“I often come across...ad-hoc investment made at year end to avail tax benefit, often under pressure from employers to submit proof of same. The same could have been initiated at the beginning of the financial year when enough funds were available,” said Chhabria. As per provisions, although the gains till 31 January 2018 are protected, the Budget’s provisions would apply only from 1 April 2018. Apart from the thrill of seeing some money in their bank accounts occasionally, dividends from equity funds were also tax-free so far. “If there is no need for income and the investment is for the long haul then growth works best,” he said.

Source: Mint February 28, 2018 13:18 UTC