How to start ETF investing: A beginner¡¯s step-by-step guide

Exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have gained significant popularity in recent years, especially in India. As a beginner, starting ETF investing can seem overwhelming, but with the right knowledge and approach, you can confidently enter this lucrative investment avenue. An Exchange Traded Fund is an investment vehicle that pools money from various investors to invest in a diversified portfolio of assets, such as stocks, bonds, or commodities, with the goal of mimicking the performance of a specific index.

This step-by-step guide will help you understand how to start ETF investing effectively.

What is an ETF?

Before you begin investing in ETFs, it¡¯s important to understand what they are. An ETF is a type of investment fund that is traded on a stock exchange, just like a stock. These funds hold a collection of securities, such as stocks or bonds, and track an underlying index. The key benefit of investing in an ETF is that it provides diversification, allowing you to invest in multiple assets with a single purchase.

Most ETFs are passively managed, which means they track a specific index (like the Nifty 50 or the Sensex) rather than trying to outperform it. This feature makes them an excellent choice for beginner investors looking for a low-cost, diversified option.

Steps to Start ETF Investing

Starting ETF investing is easy if you follow these simple steps. From opening a demat account online to choosing the right ETFs, here's a quick guide to help you begin:

Step 1: Open a Demat Account Online

The first step in ETF investing is to open demat account online. A demat account is essential for holding and trading your ETF units electronically. To open a demat account, you¡¯ll need to provide necessary documents, such as proof of identity and address. Most brokers or financial institutions in India offer the facility to open a demat account online, which makes it incredibly convenient. Along with the demat account, you¡¯ll also need a trading account, which allows you to buy and sell ETFs on the stock exchange. Once your account is set up, you¡¯re ready to start investing in ETFs.

Step 2: Choose the Right ETF

When selecting an ETF, it¡¯s essential to understand the different types available. Broadly, ETFs can be categorised into the following:

Equity ETFs: These ETFs track the performance of an equity index, such as the Nifty 50, and give you exposure to a wide range of stocks.

Debt ETFs: These ETFs invest in fixed-income securities like government bonds, corporate bonds, and other debt instruments.

Gold ETFs: These ETFs track the price of gold, offering exposure to the commodity without physically owning it.

International ETFs: These ETFs track global indices, allowing you to invest in foreign markets.

Depending on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon, you can choose an ETF that aligns with your objectives. For example, if you're a conservative investor looking for stability, debt ETFs may be more suitable. If you seek long-term growth, equity ETFs might be ideal.

Step 3: Research and Analyse the ETF

Once you've identified the type of ETF you wish to invest in, it¡¯s crucial to conduct thorough research. Here are a few factors to consider:

Expense Ratio: ETFs typically have lower fees compared to mutual funds. However, the expense ratio can vary from one ETF to another. Look for an ETF with a low expense ratio to minimise costs.

Trading Volume: The liquidity of an ETF is crucial for ease of buying and selling. ETFs with higher trading volumes tend to have narrower bid-ask spreads, making them easier to trade.

Tracking Error: This refers to how closely an ETF tracks its underlying index. A low tracking error means the ETF closely mimics the performance of the index, which is a good sign of efficiency.

Take time to compare different ETFs in the same category to determine the best fit for your investment strategy.

Step 4: Start Small and Diversify

As a beginner, it¡¯s advisable to start with a small investment in ETFs and gradually increase your exposure. Diversification is one of the key advantages of investing in ETFs, as they allow you to gain exposure to a range of securities with a single investment. Rather than investing all your money in one ETF, consider spreading it across different ETFs in various sectors or asset classes. This approach helps to reduce risk while maximising potential returns.

Step 5: Monitor Your Investment

After you start investing in ETFs, it¡¯s important to monitor your portfolio regularly. Even though ETFs are passively managed, it's still a good idea to track their performance to ensure they align with your financial goals. The stock market is dynamic, and sometimes, it might be necessary to make adjustments based on market trends or changes in your personal financial situation.

Remember that investing in ETFs, like any other investment, involves risks. However, their low cost, diversification, and liquidity make them an attractive choice for many investors, especially those who are just starting.

Additionally, if you are also considering other fixed-income investment options alongside ETFs, using an FD Calculator can help you evaluate the returns on fixed deposits and plan your investments accordingly. This way, you can create a balanced portfolio that suits both your risk appetite and financial objectives.

Step 6: Buy ETFs Using a Stocks App

Once you¡¯ve selected the ETF, you can place an order through your broker¡¯s stocks app or trading platform. These apps allow you to buy and sell ETFs conveniently from your mobile phone or computer. Most apps provide real-time data and allow you to track the performance of your ETF portfolio. It's essential to choose an app that is user-friendly and offers low transaction fees.

Conclusion

To sum up, ETF investing offers an excellent opportunity for beginners to build a diversified portfolio with low costs and minimal effort. By following these simple steps¡ªopening a demat account, choosing the right ETF, starting small, and monitoring your investments¡ªyou can achieve your financial goals confidently.

Start your ETF investment journey today by opening a demat account online with HDFC Sky. With easy access to diverse ETFs and the right tools, you'll be well on your way to building a strong and diversified portfolio.