How to Choose the Right Mutual Fund for your investment goals?
In the past couple of decades, mutual funds have fast emerged as one of the best sources of investments. With their vast reach and myriad product offerings, there is a mutual fund for everyone, no matter what the investment goals.
But how does one choose the right mutual fund for their investment goals? Keep reading to find out.
What is a Mutual Fund?
A mutual fund, as the name suggests, is a pool of funds that is jointly invested by an expert. These funds can be invested in a wide variety of assets ranging from equity to debt and real estate to currency.
In other words, mutual funds provide access to expert guidance and investment management. Investors can rest assured that their money is being invested in the right asset classes by experienced professionals.
Types of Mutual Funds
Mutual funds can be classified based on investment objectives:
1. Equity Funds: Suited for long-term investors seeking higher returns with greater risks by investing in stock exchange-listed companies.
2. Debt Funds: Ideal for those looking for regular income and stability in their portfolios by investing in fixed-income securities like bonds and treasury bills.
3. Hybrid Funds: A balance of capital appreciation and regular income through investments in both shares and fixed-income instruments.
What are the Risks Associated with Mutual Funds?
Here are the top risks of investing in a mutual fund:
1. Market Risk:The value of investments fluctuate based on market conditions.
2. Credit Risk:In the event of the issuer defaulting, the investor's investment in debt funds will be at risk.
3. Interest Rate Risk:The value of investments in fixed-income funds may drop if interest rates increase.
4. Liquidity Risk: Illiquid securities in certain funds may make it challenging to sell investments.
Selection Criteria for Mutual Funds
There are different parameters to consider when choosing a mutual fund to invest in:
1. Investment Objective:Decide whether the priority is long-term capital appreciation or receiving a regular income.
2. Fund Manager:Choose a mutual fund managed by an experienced fund manager with a proven track record of managing funds.
3. Expense Ratio:Mutual funds charge an annual management fee. Look for a mutual fund with a low expense ratio as it can affect long-term returns.
4. Performance History:Past performance is not an indicator of future returns, but it is worth considering a mutual fund's track record.
5. Assets Under Management:A reasonable assets under management (AUM) figure is essential as it can affect a fund's ability to generate returns and provide liquidity.
Conclusion
Choosing the right mutual fund requires careful consideration of various factors such as one's investment objectives as well as the mutual fund's management, expense ratio and performance history. If you are ready to start investing, please contact us.
Disclaimer: Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully. The NAVs of the schemes may go up or down depending upon the factors and forces affecting the securities market including the fluctuations in the interest rates. The past performance of the mutual funds is not necessarily indicative of future performance of the schemes. The Mutual Fund investments are not guaranteeing or assuring any dividend under any of the schemes and the same is subject to the availability and adequacy of distributable surplus. Investors are requested to review the prospectus carefully and obtain expert professional advice with regard to specific legal, tax and financial implications of the investment/participation in the scheme.
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