Systematic Transfer Plan
Key takeaways
- STP is a way of transferring a lump sum investment to a SIP
- Fixed STP, Capital STP and Capital appreciation STP are three types of Systematic Transfer Plan
What is a Systematic Transfer Plan?
A systematic transfer plan or STP is a way of transferring a lump sum investment to a Sip. A lump sum is invested in a debt instrument, and an STP mandate moves a certain amount from it to an equity instrument through the Sip route.
Of course, this is a general concept, and we may tweak the arrangement according to our needs and offerings by the AMC. STPs help in a way similar to a Sip, by letting us invest in markets continuously, irrespective of market swings.
Features of Systematic Transfer plan
Elements of a systematic transfer plan are:
Minimum Investment
STP does not have a standard minimum investment amount. But there are some AMCs that ask for a minimum amount of Rs 12,000.
Entry and Exit Load
Six capital transfers are required to be done from one mutual fund to another to apply for an STP. Once the investors are free from the entry load, SEBI lets the fund houses impose an exit load, which cannot exceed 2%.
Taxation
Investors should be aware of the exit loads and tax implications on the transfer. Every transfer that is made from one fund to another is seen as redemption and new investment, and the redemption is generally taxable.
Disciplined
STP enables a disciplined fund transfer, and in most cases, a systematic transfer plan from a debt fund to an equity fund can be initiated.
Benefits of a Systematic Transfer plan
Systematic transfer plans have many benefits like:
· It has scope for higher returns.
· It helps in managing risks by moving from a risky asset class to a lesser risky asset class.
· It lets investors generate steady returns
· It balances out the investment cost by buying smaller units at higher net asset value and more units at a lower price
Who should invest in the Systematic Transfer Plan
The systematic transfer plan is best for those who have limited resources and wish to invest in the stock market and earn large returns. It is also appropriate for investors who want to reinvest their funds during unstable and unfavorable market conditions in relatively safer products like debt instruments.
Types of Systematic Transfer plan
Fixed STP
In this type of STP, the frequency and the amount are fixed. Investors can make their decisions on the amount according to their financial goals and then apply for the same
Capital Appreciation
In this type of STP, the capital component remains safe, and the capital appreciated is moved from the source fund to the destination fund.
Flexi STP
Under the Flexi STP, investors can choose to transfer a variable amount from the source fund to the destination fund as per the market fluctuations.