What is a ULIP?
Unit-linked insurance plans (or ULIPs) allow for policyholders to avail of multiple benefits. Their value lies in providing policyholders with insurance coverage in addition to allowing them to invest their funds under the plan. ULIPs require policyholders to pay a premium. In return, they provide the policyholder with life coverage as well as the opportunity to make investments based on the policyholder’s preference. ULIP investments may be in debt or equity funds or could be balanced between both.
How do ULIPs work –
Companies that provide ULIPs pool all premiums paid by their policyholders and collectively invest this money in a number of funds based on the preferences of policyholders. Once this money is invested in the same, the accumulated investment is split into units each of which is worth a given face value. Each policyholder is then provided with a certain number of units depending on the amount they invested in the ULIP. The value of each unit is referred to as the net asset value (or NAV). Changes in the value of the underlying assets are reflected in the NAV which alters in accordance with changes in the broader assets.
Are ULIPs safe?
Several prospective buyers of ULIPs are often concerned with investing their money in the same for a number of reasons. These include but aren’t limited to worries pertaining to lofty Sensex levels which make them hesitant to enter the market. Market corrections may also add to their fears as they can cause fluctuations in the market and consequently affect ULIP investments. Falls in the market fuel fears of losing money invested in ULIPs.
In order to allay such fears, it is important for all those interested in ULIPs to understand that they allow for switches to be made in ULIP funds. This means that policyholders risk appetite, prevailing market conditions, and their choice govern where their funds are invested. In the event that the equity market isn’t performing to their satisfaction, policyholders can transfer their money to a debt fund. The opposite holds true as well i.e., equity funds can be invested in and money may be transferred from a debt fund to the same should the policyholder think they have a greater potential to maximize their returns.
When designing ULIPs policyholders are encouraged to invest in funds that most align with their long-term financial plans. This helps reduce market risks and allows for the possibility to maximize returns. Policyholders who aim to maximize long-term capital growth may be best suited to invest in equity funds. Those who seek to maximize capital preservation may choose to invest their money in debt funds under the ULIP.
Financial advisors can serve as important guides who can indicate which funds might serve suitable for the policyholder.
