Posts Tagged: ‘smile’

How you can make your investments SMILE

January 15, 2012 Posted by admin

Are you dynamic? Or are you safe? Are you one of those aggressive investors who like to try out the fast moving stocks even if it means taking a lot of risk? Or would you rather be the conventional investor picking only select stocks that display a predictable behavior? Or maybe a bit of both – playing by the ear – one who takes measured, calculated risks? If so, then the Small-and-Medium-Indian-Leading-Equities (SMILE) that was launched in February 2005 by Sundaram BNP Paribas Mutual Fund could be tailor-made just for you.

Sadly at that point of time, stock prices as well the Sensex & Nifty were high and there was plenty of scepticism in the markets about the impending bear phase. This is October 2009 and now that we have left the bears behind us, (as we can safely say) and with the Sensex crossing the 17,000 Level and also from the macro economic point of view, the general faith in the economy and the markets has been substantially restored. The pumping in of funds by the FIIs and a good & stable functional government have worked towards bringing in adequate liquidity in the financial system which in turn has enhanced the level of optimism in the Indian market as also in all the Global markets which bottomed out together around February-March, this year.

It has been a noticeable trend in the recent past that Mid Cap and Small Cap stocks tend to outperform the Large Caps in the longer term. It is because of this reason that SMILE intends to have Mid and Small Caps as its strategic focus with a cushion of 35% on Large Cap stocks.

Key Features of the Scheme

  • Aggressively managed multipurpose fund
  • Capital appreciation by active, sector, trading & cash calls
  • Focus on Mid Cap & Small Cap with a cushion of 35% in large cap stocks
  • CNX Mid Cap Index Bench mark adopted for comparing with standard returns
  • Capital curve bias towards Mid Cap & Small Cap (together minimum 65%) and Large Cap stocks (maximum 35%)

While the aggressive approach of the fund involves higher risk, its primary focus on dynamic stocks would also lead to returns that far exceed the standard benchmark.

The important feature of this portfolio is that its investments in Large Cap stocks is flexible up to 35%, acting as a safeguard against the risk due to volatile market conditions.

The SMILE portfolio is an opportunity to investors to invest in Mid Cap & Small Cap stocks while at the same time providing a stable Large Cap exposure of 35%. So go ahead, seize your chance to SMILE!

 

Paramita Banerjee is an Investment Banker based in India and shares her ideas and experience through her articles.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/investing-articles/how-you-can-make-your-investments-smile-1603020.html

Buying Cigars as a Gift

June 30, 2010 Posted by admin

Is there a cigar aficionado on your gift list?  Wondering how to choose a decent cigar for a friend or loved one?  Even if you know nothing about cigars or choosing a good cigar, just learning a few basics can help you sniff out (sometimes literally) a good cigar to give to a friend.  

Fortunately, cigars have now entered the mainstream.  Once the symbol of the rich and powerful, it’s easier than ever for just about anyone to purchase a good cigar.  Of course, you probably won’t be able to buy your friend a box of top-tier Cuban cigars, but you can definitely buy them a good quality cigar that will put a smile on their face.  

First, visit your local tobacconist or specialty smoke shop for the best quality and widest selection.  Avoid ‘drugstore’ cigars.  Although they may be inexpensive and convenient to purchase, drugstore cigars are usually filled with preservatives and generally of poorer quality.  They may contain, at minimum, saltpeter, paper, glycerin, and other preservatives and irritants.  You should make sure that the cigars you purchase are made of 100% tobacco.  If you have any questions regarding the cigars ingredients, ask the salesperson.  An experienced and knowledgeable sales clerk will be able to tell you extensive information about the ingredients.  

Your local tobacco shop is a good place to shop because you will generally be allowed to smell and touch the cigars.  Squeeze the cigar gently.  A good quality cigar will give a little when squeezed.  The cigar should be firm, with no excessively soft or hard spots.  Never buy a lumpy cigar. Look at the wrapper.  If you notice any drying or discoloration, best not to buy it.  Ideally, the wrapper should be tight and smooth.  Inspect the color of the tobacco to make sure it is even.  Do this by inspecting the end of the cigar.  Some color variation is normal, but if the color changes abruptly, chances are the cigar was not rolled properly.  A cigar that is not rolled properly may result in an uneven burning and unpleasant odors.  

If you’re not sure how much your friend smokes, choose a longer cigar.  Longer cigars tend to have a ‘cooler’ taste-an excellent choice for beginners. If you know your friend is an experienced and regular smoker, choose a cigar that is greater in diameter.  These cigars tend to have a richer flavor that experienced smokers will appreciate.

To learn about lipstick plant, river birch tree and other information, visit the Gardening Central website.