Tata Asset Management, the fund follows an active investment strategy that ensures optimal asset allocation. It is ideal for individuals approaching retirement who seek steady income while benefiting from limited equity exposure for capital appreciation. The lock-in period ensures disciplined investing, and investors can choose between lump sum withdrawals or systematic payouts after retirement, providing financial flexibility.

Frequently Ask Questions

No Data Found

search icon
banner-icon

Start your SIP with just ₹100

Choose from 4,000+ funds on Bajaj Broking

+91

|

Please Enter Mobile Number

Start your SIP with just ₹100

Choose from 4,000+ funds on Bajaj Broking

+91

|