Amidst Corona virus Epidemic: Know the Impact on Financial Investment in India

The whole world is facing the COVID-19 epidemic. And, while its outbreak in China has only ended a few months, it has already affected 74,61,261 people worldwide, recording 4,19,070 deaths so far. The rapid spread of the virus has prompted people to keep their money in liquid form. Thus, instead of investing in the market, more people are selling their property. In just a few weeks, the epidemic has shaken investor confidence. Thus, the SENSEX is showing an unprecedented slowdown. In addition, the crude oil war between Saudi Arabia and Russia has led to instability in the equity and debt markets.

It is estimated that very soon, corona virus can infect two-thirds of the world's population. This scenario is going to have a negative impact on the Indian economy as well as global economic growth. Let us examine the effect of COVID-19 on most investment routes in India.

1) Sensex is below its 10-year average

The stock market is in turmoil as broader market valuations have slipped below the 10-year average. This is the worst time to sell shares as the Sensex has turned negative. The value of shares in the market has fallen by 44 percent, yet due to uncertainty people are eager to sell their shares. While some financial experts suggest that this time may be optimal for long-term investors, hype is that the market may take several years to recover. In addition, there may be a further decline of 8 to 10% over the next few years. Therefore, there is no certainty for the recovery of higher returns in the future.

As the stock market is witnessing heavy selling, this is the worst time for short-term investment. Right now, you should stay away from small and mid-cap stocks until the volatility settles.

2) Tourism and aviation are showing a sluggish business

The rapid proliferation of corona viruses has severely affected the aviation sector. Most international flights have been canceled, and even domestic carriers are showing sluggish business. Tourism is an important opportunity for income generation in India, but unfortunately, there is a panic in the tourism sector as thousands of tourists are barred from visiting India.

As a result, the hotel and restaurant industry is also showing a petty business. Also, all places of entertainment have been closed because avoiding public meetings is a preventive measure against COVID-19.

3) Gold is not so good for investment

Currently, gold prices are touching an all-time high due to the outbreak of COVID-19. Gold has been seen as a place of investment, with equity markets taking a step back from risk. Although gold is expected to benefit from the low yield scenario, it cannot be considered an interest-bearing asset. Eventually, gold prices will definitely decline after a few months.

If you are already investing in sovereign gold bonds, this is an opportune time to sell them and profit from gold price movements. But now investing in these bonds will not be beneficial.

4) Real estate shines amidst all the uncertainties

As the novel corona virus continues to spread throughout the world, the residential real estate market will feel the effects of quarantine. According to an estimate, only 15% of households in India provide at least one room per person, which is mandatory for self-quarantine. Therefore, in the next few months, there may be high demand for fully furnished homes on rent. And, property owners can take advantage of high rental demand.

As the government focused on the need for social isolation, the sale, purchase and construction of real estate will continue for the next few months. According to a survey, between the COVID-19 hit markets, there has been no change in the interests of the buyer and seller. Therefore, there will be almost no impact on the prices of assets. Although the commercial real estate market may not attract new rental interests over the next few months, there will be no drop or rise in their prices.

While each avenue of investment is showing a degree of uncertainty, real estate is the safest option at hand. Investing in stock and tourism businesses cannot be rationalized at present as these sectors are showing no signs of recovery soon. While gold prices have gone up, there is a strong possibility of a fall in prices after a few months. Therefore, if you are thinking about investing your money, then real estate is the best option as it is possible to drop its prices due to any market fluctuations or political, economic and social scenarios.