1. What is portfolio allocation?
Portfolio allocation is how your investments are distributed across asset classes (equity, debt, gold, cash) and sub-categories within each class. It's the single most important factor determining your portfolio's risk and return.
📊 Portfolio Allocation = Your actual split vs. your target split
2. The four main asset classes
| Asset class | Role | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Equity | Growth engine | 30-80% |
| Debt | Stability and income | 15-50% |
| Gold | Inflation hedge | 5-10% |
| Cash | Liquidity and safety | 3-10% |
3. Sub-category breakdown matters
Within equity, you should spread across large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and index funds. Within debt, mix short-duration, corporate bonds, and government securities. Sub-category concentration increases risk.
⚠️ If one fund or sector exceeds 25% of your portfolio, you have concentration risk. Diversify.
4. How to check your allocation
- Calculate percentages: Each asset class as % of total portfolio.
- Compare to target: Match your risk profile and time horizon.
- Check sub-categories: No single fund should dominate.
- Assess drift: If any class drifts more than 5% from target, rebalance.
5. Rebalancing rules
Review your portfolio annually. If equity has grown from 55% to 65%, sell some equity and buy debt to get back to 55%. This automatically locks in gains and buys undervalued assets.
✅ Rebalance once a year, or when any asset class drifts more than 5% from target.
6. Common mistakes
- Too many funds: 20+ funds don't add diversification — they add complexity.
- Ignoring sub-categories: All equity in one fund is concentration risk.
- No rebalancing: Letting winners run increases risk unintentionally.
- Chasing performance: Last year's winner is often next year's laggard.
- Ignoring taxes: Rebalancing triggers taxes. Use new contributions first.
7. Final thoughts
Your portfolio allocation is a living thing. It drifts as markets move. Review it annually, rebalance with discipline, and keep it aligned with your goals. A well-allocated portfolio lets you sleep well at night and reach your goals.