Before you start an SIP: five things first-time investors should know

New investors join fastest when markets are rising. But an SIP is not a guaranteed-return scheme; it is simply a way to invest regularly.

Set a goal and a time frame first; for goals under five years, equity funds can be risky. Build an emergency fund so you never have to break an SIP in a fall. Check the expense ratio. Don't pick a fund on last year's returns. Review your portfolio once a year, not every day.

This article is for education and is not investment advice. Speak to a registered adviser before investing.