Professional Documents
Culture Documents
SUBMITTED TO
BY
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that Ms. Swapnali Mohan Jambhale has worked and duly
completed her Project Work for the degree of Bachelor in Commerce
(Accounting and Finance) under the faculty of Commerce in the subject of
Investment Avenues and her project is entitled, “A study on Investment behavior
of Youth towards various investment avenues w.r.t. Thane region.” under my
supervision.
I further certify that the entire work has been done by the learner under my
guidance and that no part of it has been submitted previously for any Degree
or Diploma of any University.
It is her own work and facts reported by her/his personal findings and
investigations.
Date of Submission:
i
DECLARATION BY LEARNER
I the undersigned Miss. Swapnali Mohan Jambhale here by, declare that the
work embodied in this project work titled “A study on Investment behavior of
Youth towards various investment avenues w.r.t. Thane region.” , forms my
own contribution to the research work carried out under the guidance of Prof.
Manoj Shivdas Wagh is a result of my own research work and has not been
previously submitted to any other university for any other Degree/Diploma to
this or any other University.
Wherever reference has been made to previous works of others, it has been
clearly indicated as such and included in the bibliography.
I, here by further declare that all information of this document has been
obtained and presented in accordance with academic rules and ethical conduct.
Certified by:
ii
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
iii
TABLE OF THE CONTENT
CHAPTER PARTICULARS PAGE
NO. NO.
1. TITLE PAGE
2. CERTIFICATE i
3. DECLARATION BY LEARNER ii
4. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT iii
5. INDEX iv-v
1. INTRODUCTION 1-28
iv
1.6.10 Government Schemes
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 29-33
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Objectives
2.3 Hypothesis
2.4 Scope of the Study
2.5 Limitation of the study
2.6 Research Methodology
2.6.1 Universe of Research
2.6.2 Method of Sampling
2.6.3 Sample Size
2.6.4 Method of Data Collection
2.6.4.1 Primary Data
2.6.4.2 Secondary Data
2.7 Method of Data Analysis
3. REVIEW OF LITERATURE 34-39
DATA
5. FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION 60-63
5.1 Findings
5.2 Conclusion
Suggestion 64
BIBLIOGRAPHY 66-68
ANNEXURE
v
LIST OF TABLES AND DIAGRAMS
No.
amongst respondents
invest
respondents
avenues
respondents
vi
11. Table 4.10 shows investment option preferred by 53
respondents table
decision of respondents
respondents
investing
investment by respondent
vii
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
viii
CHAPTER 1 :
INTRODUCTION
1
1.1 Introduction to Investment
A nation’s productive capacity depends on a healthy capital formation. Robust savings rate
coupled with good capital mobilization are the key macro economic variables, which play
a significant role in economic growth. A nation’s savings and investment propensities also
Play a key role in achieving dynamic stability in the capital market. Per capita income in
India has been on the rise since all of the last decade. With growth in the PCI, Savings and
investment in the country too has shown a northbound movement. At the same time, there
has been a phenomenal rise in the youth population. This has made India the youngest
nation with a demographic dividend appearing to be a reality. This young workforce is
expected to drive the engine of growth.
In economics, investment generally held to mean formation of capital. As such, from a
pure economics point of view, the formation of physical assets is important when
considering investment. By virtue of this the word savings and investment come closer in
meaning than traditionally seen. However a slight difference still remains which is that
while saving is simply setting aside funds for future, investment also involves mobilizing
them so that somebody else may use it for productive purposes
In general terms, investment means the use of money in the hope of making more money.
In finance, investment means the purchase of a financial product or other item of value
with an expectation of favorable future returns. Investment is employing money in different
instruments or assets in the present, with the expectation of a positive rate of return in the
future. In other words investment is the sacrifice in the present in the expectation of a future
gain. The future returns are expected to compensate the time the investors hold the asset,
expected rate of inflation and uncertainty of the future.
For most of the individuals throughout their life, they will be earning and spending
money. Rarely individual's current income exactly balances with their consumption
desires. Sometimes, investor may have more money than they want to spend; at other times,
they may want to purchase more than they can afford. This imbalance will lead an
individual either to borrow or to save to maximize the long run benefit from their income.
And these savings will be used for investment for growth .
Investment of hard earned money is a crucial activity of every human being. Investment
1
is the commitment of funds which have been saved from current consumption with hope
that some money will be received in future. Thus it is a reward for waiting for money saving
of the people is invested in assets depending on their risk and return demands.
Investment plays a key role in the developing economies like India. An investment is an
asset or item acquired with the goal of generating income or appreciation. Appreciation
refers to an increase in the value of an asset over time. In simple words Investment is the
employment of funds with the aim of getting return on it.
The Government of India have taken significant initiatives to strengthen the economic
credentials of the country and make it one of the strongest economies in the world. India is
fast becoming home to start-ups focused on high growth areas such as mobility, E-
commerce, and other vertical specific solutions - creating new markets and driving
innovation. Rise in domestic investments has been one of the biggest contributors to the
India growth story and public and private sector have both enabled and sustained these
investments.
Investment objectives are related to what the client wants to achieve with the
investments portfolios. Generally, the objectives are concerned with risk and return,
which are interdependent, as the risk that you are willing to take, will determine your
returns.
For example, if an elderly widow with little income, wants to invest her life’s savings.
She will primarily be concerned with safety and income. Whereas, a young single lawyer,
with a healthy income and relatively few financial obligations will be more interested in
pursuing growth through her investments.
Depending on the life stage and risk appetite of the investor, there are three main
objectives of investment: safety, growth and income. Every investor invests with a specific
objective in mind, and each investment has its own unique set of benefits and risks. So
individual objective Of investment may vary from one person to another.
2
Following are the objectives of Investment
1.2.1 Safety
Capital preservation is one of the primary reasons people invest their money.
Some investment help Keep hard earned money safe from being eroded with time.
While there is no such thing as an absolutely safe and secure investment or one
that is completely risk free. If your primary objective is safety, you will look for
investments that have a minimal risk level. But then, the safest investments tend
to have the lowest rates of return and may not even keep up with inflation.
1.2.2 Growth
1.2.3 Income
3
1.2.4 Tax Exemption
1.2.5 Liquidity
In simple terms, liquidity is the accessibility to your investment. This takes into
account how much time it would take for you to access your investment when you
are in need. The process of such a conversion differs from asset to asset. In the case
of your retirement fund, you will not be able to liquidate the funds without the
necessary paperwork that may be time-consuming.
On the other hand, a fund in the money market is very liquid and can be accessed
through a linked cheque book or can be easily transferred to your designated bank
account. Thus, liquidity is the degree to which a security can be, easily and quickly,
bought or sold without having its price affected. Your liquidity is determined by
how fast your investment can be converted into cash.
1.2.6 Returns
4
1.3 Characteristics of Investment
1.3.3 Safety
Investors expect safety for their capital. They desire certainty of return and
protection of their investment or principal amount. Safety is an important feature
of every investment tool that is analyzed before allocating any fund in it.
1.3.4 Liquidity
5
1.3.5 Stability of Income
Investors invest their capital with high expectation of income. So, return on their
investment should be adequate and stable. Investment serves as an efficient tool for
providing periodic and regular income to people. Earning return in the form of
interest and dividends is one of the important objectives of the investment process.
Investors analyses and invest in those that provide a better rate of return at lower
risk.
1.3.8 Marketability
Marketability refers to the ease with which the investment securities can be
purchased and sold or can be transferred in the market. This feature of investment
tools determines their value as assets with better marketability are preferred more
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by the people looking for the investment.
1.3.10 Legality
Investment securities must be evaluated from legal aspects before selecting them.
Only such securities which are approved by law should be chosen as illegal
securities will land investor in trouble. The best way is to do investment in securities
issued by LIC, UTI, and Post office national saving certificates which are legal and
save investors from various troubles.
7
and leads to economic development of the country.
It enables peoples in availing various tax benefits and saving their incomes. Under
section 80C of income tax act, individuals can save up to a maximum limit of Rs.
1,50,000. Many peoples prefer to go for an investment for taking numerous tax
exemptions.
Investment activities support peoples in attaining their long term financial goals.
Individuals can easily grow their funds by investing their money in long term assets.
It serves mainly the purpose of providing financial stability, growing wealth and
keeping people on track at their retirement by providing them with large funds.
If you don’t invest and grow your money you will actually end up losing
money overtime. This is all thanks to inflation. Inflation is the general increase in
prices that happens every year and the decline in purchasing power of your money.
The rate of inflation can vary widely but historically inflation has averaged to
around 3%. If you invest your money and say, earn a rate of return of 7% on
average, then you will stay way ahead of inflation and will be increase the value
of your money.
Putting money into investments, will work harder than it would be just
sitting in a savings account, and investor will also be benefiting from the magic of
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compounding. There are hundred and one ways to invest and grow your money. If
you are serious about building wealth then you need to create an investing plan
that suits you and your goals.
In order to have enough money to retire you need to make your money work
for your retirement. Like we illustrated above, leaving your money sitting in saving
will actually work against you as it pays low interest. The more you invest the
more you will be able to take advantage of the power of compound interest.
Compound interest is what happens when you are interest start earning interest. In
this way investing will help you to secure your retirement
One can also consider investing to help grow money to meet other financial
goals. For instance investing for your Child’s education fund, investing for your
retirement, investing to purchase a home, car or any luxury item. When you have
a long term goal of Ten or more years it makes sense to invest that money to help
you reach your goal faster. There are many benefits of investing if you want to
create financial stability, grow your wealth and stay on track for retirement you
need to come up with investing plan that suits your needs and goals.
9
1.4.6 The potential for healthy Returns
While saving means setting aside part of today's money for tomorrow,
investing means putting your money to work to potentially earn a better return over
the longer term. Investment provides regular source of income in the form of
dividend, yield and interest. It also results in profit or capital gains.
While cash is undoubtedly safer than shares, it’s unlikely to grow much, or
find opportunities to grow, in the long run. In the past, investor have found rewards
over longer terms with investments that come with the level of capital risk. That
means the risk that you might lose some or all of the amount you initially invested.
Of course, this rewards are not guaranteed. Volatility in the stock market, when
stock prices change rapidly over a short period of time, isn’t necessarily a bad
thing. In fact, volatility can sometimes offer investment managers the opportunity
to buy attractive shares at a cheaper price and get better returns in the long run.
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1.4.9 Invest to fit your financial Circumstances
As your financial circumstances change over time, you can change how you
invest to suit your needs. You can invest lump sum as and when you can, or smaller
regular amount in a monthly investment plans. If you have the money available,
you can start investing straight away. The sooner you invest, the longer your
investment has to grow. Alternatively, investing a regular amount each month can
help iron out fluctuations in market.
A good expense ratio, from the investor's viewpoint, is around 0.5% to 0.75%
for an actively managed portfolio. An expense ratio greater than 1.5% is
considered high. An expense ratio shows how much money is being spent on
administrative costs compared to how much is being invested. So the higher the
expense ratio, the more money is being siphoned off in fees instead of ending up
in your pocket.
Many investors invest their money for tax reduction purpose, but investors do
not have any choice when it comes to capital gain pay-outs. Due to the turnover,
11
redemptions, gains and losses in security holdings throughout the year, investors
typically receive distributions from the fund that are an uncontrollable tax event.
Investment is subjected to many risks since the market is volatile. The shares
of a company fluctuate so many times in just a single day. These price fluctuations
are unpredictable most of the times and the investor sometimes have to face severe
loss due to such uncertainty.
Every time an investor purchase or sells his security; he has to pay some
amount as a brokerage commission to the broker, which kills the profit margin. As
an unavoidable cost, it has an impact on the profits earned by investors. Today, it’s
quite difficult to trade without connecting to a brokerage firm. To ensure service
provision, brokerage firms have to charge fees when it comes to the buying and
selling of financial instruments or assets.
Now-a-days a wide range of investment opportunities are available to the investor. These
are primarily bank deposits, corporate deposits, bonds, units of mutual funds, instruments
under National Savings Schemes, pension plans, insurance policies, equity shares etc. All
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these instruments compete with each other for the attraction of investors. Each instrument
has its own return, risk, liquidity and safety profile. The profiles of households differ
depending upon the income-saving ratio, age of the household’s head, number of
dependents etc. The investors tend to match their needs with the features of the instrument
available for investment. They do have varying degrees of preferences for savings vehicles.
Every investor tends to keep some cash balance and maintain a certain amount in the form
of bank deposit to meet his/her transaction and precautionary needs. In the case of salaried
people, contributions to Employees Provident Fund become compulsory. Life Insurance is
widely preferred to meet situations arising out of untimely deaths of the bread earner.
Besides these needs, the surplus income (savings) awaits investment in alternative financial
assets. Investors have to take decisions relating to their investment in competing assets/
avenues. An investor has a wide array of investment avenues, which may be classified as
below.
➢ Bank Deposits
➢ Equity Shares
➢ Preference Shares
➢ Mutual Funds
➢ Real Estate
➢ Gold Investment
➢ Derivatives
➢ Government Schemes
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1.6.1 Bank Deposits
A deposit is a financial term that means money held at a bank. A deposit is a transaction
involving a transfer of money to another party for safekeeping. A bank deposit in balls the
placement of funds into an account with a bank. Primarily, banks offer two kinds of deposit
accounts. These are demand deposits like current/saving account and term deposits like
fixed or recurring deposits. When you open a deposit account in a bank, you become an
account holder or a depositor. Saving accounts are used to meet daily on-demand
requirements of cash. For example, you hold a saving bank account with the bank having
cheque book facility. Banks offer lower interest rates on saving account as compared to
term deposits. It is because of this reason, investors opt for term deposit accounts. A term
deposit account is used to hold money for a fixed period of time. Banks offer lower interest
rates on saving account as compared to term deposits. It is because of this reason, investors
opt for term deposit accounts. A term deposit account is used to hold money for a fixed
period of time. In return for this the bank page interest on the term deposits.
➢ Advantages:
• Security
• Widespread availability
• Easy access to money
• Earn returns on bank account
• Inculcate habit of saving
• Easy Liquidation
• Loans against Fixed Deposits
• Flexible Tenure
➢ Disadvantages:
• Minimum balance requirement
• Federal Withdrawal limits
• Low interest rates
• Access and availability
• Rates can change
• Inflation
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• Compounded interest
Equity shares are long-term financing sources for any company. These shares are
issued to the general public and are non-redeemable in nature. Investors in such shares
hold the right to vote, share profits and claim assets of a company. The value in c ase of
equity shares can be expressed in various terms like par value, face value, book value
and so on. Equity shares yield the highest returns on total investment in the stock
market. However, it has the highest amount of risks associated as well, which do not
bore well with risk-averse investors. Alternative investment options in the form of debt
instruments can be undertaken by them, which have lower risk burden. However, the
returns generated by these securities tend to be smaller as well, reducing the chances of
substantial capital gains. Equities are more suitable for investors who are willing to take
a risk with their investments. Those who are constrained by the limitations in time or
experience in the money-market can also lean towards equity mutual fund investments
for moderate to high returns. It is, however, crucial for investors to gauge their risk
appetite before investing in the equity market to ensure that they make sound financial
decisions.
➢ Advantages:
• High returns
• Hedge against Inflation
• Ease of Investment
• Diversification of investment Portfolio
• Dividend
• Capital Gain
• Limited Liability
• Exercise Control
• Claim over Assets and Liability
• Claim over Assets and Income
• Right Shares and Bonus Shares
15
• Liquidity
➢ Disadvantages:
• High Market Risk
• Performance related Risk
• Risk of Inflation
• Liquidity Risk
• Risk arising out of Political Changes
• Risk due to Social Changes
• Fluctuations in Market Price
• Limited Control
• Residual Claim
• High Cost
Preference shares also commonly known as preferred stock, is a special type of share
where dividends are paid to shareholders prior to the issuance of common stock
dividends. Ergo, preference share holders hold preferential rights over common
shareholders when it comes to sharing profits. Consequently, if a company lands into
bankruptcy, preference shareholders are issued dividends first or have the first right to
the company’s assets before common stock investors. For preference shareholders, the
dividend is fixed however, they don’t hold voting rights as opposed to common
shareholders. Investors who have been in the stock market for longer than most go after
preference share types. The dividends earned on these shares are significantly higher
than ordinary shares. Their popularity can be established by the fact that
many preference shareholders do not own any other stock except for this variety. Over
the last few years, as the bear market run continues globally, more investors are looking
16
towards preference shares as a viable means of gaining significant returns in the long
run.
➢ Advantages:
• Appeal to cautious Investors
• Dividends are paid first to preference shareholders
• Preference shareholders have a prior claim on business assets.
• Add-on Benefits for Investors
• Higher and Fixed rate of dividend
• Potential premium from callable shares
• Ability to convert preferred stock to common stock
➢ Disadvantages:
• No voting Rights
• No legal obligation for Dividend
• No charge on assets
• Low returns
• Fear of redemption
• Interest rate risk
• Risk of Corporate Insolvency
• Liquidation Risk
A Mutual Fund is a common pool of money into which investors invest the money with
common investment objective in accordance with stated investment objective. It is not
an alternative investment option to shares and bonds rather it pulls the savings of
investors and invest this money in various investment avenues. So it serves as a link
17
between investors and securities. Mutual fund a systematic investment plan which works
as a collective investment vehicle. Mutual funds are an excellent investment option for
individual investors to get exposure to expert managed portfolios. Also, one can diversify
their portfolio by investing in mutual funds as the asset allocation would cover several
instruments. Investors would be allocated with fund units based on the amount they spend.
Each investor would hence experience profits or losses that are proportional to their
investment. The main intention of the fund manager is to provide optimum returns to
investors by investing in securities that are in sync with the fund’s objectives.
The performance of mutual funds is dependent on the underlying assets.
➢ Advantages:
• Simple to Invest
• Professionally Managed
• Offers Diversification
• Conveniently Administrated
• Gives Higher Returns
• Low cost management
• Offers Liquidity
• Provides Transparency
• Highly regulated
• Small Ticket Size
➢ Disadvantages:
• Mutual Funds are subject to market risk
• No guarantee returns
• Diversification may not maximize returns
• Selecting right financial security is not easy
• Cost management not proportional to performance
• Unethical practices may creep in
• Hidden or 12b-1 fees of Mutual fund
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1.6.5 Bonds and Debentures
➢ Disadvantages:
• Interest risk
• Prepayment risk
• Credit risk
• Reinvestment risk
19
• Liquidity risk
1.6.5.2 Debentures: A debenture is another form of debt fund which is generally unsecured
in nature. Both the bonds and debentures are fundraisers but debentures are more specific
in nature. Debentures are not backed by any of the assets of the issuer hence depends only
on the faith factors of the investor on the issuer. Debentures are issued by the issuer for
any specific need such as upcoming expenses or to pay for expansions. The capital raised
here is borrowed capital hence the debenture holders are treated as creditors of the
company.
➢ Advantages:
• Fixed and regular source of income
• Stable prices
• Secured investment
• Floating charge on assets
• Superior creditors in the event of liquidation
• Definite maturity.
• More liquid
➢ Disadvantages:
• Don’t carry any voting right
• No claim on asset and profit
• Interest is taxable
• Market price fluctuations
• Uncertainty about Redemption
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not take place. In other words, our life and property are not safe and there is always a
risk of losing it. A simple way to cover this risk of loss money-wise is to get life and
property insured.
Life insurance and general insurance are two different forms of insurances. General
insurance covers any other risk except for life-risk of the person injured. Life Insurance
covers only the life-risk of the person insured. Life insurance gives a pay-out in case
the policyholder dies, whereas in case of a general insurance, pay-outs is made in the
event of an unexpected loss such as an accident or a theft or a sudden liability. Life
insurance is a long-term contract and requires you to pay the premiums in monthly
instalments.
➢ Advantages:
• Income guaranteed through annuities
• Dividend enable growth
• Risk guard
• Text benefit
• Mortgage Recovery
• Perfect cover for your family
• Can provide peace of mind
• Eliminate dependency
21
➢ Disadvantages:
• Inconsistent Premiums
• Deduction of funds
• Insufficient Funds
• Expiration of term insurance
• Language of premium
➢ Disadvantages:
• Slow payment of claims
• Adds expense
• Can be expensive
• Does not compensate all type of losses
• Lengthy legal formalities for compensation
• Higher Premiums
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1.6.7 Real Estate
Real estate sector is one of the most globally recognized sectors. It comprises of four
sub sectors - housing, retail, hospitality, and commercial. The growth of this sector is well
complemented by the growth in the corporate environment and the demand for office space
as well as urban and semi-urban accommodations. The construction industry ranks third
among the 14 major sectors in terms of direct, indirect and induced effects in all sectors of
the economy. Real estate investing involves the purchase, ownership, management, rental
and/or sale of real estate for profit. Improvement of realty property as part of a real
estate investment strategy is generally considered to be a sub-specialty of real estate
investing called real estate development. Real estate is an asset form with
limited liquidity relative to other investments (such as stocks or bonds that openly trade
on financial markets). It is also capital intensive (although capital may be gained
through mortgage leverage) and is highly cash flow dependent. A real estate entrepreneur
or a real estate investor to a lesser extent is someone who actively or passively invests in
real estate. An active investor may buy a property, make repairs and/or improvements to
the property, and sell it later for a profit.
➢ Advantages:
• Real Estate can be easier to understand
• Real Estate is improvable
• Real Estate is a hedge against inflation
• Real Estate properties exist in an inefficient market
• Real Estate can be financed and leveraged
• Saves Income Tax
• Instantaneous dual Income
• Allows Diversification of assets
➢ Disadvantages:
• Higher transaction cost
• Low liquidity
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• Requires management and maintenance
• Significant Inefficiencies in market
• Created Liability
• Capital gain tax is applicable
➢ Advantages:
• Hedge against inflation
• Liquidity
• Diversification
• Holds its value over a long period of time
• Most desired commodity
• Can avail loan
➢ Disadvantages:
• Gold is not a passive investment
• Gold is difficult to store
• Price correction can lead to losses
• No steady income
• Gold Jewellery
• Price set by international market
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1.6.9 Derivatives
Derivatives are secondary securities whose value is solely based (derived) on the value of
the primary security that they are linked to–called the underlying. Typically, derivatives
are considered advanced investing.
There are two classes of derivative products: "lock" and "option." Lock products (e.g.
swaps, futures, or forwards) bind the respective parties from the outset to the agreed-upon
terms over the life of the contract. Option products (e.g. stock options), on the other hand,
offer the holder the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell the underlying asset or
security at a specific price on or before the option's expiration date. While a derivative's
value is based on an asset, ownership of a derivative doesn't mean ownership of the asset.
Futures contracts, forward contracts, options, swaps, and warrants are commonly used
derivatives.
➢ Advantages
• Lock in price
• Hedging risk exposure
• Underlying asset price determination
• Market efficiency
• Access to unavailable assets
➢ Disadvantages
• High risk
• Speculative Features
• Counter party risk
• Under lying asset price determination
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1.6.10 Government Schemes
There are various schemes launched by the Government of India that help in
strengthening the financial stability of the people. These government schemes
initiates saving and investment habit among individuals. All these schemes are
known for their long-term benefits, attractive interest rates and tax
exemption. Mentioned below are the top seven government schemes that are best
suited for the citizens of India:
26
the returns earned from this scheme are fully exempted from tax. In this
scheme, the investor can claim a tax deduction up to Rs 1.5 lakh under section
80C of the Income Tax Act.
27
per the norms of the bank. In addition to this, overdraft facility is allowed to
the investor after satisfactory operation of the account for 6 months.
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CHAPTER 2 :
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
29
Research Methodology
2.1 Introduction:
Investment is the cost of certain present value for the uncertain future reward in
other words investment refers to assurance of funds to one or more assets that will be held
over some future time period anything not used today but saved For future use can be
termed as investment. One also needs to understand that investment is not gambling,
gambling is putting money at risk by betting on uncertain outcome with the hope that you
might win money. It requires arriving at number of decisions such as type, mix, amount,
timing, grade etc. of investments and disinvestments. Moreover, such decision making has
not only to be continuous but rational too. An investment decision is a trade-off between
risk and return. All investment decisions are made at a point of time in accordance with the
personal investment ends and in thought of uncertain future.
Today when a number of Government and non government investment options
are available at the doorstep of the investors, attitude of investor towards an investment an
avenue influences the investing decision of the investor. Investors in today's scenario are
mostly driven by the lucrative returns of the various investing avenues and the
attractiveness that it holds besides the basic aim of the investor to invest. It is of great
significance to understand what an investor think, perceive and act so that the avenues can
be accepted as per the investing requirement and it further helps to establish a fruitful return
in the future as per the goal of the investor. An investor shows positive attitude for the
avenues whose return are closer to the investor’s goals.
2.2 Objectives:
• To understand Investment behavior of youth towards various Investment avenues.
• To study the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used investment avenues.
• To analyze the factor that influence investment behavior of people.
• To identify the most preferred investment option.
30
2.3 Hypothesis:
1. H0: There is no significant relationships between Investor’s demographic
profile and choice of investment avenues.
31
2.6 Research Methodology:
Research may be broadly defined as a systematic gathering of data and information
and its analysis for advancement of knowledge in any subject. Research attempts to find
answer of intellectual and practical questions through application of systematic methods.
Research methodology is a way to systematically solve the research problem it may be
understood as a science of studying how research is done scientifically. It is necessary for
the researcher to know not only the research methods/techniques but also the methodology.
The logic behind taking research methodology into consideration is that one can have
knowledge about the method and procedure adopted for achievement of objectives of the
project. With the adoption of this others can evaluate the results also. Its main aim is to
keep the researchers on the right track. This study is conducted to understand various
investment avenues available in market and behavior of youngsters course this commonly
used investment avenues. , For research work, primary as well as secondary data was
collected. A structured question year was used to collect data from respondents. A
questionnaire was developed for the study and analysis of investment behavior. Secondary
data was collected from books, research papers, articles published in Journal and literature
from websites.
2.6.1 Universe of Research
The research universe was Thane and Mumbai city. The response were collected
from young people.
2.6.2 Method of Sampling
Simple random sampling has been used as a method of sampling. Simple random
sampling is a sampling technique where every item in the population has an even chance
and likelihood of being selected in the sample. Here the selection of items completely
depends on chance or by probability and therefore this sampling technique is also
sometimes known as a method of chances.
2.6.3 Sample Size
Keeping in mind all the constraints the size of the sample of my study was selected
as 100. The sample size was classified on the basis of age, gender, education qualification,
occupation of the respondents.
32
2.6.4 Method of Data Collection
Data plays an important role in research. Data forms the basis of the study. It
provides The facts and figures or information which is collected systematically in order to
draw conclusion or answer to particular problem. Data was collected by using two methods
i.e. Primary Data and Secondary Data.
2.6.4.1 Primary Data:
There are number of sources of primary data from which the information can be
collected. I choose the following resources for my research.
Questionnaire: I have done my research by using a set of some simple questions and
requested the respondents to answer these Questions with correct information. The
questionnaire was prepared by using Survey Heart mobile application. This
questionnaire was send to the respondents through various social networking
applications such as WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram, Gmail etc.
2.6.4.2 Secondary Data:
Secondary data relevant to the study is gathered from books, research papers,
articles published in Journal and literature from websites. The secondary data
collected is aimed for the reference purpose.
2.7 Method of data analysis
The data analyzing techniques used were bar graphs, pie charts, percentage method
and column method. The data collected from primary source is represented by using bar
diagrams, graphs, pie charts, etc.
33
CHAPTER 3:
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
34
3.1 Review of Literature Research Papers
Prof. Dr. Vinita Pimpale (2015)
In their research paper on Investment Pattern of youth in India with particular
reference to Mumbai. She had studied preference of youth towards investment
options. Study shown that youngster are shifting from traditional investment
options like Fixed Deposit and Post Office schemes, as they don’t want to block
their funds and want more returns. Tax saving is one of the reason behind
investment by youth. Mutual Funds in the form of Systematic Investment Plan
(SIP) are opted by the youth. Youngsters are learning from social media platforms
such as Facebook, Twitter, linkdin etc.
35
Mahalakshmi Kumar, Dr. Rajesh Mankani (2017)
In their research “A study of level of awareness regarding Investment Avenues
among educated working women with special reference to Mumbai city.” The
researchers have studied women’s awareness about investment avenues. The study
shown that educated women are aware about investment avenues. Education plays
a key role in building habit of earning, saving and investing. Education also
empower women to be financially independent and to make their own decisions.
36
prefer to invest in public sector for safety. But least preference has been given to
Government Securities, Bonds, Debentures and Forex Market.
37
Ms. Priya Kansal, Dr. Seema Singh
“Investment behaviour of Indian investors: Gender Biasness.” In their research
they have explored that women’s role in society changing from last decades.
Nowadays women are also taking financial decisions as man do. Researches found
that women’s decision is not different than men’s decision. Due to increased
educational qualification level many changes has occurred in the investment
activities of both women and men.
38
Investment perspective changes in accordance with time and economic
development. At that time mutual funds are preferred by the people who are ready
to take risk. Risk averse people who want safety invest in fixed deposits.
Ishwara P (2014)
“Investment behaviour and satisfaction of salaried employees : A study with
reference to selected employees in Mangalore city.” The research is conducted to
study investment behavior of salaried class employee and to measure and to assess
satisfaction level of salaried class employees towards various investment avenues.
It is found that most of the respondents are satisfied towards their investment in
physical asset. Respondents are list satisfied towards marketable securities. It is
suggested to organize financial literacy campaign to spread awareness amongst
jpeople.
Review of Thesis:
Subhashish Mandal (2016-18)
“A study on Indian investors investments and analysis of their
behaviour on various investment avenues in India”
The purpose of the analysis was to determine the investment behaviour
of investors and investment preference for the same. it is an attempt to know
the profile of the investor and to know the characteristics of the investors. The
study also focuses on unraveling the influence of demographic factors like age
on risk tolerance level of the investor. Researcher observed that people in rural
area are happy with traditional investment, their risk tolerance is low so they
have fear and myths about capital market. Overall study shown that people are
conservative about their investment.
39
CHAPTER 4 :
ANALYSIS AND
INTERPRETATION OF DATA
40
Analysis And Interpretation of Data
Data analysis and interpretation is the process of assigning meaning to the collected
information and determining the conclusions, significance, and implications of the
findings. The steps involved in data analysis are a function of the type of information
collected, however, returning to the purpose of the assessment and the assessment
questions will provide a structure for the organization of the data and a focus for the
analysis.
Data analysis is the most crucial part of any research. Data analysis summarizes
collected data. It involves the interpretation of data gathered through the use of analytical
and logical reasoning to determine patterns, relationships or trends.
In this chapter. The data collected were systemically processed, tabulated and
made suitable for analysis and interpretations, it was a study on Investment behavior of
youth towards various investment avenues w.r.t. Thane region through data collected by
questionnaire. The results obtained were classified, tabulated and the following analysis
were performed in fulfilling the objectives of the study.
41
1. Age wise Analysis
Frequency
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Below 20 Between 20-30 Between 30-40 Above 40
Frequency
Interpretation: The above table represents age wise analysis maximum responses
were from the age group 20 to 30. Thereafter maximum responses were from age group
below 20. As the study was conducted to analyze the behavior of youngsters towards
investment. The more responses are collected from young people.
42
2. Gender wise Analysis
Table 4.2 Gender of the respondent
Gender Frequency Percentage
Female 68 68%
Male 30 30%
Prefer not to say 2 2%
Total 100 100%
Frequency
Interpretation: As the table shows that 60% respondents were female and 30%
respondents were male out of total 100 respondents. We can say that females are
more aware about investment avenues.
43
3. Education wise classification of respondents
Frequency
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Under Graduate Graduate Post Graduate
Frequency
Interpretation: The above table shows the education wise qualification of the
respondents. respondents included undergraduate graduate and postgraduate
respondents. The survey included 83% undergraduate, 14% Graduate and 3%
respondents are postgraduate out of total 100 respondents.
44
4. Occupation wise analysis
Frequency
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Salaried Housewife Student Prefer not to say
Frequency
Interpretation: This table indicates that majority of the respondents belongs to the
student category that is 72% while 23% of the respondents are from salaried category.
2% respondents are housewives and 3% respondent prefer not to say their occupation.
45
5. Income wise analysis
Frequency
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Below ₹200000 Between ₹200000- Between ₹400000- Above ₹ 600000 Prefer not to say
₹400000 600000
Frequency
46
6. Do you know about Investment?
Frequency
Yes No
Interpretation: The above table denotes that 85% of the respondents are aware about
investment that is the know about investment. And only 15% respondents don’t know
about investment so we can say that respondents are aware about investment.
47
7. Do you Invest?
Respondents
Yes No
Interpretation: The above table shows the number of respondents who invest their
income. Majority of the respondents haven’t invest yet, as most of the respondents are
students and not earning until now. 38% of the respondents invest their income.
48
8. What describe your investment experience?
Frequency
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Beginning Moderate Knowledgeable Experienced No answer
Frequency
49
9. Are you aware of the following Investment avenues?
20.00%
Frequency
10.00%
0.00%
Frequency
Interpretation: This table shows the awareness among the respondents about various
investment avenues. Respondents are more aware about bank deposit that is 17.65%.
13.49% awareness is about life insurance. Respondents are also aware about Mutual
Fund, Gold Investment, Real Estate, Equity shares and Government Schemes upto
11.76%, 11.53%, 10.12%, 9% and 9% respectively. Respondents are also having idea
about Preferences Shares, Bonds and debentures. There is less awareness about
derivatives among respondents.
50
10. What do you think are the Best options for investing your money?
Frequency
25.00%
20.00%
15.00%
10.00%
5.00%
0.00%
Frequency
51
11. In which sector do you prefer to invest your money?
Frequency
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Private Sector Government Sector Public Sector Foreign Sector Prefer not to say
Frequency
Interpretation: The above table denotes sector preferred by respondents for investing.
The first preference is given to government sector as people thought it is reliable to
invest in government sector. Respondent also prefer to invest in Private and Public
Sector. Less preference is given to Foreign Sector for investment purpose.
52
12. What are the important factor guiding your investment decisions?
Frequency
45.00%
40.00%
35.00%
30.00%
25.00%
20.00%
15.00%
10.00%
5.00%
0.00%
Returns Safety of Principal Diversification Progressive Values
Frequency
Interpretation: The above table shows factor which guide the investment decision of
respondent. Returns and Safety of Principal are the two important factors guiding
investment decision. Diversification and Progressive Values are also considered while
investing.
53
13. What is your Investment Objective?
Frequency
50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
Income & Capital Long Term Growth Growth & Income Short Term Growth Prefer not to say
Preservation
Frequency
Interpretation: The above table represents the objective of the respondent behind
investment. Long term growth and Growth and Income are the main objectives behind
investment. Income and Capital Preservation can also be the objective for the
investment. Some respondent may prefer to invest for short term growth purpose.
54
14. What is the purpose behind your investment?
Frequency
40.00%
35.00%
30.00%
25.00%
20.00%
15.00%
10.00%
5.00%
0.00%
Wealth Creation Tax Saving Earn Returns Future Expenses
Frequency
Interpretation: Above table represent the purpose behind investment. There are
different purposes behind Investment. Earning Returns and Future Expenses are the
main purpose behind investment followed by Wealth Creation. Some respondent also
prefer to invest money for tax saving purpose.
55
15. Which factor do you consider before Investing?
Frequency
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Safety of Principal Low risk High Returns Maturity Period
Frequency
56
16. What time period do you prefer to Invest?
Frequency
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
Short Term (0-1 Yr.) Medium Term (1-5 Yr.) Long Term (More than 5 Yr.)
Frequency
Interpretation: This table represents time frame they have in mind while investing. most
of the respondents like to invest for medium term that is from one to 5 years. Respondent
are also ready to invest for long term that is more than 5 years and short term that is less
than one year.
57
17. What percentage of your Income do you Invest or will invest in future?
Frequency
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
0-15% 15%-30% 30%-50% More than 50% Prefer not to say
Frequency
Interpretation: The above table shows the part of income respondents are ready to invest.
53% responded ready to invest their 15% to 30% income. Whereas 29% people are willing
to invest 0 to 15% of their Income. And other 6% people are going to invest 30% to 50%
and 50% and above of their income.
58
18. What is your source of getting information regarding Investment Avenues?
Frequency
80
60
40
20
0
Frequency
Interpretation: The above table indicate that Internet is a main source of getting
information regarding investment avenues. Family and Friends also provide the
information regarding investment options. News Paper, News Channels and Financial
Advisors are also play a major role in providing information regarding this investment
vehicles. Respondents are also collecting information from Books, Magazines and
Certified Market Professionals.
59
.
CHAPTER 5 :
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION
60
5.1 Findings
The findings of the research study are summarized below:
• Majority of the respondents (72%) are in the age group of 20 - 30 years and 25%
of the respondents are in the age group of below 20 years.
• It is found that majority of the respondents were female that is 68% and the
remaining were Male.
• It is found that almost all of the respondents are educated.. Majority of the
respondents (83%) are undergraduate. 14% respondents are graduate.
• Most of the respondents (72%) were students. 23% of the respondents are salaried
people.
• Most of the respondents were falling in the income category of below ₹2,00,000
per annum and 15% respondents were from income category of ₹2,00,000 to
₹4,00,000.
• It is observed that almost 85% respondents know about investment.
• It is found that 38% respondents invest their income, whereas 62% respondents
don’t.
• It is observed that 25% respondents are having knowledge about investment and
4% respondents are experienced.
• It is found that respondents are more aware about Bank Deposit (17.65%) as it is a
common mean of saving and investment. Respondents are also aware about Life
Insurance and General Insurance 13.41%. Respondents are having idea about
Mutual Fund, Gold Investment, Real Estate, Equity Shares and Government
Schemes. There is less awareness about Bonds, Debentures and Derivatives.
• The majority of the respondents had chosen Bank Deposit with 19.78% as their
preference for investment. The second place was occupied by Gold Investment with
18.32% followed by Real Estate (13.55%), Mutual Fund (12.45%) and Life
Insurance and General Insurance (11.72%). Sixth, Seventh and Eighth place was
occupied by Government Schemes, Equity Shares, Preference Shares with 8.06%,
7.33% and 5.49% respectively. The least preference was given to Bond, Debentures
and Derivatives with 2.56% and 0.73% respectively.
61
• Most of the respondents are preferred to invest in government sector followed by
private sector.
• For majority of the respondents returns and safety of principal are the main factor
guiding investment decision.
• Diversification and progressive value is also considered while taking investment
decisions.
• For majority of the respondents long term growth and income are the main
objectives behind investment.
• Majority of the respondents invest to earn returns and for future expenses followed
by wealth creation.
• Most of the respondents are ready to invest for Medium term (58%) that is from 1
to 5 years.
• It is observed that most of the respondents are ready to invest 15% to 30% of their
income.
• It is found that Internet is the main source of getting information about investment
avenues. Respondents also get to know about investment from family and friends,
newspapers and news channels.
62
5.2 Conclusion
It is concluded from the study that most of the respondents are young
that is from 20 to 30 years and below 20 years of age group. Majority of the
respondents are female and belongs to student category. Respondents are
educated and are aware about investment, they are ready to invest in future.
Majority of the respondents are from income group of below ₹2,00,000 and
₹2,00,000 to ₹4,00,000. Respondents are beginners for the investment.
Returns and Safety of Principal are the main factors guiding investment
decisions. Majority of the respondents prefer to invest in Government Sector.
Respondents are ready to invest 15% to 30% of their income. Respondent
willing to invest for medium term. Bank Deposit are more preferred by
Respondents for investment as there is more awareness about bank deposits.
Respondents are also aware about Life Insurance and General Insurance, Gold
Investment, Mutual Funds, Real Estate, Equity Shares and Government
Schemes. Second preference is given to Gold and Real Estate for investment
followed by Mutual Fund and Equity Shares. There is less awareness about
Bonds, Derivatives and Debentures. It can be concluded that respondents are
more aware about commonly used investment avenues. Internet, Friends and
family are the main source of getting information about investment avenues.
63
SUGGESTIONS
➢ The companies should organize the programs for inspiration of males as well as
females it will help accordingly or vice versa to their investment.
➢ Age is also one of the important factors to induce the investor towards their
preferences as the youth concern here so, youth should be developed mentally by
providing the right information about the market rates and the return on their
preferences.
➢ Help to boost the morale of the other age groups too this will help to the other age
groups to take part in the said preferences of youth in financial markets.
➢ Provide the information about the market situation via posters, news, advertisements,
programs and related conferences and seminars related to the present issue.
➢ Invest in that very time when the market rates are low in the related avenues like real
estate and gold and so on.
64
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• Taxwizely.in
• Facebook.com
• Groww.in
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65
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gold/amp_articleshow/63799520.cms
66
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disadvantages-of-investing-in-gold
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67
ANNEXURE
1. Name: ------
2. Age:
o Below 20 Years
o Between 20-30 Years
o Between 30-40 Years
o Above 40 Years
3. Gender:
o Female
o Male
o Prefer not to say
4. Qualification:
o Under Graduate
o Graduate
o Post Graduate
o Masters
o Others
5. Occupation:
o Salaried
o Business
o Housewife
o Student
o Professional
o Others
68
6. Annual Income
o Below ₹200000
o ₹200000-₹400000
o ₹400000-₹600000
o Above ₹600000
o Prefer not to say
8. Do you Invest?
o Yes
o No
69
o Derivatives
o Government Schemes
11. What do you think are the best options for Investing your money?
o Bank Deposits
o Equity Shares
o Preference Shares
o Mutual Fund
o Bonds & Debentures
o Life Insurance & General Insurance
o Real Estate
o Gold Investment
o Derivatives
o Government Schemes
13. What are the important factor guiding your Investment Decision?
o Returns
o Safety of Principal
o Diversification
o Progressive Values
70
o Growth & Income
o Short Term Growth
o Prefer not to say
18. What percentage of your income do you invest or ready to invest in future?
o 0-15%
o 15%-30%
o 30%-50%
o More than 50%
o Prefer not to say
71
19. What is your source of getting information?
o News Papers
o Internet
o News Channels
o Family & Friends
o Books
o Magazines
o Financial Advisors
o Certified Market Professionals
72