Best Mutual Funds to Invest

Aim to strike the right balance with the best mutual funds schemes. Unlock higher returns on investments, meet your financial obligations, and secure your fortune to safeguard your future.

IDFC First Bank

Smart Investment

IDFC First Bank

High Return

Discover Mutual funds

Urban Money Mutual Funds
Explore all Mutual Funds

Debt Mutual Fund

Invest in fixed income assets such as bonds, securities, and treasury bills.

Equity Mutual Fund

Generate significant returns by investing funds in shares and stocks.

Hybrid Mutual Fund

Invest in mixed asset classs at the same time like stocks and bonds.

Tax Saver Mutual Fund

Invest your money in equity shares and quality for tax deductions.

Major Mutual Fund
Categories

Choose the mutual funds scheme that best-fits your financial requirement from the extensive range including equity schemes, debt schemes, hybrid schemes, and much more.

List of Best Mutual Funds in India

One stop shop for investors looking for the best mutual fund schemes available in a single place. Now, get acquainted with the key features offered by the best mutual funds options and make informed choices.

  • UM_Tax SavingTax Saving
  • UM_Short Term DepositShort Term Deposit
  • UM_Large CapLarge Cap
  • UM_Mid CapMid Cap
  • UM_Small CapSmall Cap
  • UM_Multi CapMulti Cap
Mutual Fund Schemes
NAV
5Y Returns
AUM(in Cr.)
Compare
₹ 50.48Mar 18, 2024
33%
₹6,416
₹ 378.68Mar 18, 2024
33%
₹6,416
₹ 47.70Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹7,769
₹ 343.41Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹7,769
₹ 63.65Mar 18, 2024
29%
₹33
₹ 61.09Mar 18, 2024
28%
₹33
₹ 66.60Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹1,040
₹ 166.76Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹1,040
₹ 156.74Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹1,040
₹ 58.71Mar 18, 2024
8%
₹18,635
₹ 46.02Mar 15, 2024
8%
₹6,778
₹ 18.43Mar 18, 2024
8%
₹7,589
₹ 30.12Mar 18, 2024
8%
₹7,589
₹ 51.24Mar 18, 2024
8%
₹6,033
₹ 20.82Mar 18, 2024
8%
₹6,033
₹ 17.54Mar 18, 2024
7%
₹14,203
₹ 17.54Mar 18, 2024
7%
₹14,203
₹ 29.60Mar 18, 2024
7%
₹14,203
₹ 12.73Mar 18, 2024
7%
₹18,635
₹ 51.33Mar 18, 2024
7%
₹13,635
₹ 14.53Mar 18, 2024
7%
₹13,635
₹ 14.53Mar 18, 2024
7%
₹13,635
₹ 54.24Mar 18, 2024
7%
₹18,635
₹ 11.97Mar 15, 2024
7%
₹6,778
₹ 25.23Mar 15, 2024
7%
₹2,250
₹ 47.56Mar 15, 2024
7%
₹2,250
₹ 17.11Mar 18, 2024
7%
₹14,203
₹ 17.11Mar 18, 2024
7%
₹14,203
₹ 28.80Mar 18, 2024
7%
₹14,203
₹ 219.04Mar 18, 2024
19%
₹1,693
₹ 102.56Mar 18, 2024
19%
₹47,928
₹ 56.52Mar 18, 2024
19%
₹47,928
₹ 56.52Mar 18, 2024
19%
₹47,928
₹ 60.08Mar 18, 2024
19%
₹11,639
₹ 83.99Mar 18, 2024
19%
₹20,217
₹ 83.99Mar 18, 2024
19%
₹20,217
₹ 29.21Mar 18, 2024
19%
₹1,693
₹ 36.84Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹20,217
₹ 48.43Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹11,639
₹ 545.99Mar 15, 2024
18%
₹7,333
₹ 94.11Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹47,928
₹ 30.04Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹47,928
₹ 30.04Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹47,928
₹ 81.94Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹685
₹ 72.21Mar 15, 2024
18%
₹7,333
₹ 72.21Mar 15, 2024
18%
₹7,333
₹ 36.02Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹685
₹ 76.17Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹20,217
₹ 76.17Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹20,217
₹ 64.73Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹73
₹ 64.74Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹73
₹ 64.28Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹73
₹ 63.09Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹73
₹ 157.14Mar 18, 2024
18%
₹73
₹ 227.50Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹4,222
₹ 79.90Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹4,222
₹ 73.19Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹4,222
₹ 205.88Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹4,222
₹ 59.49Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹10,043
₹ 84.92Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹7,410
₹ 84.71Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹4,623
₹ 61.77Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹4,623
₹ 29.38Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹1,902
₹ 24.38Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹1,902
₹ 24.38Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹1,902
₹ 42.45Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹7,410
₹ 3392.66Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹23,494
₹ 563.64Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹23,494
₹ 49.31Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹10,043
₹ 153.12Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹23,494
₹ 75.15Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹7,410
₹ 3130.90Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹23,494
₹ 521.20Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹23,494
₹ 52.23Mar 18, 2024
25%
₹10,043
₹ 1081.05Mar 18, 2024
25%
₹23,494
₹ 73.87Mar 18, 2024
25%
₹4,623
₹ 24.56Mar 18, 2024
25%
₹10,043
₹ 39.21Mar 18, 2024
25%
₹7,410
₹ 21.57Mar 18, 2024
25%
₹1,902
₹ 240.81Mar 18, 2024
38%
₹13,001
₹ 188.24Mar 18, 2024
38%
₹13,001
₹ 178.51Mar 18, 2024
37%
₹13,001
₹ 224.49Mar 18, 2024
37%
₹13,001
₹ 29.92Mar 18, 2024
34%
₹845
₹ 39.95Mar 18, 2024
34%
₹845
₹ 151.01Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹43,815
₹ 151.01Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹43,815
₹ 89.76Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹43,815
₹ 36.54Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹845
₹ 26.64Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹845
₹ 78.21Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹43,815
₹ 136.15Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹43,815
₹ 136.15Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹43,815
₹ 34.49Mar 15, 2024
29%
₹5,819
₹ 34.49Mar 15, 2024
29%
₹5,819
₹ 34.49Mar 15, 2024
29%
₹5,819
₹ 29.57Mar 18, 2024
29%
₹3,461
₹ 243.86Mar 18, 2024
29%
₹14,082
₹ 33.44Mar 18, 2024
29%
₹3,461
₹ 107.11Mar 18, 2024
29%
₹14,082
₹ 107.11Mar 18, 2024
29%
₹14,082
₹ 42.58Mar 18, 2024
28%
₹1,285
₹ 31.87Mar 18, 2024
28%
₹1,285
₹ 31.87Mar 18, 2024
28%
₹1,285
₹ 75.14Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹7,413
₹ 648.84Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹7,413
₹ 604.33Mar 18, 2024
29%
₹7,413
₹ 69.11Mar 18, 2024
29%
₹7,413
₹ 31.06Feb 22, 2024
28%
₹130
₹ 30.85Feb 22, 2024
27%
₹130
₹ 26.07Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹2,664
₹ 26.07Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹2,664
₹ 33.34Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹2,664
₹ 29.19Feb 22, 2024
26%
₹130
₹ 29.19Feb 22, 2024
26%
₹130
₹ 22.23Mar 18, 2024
24%
₹2,664
₹ 22.23Mar 18, 2024
24%
₹2,664
₹ 29.28Mar 18, 2024
24%
₹2,664
₹ 257.79Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹2,126
₹ 259.26Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹24,590
₹ 259.26Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹24,590
₹ 78.37Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹24,590
₹ 52.91Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹2,126
₹ 122.19Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹3,041
₹ 110.60Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹3,041
₹ 232.94Mar 18, 2024
20%
₹2,126
₹ 238.83Mar 18, 2024
20%
₹24,590
₹ 238.83Mar 18, 2024
20%
₹24,590
₹ 55.08Mar 18, 2024
20%
₹24,590

Mutual Fund Houses

The presence of various mutual fund houses in India seeds the availability of different schemes. It allows investors to choose the one that best fits with their investment goals.

View All Fund Houses

Top Mutual Fund Categories

Acquaint yourself with the best mutual fund categories offering lucrative returns.

  • UM_EquityEquity
  • UM_HybridHybrid
  • UM_ElssElss
  • UM_DebtDebt
  • UM_CommodityCommodity
  • UM_OtherOther
Mutual Fund Schemes
NAV
5Y Returns
AUM(in Cr.)
Compare
₹ 240.81Mar 18, 2024
38%
₹13,001
₹ 188.24Mar 18, 2024
38%
₹13,001
₹ 178.51Mar 18, 2024
37%
₹13,001
₹ 224.49Mar 18, 2024
37%
₹13,001
₹ 39.38Mar 18, 2024
37%
₹1,321
₹ 39.41Mar 18, 2024
37%
₹1,321
₹ 36.50Mar 18, 2024
35%
₹1,321
₹ 36.42Mar 18, 2024
35%
₹1,321
₹ 29.92Mar 18, 2024
34%
₹845
₹ 39.95Mar 18, 2024
34%
₹845
₹ 227.50Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹4,222
₹ 79.90Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹4,222
₹ 151.01Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹43,815
₹ 151.01Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹43,815
₹ 89.76Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹43,815
₹ 36.54Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹845
₹ 26.64Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹845
₹ 99.46Mar 18, 2024
32%
₹2,901
₹ 67.67Mar 18, 2024
31%
₹2,901
₹ 78.21Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹43,815
₹ 136.15Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹43,815
₹ 136.15Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹43,815
₹ 73.19Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹4,222
₹ 75.14Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹7,413
₹ 648.84Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹7,413
₹ 116.29Mar 18, 2024
28%
₹1,288
₹ 126.16Mar 18, 2024
28%
₹1,288
₹ 109.63Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹1,288
₹ 119.60Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹1,288
₹ 420.45Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹1,546
₹ 58.24Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹1,546
₹ 54.18Mar 18, 2024
24%
₹1,546
₹ 392.78Mar 18, 2024
24%
₹1,546
₹ 362.55Mar 18, 2024
22%
₹29,816
₹ 27.06Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹29,816
₹ 26.21Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹29,816
₹ 26.21Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹29,816
₹ 24.87Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹29,816
₹ 24.87Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹29,816
₹ 39.03Mar 18, 2024
20%
₹29,816
₹ 39.03Mar 18, 2024
20%
₹29,816
₹ 50.48Mar 18, 2024
33%
₹6,416
₹ 378.68Mar 18, 2024
33%
₹6,416
₹ 47.70Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹7,769
₹ 343.41Mar 18, 2024
30%
₹7,769
₹ 63.65Mar 18, 2024
29%
₹33
₹ 61.09Mar 18, 2024
28%
₹33
₹ 66.60Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹1,040
₹ 166.76Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹1,040
₹ 156.74Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹1,040
₹ 16.62Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹108
₹ 15.99Mar 15, 2024
9%
₹1,896
₹ 62.71Mar 18, 2024
9%
₹7,782
₹ 91.41Mar 18, 2024
9%
₹712
₹ 18.64Mar 18, 2024
9%
₹4,879
₹ 98.82Mar 18, 2024
9%
₹4,879
₹ 18.64Mar 18, 2024
9%
₹4,879
₹ 23.05Mar 18, 2024
8%
₹11,810
₹ 35.51Mar 18, 2024
8%
₹11,810
₹ 98.18Mar 18, 2024
8%
₹3,044
₹ 20.02Mar 18, 2024
8%
₹7,782
₹ 20.02Mar 18, 2024
8%
₹7,782
₹ 19.61Mar 18, 2024
15%
₹62
₹ 19.00Mar 18, 2024
14%
₹62
₹ 19.00Mar 18, 2024
14%
₹62
₹ 55.77Mar 15, 2024
14%
₹3,260
₹ 21.26Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹374
₹ 21.28Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹374
₹ 27.11Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹1,601
₹ 27.11Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹1,601
₹ 27.11Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹1,601
₹ 6043.51Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹112
₹ 19.66Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹374
₹ 19.63Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹374
₹ 20.49Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹1,512
₹ 20.46Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹1,512
₹ 20.46Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹1,512
₹ 5801.02Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹98
₹ 56.18Mar 18, 2024
13%
₹801
₹ 20.23Mar 15, 2024
13%
₹289
₹ 20.23Mar 15, 2024
13%
₹289
₹ 58.65Mar 15, 2024
13%
₹679
₹ 76.52Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹30,526
₹ 76.52Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹30,526
₹ 76.52Mar 18, 2024
27%
₹30,526
₹ 76.52Mar 18, 2024
26%
₹30,526
₹ 144.08Mar 15, 2024
24%
₹7,007
₹ 30.91Mar 18, 2024
24%
₹4,438
₹ 30.26Mar 18, 2024
23%
₹4,438
₹ 28.48Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹886
₹ 28.47Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹886
₹ 97.03Mar 18, 2024
21%
₹16,624
₹ 138.67Mar 15, 2024
21%
₹1,440
₹ 138.67Mar 15, 2024
21%
₹1,440
₹ 178.88Mar 15, 2024
20%
₹1,440

Best Performing Sectoral Mutual Funds

Find all the relevant information on the best sectoral mutual funds in the market. Which are sure to stimulate your investments and accentuate your corpus significantly. We’ve covered a wide range of industries, from auto components to hospitality, so you can find the fund that complements your investment goals.

View All Sectors

Broadcasting

Auto Parts & Equip

Conglomerate

Bonds

Hospitality

Distributors

Energy

Diversified Chemicals

Diversified Metals

Auto Components

Car Manufacturers

View All Sectors

Calculate Your Mutual Fund Returns

₹
  • ₹ 500
  • ₹ 1 Lac
Years
  • 1
  • 30
%
  • 1
  • 30
₹

Total investment

+
₹

Profit

Know More About Mutual Funds

A mutual fund is a collective investment instrument that stockpiles and pools funds from an array of investors.

Furthermore, the accumulated funds are invested in equities, government securities, several money market instruments and bonds.

Mutual funds are not limited to any specific investment option as the money is invested in many securities. The investment performance is tracked by considering the change in the funds total market cap. This change in fund value is derived from the performance of the correlated investments.

This investment instrument is not limited to experienced investors, as small and individual investors get an equal chance to manage their portfolios professionally. As a result, each fund shareholder somewhat participates in the overall profit and loss associated with the funds. In simple words, a mutual fund is a collective money pool in which several investors contribute to generating returns. The entire pool of funds is managed by dedicated, experienced, professional fund managers.

How Do Mutual Funds Work?

You need to understand that a mutual fund is both a real company and an investment before we can explain how it operates. Due to its dual nature, it may seem unusual to some people, but it is exactly like a share of Apple Inc.s stock, AAPL.

Similarly, a mutual fund investor purchases a portion of the assets and the mutual fund business. The distinction between the two is that a mutual fund corporation engages in the business of making investments, whereas Apple produces novel products and tablets.

Investors in mutual funds typically receive three types of returns:

1. Income in mutual funds comes from dividends on stocks and interest on bonds kept in the funds portfolio. Most of a funds annual income is distributed to fund shareholders.

2. Investors in funds frequently have the option of reinvesting their earnings in the form of further shares or receiving a check for distribution.

3. The fund will experience a capital gain if it sells securities at a higher price. The majority of funds distribute these gains to investors as well.

4. The price of the funds share will rise if the holdings price rises and the fund manager doesnt sell it. Then, you can profitably sell your mutual fund shares on the open market.

Types of Mutual Funds in India

Mutual funds are classified based on four major categories, i.e. Asset Class, Investment Goals, Structure and Risk. Based on this classification, you get the following types of mutual funds to invest in.

Based on Asset Class

As per the asset class, the mutual funds to invest are further classified into Equity Funds, Debt Funds, Money Market Funds, and Hybrid Funds:

Equity Funds

Essentially invest a major chunk in stocks, and that is the reason why it is well known as stock funds. The funds pooled from several investors are moved towards stocks of various companies. The overall gains and losses incurred from the investment depend upon the performance of the invested funds in the share market. Additionally, equity funds can generate notable returns over a period. However, the only pointer you must consider is the risk factor. Equity funds fall in the category of comparatively higher risk bracket.

Debt Funds

Debt funds predominantly invest the accumulated funds into fixed-income securities, including bonds, bills and securities. The amount is not limited to one instrument and is moved towards several fixed income instruments like Fixed Maturity Plans, Liquid Funds, Short-Term Plans, bonds, in addition to other Monthly Income Plans. The income from debt funds is provided with a fixed interest rate at the time of maturity, i.e. once the investment tenure ends. Thus, it is considered the foremost option for investors looking forward to passive income sources. You can get a regular income by investing in Debt funds. Coming to the risk factor, you can secure huge returns at minimal risk.

Money Market Funds

On the stock market, investors trade stocks. Similarly, investors invest funds across the money market, commonly referred to as the capital or cash market. As a whole, the government is responsible to manage it via issuing money market assets, including bonds, T-bills or Treasury Bills, dated securities, certificates of deposits, and much more, in collaboration with banks, financial institutions, and other businesses. Your money is invested by the fund manager, who pays out dividends regularly. A short-term strategy (no longer than thirteen months) can significantly reduce the danger of investment in such funds.

Hybrid Funds

Equipping the gap between equity and debt funds, hybrid funds are an ideal combination of bonds as well as stocks. Either a fixed ratio or variable ratio may be used. In essence, it combines the prominent features of multiple mutual funds by.for instance, allocating 60 percent chunk of the assets to stocks and the remaining 40% within bonds, or vice versa. Hybrid funds are highly suitable for investors who are willing to branch out from lower but consistent income schemes and take on greater risks to benefit from debt plus returns.

Based on Investment Goals

These are the best mutual funds to invest in if you are looking forward to meeting your short or long-term investment goals. You get numerous options to choose from including, Growth funds, Income funds, Liquid Funds, and much more.

Growth Funds

Growing funds typically spend a sizable amount on shares and growth industries, making them a good choice for investors (mainly Millennials) who have extra cash to invest in riskier plans (even though they may offer high returns).

Income Funds

Income funds are a member of a group of debt mutual funds, which invest in various instruments, including bonds, deposit certificates, and securities. Income funds have gradually given investors higher investment returns compared to the deposits because they are managed by knowledgeable fund managers who maintain the portfolio in step with rate variations without jeopardising the portfolios creditworthiness. They work well for risk-averse traders with two to three years of time.

Liquid Funds

Liquid funds, which invest in debt instruments and money markets for 91 days of tenure, are classified as debt funds just as income funds. The maximum investment amount is INR 10 lakh. The method used to determine Net Asset Value is a standout feature that sets liquid funds distinct from other debt funds. Unlike other funds, liquid funds NAV is determined for 365 days (counting Sundays), while just business days are taken into account for other funds.

Tax-Saving Funds

Over the years, ELSS, well known as Equity Linked Savings Schemes, have advanced in terms of popularity among all investors. Along with having a minimum lock-in period of just 3-years, it also provides the advantage of wealth maximisation while enabling you to save taxes. They are significantly known for producing non-taxed investment returns in the region of 14–16% when investment is primarily made towards stock (and associated products). These funds are especially suitable for salaried individuals with a long investment horizon.

Aggressive Growth Funds

The Aggressive Growth Fund tends to be a little riskier when deciding where to invest and is intended to generate large financial profits. Although subject to market volatility, you get the option of choosing a fund rooted to its beta (a measure of the funds movement relative to the market). For instance, an aggressive growth fund typically displays a higher beta, such as 1.10 or above, if the market displays a beta of 1.

Capital Protection Funds

Capital Protection Funds accomplish the job despite providing relatively lower investment returns (12% at most) if safeguarding the principle is the top priority. The fund manager splits the money between equity investments and bond or CD investments. Although there is a very minimal chance of suffering a loss, it is advised to remain invested for a minimum time frame of three years to protect your invested funds and the returns are also taxable.

Fixed Maturity Funds

To benefit from triple indexation and reduce the tax burden, many investors opt to invest closer to the end of the financial/ fiscal year. Fixed Maturity Plans or FMP, invest funds in bonds, securities, money market, etc., give a wonderful possibility if you are uneasy with the debt market trends and associated dangers. FMP operates on a predetermined maturity period that might be anything between one month and five years because it is a close-ended plan inclusive of FDs. To benefit from accrued interest at maturity, the fund manager ensures that the funds are transferred to an investment with a similar term.

Pension Funds

Most unforeseen events (including medical emergencies or wedding expenses) can be taken care of by setting aside a percentage of incurred income in a pension fund of your choice to accumulate over a lengthy tenure to ensure your financial future especially after retirement. It is not advised to rely only on funds during the golden years because all resources, regardless of size, eventually run out. EPF is one such example, but banks, insurance companies, etc., offer many more attractive programmes.

Based on Structure

Additionally, mutual funds are categorised depending on many characteristics (such as risk profile and asset class). The structural division into open-ended, close-ended, and interval funds is rather broad. The distinction is principally made by the ability to buy and sell individual mutual fund units.

Open-Ended Funds

There are no specific restrictions on open-ended funds, such as a time limit or a cap on the number of units that can be traded. With these funds, investors can exchange funds whenever its convenient and exit when necessary at the current NAV (Net Asset Value). It is the only explanation for the fluctuation of unit capital with fresh entrants and exits. If an open-ended fund chooses not to continue accepting new investors, it may do so (or fail to manage prominent funds).

Closed-Ended Funds

The unit capital for investing in closed-ended funds is predetermined. This means that the fund company is not allowed to sell more units than the pre-agreed number. Some funds also have a New Fund Offer (NFO) period, during which a cutoff date for purchasing units occurs. NFOs have flexible fund managers with any fund size and a predetermined maturity period. To allow investors to leave the schemes, SEBI has recommended that they be given the choice to either repurchase the alternatives or list the funds on trading platforms.

Interval Funds

Open-ended and closed-ended characteristics can be found in interval funds. These funds are closed the rest of the time and only available for purchase/redemption during predetermined intervals (determined by the fund house). A minimum of two years will pass before any trades are allowed. Investors wishing to save a lump sum for a short-term financial objective, say within the next three to twelve months, should consider these funds.

Based on Risk

If you are looking forward to best mutual funds to invest on the basis of risk profile, here’s the list you can count on.

Very Low-Risk Funds

Because of their low risk, liquid funds, as well as ultra-short-term funds (having an investment time frame ranging between one month to one year), are known to have poor returns (6% at most). Investors select this to achieve the near-term financial objectives and to safeguard their capital through these products.

Low-Risk Funds

Investors are hesitant with the thought to put money into riskier assets in the case of rupee depreciation or an unanticipated national crisis. In these circumstances, fund managers advise investing in one or more liquid, ultra-short-term, or arbitrage funds. Returns could range in the bracket of 6 to 8%, although investors are allowed to shift when valuations stabilise.

Medium-risk Funds

The risk component in this situation is medium since the fund manager splits his investments between stock and debt. The typical returns may range from 9 to 12%, and the NAV is not particularly volatile.

High-Risk Funds

These types of mutual funds require active fund management since they are ideal for investors with no risk aversion and who want to earn large earnings in the form of dividends and interest. Since performance reviews are subject to market volatility, they must be conducted regularly. Although most high-risk funds often offer up to 20% returns, you can anticipate 15% returns.

Mutual Funds - Modes of Investment

To enjoy the benefits of the best mutual funds, you must know the availability of investment modes. Earlier mutual fund investment was intimidating, but with the rapid adoption of technology in the finance sector, MF units can be accessed with a few clicks. As per the available resources and your preference, you can choose from several options and start your investment in mutual funds in India.

Heres the list of modes of mutual funds investment:

Direct Investment

As the same portrays, its a direct investment approach.

Once you have selected the best mutual fund to invest in, visit the nearest branch of the MF company. Enquiry about the same if you want to get acquainted with thorough knowledge. Collect the application form for mutual fund investments and submit the duly filled form to the dedicated person. However, you can also download the form from the official website and submit it to the nearby branch to proceed with the procedure. Ensure you go through the fine print before handing the investment cheque to the organisation.

Online Platforms for Mutual Fund Investment

When you pin your hopes on an online mode for mutual fund investment, you must ensure that you have a cellphone or laptop with a working internet connection. Numerous platforms can help you determine the right mutual fund for investment hinged on your financial objectives, risk appetite, and several other factors.

Put forward thorough research and figure out the ideal one for your investment. Such platforms offer a step-by-step procedure inclusive of selection, investment payment, and redemption. You get the opportunity to invest even as a newbie without any assistance.

All you have to do is prepare the required documents, including a PAN Card, Identity Documents and details of the active bank account that you will link to the mutual fund.

Using a Demat Account

Another investment option you can count on is a Demat Account. You can use the existing Demat and bank account to invest in mutual funds. Additionally, you can count on the same to carry out transactions associated with the mutual fund. The key consideration to investing through a Demat account is that your stockbroker must be a registered mutual fund distributor and permit MF investments.

The process is simple: log in to the Demat account using your credentials and select the mutual fund investment option. Next, you will have to choose the investment plan and complete the process by transferring the investment amount.

In the next step, choose the fund you want to invest in. Then you need to complete the investment by transferring the amount online.

Mutual Fund Agents

When you rely on mutual funds agents to invest, you need to keep patience and at the same time, pay the associated costs. You have to get in touch with an agent and allow them to choose the foremost option for you. Then fill out the requisite form with their guidance and start investing. However, nowadays, you can unlock the agents digital assistance and fill out the form online. It caters to the instant activation of your mutual fund investments. We suggest you be a bit cautious while choosing an agent.

Why Invest in Mutual Funds?

Mutual funds (MF) have a good amount of built-in diversification and are simple to purchase. They rank among the most well-liked investment options for experienced and novice investors.

Most of the time, MFs are the best choice for investors looking to diversify their portfolios. A mutual fund invests in various securities rather than betting everything on one sector or business to reduce your portfolio risk.

You dont have to manage everything yourself, unlike stocks. The management of your mutual funds will handle everything. You can benefit from rapid liquidity and tax advantages with mutual funds.

If you have never invested before, you should start with mutual funds because they carry less risk than stocks.

Benefits of Investing in Mutual Funds

A mutual fund pools funds from several investors and invests in various underlying securities. It is regarded as one of the best wealth-building investing strategies. There is a mutual fund for everyone, regardless of your investing horizon and risk tolerance. Some main advantages of investing in mutual funds in India are listed below.

Begin Investing with a Small Amount

Mutual funds allow you to start investing with as little as $100 or less. Systematic Investment Plans might help you begin your investment journey even if you dont have a sizable sum of money to invest (SIPs). The investor can invest through a SIP per the economic and market conditions. SIP will provide excellent profits and aid in forming the habit of investing.

You Dont Need to Manage Everything Yourself

You dont have to manage mutual funds on your own, unlike stocks. Your portfolio will be managed by mutual fund managers, who will also evaluate the market performance of various securities to determine whether to buy or sell them. You just need to enter the investment amount; nothing else is required.

Instant Liquidity

The fact that you can easily redeem the units whenever you want is one of the biggest advantages of mutual funds. You can withdraw your investment if something goes wrong, such as an underperforming mutual fund or an unanticipated financial disaster. Depending on the type of mutual fund, you will normally receive the redemption amount in your connected bank account within one to three business days.

It Helps Diversify Your Investments

Putting all of your money into one stock, bond, or other assets could be dangerous. You can diversify your investments with mutual funds by investing in various securities and asset types. As a result, your risk would be extremely low, even if there is a decline or disaster in the equities market.

Help You Review the Past Performance before Investing

To see how the mutual fund has done in the past, look at its past performance. With the help of the data, you may identify a fund that offers decent returns while having a lower risk profile. But its important to remember that past performance is no guarantee of future success.

What are the Risks of Mutual Funds?

The warning that Mutual Funds investments are subject to market risks is common knowledge. This disclaimer is intended to inform investors associated with mutual funds. To avail of the maximum possible benefits in terms of returns, knowing about the best mutual funds to invest in is not enough. In addition to that you must get acquaintance with the associated risk factors.

You must comprehend the real risks associated with mutual funds to manage them effectively.

Risks in Equity Mutual Funds

1. Market Risk:

Market risk is the most significant risk for equity mutual funds. Market risk is the term for variations in investment value brought on by market ups and downs.

Stock values fluctuate, and mutual funds invest in stocks. Continually evolving in response to supply and demand. Your mutual funds value fluctuates every day as a result of this ongoing shift, which also affects the NAV of the fund.

Equity investing involves market risk, which cannot be eliminated but can be diminished by diversification.

2. Liquidity Risk:

How soon you can liquidate or sell and turn an asset into cash without losing value is referred to as liquidity. Since it takes time to sell a house, real estate is less liquid than bank FDs and liquid funds.

Due to their fixed lock-in term of three years, equity mutual funds, especially Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS), are extremely illiquid. Even ETFs, usually traded on the stock market, have a low trading volume and are challenging to liquidate quickly.

Before investing in equities mutual funds, short-term investors should carefully evaluate the liquidity risk.

3. Concentration Risk:

Concentration risk occurs when all the investments are in one stock, industry, or theme. Sectoral and thematic funds have high concentration risk.

The concentration risk across the diversified stock mutual funds is somewhat minimal because they invest in more than 50–100 shares.

4. Currency Risk:

Foreign mutual funds are the main epicentre of currency risk. As soon as the exchange rate fluctuates (downwards), it creates currency risk since local currency returns are lowered.

Risks in Debt Mutual Funds

1. Credit Risk:

Credit risk is the most significant risk for debt mutual funds. The quality of debt documents is graded by rating organisations like CRISIL, CARE, ICRA, and others, from AAA rated (very stable) to D. (junk).

When the borrower, the issuer of the debt paper, misses a principal or interest payment, there is a credit risk.

A notable illustration of this was the closure of six of Franklin Templeton AMCs debt schemes due to the high credit risk of the debtors.

2. Interest Rate risks:

Bond prices and interest rates are negatively correlated, meaning that when interest rates rise, bond prices fall, and vice versa.

An increase in interest rates significantly impacts long-term debt funds. Investors can protect themselves against interest rate risks using interest rate futures or diversification.

3. Inflation Risk:

When moneys purchasing power declines due to rising inflation, there is inflation risk.

For instance, your real rate of return is only 1.5% of the overall return associated with the debt fund investment clocks at 7.5%, and 6% is the current inflation rate.

4. Reinvestment Risk:

Reinvestment risk arises when an individual tries to reinvest the money after maturity but receives a lesser rate of return.

As an illustration, Mr Ram made a 2019 7% interest investment in a bank FD. The interest rate was 5.5% when he tried to renew his Fixed Deposit in 2020. The 1.5% lower interest rate represents reinvestment risk.

How Are Returns Calculated for Mutual Funds?

There are several ways to calculate mutual fund returns applicable for a lump sum and SIP investments. The computation method you count on usually depends on your personal choices.

Annual Return

As the name insinuates, the annual return is computed for a period of one year. It is expressed in terms of time-weighted yearly percentage. In other words, the annual return is the overall gain or loss incurred from the invested amount within one year.

With the annual return, you can analyse the actual performance of the mutual fund for any year in which you held an investment in it. Generally, these returns are considered because they are easy to compute compared to other investment computations.

Annual return = [(Ending NAV) – (Beginning NAV)] / Beginning NAV.
Here is an example for better understanding:

Lets say the NAV on the mutual fund is 100 on the first day of investment, i.e. June 1, 2020. After completion of one year, i.e. May 31, 2021, the NAV value clocks at 110.
Then the Annual return on the invested amount for one year would be:

[(1100-(100)]/100
0.1 or 10%

Point-to-point or Absolute Return

Computation is somewhat similar to the Annual Returns. However, you can use a point-to-point calculation method to determine investment returns at any time, not just at the end of one year. The formula is useful for calculating returns when the holding period is less than 12 months.

Since the computation is not associated with the investment period or the compounding effect, people don’t consider this formula to evaluate the performance of the funds for a longer time.
Point-to-Point Return = [(Current NAV – Beginning NAV) / Beginning NAV] x 100.

Let us understand the formulas working through a quick example:
Person A purchased your mutual fund on June 27, 2019, with 100 NAC. On September 26, the NAV of the mutual fund rose by 10, making it 110.
For three month tenure, the point-to-point return will be calculated as:
(110-100)/100
0.1 x 100 = 10%

Annualised Return

Investors use annualised return in several ways to evaluate the mutual funds performance over time. Dissimilar to the annual return, annualised returns are determined through the full investment holding period. It can be used to compute returns for a short and long tenure.
Annualised Return is calculated through the following formula:

Annualised Return = [(1 + R1) x (1 + R2) x (1 + R3) x …. x (1 + Rn)]1/n – 1
In this equation, n represents the number of investment years.

Heres a quick example to understand the formulas working:
Lets say you invested in a mutual fund in 2019 and decided to keep it invested for five years. To decode the performance, initially, you will have to compute the annual return for each investment year.

Once you have these values, add them and divide the overall value by 5, i.e. the number of investment years.

Annual return for 2019 will be 3%
Annual return for 2020 will be 7%
Annual return for 2021 will be 5%
Annual return for 2024 will be 12%
Annual return for 2024 will be 1%

Annualised Return i.e. Adding the returns of five years and dividing it by investment years
[(1 + 0.03) x (1 + 0.07) x (1 + 0.05) x (1 + 0.12) x (1 + 0.01) ]1/5 – 1
Annualised Return will be 5.53%

Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)

When the investment period is more than a year, investors find the CAGR computing method more significant. It incorporates the time value of the invested funds and denotes the mean annual growth rate. Incorporating time value allows to smoothen out the volatility at the end returns over the investment horizon.
CAGR = (Ending value / Beginning value)1/n– 1.

Lets understand this through an example:
Suppose Person B invested INR 1 lakh in a mutual fund three years ago. The initial NAV for the MF was recorded at INR 20. As per the current scenario, the NAV is INR 40. For this case, the: CAGR = 25.99%.

Compared with the absolute returns, this computation method provides a reliable picture of the mutual fund performance for the given investment time frame. However, if the mutual fund investment stretches for a prolonged period with regular instalments (SIP), the CAGR method seems to be less effective.

Extended Internal Rate of Return for SIPs

XIRR or Extended Internal Rate of Returns computes the ‘internal’ return rate (annualised yield) specifically for scheduled cash flows occurring at irregular intervals. XIRR represents the aggregation of diverse CAGRs for a Systematic Investment Plan. In such an investment, you regularly invest a certain amount for a long tenure and get returns at maturity.

You get several units based on the NAV value of the invested mutual fund. You keep on accumulating these units from the first day of your investment. When you decide to redeem the total units on the final day, you will be getting the maturity amount for the invested funds. This amount will equal the NAV value in multiplication with the total number of units you own. For calculating the mutual fund returns on the invested amount through XIRR in Excel, you need to have the SIP amount, investment dates, redemption date and maturity amount. There is no need to know the NAV value of the investment.

Here is an example to understand how returns are computed through XIRR. Person Z invested INR 2000/ month from January 1, 2020. The person kept on investing for six months. At the end of the investment period, Person Z will redeem an amount of INR 11,000.

Date of investment towards the SIPInvestment Amount
January 2020INR 2000
February 2020INR 2000
March 2020INR 2000
April 2020INR 2000
May 2020INR 2000
June 2020INR 2000
Total Investment AmountINR 10,000

XIRR = 45.27% per annum (use Excel)

Mutual Fund Investing Eligibility Criteria

You need to adhere to the following eligibility criteria to start investing in mutual funds:

1. An individual must be an Indian resident for single or joint investment.

2. In the case of minors, the investment will be carried out through parents or lawful guardians.

3. Non-resident Indians, Persons of Indian Origin, can also invest in mutual funds. However, individuals might need approval from the RBI.

4. Religious Trusts, Charitable Trusts, and Private trusts

5. Partnership Firms

6. Member (Karta) of a Hindu Undivided Family

7. Banks: Co-operative, Regional, Financial Institutions

8. SEBI registered Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs)

9. Organisations, corporate bodies, Societies, and Public Sector undertakings

10. Organisations associated with Science and Research

11. Provident, Pension, Gratuity, and other funds if permitted by the organisation

12. Multinational companies (approved by the Government and the Reserve Bank of India)

13. Trustees, Sponsors, AMCs and their associates:

If you successfully cope with the mutual fund investment eligibility criteria, start your investment today and secure huge returns.

A mutual fund is a potent investment choice that could help individuals build wealth over the long run. Mutual funds offer plans for every aspect of life, from retirement to accumulating wealth. You offer investments for conservative and risk-averse investors. The benefit of diversity, cheap cost, flexibility to invest in lesser quantities, and expert fund management are all advantages of the alternative. Mutual fund investing is made simple and rapid when used with an online investment platform.

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FAQs

From refinancing to reducing your interest, we have the answers right here.

Are mutual funds a good investment?

Mutual funds are a good investment instrument for experienced and newbies. It offers inventors with best possible investment choices, including portfolio management, secure returns at minimal risk, coping with short to long-term financial goals, fair pricing and dividend reinvestment.

Which type of mutual fund is best for beginners?

If you are a beginner, start investing with balanced mutual funds. Often called hybrid funds, the fund managers invest the amount in stocks and bonds. This type of mutual fund is considered the ideal investment choice for beginners as there is a balance between asset classes.

What are the benefits of mutual funds?

The benefits of mutual funds are not limited to any investment instrument, as each type of mutual fund has a distinct benefit to offer to the investors. You get everything from redeeming the units at any point in time to a flexible withdrawal facility to securing higher returns and tax benefits by investing in the best mutual funds.

Are mutual funds tax-free?

Mutual funds are tax-free and the best riskless investment instrument to comprehend your financial goals.

What are the 4 types of mutual funds?

The four major types of mutual funds include equity funds, money market funds, bond funds, as well as hybrid funds.

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