Category: Mutual Funds

Top Gold Mutual Funds in India

Putting money in gold is a timeless tradition in India, but buying the jewellery or coins can have some concerns like safety, purity, and high making charges that can reduce your profits. What if you could get all the benefits of owning gold in a smarter, simpler, and digital way.

This is where we see the Gold Mutual Funds in the picture, by investing in gold mutual funds, you can invest in gold digitally. These funds are the modern way to invest in gold, where the investors can own pure 24-karat gold on their phone or computer, without ever needing a locker. These mutual funds can be perfect for beginners and smart investors who want the safety of gold without the old-school hassles.

In this blog we will understand what a gold mutual fund is. Also, this blog will explain to you how gold funds work, why starting a gold SIP is a great idea, and list some of the best gold mutual fund options available in India today.

Understanding Gold Mutual Funds

How Gold Mutual Funds Work

A gold mutual fund takes money from investors and then collectively invests in gold, here a fund manager manages the investment and gold on behalf of the investors. By investing in gold like this you can actually buy real gold without the hassle to store the gold.

In India gold mutual funds work as a ‘Fund of Funds’ (FoF) meaning:

You invest your money in a gold mutual fund.
The fund manager collects money from all investors like you.
They use this money to buy units of a Gold ETF (Exchange Traded Fund).
This Gold ETF holds real, 99.5% pure physical gold in very secure vaults.

By investing using this method you get pure gold and the value of your investments move up or down depending upon the price of gold in the market.

Read Also: Best Gold ETFs in India

Top 10 Gold Mutual Funds in India

Fund Name (Direct Plan – Growth)	AUM (Rs.Cr)	Expense Ratio (%)	1-Year Return (%)	3-Year Return (% p.a.)	5-Year Return (% p.a.)	Minimum SIP Amount (Rs.)
Nippon India Gold Savings Fund	4131	0.13	53.5	33.2	17.7	100
HDFC Gold Fund	6,329	0.18	54.3	33.3	18.01	100
SBI Gold Fund	7,033	0.10	53.7	33.3	18.03	500
Axis Gold Fund	1,557	0.17	53.0	33.04	17.94	100
Kotak Gold Fund	4153	0.16	53.75	33.18	17.9	100
ICICI Prudential Regular Gold Savings Fund	3,305	0.09	53.07	33.03	17.85	100
Aditya Birla Sun Life Gold Fund	909	0.20	53.55	33.50	18.08	100
DSP Gold Fund	194	0.66	52.47	N/A	N/A	100
Invesco India Gold Fund	244	0.10	51.85	32.84	17.75	500
Quantum Gold Fund	300	0.04	53.96	33.50	17.90	500

Data as of October 24th 2025

1. Nippon India Gold Savings Fund

This is the biggest gold fund in India and is also one of the oldest funds in India. Nippon gold fund gives customer returns that are closely matched to the performance of its underlying ETF, the Nippon India ETF Gold BeES.

2. HDFC Gold Fund

This is considered to be one of the most trusted fund houses of India, this fund invests in units of the HDFC Gold ETF. If you are looking for a reliable fund for your gold investments, this is the most popular choice.

3. SBI Gold Fund

This is the largest AUM in the gold funds category, which is backed by India’s most trusted bank, State Bank of India. This gold fund provides returns that correspond to the SBI Gold ETF.

4. Axis Gold Fund

Here, the fund invests in the Axis Gold ETF that copies the performance of physical gold. It allows investors to start investing in small SIP amounts.

5. Kotak Gold Fund

In this gold fund the returns are generated by investing in units of Kotak Gold ETF. This also acts as a diversified fund that combines gold and silver together to give broader precious metal exposure to the investors.

6. ICICI Prudential Regular Gold Savings Fund

This fund has the lowest expense ratio in this category and the fund generated its returns by investing in ICICI Prudential Gold ETF, making it cost-effective for the new investors.

7. Aditya Birla Sun Life Gold Fund

Here the returns are tracked based on the performance of Aditya Birla Sun Life Gold ETF, which offers another solid option from a well-known fund house.

8. DSP Gold Fund

Here the investment is done by investing in units of DSP Gold ETF and the returns are generated by this. For investors it is a simple way to invest in gold and diversify your portfolio.

9. Invesco India Gold Fund

In this gold fund the performance of Invesco India Gold ETF is tracked to get returns, it has a straightforward option for investors seeking to track gold prices.

10. Quantum Gold Fund

This fund invests in units of the Quantum Gold ETF and also has one of the lowest expense ratio compared to others which helps in cutting down the cost of investing and making increased profits.

Now that we have gone through some of the Top Gold Funds in India you might be thinking how can you invest in these gold mutual funds but platforms like Pocketful make this extremely simple for the investors as they can search for different gold mutual funds, complete their KYC digitally and start investing in different gold SIPs or even invest a lump sum amount. Pocketful gives a user-friendly interface to its users making investing in gold much easier.

Read Also: Best Gold Stocks in India

Benefits of Investing in Gold Mutual Funds

1. Simple & Secure Investment

By investing in these gold mutual funds investors don’t need to take on the headache of storing the gold safely. Here the fund house takes care of storing the gold in highly secured vaults; investments are stored in a digital format safely, making them safe from theft.

2. Diversified Portfolio

Gold mutual fund investments can help the investors in diversifying their portfolio. During the stress period, when the stock market might perform poorly, these gold investments can help in stabilizing one’s portfolio. This helps in protecting your overall portfolio during uncertain times.

3. Protection from Inflation and Market Volatility

It saves the investors from the inflation, as during inflation the price of commodities goes up and the value of money goes down. Gold has acted as an asset that has been guarded during inflation times. It is witnessed that when the currency depreciates during inflation, the price of gold rises helping the investor protect their wealth.

4. High Liquidity and Convenience

If you require cash instantly, selling the physical gold can be a challenge in terms of buyers, current price of the gold and even the making charges as you may not get the fair price. But buying these gold mutual funds can sell your units on any business day and get the money directly in your bank account within a few days. The process is transparent and hassle-free.

Factors to Consider Before Investing

Fund Performance History: Investors shall look for how funds have performed over the last 1, 3, and 5 years, as it helps in showing you how consistently it has tracked the price of gold. Though the previous performance doesn’t predict the future, it helps the investors in tracking the record of the fund.
Expense Ratio: Think of it as a service charge that is levied annually by the fund manager to manage your investments. A small difference in the expense ratio can affect the investor’s profit, so one should always look for the expense ratio and prefer a lower ratio.
Asset Under Management (AUM): This is a collective total amount that all the investors have put into the specified fund, here a large AUM shows the trust of investors. A good AUM also means that the fund has liquidity meaning you can easily buy or sell the units.
Tracking Error: This helps in telling the investors if the fund is working properly or not as this is used to track the performance of gold price in the actual market. Investors shall look for lower tracking error as this means that the return on your investment is very close to the actual gold returns.
Fund Manager’s Experience: While most gold funds are passively managed (they just follow the underlying ETF), it’s good to invest with a fund house that has a long history and trusted reputation in the industry. This adds a layer of reliability to your investment.

Conclusion

Investing in gold has changed for the better. You no longer need a large sum of money or a bank locker to own this precious metal. Gold mutual funds offer a simple, affordable, and smart way to add the stability of gold to your investment portfolio.

One should think of them as a long-term investment that protects your wealth, fights with rising inflation and brings diversification to your portfolio. You should be clear about the future goals that you want to meet and make the decision accordingly.

S.NO.	Check Out These Interesting Posts You Might Enjoy!
1	A Guide To Investing In Gold In India
2	How to Invest in Gold ETF
3	What is Gold ETF? Meaning & How to Invest Guide
4	Top 10 Reasons to Invest in Gold
5	Best Silver Stocks in India
6	Digital Gold vs Gold ETF: Which is Better?
7	Mutual Fund vs ETF. Are They Same Or Different?
8	Sovereign Gold Bonds vs. Gold ETF: Which is a Better Investment?
9	Gold BeES vs Gold ETF: Meaning, How It Works, Taxation
10	Best ETFs in India to Invest

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the main difference between a Gold Fund and a Gold ETF?
To buy or invest in a gold ETF you need to have a Demat account but to invest in Gold Funds (which are funds of funds) you can directly do it from your bank account and there is no requirement for a Demat account.
Do Investors need a Demat account to start a Gold SIP?
No, to invest in Gold SIP you don’t require a demat account you can start a Gold SIP with just your bank account after completing your KYC.
How are Gold Mutual Funds taxed?
Gold mutual funds are taxed like non-equity or debt funds, if the units are sold within 3 years then the profit is added to your income and taxed according to your tax slab.
What is the minimum amount I can invest?
Most gold mutual funds allow you to start a SIP with as little as Rs.100 or Rs.500 per month, making gold investing accessible for everyone.
Shall I invest a lump sum amount or start a SIP in a Gold Fund?
SIP (Systematic Investment plan) helps in investing a fixed amount regularly whereas a lump sum is a one-time investment that you can consider if you have a large amount of money ready, so look according to the funds availability and your future goals.

October 24, 2025

Best Money Market Mutual Funds in India

In 2025, when interest rates are changing rapidly and the need to access cash could arise at any time, many people are wondering where to park their short-term savings. Bank FDs no longer offer the same returns as they once did and often come with lock-in terms. It’s time to look at the best money market mutual funds; they’re safe, readily withdrawable, and have the potential to deliver better returns than a bank savings account or FD. In this article, let’s explore the best money market funds in India in 2025, how to choose them, and how they can be a smart addition to your investment strategy.

What Are Money Market Mutual Funds?

Money Market Mutual Funds are a type of debt mutual fund that primarily invest in high-quality short-term (one year or less) debt securities. The objective of these funds is to preserve capital and provide stable, predictable returns, while also providing investors with high liquidity, meaning easy access to funds.

Where do Money Market Funds Invest?

Money Market Funds include only short-term (up to 1 year maturity) and low-risk instruments in their portfolios.

These primarily include:

Treasury Bills (T-Bills): Short-term bonds issued by the government, which are considered the safest.
Commercial Papers (CPs): Debt instruments issued by corporate entities for short-term borrowing.
Certificates of Deposit (CDs): Short-term certificates of deposit issued by banks.
Tri-Party Repos (TREPS) and Cash Equivalents: These help maintain the fund’s liquidity.

Best Money Market Mutual Funds in 2025

S.No	Fund Name	AUM (Rs Cr)	3 Years Return (%)	5 Years Return (%)	Current NAV
1	Tata Money Market Fund	₹38,807.85	7.85%	6.30%	₹4911.57
2	HDFC Money Market Fund	₹37,139.08	7.51%	6.06%	₹5380.91
3	ICICI Prudential Money Market Fund	₹34,019	7.57%	6.07%	₹387.19
4	Kotak Money Market Fund	₹32,820.86	7.52%	6.10%	₹4581.39
5	Aditya Birla Sun Life Money Manager Fund Direct-Growth	₹26,757	7.57%	6.29%	₹382.62
6	Nippon India Money Market Fund	₹23,246	7.59%	6.16%	₹4235.20
7	UTI Money Market Fund	₹18,862	7.60%	6.16%	₹3146
8	Axis Money Market Fund	₹18,086	7.55%	6.11%	₹1460.25
9	Bandhan Money Market Fund	₹12,247	7.05%	5.47%	₹41.11
10	HSBC Money Market Fund	₹4,358	7.24%	5.60%	₹26.89

(Data as of 16 Oct 2025)

1. Tata Money Market Fund

Tata Money Market Fund, managed by Tata Asset Management, was launched on March 15, 1994. Its objective is to provide investors with stable returns and high liquidity with low risk. Under the management of Amit Somani, the fund size has reached ₹38,808 crore. Its portfolio is safe and diversified, with key holdings such as HDFC Bank Ltd, Bank of Baroda, SIDBI, Union Bank of India, The Federal Bank Ltd This makes it a strong choice among the best money market mutual funds of 2025.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹500	₹5,000	Amit Somani

2. HDFC Money Market Fund

HDFC Money Market Fund is a good option for those looking to keep their money safe for a short period of time. This fund was launched on December 10, 1999, and is managed by HDFC Asset Management Company. HDFC AMC is considered one of the most trusted companies in India, so it’s easy to trust this fund.

It has a corpus size of approximately ₹37,139 crore, and its investments are mostly in short-term bonds of banks and government institutions. Its portfolio includes strong institutions like CDs of SIDBI, Bank of Baroda, NABARD, Union Bank, and Canara Bank. All this makes it a reliable and balanced money market fund.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹100	₹100	Praveen Jain

3. ICICI Prudential Money Market Fund

ICICI Prudential Money Market Fund is one of those funds that doesn’t let money get stuck anywhere. Meaning, if you want your money to remain safe but get slightly better returns than a bank account, this fund fulfils that need well. It is managed by ICICI Prudential Asset Management, which has been a trusted asset in the market since the 90s. The fund was launched in 1993 and today its size is around ₹34,019 crore. The portfolio is well balanced; with the remaining holdings in strong institutions like Reserve Bank of India; National Bank For Agriculture & Rural Development (NABARD); HDFC Bank Ltd; Punjab National Bank; Indian Bank. This is why this fund provides steady returns without taking on too much risk.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹100	₹500	Manish Banthia

4. Kotak Money Market Fund

Kotak Money Market Fund is one of those funds that combines both stable returns and reliability. It is managed by Kotak Mahindra Asset Management Company and was launched on August 5, 1994. Its objective is clear: to keep your money safe while also providing slightly better returns than banks. The fund’s corpus is approximately ₹32,820 crore, reflecting investor confidence. Its portfolio is well-balanced and diversified. It includes Tri-Party Repo, ICICI Securities, 364‑Day Treasury Bill, 5.15% GOI, and Punjab National Bank.

Short-term bonds from reputable institutions like Canara Bank, HDFC Bank, and Axis Bank are also part of the portfolio.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹100	₹100	Deepak Agrawal

5. Aditya Birla Sun Life Money Manager Fund

Aditya Birla Sun Life Money Manager Fund is considered one of those funds that balances both safety and stable returns. It is managed by Aditya Birla Sun Life Asset Management Company and was launched on September 5, 1994. This fund is ideal for investors who want to park money for a short period but expect better returns than a bank account. The fund has a corpus of approximately ₹26,757 crore and a strong portfolio. It includes trusted institutions like Canara Bank, Bank of Baroda, IDBI Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank And 5.15% Government Stock 2025, (09-Nov-2025) and 182 Days Treasury Bill (1.83%) provide further stability.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹1,000	₹1,000	Kaustubh Gupta

6. Nippon India Money Market Fund

The Nippon India Money Market Fund is an old and trusted fund. It’s managed by Nippon India Asset Management and has been in operation since 1995. Its sole purpose is to provide risk-free, short-term, secure investment that earns decent interest and allows for quick withdrawal if needed. It now has a corpus of over ₹23,000 crore, and most of its investments are in short-term bonds of banks and government institutions, such as Canara Bank, Kotak Bank, NABARD, Axis, IndusInd, and HDFC Bank all with a share of approximately 1.5% to 2.5%. A portion is also held in Tri-Party Repo to maintain liquidity. Overall, this fund is suitable for those who are risk-averse but want their money to perform better than a bank account.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹100	₹500	Vikash Agarwal

7. UTI Money Market Fund

The UTI Money Market Fund’s strengths are its simplicity, ease of understanding, and reliability. It’s managed by the UTI Asset Management Company and has been in the market since 2002. Its purpose is simple: if someone has spare money for a few months, they should invest it in a place where they can withdraw it immediately if needed, while still earning slightly higher returns than a bank account. Its size is around ₹18,800 crore. Most of the funds are invested in short-term bonds of government and banking institutions. It holds stakes in major institutions like NABARD, Indian Bank, Axis Bank, and HDFC Bank, along with a small portion in 364-Day Treasury Bills. This makes it stable and reliable. Simply put, this fund is ideal for those who are risk-averse but want their money to “work” a little.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹500	₹500	Amit Sharma

8. Axis Money Market Fund

Axis Money Market Fund is one of those funds that offers reliable, stable returns. It is managed by Axis Asset Management Company and was launched on January 13, 2009. Its objective is simple to provide a safe investment option for the short term, where the money is neither at risk nor idle. It has a corpus size of around ₹18,086 crore and a well-balanced portfolio. Most of the investments are in short-term instruments of banking and government institutions. Major holdings include HDFC Bank Ltd., Canara Bank, Small Industries Development Bank of India Ltd., HDFC Bank Ltd., and Kotak Mahindra Bank Ltd.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹1,000	₹5,000	Devang Shah

9. Axis Money Market Fund

Bandhan Money Market Fund is a fund that focuses on safety, stability, and reliability. It is managed by Bandhan Asset Management Company and was launched on November 20, 1999. It is specifically designed for investors who want to keep their money safe for a few months but expect slightly better returns than bank returns. The fund has a corpus of approximately ₹12,247 crore and a balanced and prudently constructed portfolio. It comprises high-quality papers from both the government and banking sectors. Key holdings include safe-haven securities like 182 Days Treasury Bill, SIDBI, Axis Bank, Canara Bank, NABARD, and HDFC Bank.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹100	₹100	Brijesh Shah

10. Axis Money Market Fund

The HSBC Money Market Fund is a fund that maintains the right balance of safety and stability. It is managed by HSBC Asset Management Company and was launched on December 12, 2001. Its focus is on short-term investments making it a good option for those who want to keep their money safe for a few months and expect better returns than a savings account. The fund’s size is approximately ₹4,358 crore and its portfolio is well-diversified. It includes both government and corporate short-term instruments. Key holdings include safe institutions like NABARD , Indian Bank , Mindspace Business Parks REIT, Bank of Baroda, Bharti Telecom, and Bajaj Auto Credit . Treasury bills (approximately 6.7%) provide additional stability and liquidity to the fund.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹1,000	₹5,000	Mahesh Chhabria

Risks & Challenges in Money Market Mutual Funds

Interest Rate Fluctuation : Money market funds are considered safe, but fluctuations in market interest rates can slightly impact their returns. Especially when rates rise suddenly, the fund’s net asset value (NAV) may fall slightly.
Credit Risk : Most funds invest in AAA-rated or government securities, but if a corporate bond or commercial paper defaults, there is a potential for loss. Therefore, it is important to understand the fund’s holdings.
Liquidity Risk : These funds are generally very liquid, but sometimes, when there is a sudden liquidity shortage in the market, the funds may face difficulty selling their holdings. During such times, returns may be slightly affected.
Short-Term Horizon Limitation : Money market funds are not intended to generate long-term returns. These are only suitable for short-term investments, such as 3–12 months. Long-term investors expecting high growth may be disappointed.
Taxation Impact : After 2023, the indexation benefit on debt funds has been eliminated. This means that any earnings from money market funds will be taxable according to your income slab. This means that investors in higher tax brackets may see slightly lower net returns.

Read Also: Top 10 Fund Managers in India

Conclusion

If you’re looking to keep your money safe for a short period of time and want it to perform better than sitting in a bank account, Money Market Mutual Funds are a wise choice. These funds don’t take on high risk or tie up money; they simply deliver simple, liquid, and reliable returns. By choosing the right fund, you can grow your cash without stress, with complete transparency and flexibility.

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14	What is Asset Under Management (AUM) in Mutual Funds

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Money Market Mutual Fund?
This is a debt fund that invests in safe government and corporate bonds with short-term maturity periods of up to 1 year.
Are Money Market Funds safe to invest in?
Yes, they are quite safe because they invest mostly in AAA-rated and government securities.
What is the average return of money market funds in 2025?
The average return of these funds has been around 6.5% to 7%.
Can I withdraw my money anytime?
Yes, you can withdraw it anytime after investing; the money is usually received the next day.
Who should invest in money market funds?
People who need to keep their money safe and easily accessible for a short period of time.

October 22, 2025

Best Pharma Mutual Funds in India

Pharma mutual funds and healthcare mutual funds are emerging as a great option for investors in 2025. Increasing healthcare needs, government schemes and increasing expenditure on research are strengthening this sector. In such a situation, the pharma sector mutual fund is useful for those who want stable and safe returns over a long period of time. In this blog, we will know which are the best pharma mutual funds India 2025, and how they can make your portfolio balanced and profitable.

What Are Pharma Sector Mutual Funds?

Pharma sector mutual funds are mutual funds that invest primarily in companies in the pharmaceutical, healthcare services, diagnostics, medical devices and biotechnology sectors. As per SEBI regulations, any sector fund is required to invest at least 80% in the same sector.

Investment focus : Pharma mutual funds in India focus specifically on healthcare innovation, diagnostics, medical equipment and drug manufacturing. This way, investors can directly connect to the growth story of that sector.
Difference from diversified funds : While diversified mutual funds spread investments across many different sectors (such as IT, banking, consumer goods), pharma sector mutual funds focus only on the healthcare and pharma industry. This is why the potential returns may be higher, but the risk is also higher.

Best Pharma Sector Mutual Funds 2025

Fund Name	Current Nav	AUM	3 years return	5 year Return
Nippon India Pharma Fund	₹512.99	₹8113.59Cr	22.21%	16.99%
SBI Healthcare Opportunities Fund	₹433.98	₹3933.26Cr	25.77%	18.86%
Tata India Pharma & Healthcare Fund	₹30.75	₹1295.83Cr	22.87%	17.27%
UTI Healthcare Fund	₹292.65	₹1096.95Cr	25.10%	17.28%
ICICI Prudential Pharma Healthcare & Diagnostics Fund	₹40.42	₹6226.82Cr	28.40%	20.07%
DSP Healthcare Fund	₹39.12	₹3106.92Cr	23.00%	16.96%
LIC MF Healthcare Fund	₹29.88	₹85.19Cr	20.52%	13.77%
Mirae Asset Healthcare Fund	₹39.02	₹2761.64Cr	21.63%	17.17%
Aditya Birla Sun Life Pharma & Healthcare	₹31.21	₹829.63Cr	22.14%	15.27%
ITI Pharma and Healthcare Fund	₹16.40	₹226.5Cr	20.47%	–

(Data as on 14-10-2025)

1. Nippon India Pharma Fund

Nippon India Pharma Fund has a minimum SIP of ₹100 and is managed by Sailesh Raj Bhan. The fund invests in leading companies like Sun Pharma, Divi’s Labs, Lupin, Cipla, Dr. Reddy’s and Apollo Hospitals. The portfolio also includes companies like Medplus, Vijaya Diagnostic, GSK Pharma and Gland Pharma.

2. SBI Healthcare Opportunities Fund

SBI Healthcare Opportunities Fund has a minimum SIP of ₹500 and is managed by fund manager Tanmaya Desai. It invests in Sun Pharma, Divi’s Labs, Max Healthcare, Cipla, Lonza Group and Lupin and is suitable for long-term investors in the healthcare sector.

3. Tata India Pharma & Healthcare Fund

The minimum SIP of Tata India Pharma Fund is ₹100 and it is managed by Rajat Srivastava. The portfolio includes Sun Pharma, Cipla, Apollo Hospitals, Lupin, Repo Instruments, Healthcare Global, Torrent Pharma, Aster DM, Fortis and Alkem Laboratories.

4. UTI Healthcare Fund

The minimum investment in UTI Healthcare Fund is ₹500. Led by Fund Manager Kamal Gada, it invests in companies like Sun Pharma, Cipla, Ajanta Pharma, Lupin, Procter & Gamble Health and Dr. Reddy’s.

5. ICICI Prudential Pharma Healthcare & Diagnostics Fund

The minimum investment of ICICI Prudential Pharma Fund is ₹100. It is managed by Fund Manager Dharmesh Kakkad and the portfolio includes Sun Pharma, Dr. Reddy’s, Divi’s Labs, Cipla, Aurobindo Pharma, Lupin, Mankind Pharma, Alkem, Biocon and Tri-Party Repo.

6. DSP Healthcare Fund

DSP Healthcare Fund has a minimum investment of ₹100 and is managed by Chirag Dagli. The portfolio includes Cipla, Sun Pharma, Ipca Labs, Cohance Lifesciences, Laurus Labs and Gland Pharma.

7. LIC MF Healthcare Fund

LIC MF Healthcare Fund has a minimum SIP of ₹200. Led by Fund Manager Karan Doshi, it invests in Sun Pharma, Apollo Hospitals, Torrent Pharma, Cipla, Tri-Party Repo and Divi’s Labs.

8. Aditya Birla Sun Life Pharma & Healthcare Fund

Aditya Birla Sun Life Fund has a minimum SIP of ₹100. Fund Manager Dhaval Shah manages it and the portfolio includes Sun Pharma, Apollo Hospitals, Cipla, Fortis Healthcare, Abbott India and Torrent Pharma.

9. Mirae Asset Healthcare Fund

Mirae Asset Healthcare Fund has a minimum SIP of ₹99. Fund Manager Vrijesh Kasera manages it and the portfolio includes Sun Pharma, Divi’s Labs, Glenmark Pharma, Aurobindo Pharma, Cipla, Apollo Hospitals, Lupin, Dr. Reddy’s, Krishna Institute and Cohance Lifesciences.

10. ITI Pharma and Healthcare Fund

ITI Pharma Fund has a minimum SIP of ₹500 and is managed by Rohan Korde. The portfolio includes Sun Pharma, Divi’s Labs, Max Healthcare, Apollo Hospitals, Cohance Lifesciences and Torrent Pharma.

Why Consider Pharma Mutual Funds in 2025?

1. Continuous increase in demand

The demand for healthcare and medicines has increased rapidly after the COVID-19 pandemic. This has made “Pharma Mutual Funds” an attractive option for investors as they offer stability along with good returns.

2. Export boom and India’s global role

India’s pharma exports reached $27.9 billion in FY 2023-24, which is about 9.3% higher than the previous year. This growth was almost double the global average.

India is now called the “Pharmacy of the World” as it supplies more than half of the world’s generic medicines. India alone meets 40% of the US and 25% of the UK’s generic drug needs.

3. Government initiatives

The PLI (Production-Linked Incentive) scheme of the Government of India has given new impetus to the pharma sector. Investment and production capacity in projects related to drugs and medical devices have increased rapidly. These initiatives have made pharma mutual funds even more attractive for investors.

4.Strong domestic demand base

Increasing diseases, lifestyle challenges and ageing population in India are continuously increasing the demand for healthcare services. Also, the coverage of health insurance is also expanding rapidly, giving an additional boost to the pharma sector.

5. India on the global supply chain

India’s drug manufacturing capacity and quality standards (such as US-FDA and WHO-GMP) have continuously improved. Due to this, it has become a reliable part of the global supply chain and India’s role in the pharma industry has become stronger.

Key Things to Check Before Investing in Pharma Sector Mutual Funds

Performance record of the fund : Before investing in a pharma sector mutual fund, make sure to look at the CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of the last 3 years and 5 years. Funds that consistently perform well are considered reliable.
Expense ratio : Sector funds often have a slightly higher expense ratio. Funds with a lower expense ratio can give better returns for investors in the long run.
Expertise of the fund manager : Since pharma is a niche sector, it is very important to have an experienced fund manager. Their research and selection capabilities directly impact the returns.
Volatility : Pharma funds are defensive in nature but during a bull run, they can give lower returns than sectors like IT or banking. Investors should be prepared for this volatility.
Investment period : These funds are better suited for those with an investment horizon of 5 years or more. It is not right to expect them to last for a short period of time.
Who should avoid : Pharma funds are not suitable for investors who are looking for short-term gains or have very low risk.

Risks & Limitations of Pharma Mutual Funds

Sector Dependency : Pharma mutual funds invest primarily in pharma and healthcare companies. This means that if there is a downturn in the sector, the fund’s performance can be directly affected. For example, the success or failure of a new drug, competition and changes in demand in the market can directly impact the NAV.
Regulatory Risk : The healthcare sector is heavily regulated. FDA approvals, new drug policies, changes in drug prices or new government regulations can impact the fund’s performance. Sudden changes in regulations can lead to fluctuations in the fund’s returns.
Volatility : The pharma sector is sometimes very volatile. Events such as the success of new drugs, expiry of patents, mergers or global health crises such as COVID-19 can impact the sector, leading to rapid changes in the fund’s NAV.
Liquidity Risk : Some healthcare funds may have low liquidity. This means that if the investor wants to withdraw money immediately, it may take time. So invest only the amount that you can keep for a long period.
Portfolio Diversification : Investment in these funds is limited to only one sector, so the risk can be high. Therefore, experts recommend that the portfolio should also be invested in other sectors and asset classes so that the overall risk is reduced and the investment remains safe.

Read Also: Top 10 Fund Managers in India

Conclusion

If you want to invest in the health sector, Pharma mutual funds are a practical option. These funds can give good returns in the long term and also provide an opportunity to be a part of the growing demand of the health sector. Yes, sometimes returns can be affected due to fluctuations in the sector or new regulations. So do not rush, do some research and invest only after balancing your money. If you invest money wisely, these funds can become a safe and profitable source for you.

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4	What is an Open-Ended Mutual Fund & How to Invest in it?
5	Mutual Fund vs ETF. Are They Same Or Different?
6	Mutual Funds vs Direct Investing: Differences, Pros, Cons, and Suitability
7	Debt Mutual Funds: Meaning, Types and Features
8	How to Check Mutual Fund Status with Folio Number?
9	Mutual Funds vs Direct Investing: Differences, Pros, Cons, and Suitability
10	What is Solution Oriented Mutual Funds?
11	Mutual Fund Fees & Charges in India 2024
12	What is TREPS & Why Mutual Funds Invest in it?
13	History of Mutual Funds in India
14	What is Asset Under Management (AUM) in Mutual Funds

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Pharma Mutual Funds?
Pharma mutual funds are funds that invest primarily in companies in the pharma and healthcare sector.
Who should invest in Pharma Mutual Funds?
Investors who want to participate in the long-term growth and growing opportunity of the healthcare sector can invest.
Are Pharma Mutual Funds risky?
Yes, there is some risk due to sector volatility and regulatory changes.
What is the minimum SIP amount?
The minimum SIP of most pharma mutual funds starts from Rs 100, but in some funds it can be Rs 500 or more.
How long should I invest in Pharma Mutual Funds?
It is better to have a long horizon of at least 3-5 years in these funds so that the returns are better and stable.

October 15, 2025

Best Thematic Mutual Funds in India

The mutual fund market in India is growing by the day. Today, thematic mutual funds in India offer a new opportunity for investors who invest not just in companies but in larger trends, such as Digital India, the energy transition, or the defense industry. They are on the verge of becoming the top-ranked mutual funds in India by 2025. In this blog, we’ll explore how thematic funds work, where they rank among mutual funds in India, and how you can choose your own top-rated mutual fund schemes/SIPs.

What are Thematic Mutual Funds?

Thematic mutual funds are funds that invest based on a specific theme or idea. This theme can encompass more than one sector. For example, a “Digital India” theme might include IT, telecom, and fintech companies.

How do they work?

These funds typically employ a top-down investment approach. The fund manager first determines which themes (such as defense, energy transition, electric vehicles) will be strong over the long term. Then, investments are made in various sectors and companies aligned with that theme. This way, investors become participants in the entire trend, not just a single sector.

List of Best Thematic Mutual Funds in India 2025

S.No	Fund Name	AUM (Rs Cr)	3 / 5 Years Return (%)	3 / 5 Years Category Average	Current NAV
1	ICICI Prudential Technology Fund	₹14,734Cr	14.85% / 18.55%	19.55% / 22.326%	₹190.58
2	Mirae Asset Great Consumer Fund	₹4,552Cr	17.13% / 21.80%	19.55% / 22.32%	₹94.97
3	ICICI Prudential Manufacturing Fund	₹6,490Cr	26.82 % / 28.84%	19.29 % / 22.23%	₹35.26
4	Sundaram Services Fund	₹4,333Cr	18.36% / 24.21%	19.71% / 23.99%	₹34.46
5	UTI-Transportation and Logistics Fund	₹3,741Cr	24.59% / 26.84%	19.29% / 23.28%	₹290.60
6	SBI Consumption Opportunities Fund	₹3,175Cr	14.59% / 24.31%	19.17% / 22.47%	₹306.53
7	HDFC Housing Opportunities Fund	₹1,285Cr	19.73% / 23.80%	19.29% / 23.28%	₹22.03
8	Aditya Birla Sun Life Manufacturing Equity Fund	₹1043Cr	18.65% / 18.32%	19.29% / 23.28%	₹32.05
9	Edelweiss Recently Listed IPO Fund	₹924Cr	15.61% / 19.77%	18.29% / 22.28%	₹27.14
10	SBI Comma Fund	₹702Cr	16.47% / 20.44%	19.29% / 22.44%	₹104.28

(Data as of 26 Sep 2025)

A brief overview of the Best Thematic Mutual Funds in India 2025 are given below:

1. ICICI Prudential Technology Fund

This fund is managed by ICICI Prudential AMC and primarily invests in IT sector and technology-related stocks. It was launched on June 22, 1993, and today is considered one of India’s leading technology-focused mutual funds. The fund’s objective is to provide investors with long-term exposure to the growth of the technology sector. It is currently managed by Vaibhav Dusad. The fund’s portfolio is concentrated in large IT giants such as Infosys, TCS, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra, providing it with strong stability and sector-specific exposure.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹100	₹5,000	Vaibhav Dusad

2. Mirae Asset Great Consumer Fund

Mirae Asset Great Consumer Fund is a thematic equity fund managed by Mirae Asset Mutual Fund. It aims to enable investors to participate in India’s consumption growth story. As the middle class and income levels in the country are growing, demand for consumer-based companies is also steadily increasing. The fund focuses on industries such as FMCG, automobile, telecom, and retail. The portfolio consists of a mix of large and reliable companies. ITC, Hindustan Unilever, and Asian Paints represent FMCG and branded consumer goods. Mahindra & Mahindra and Maruti Suzuki provide exposure to the automobile segment. Bharti Airtel captures the growth of the telecom sector, while Trent and Avenue Supermarts focus on retail and consumer services. Eicher Motors and Eternal Ltd. further diversify the portfolio.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹1000	₹5,000	Siddhant Chhabria

3. ICICI Prudential Manufacturing Fund

This fund is managed by ICICI Prudential AMC and focuses on India’s manufacturing sector. It aims to invest in companies that are directly linked to the country’s industrial progress and the “Make in India” initiative. The fund is currently managed by Antariksh Banerjee and is designed to capture the benefits of long-term manufacturing growth.

Its portfolio includes large and strong industries. Giants like Ultratech Cement and Ambuja Cements represent India’s manufacturing sector. Mahindra & Mahindra and Hindustan Aeronautics capture the growth story of automobiles and aerospace. Names like Cummins India and JSW Steel reflect the strength of the industrial machinery and metals sectors.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹100	₹5,000	Antariksha Banerjee

4. Sundaram Services Fund

Sundaram Services Fund is a thematic mutual fund managed by Sundaram Mutual Fund. Its objective is to invest in Indian services-based companies, as the service sector continues to grow in India’s economy. The fund was launched on February 26, 1996, and is currently managed by Rohit Seksaria. The fund’s portfolio focuses on leading service-based companies. Major companies like Bharti Airtel and Reliance Industries represent telecom and consumer services, while HDFC Bank and Axis Bank represent financial services strengths. Additionally, exposure to Tri-Party Repo (TREPS) helps manage liquidity. This mix provides a balanced and diversified perspective on the services sector.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹100	₹100	Rohit Seksaria

5. UTI-Transportation and Logistics Fund

UTI-Transportation and Logistics Fund is a sector-specific thematic fund managed by UTI Mutual Fund. The fund was launched on November 14, 2002, and is currently managed by Sachin Trivedi. Its objective is to benefit investors from the growth of India’s automobile, logistics, and transportation sectors. The portfolio includes key companies representing the auto and transportation sectors. Mahindra & Mahindra and Maruti Suzuki cover India’s passenger and utility vehicle segments. Eicher Motors and Bajaj Auto demonstrate strength in two-wheelers and commercial vehicles. Interglobe Aviation (IndiGo) provides air traffic exposure, while Eternal Ltd. further diversifies the portfolio.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹500	₹5,000	Sachin Trivedi

6. SBI Consumption Opportunities Fund

SBI Consumption Opportunities Fund is a thematic equity fund managed by SBI Mutual Fund. It was launched on February 7, 1992, and is currently managed by Ashit Desai. The fund aims to capture the story of India’s growing consumption sector. As income levels and consumer demand rise, the prospects for consumption-based companies are also brightening. Its portfolio includes leading consumption companies. Bharti Airtel represents telecom consumption, while Jubilant FoodWorks and Britannia Industries cover the Indian food and FMCG segments. Major companies like Hindustan Unilever and Asian Paints represent premium consumer brands. Mahindra & Mahindra provides strong exposure to automobile consumption.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹500	₹5,000	Ashit Desai

7. HDFC Housing Opportunities Fund

HDFC Housing Opportunities Fund is a thematic equity fund managed by HDFC Mutual Fund. Launched on December 10, 1999, the fund is currently managed by Srinivasan Ramamurthy. Its objective is to capture opportunities in India’s housing and infrastructure sectors. Given the country’s urbanization and growing housing demand, this theme is considered relevant for the long term. The fund’s portfolio focuses on large financial institutions and infrastructure companies. These include major financial institutions like HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank, which are involved in housing finance and retail loan growth. Larsen & Toubro and Ambuja Cements represent the strength of the construction and cement sectors. NTPC, the backbone of energy supply, and State Bank of India, as the country’s largest bank, provide further balance to this theme.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹100	₹100	Srinivasan Ramamurthy

8. Aditya Birla Sun Life Manufacturing Equity Fund

Aditya Birla Sun Life Manufacturing Equity Fund is a thematic fund managed by Aditya Birla Sun Life AMC. It was launched on September 5, 1994, and is currently managed by Harsh Krishnan. The fund focuses on opportunities in India’s manufacturing sector and invests in companies directly involved in industrial production, automobiles, engineering, and basic industries. The fund’s portfolio includes several prominent and trusted names. Reliance Industries is a leading player in diversified manufacturing and energy. Hindalco Industries is a leader in metals and aluminum manufacturing. Maruti Suzuki and Mahindra & Mahindra demonstrate strong presence in automobile manufacturing. Cummins India provides exposure to industrial machinery and engineering, while United Breweries contributes to consumer and beverage manufacturing.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹1000	₹1,000	Harsh Krishnan

9. Edelweiss Recently Listed IPO Fund

The Edelweiss Recently Listed IPO Fund is a unique thematic fund managed by Edelweiss Mutual Fund. It was launched on August 23, 2007, and is currently managed by Bhavesh Jain. The fund invests in companies that have recently listed through an IPO (Initial Public Offering). Its objective is to enable investors to participate in the early growth story of newly listed businesses. The fund’s portfolio focuses on new and emerging businesses across diverse sectors. It includes consumer and automobile brands such as Hyundai Motor India and Vishal Mega Mart. Swiggy reflects the strength of the digital consumption and food delivery sectors. Bajaj Housing Finance provides exposure to financial services, and Sai Life Sciences and Sagility Ltd. represent growth in the healthcare and research sectors.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹500	₹5000	Bhavesh Jain

10. SBI Comma Fund

SBI Comma Fund is a thematic equity fund managed by SBI Mutual Fund. It was launched on February 7, 1992, and is currently managed by Dinesh Balachandran. The fund primarily invests in the commodities, materials, and energy sectors. These sectors, linked to India’s industrial and energy needs, have long been considered the backbone of economic growth, and this is the fund’s primary focus. The portfolio includes leading commodity and energy companies. Tata Steel and Vedanta provide exposure to metals and mining. Reliance Industries represents the energy and petrochemical sectors. Ultratech Cement covers construction and infrastructure growth, while ONGC is a major player in oil and gas production. CESC Ltd. also provides stability to the power supply and utilities sectors.

Fund details :

Min SIP	Min Investment	Fund Manager
₹500	₹5,000	Dinesh Balachandran

Why Invest in Thematic Mutual Funds in 2025?

Policy Support : The Indian government has paid special attention to sectors such as defense, infrastructure, energy transition, and the digital economy in recent years. Policy support in these sectors can provide thematic funds with the opportunity for long-term, stable growth.
Benefiting from Changing Economic Trends : Trends such as digital transactions, electric vehicles, healthcare, and renewable energy will strengthen in the coming years. Thematic mutual funds offer investors the opportunity to participate in these changes from an early stage.
Potential for Additional Returns : When the chosen theme remains relevant over the long term, thematic funds have the potential to deliver better returns than traditional diversified equity funds. However, this is not always guaranteed and involves higher risk.
A Different Approach from Sectoral Funds : Sectoral funds focus on a single industry, while thematic funds invest in multiple industries within a larger story. This helps spread the risk somewhat.
Growing Investor Interest : Investor interest in thematic funds has increased over the past few years. This is because investors prefer to invest in sectors and trends that have strong future potential.
Potential to Outperform Indices : Over some periods, thematic funds have outperformed broad indices. However, their performance depends on trends and market conditions, so investors should have realistic expectations.
Strategic Role in Portfolios : These funds are best held as satellite allocations rather than as part of a core portfolio. This allows investors to take advantage of emerging trends while maintaining portfolio diversification.

Emerging Investment Themes in India 2025

Defense and Aerospace : The country is moving towards becoming self-reliant in defense equipment. Continued large orders and export opportunities are strengthening this theme.
Infrastructure and PSUs : Government spending on roads, railways, and power is steadily increasing. This is benefiting not only infrastructure companies but also many public sector undertakings.
Energy Transition : In keeping with climate goals, there is a significant emphasis on renewable energy. Solar, wind, and battery technology are at the center of this transition.
Electric Vehicles and Electronics : EV adoption is increasing, and domestic electronics manufacturing is also strengthening. Battery and charging networks are driving this trend.
Digital and Fintech : Digital payments and online services have become a daily necessity. Investment in data security and cloud services will also increase in the coming years.
Healthcare and Pharma : Growing demand for healthcare and the discovery of new medicines are continuously strengthening this sector.
Premium Consumption : As incomes rise, people are increasingly investing in premium and branded products. This theme is expected to deepen in the coming years.

Read Also: Types of Mutual Funds in India

Risks & Challenges in Thematic Investing

Thematic mutual funds are attractive, but they carry some significant risks that should not be overlooked.

Relying solely on the theme : People often invest under the influence of a story or trend. However, not every theme succeeds. The true strength comes from the companies’ earnings and business models.
Limited Diversification : Like sectoral funds, thematic funds operate within a limited range. If the theme weakens, the entire portfolio can be affected.
Liquidity Issues : Some themes are based on small stocks. These stocks cannot be easily sold during difficult times, which can increase losses.
The Importance of Timing : Timely entry and exit are crucial in these funds. Late entry or hasty exit can impact returns.
Investor Behavior : FOMO in a bull market and panic in a bear market – this is the biggest mistake. Repeated decisions like this can weaken actual returns.

Taxation of Thematic Funds in India (2025 Update)

Equity-oriented Thematic Funds Tax Rates

Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG) : If you sell equity-invested units within 12 months or less, the STCG tax rate will be 20%.
Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) : If the holding period is more than 12 months, the LTCG tax rate will be 12.5%.
Exemption : The first LTCG up to ₹1.25 lakh is tax-free. That is, if your LTCG is less than ₹1.25 lakh, no tax will be payable.

Summary of Tax Rates (as of 2025)

Fund Type / Status	Holding Period	Tax Type	Rate / Description
Equity-oriented Thematic Fund	≤ 12 months	STCG	20%
Equity-oriented Thematic Fund	> 12 months	LTCG	12.5% (discount up to ₹1.25 lakh)
Thematic FoF / Hybrid (where equity < 65%)	any period	Income Tax Slab	As per your tax slab
Hybrid (equity ≥ 65%)	> 12 months	LTCG	12.5%

Conclusion

Thematic mutual funds offer investors the opportunity to participate in India’s rapidly changing economy and emerging trends. Whether it’s manufacturing, consumption, infrastructure, or technology, each theme offers long-term potential. However, it’s also true that they carry relatively higher risks. Therefore, it’s always wise to include them in your portfolio with a limited allocation and a long-term view.

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4	What is an Open-Ended Mutual Fund & How to Invest in it?
5	Mutual Fund vs ETF. Are They Same Or Different?
6	Mutual Funds vs Direct Investing: Differences, Pros, Cons, and Suitability
7	Debt Mutual Funds: Meaning, Types and Features
8	How to Check Mutual Fund Status with Folio Number?
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11	Mutual Fund Fees & Charges in India 2024
12	What is TREPS & Why Mutual Funds Invest in it?
13	History of Mutual Funds in India
14	What is Asset Under Management (AUM) in Mutual Funds

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are thematic mutual funds?
These funds invest in a specific theme or trend.
Are thematic funds good for SIPs?
Yes, SIPs reduce risk.
How risky are thematic funds?
They carry a higher risk.
Who should invest in thematic mutual funds?
Investors who can stay invested for the long term.
What is the ideal allocation for thematic funds?
Around 10–20% of the portfolio.

October 14, 2025

How Do Mutual Funds Pay Dividends?

Let’s look at a different aspect of the financial market except from buying and selling shares, this is mutual funds and dividends. So, have you ever wondered if you get extra cash back from your mutual fund investments? Many people think of this as a ‘dividend’ just like a small bonus for investing.

But have you ever wondered, do mutual funds pay dividends? The answer is yes, but it’s not exactly what you might think. It’s not really “extra” money that you get, so understanding what happens to dividends in mutual funds is one of the most important things for an investor.

In this blog we will look upon how mutual funds pay dividends to the investors.

What’s a Mutual Fund Dividend?

A mutual fund is like a big investment basket managed by a registered & professional fund manager. This basket makes money in a few ways:

Company Profits: If your fund owns shares of a company like TCS, and TCS decides to share its profits, your fund gets a piece of that.
Interest Earnings: If your fund has lent money (by buying bonds), it earns interest, just like a bank FD.
Smart Selling: When the fund manager sells an investment for more than they paid, the fund makes a profit.

All this money gets collected in the fund. After paying its running costs, the leftover profit can be shared with you.

‘Dividend’ is Now Called ‘IDCW’

Here’s something every investor in India needs to know. In 2021, the market regulator and watchdog SEBI changed the name of the “Dividend Option” to IDCW which stands for Income Distribution cum Capital Withdrawal.

SEBI wanted to be crystal clear and protect the investors from being misled. The old name, “dividend,” made it sound like you were getting extra bonus money from your investments but this was not the whole story.

Income Distribution: This is the part that comes from the fund’s actual earnings.
cum Capital Withdrawal: It means some of the money you’re getting is your own invested money being handed back to you.

By this you can understand that IDWC isn’t a bonus just like a dividend. It’s the fund giving you a mix of its profits and a little bit of your own money back.

How do mutual funds pay dividends?

The fund gathers up all the profits it has made.
The fund manager looks at the pile of profits and decides if there’s enough to share.
If it’s a “yes,” the money is sent straight to your bank account. By law, it has to get to you within seven working days.

Read Also: What is Dividend Policy?

What to Do with the Profits?

When you invest in mutual funds, you get to choose a path for your profits.

IDCW Payout: Investors can get their cash directly and it lands in your linked bank account. This is best suitable for people who need a regular stream of money, like retirees.
IDCW Reinvestment: Instead of cash, the money is used to buy you more units in the fund. Here the investor does not cash out the profits rather get more funds in it.
Growth Option: This is the most popular choice as, no money is paid out, all the profits are ploughed back into the fund to help it grow bigger and faster making it more profitable and valuable over time.

Feature	IDCW (Dividend) Plan	Growth Plan
Profits	You either get cash or more units.	Money is put back into the fund to grow.
Price	Price of the units drop after the payout	Price of unit grows over time
Units	Stays the same or gets reinvested	Stays the same
Best suitable for	Someone who needs cash in hand regularly.	Someone who wants money to grow over the years.
Taxation	You pay tax on it in the year you receive it.	You only pay tax when you decide to sell your units

How are Dividend Pay Decided?

The dividends in mutual funds are not 100% guaranteed, it’s not like a fixed deposit where you know exactly what returns you will be getting.

The fund manager is the one who takes the decision after considering the following:

Profit Generated: A fund can only be distributed if there is enough profit generated.
Market Conditions: If the market is volatile and uncertain, then the manager might decide to hold onto the cash to be safe.
Fund Basket: A fund that invests in big, steady companies might pay dividends more often than a fund that invests in exciting new startups.

How Dividends Affect Your Investment’s Value

When a fund pays you a dividend, the Net Asset Value (NAV) of your units drops by that exact amount. The NAV is just the price tag on one unit of your fund. Let’s walk through it. If you invest Rs.10,000 and the NAV is Rs.50, then you get 200 units (Rs.10,000 ÷ 50).

The fund declares a dividend of Rs.2 per unit, so with 200 units you get a total dividend payout of Rs.400 (200 × 2). At the same time, the NAV of the fund drops to Rs.48 (Rs.50 − Rs.2). The value of your current holding is now Rs.9,600 (Rs.48 × 200 units), and the cash received in your bank account is Rs.400.

There is no change in your total wealth because Rs.9,600 + Rs.400 = Rs.10,000. Essentially, the investment simply moves from one pocket (your mutual fund) to another (your bank account). This shows that the dividend is paid out from your investment value—it is not extra money.

Read Also: What is Dividend ETF?

How to Pick a Good Dividend Fund

If you’ve decided that getting regular cash is right for you, here are a few friendly tips for picking a fund:

You should not just chase the biggest payout, as a fund that promises a huge dividend might sometimes be struggling. A very high payout can be a sign that the fund’s NAV has dropped.
One should look for a steady track record where a fund that pays small but consistent dividends is often more reliable than one that’s all over the place.
Check the total return and don’t get fixated on the dividend rather look for the growth in the fund’s price plus the dividend.
Your goals come first, if you’re young and saving for the long haul, the Growth option is almost always your best friend as it lets your money work for you. IDCW plans are generally best for people who are retired and need cash for their expenses.

Conclusion

As we have read, we know that mutual funds pay dividends, which are now called IDCWs. The most important thing to remember is that this is not extra money. It’s just a part of your own investment being returned to you as cash. This is why the fund’s price (NAV) drops by the exact same amount.

Choosing between an IDCW plan (for cash payouts) and a Growth plan (to build wealth) is a personal decision. If you need regular income, IDCW can be useful. If you want your money to grow for the future, the Growth option is often the better path. The key is to understand how it works so you can make the best choice for your money.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are mutual fund dividends (IDCW) guaranteed?
Nope, they depend completely on whether the fund makes a profit and what the fund manager decides to do and they can be lowered or even stopped at any time.
How are these dividends taxed in India?
The IDCW you get is added to your total income for the year and taxed based on your income tax slab. If you receive more than Rs.5,000 from a single fund house in a year, they will also cut 10% tax (TDS) before you get your money.
Is a mutual fund dividend the same as a stock dividend from a company?
They’re different. A company dividend is a share of the company’s profits. A mutual fund’s IDCW is a mix of the fund’s earnings and can also include a part of your own invested capital. This is why the fund’s price (NAV) always drops by the exact dividend amount.
Can I get dividends every month?
Some funds do have plans that aim to pay out monthly. But even then, it’s not a promise as the fund needs to make enough profit to be able to share it.
What is meant by the “reinvestment” option?
Instead of getting cash, the dividend money is used to automatically buy more units of the fund for you. This is a great way to grow your investment, but remember, even though you don’t see the cash, it’s still considered income for that year and you’ll have to pay tax on it.

October 14, 2025

What is a Fixed Income Mutual Fund?

Not every investor is looking for extraordinary returns. For a lot of people, the most important thing is to keep their money safe, grow it steadily, and avoid stress. That is what Fixed Income Mutual Funds are for. These funds don’t put your money into the stock market. Instead, they invest in safer options, such as government bonds, corporate bonds, and treasury bills. The goal is simple, and that is to offer investors peace of mind, stability, and steady growth.

If you’ve ever thought, “I want my money to grow, but I don’t want to face the highs and lows of the stock market,” fixed income funds might be the right choice for you. In this blog, we will learn in detail about the intricacies of the fixed-income mutual fund and whether they are a good fit for you.

Fixed Income Mutual Fund – An Overview

Fixed-income mutual funds are mutual fund schemes that invest in fixed-income securities like government bonds, debentures, corporate bonds, and other money market instruments. People also call these funds “debt funds.” There are many types of fixed income funds, such as corporate bond funds, banking and PSU debt funds, gilt funds, and liquid funds.

Features of Fixed Income Mutual Fund

Steady and Predictable – These funds give you a more stable return, mostly through interest income, contrary to the ups and downs of the stock market.
Less Risk – They are usually safer than equity funds, but keep in mind that they are not risk-free.
A Lot of Options – You can choose from short-term bond funds to long-term gilt funds, depending on what you want to invest in.
Related to Interest Rates – The value of these funds can go up or down when interest rates change.
Easy to Withdraw Funds – Unlike a fixed deposit, you can usually get your money whenever you want to.
Expertly Managed – You do not need to keep track of every bond yourself because a professional fund manager does the hard work for you.
Built-in Diversification – Your money is allocated across several bonds and securities, which lowers the risk.

Read Also: Types of Mutual Funds in India

Types of Fixed Income Mutual Fund

1. Gilt Funds

Your money is invested in government bonds through these funds. Since the government backs these securities, credit risk is extremely low. While they are considered a safe option, the returns can still fluctuate with changes in interest rates.

2. Corporate Bond Funds

These funds invest in bonds issued by corporations. They carry higher credit risk than government bonds, but typically offer higher potential returns.

3. Short Duration Fund

These funds focus on bonds that mature in one to three years and are less susceptible to fluctuations in interest rates, making them ideal for short-term, conservative investors.

4. Long Duration Funds

Invest in bonds with maturities of at least seven years. They react more quickly to changes in interest rates, but they may offer higher returns. Ideal for long-term, patient investors.

5. Money Market Funds

Invest in short-term securities such as deposits, commercial papers, and treasury bills. These funds are liquid, safe, and convenient for keeping extra cash that you might need in the near future.

6. Dynamic Bond Funds

Depending on the conditions of the market, these funds shift between short-term and long-term bonds rather than sticking to a single strategy.

7. Credit Risk Funds

To seek greater returns, you can invest money in credit risk funds that invest in corporate bonds with lower ratings. This increases your risk because some businesses may fail. It may be suitable for those who are prepared to assume greater risk in exchange for the possibility of greater rewards.

How do Fixed Income Mutual Funds work?

Fund Managers pool money from a bunch of investors and invest in fixed-income financial assets.

1. Earning Interest

The bonds in the fund pay interest regularly. The majority of your returns come from this steady source of interest.

2. Buying and Selling Bonds

Bond prices have an inverse relationship with interest rates. When interest rates decline, existing bonds with higher coupon rates become more valuable, allowing the fund manager to potentially earn capital gains by selling them. Conversely, if interest rates rise, the market value of existing bonds falls, which can reduce the fund’s returns.

3. The Value of Your Fund (NAV)

NAV, or net asset value, is the value of your investment. It changes every day based on how well the fund’s bonds are doing.

4. Risks Associated

Credit Risk: The fund loses money if a company can’t pay back its debt.
Interest Rate Risk: Because rates and bond prices move in opposite directions, changes in rates can affect your returns.

5. Your Role

You do not have to worry about paperwork or keep track of each bond; the fund manager does it for you.

Advantages of Fixed Income Mutual Fund

Steady Returns – These funds are less volatile than equity funds and provide predictable returns.
Capital protection – Good for investors who do not want to lose too much of their principal.
Diversification – These funds invest money into a combination of bonds, government securities, and money market instruments.
Liquidity – It is easier to redeem than fixed deposits, and the money usually comes back in one to two business days.

Disadvantages of Fixed Income Mutual Fund

No guaranteed returns – The returns may vary, unlike FDs.
Interest rate risk – When interest rates go up, bond prices go down, which can change the value of the fund.
Credit risk – The fund could lose money if the bond issuer fails to pay.
Lower Returns – Returns are lower than stocks, which is good for safety, but will not beat inflation in the long term.

Who Should Invest of Fixed Income Mutual Fund

1. Risk-Averse Investors

These funds are a better choice if you get stressed by the ups and downs of the market. They have more stable returns.

2. People who are retired or want a steady income

This is a great way to make money without taking too much risk.

3. Short to Medium Term Investors

Great for goals you want to reach in the next one to five years, like saving money for school fees, a vacation, or an emergency fund.

4. People with FDs Exploring More Options

Debt funds are worth looking into if you like the safety of fixed deposits but wish you could get access to your money more easily.

Fixed Income Funds vs. Fixed Deposits

Basis	Fixed Income Mutual Funds	Fixed Deposits (FDs)
Definition	A pool of money invested in bonds, treasury bills, and other debt instruments. Returns change with market conditions.	A simple savings product where you park your money with a bank for a fixed time at a fixed interest rate.
How you earn	Returns come from the interest bonds pay and any gains/losses from changes in bond prices.	The interest rate is locked in on day one and stays the same till maturity.
Risk level	Carry interest rate risk (prices move opposite to rates) and credit risk (if a borrower defaults).	Very safe, backed by banks, and up to ₹5 lakh per person per bank is insured.
Guarantee of capital	No guarantee. The value (NAV) can go up or down slightly.	Your principal and interest are guaranteed (within insurance limits).
Liquidity (easy access)	Usually 1–2 working days to get your money back; some funds allow instant redemption up to a limit.	You can break an FD before maturity, but you’ll usually pay a penalty or get a lower interest rate.
Costs	Comes with a small expense ratio (management fee).	No ongoing charges, only a penalty if you break early.
Taxes	Taxed only when you redeem. From April 2023, all gains are taxed at your income tax slab. Dividends, if chosen, are also taxed at the slab.	Interest is taxed every year at your income tax slab. TDS applies if interest crosses the limit.
Transparency	You can see where your money is invested; NAV is published daily.	The bank tells you the rate and tenure upfront.
Best for	Investors who want a balance of safety and slightly better returns, and don’t mind small ups and downs.	Those who want guaranteed returns and peace of mind.

Conclusion

Fixed-income mutual funds might not be as rewarding as individual stocks, but that is what makes them great: they keep things steady. They are ideal if you want a steady income, less risk, and a great way to balance out the riskier parts of your portfolio.

These funds can help you with that, whether you are retired and need a steady stream of income, planning for short-term goals, or just want a safe place to keep your money. Consider fixed-income mutual funds as the basis that keeps your financial journey steady while the market evolves.

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5	Mutual Fund vs ETF. Are They Same Or Different?
6	Mutual Funds vs Direct Investing: Differences, Pros, Cons, and Suitability

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are fixed-income mutual funds risk-free?
No, they are safer than equity funds but still carry some interest rate and credit risk.
How do these funds make money?
These funds make money through interest earned on bonds and small gains when price increases.
What is the general return range?
Usually 6% to 9% per year, depending on the type and market conditions
Are these funds good for short-term goals?
Yes, especially liquid funds and short-duration funds.
Can NRIs invest in fixed-income funds?
Yes, most AMCs allow it, though some restrictions apply depending on the country of residence.

September 24, 2025

Best Books on Mutual Funds for Beginners in India

If you have ever thought about investing, chances are mutual funds came up as the first option. They are simple, beginner-friendly, and eliminate the need to analyse individual stocks. But here is the truth: just because mutual funds are easy to start with does not mean you should jump in without learning the basics.

The more you know, the better are your investment decisions. And while the internet is flooded with tips, reels, and suggestions, books give you a deeper understanding. They share decades of wisdom and proven lessons that short videos just cannot cover.

In this blog, we will tell you about 10 amazing books on mutual funds and investing. Some are classics, some are simple guides, and a few explore investor psychology, but all of them will change the way you invest in mutual funds.

Why Read Books on Mutual Funds?

We are living in the age of instant advice; scroll through Instagram or YouTube, and you will find endless investing hacks. They are fun, sometimes even useful. But they do not always prepare you for the challenges of investing, like staying calm during a market crash.

Books do that. They slow you down, give you perspective, and show you the bigger picture. Below are some of the reasons why they are worth your time.

They build strong basics – You will understand terms like SIPs, NAVs, and diversification without getting confused by complicated market terms.
They teach patience – Real wealth is built slowly through compounding, not by chasing quick gains.
They give perspective – Many of these authors have seen decades of market ups and downs, and they share what actually works.
They help with mindset – A key aspect of successful investing is managing your emotions. Books prepare you for that.

10 Best Books on Mutual Funds in India for Beginners

Common Sense on Mutual Funds – John C. Bogle
The Little Book of Common Sense Investing – John C. Bogle
The Four Pillars of Investing – William J. Bernstein
The Intelligent Investor – Benjamin Graham
The Coffeehouse Investor – Bill Schultheis
Indian Mutual Funds Handbook (5th Edition) – Sundar Sankaran
Mutual Funds – Ladder to Wealth Creation – Vivek K Negi
How to Make a Fortune Through Mutual Funds: Hunt with the Hounds – Ashu Dutt
Mutual Funds For Dummies – Eric Tyson
Mutual Funds Made Easy – Gerard W. Perritt

An overview of the top 10 mutual funds books in India is given below:

1. Common Sense on Mutual Funds – John C. Bogle

This is Bogle’s book, where he explains everything he believes about mutual funds. He makes a simple but powerful point: high costs and too much trading eat away at your returns. Any individual should stick to plain, low-cost index funds and hold them for the long term. If you are serious about investing, it is worth the time. Think of it as a masterclass from the man who changed investing forever.

2. The Little Book of Common Sense Investing – John C. Bogle

This is the pocket guide where Bogle convinces you that index funds are the smartest, simplest way to invest. He explains about “beating the market” and shows why most people are better off owning it. The writing is simple, the arguments are clear, and the lessons stick. For beginners, this is the best place to start your investing journey.

3. The Four Pillars of Investing – William J. Bernstein

Bernstein takes a wide-angle view of investing. He talks about the theory (why diversification matters), history (how markets behave), psychology, and the business side. While the book is broader than just mutual funds, the lessons on portfolio diversification, risk management, and long-term planning are directly applicable to mutual fund investing. He is sure about one thing: most people should just focus on low-cost funds and stop trying to outsmart the market. The mix of history and science makes this book eye-opening for anyone who wants to understand investing in a better way.

4. The Intelligent Investor – Benjamin Graham

This one is known as a classic for a reason. Benjamin Graham, Warren Buffett’s mentor, lays down multiple lessons about patience, discipline, and protecting yourself from risk. He explains the difference between being an “investor” and a “speculator”, a line that many people are not able to comprehend. Although Graham focuses on stocks, the principles of risk management, value assessment, and long-term thinking are highly relevant to mutual fund investing. The writing is a bit old-school, but the knowledge it carries is still relevant. If you read it, you will take away a whole new way of looking at money and risk.

5. The Coffeehouse Investor – Bill Schultheis

This book feels like a chat with a wise friend over coffee. Schultheis argues that investing doesn’t need to be complicated, no need for fancy strategies, endless research, or sleepless nights. His approach is simple: build a balanced portfolio with index funds, leave it, and continue living your life. The language is simple, even humorous at times, making it perfect for beginners who feel overwhelmed by finance. It’s not about chasing every opportunity, but about finding peace of mind while still growing your wealth steadily.

6. Indian Mutual Funds Handbook (5th Edition) – Sundar Sankaran

If you have ever wanted an easy, no-nonsense guide to how the Indian mutual fund industry works, this book can be of great help. Sundar Sankaran does a great job of breaking things down, whether it is the different types of funds, how they compare to other investment options, or how to invest across sectors. What makes it especially useful is how practical and India-focused it is, so you are not just getting theory but insights you can actually use. In many ways, it is a handbook for anyone who wants to understand mutual funds in the Indian context.

7. Mutual Funds – Ladder to Wealth Creation – Vivek K Negi

If you are starting your investing journey, this book is a perfect place to begin. Often rated as one of the best beginner-friendly guides on mutual funds, it explains the basics in a way that is simple and easy-to-follow. Vivek K Negi not only covers the fundamentals but also shows how mutual funds can become a smart tool for long-term wealth creation. For anyone new to the world of investing, this should be one of the first books on your reading list.

8. How to Make a Fortune Through Mutual Funds: Hunt with the Hounds – Ashu Dutt

This book shows how you can achieve extraordinary returns from mutual funds beyond the steady, slow gains most investors expect. Ashu Dutt explains that mutual funds deliver their best results in rising markets, and that conventional approaches like always investing through systematic investment plans or holding long-term may not make you rich. Instead, the book emphasizes timing your investments and strategically trading mutual funds to maximize profits. At the same time, Dutt keeps the language simple, making it easy for beginners to follow and addressing common myths, such as the fear of losing money during downturns or thinking mutual funds are only for long-term investing. This practical guide is perfect for investors who want to start investing with confidence while exploring the full potential of mutual funds.

9. Mutual Funds For Dummies – Eric Tyson

If you have just started your financial journey and are feeling lost, this book is like having a friendly guide walk you through the world of mutual funds step by step. Eric Tyson is trying to show you how to choose funds that align with your investment goals and help you understand all the jargon. You do not need to be an expert; this book is designed for everyday investors who just want clear, practical advice.

10. Mutual Funds Made Easy – Gerard W. Perritt

Gerard W. Perritt wrote this book with beginners in mind, making it a simple, step-by-step guide to understanding mutual funds. It covers the basics of how to get started, while also teaching you the importance of managing risk, diversifying your portfolio, and building a clear financial plan. Perritt also shares practical suggestions on how to stay disciplined as an investor and avoid common mistakes, making this book a reliable companion for anyone looking to grow wealth over time through mutual funds.

Conclusion

Mutual funds are often sold as “easy investment options,” but the truth is, they are only effective when a person uses them mindfully. It is important to have the right mindset, patience, and a consistent investment plan.

The books listed above are not just about mutual funds; they are about becoming a better investor overall. They will teach you to avoid the noise and trust the power of compounding. Instead of relying on short-term tips, consider reading one of these books as the knowledge you will gain will stay with you for the long term.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are these books useful for Indian investors?
Yes, while most are written with U.S. markets in mind, the lessons, like patience, diversification, and low costs, apply everywhere.
Which book should I start with as a beginner?
Go for The Little Book of Common Sense Investing, it is simple and beginner-friendly.
Do these books talk about SIPs?
Some mention systematic investing strategies, which are almost the same idea.
Do I need to read all 10?
No. Even reading one or two will make a huge difference in how you see mutual funds.
Can I buy these books easily in India?
Yes, most are available on Amazon, Flipkart, or even in local bookstores.

September 12, 2025

Top 10 Mutual Fund Distributors in India

India’s mutual fund industry reached a historic AUM (Assets Under Management) of ₹74.79 lakh crore in June 2025, showing an unprecedented growth of about 22–23% over the previous year. With this rapid expansion, choosing the right mutual fund distributor is more critical than ever. Whether you’re searching for the top mutual fund distributors in India, the biggest industry players, or reliable personal advisors and brokers, making an informed choice can significantly impact your investment journey.

In this guide, we will discuss the most trusted and trending mutual fund distributors of 2025 that can help make your investment journey easier.

Who are Mutual Fund Distributors?

Mutual fund distributors are individuals or institutions that help investors invest in different mutual fund schemes. These distributors are registered with AMFI (Association of Mutual Funds in India) and work under an ARN (AMFI Registration Number). Their job is to suggest the right scheme, help with documentation and provide investment related information to their clients.

Types of Mutual Fund Distributors

Institutional Distributors: Such as NJ Wealth, Prudent, ICICI Securities etc. who do sell mutual funds on a large scale.
Bank Distributors: Such as banks like SBI, HDFC, Axis who have the advantage of branch network.
Fintech Platforms: Such as Groww, Zerodha, ET Money which sell mutual funds through digital channels.
Individual ARN Holders: Independent financial advisors who provide personal guidance on a small scale.

Top 10 Mutual Fund Distributors in India 2025

Distributor Name	Distributor Type	AUM (FY 25) (₹ Cr)	Coverage & Highlights
State Bank of India	Bank	1,73,756	Largest network, deep penetration among rural investors
NJ Wealth	National Distributor	1,60,999	33,000+ ARN holders, digital and in-person support
HDFC Bank	Bank	1,19,188	Extensive branch network and reliable customer service
Axis Bank	Bank	74,290	User-friendly app, faster digital growth
Prudent Corporate	Institutional Distributor	69,785	31% growth rate, Pan-India branch network
ICICI Bank	Bank	55,749	Extensive branch network and digital reach
Kotak Mahindra Bank	Bank	46,100	Focus on HNI and mid-level investors
360 ONE Distribution Services	Institutional Distributor	29,905	75% YoY Growth, App-based wealth management
Anand Rathi Wealth	Institutional Distributor	28,342	Targeted advice for NRI and HNI investors
HSBC Bank	Bank	26,546	18% year-on-year growth

Overview of the Top Mutual Fund Distributors in India

An overview of the top 10 mutual fund distributors in India is given below:

1. State Bank of India

SBI leads the mutual fund distribution industry in India with an AUM of ₹1,73,756 crore. It offers equity, debt, hybrid and ETF schemes. SBI’s strength is its extensive branch network, which helps it offer investment schemes to every corner of the country—city and village. Their Balanced Advantage and Bluechip Fund are preferred investment choices among common investors.

Read Also: SBI Case Study

2. NJ Wealth

Started in 2000, NJ Wealth has today become the country’s largest fund distribution network with 33,000+ ARN holders and an AUM of around ₹1,60,999 crore. Schemes of many AMCs are available at one place on its platform. The mix of tech-enabled and personal dealing makes it a trusted choice among investors.

3. HDFC Bank

HDFC Bank mutual fund distribution segment, with assets under management of ₹1,19,188 crore, maintains a strong presence in the distribution landscape through its extensive banking channels and reputation for reliable customer service. Its schemes—such as Flexi Cap and Balanced Advantage offer predictable returns. Its digital reach along with its branch network has made HDFC a trusted asset among retail investors.

Read Also: HDFC Bank Case Study

4. Axis Bank

Axis Bank’s mutual fund distribution segment has an AUM of around ₹74,290 crore. This AMC is known as the digital avatar of mutual funds with research-driven equity funds and strong SIP growth campaigns. Bluechip and Midcap are its key identities.

Read Also: Axis Bank Case Study

5. Prudent Corporate

Prudent Corporate, holding ₹69,785 crore in AUM, is noted for its rapid growth rate and robust pan-India branch network. It operates primarily on the IFA network and offers client-customized digital tools. Its presence in Tier‑2/3 cities is steadily growing.

6. ICICI Bank

ICICI Bank’s mutual fund distribution business, with an AUM of ₹55,749 crore, relies on a multi-channel model that combines its extensive branch network with robust digital offerings, delivering mutual fund solutions to a broad spectrum of clients. With funds like Balanced Advantage and Bluechip Equity leading the way, its distribution network offers investors access to a wide range of mutual fund schemes, supported by consistent performance and strong brand trust.

Read Also: ICICI Bank Case Study

7. Kotak Mahindra Bank

Kotak Mahindra Bank The bank’s mutual fund distribution business has an AUM of ₹46,100 crore. The bank’s mutual fund distribution team utilizes the bank’s brand name, branch network and digital channels to effectively reach its client base.

8. 360ONE Distribution (ET Money)

360 ONE Distribution Services reports an AUM of ₹29,905 crore. Recognized for its substantial year-on-year growth, this institutional mutual fund distributor employs app-based wealth solutions and has developed a reputation for technological innovation in serving affluent and HNI clients.

9. Anand Rathi Wealth

Anand Rathi Wealth, with an AUM of ₹28,342 crore in mutual fund distribution business, focuses predominantly on NRI and HNI clients. The firm is acclaimed for its professional research, personalized advice, and broad spectrum of wealth management services, including mutual funds and portfolio management.

10. HSBC Bank

HSBC Bank is among India’s leading mutual fund distributors, managing approximately ₹26,546 crore in AUM as of FY 2023–24. Leveraging its global expertise and strong digital platform, HSBC delivers curated multi-AMC mutual fund solutions to retail and affluent clients

Top 10 Individual Mutual Fund Distributors in India

Rank	ARN Holder Name	AUM (₹ Cr, FY 2024)
1	Gaurav Ganpule	₹1,887 Cr
2	Ganesh Shanbhag	₹1,494 Cr
3	Ranjan Panigrahi	₹1,251 Cr
4	Sadashiv Phene	₹1,079 Cr
5	Mukund Sheshadri	₹1,020 Cr
6	Hari Kamat	₹979 Cr
7	Jennifer Mendes	₹892 Cr
8	Sandeep Borse	₹884 Cr
9	Harish Kotian	₹829 Cr
10	Ajay Mishra	₹828 Cr

How to Choose the Right Distributor in

As important as it is to invest in mutual funds, it is equally important to choose a reliable mutual fund distributor. In 2025, market competition and the growing number of digital platforms have given investors many options. But the right choice is the one that strikes a balance between your investment goals, convenience, and cost.

Verify ARN registration and validity : All mutual fund distributors must be registered with AMFI (Association of Mutual Funds in India). Verify whether the distributor’s ARN number is valid and active by visiting the AMFI website.
Experience and quality of investment advice : Choose a mutual fund distributor who can provide you additional services like goal-based investing, risk profiling, and periodic portfolio reviews. Years of experience and client retention are important indicators.
Digital platforms : A good mutual fund distributor gives you an easy-to-use digital platform — where you can track your funds, manage SIPs, and easily buy or sell when needed. Also look at the security features and user interface of the app.
Reporting and data transparency : Does the distributor regularly provide you with Consolidated Account Statement (CAS), Portfolio Report and Tax Summary? All these reports help in your financial planning and monitoring.
Client support and response time : A professional distributor should respond to your queries in a timely manner. Check if they have a dedicated support team and whether they provide regular follow-ups and updates.
Variety of product coverage and advice : The distributor should not be limited to just 1–2 AMCs. It is better to find a distributor who provides you access to mutual funds from multiple AMCs.

Conclusion

Mutual fund investing offers a wide range of choices, but not all are aligned with your financial goals, risk profile, or time horizon. That is why it is important to select a reliable mutual fund distributor who understands your needs and helps you make better decisions. Advice, platform features, and tracking tools—all these aspects are now as important as the performance of the mutual fund itself. So, select your mutual fund distributor carefully and begin investing in mutual funds today after consulting your investment advisor.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a mutual fund distributor?
A mutual fund distributor is a person or institution that acts as an intermediary, helping investors buy, sell, and manage mutual fund investments.
How do I check if a distributor is registered?
To check whether the distributor is registered or not, you can visit the AMFI website and enter their ARN number and verify the details.
Are online platforms better than traditional distributors?
If you prefer digital convenience and investing on your own, then online platforms may be a better option.
Do mutual fund distributors charge fees from investors?
No, in the regular plans their commission is paid by the AMC, no separate charges are taken from the investor.
Can I switch my mutual fund distributor later?
Yes, you can change your distributor or transfer to a direct plan anytime you wish.

July 22, 2025

Best SIP Apps in India for Investment 2025

SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) has become the preferred way to invest in mutual funds in India, with record collections of ₹26,688 crore in May 2025 and over 8.56 crore active accounts. As SIP AUM crosses ₹14.61 lakh crore, choosing the best SIP app in India has become essential for building wealth safely and systematically. The right app makes investing simple, disciplined, and goal-oriented.

This blog will discuss the top 10 SIP apps based on the latest features of 2025.

What is SIP and why invest through SIP Apps?

SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) is an investment method in which you invest a fixed amount in mutual funds every month. It is a disciplined and easy way to build wealth in the long run, especially for those who want to start with small investment amounts. In SIP, you take advantage of rupee cost averaging i.e. even if the market fluctuates, your average purchase price remains low.

Why are SIP Apps important?

In 2025, when almost everything has gone online, mobile apps have made everything even easier for SIP investments. Now you can invest in mutual funds from the comfort of your home, that too in just a few minutes.

Benefits of SIP Apps :

The entire process is paperless and fast
You can easily track all your investments
Most apps offer you direct mutual funds, which saves commission
Goal-based investing and risk analysis tools help you analyze investment options better

What should be there in a good SIP App?

Easy and user-friendly interface
Zero or very low charges
Access to all major mutual funds
Safe and SEBI-registered platform
Features like portfolio tracker and alerts

SIP apps not only provide convenience, but have also become the smartest way to plan and manage your financial goals; so choosing the right best platform for SIP is important.

10 Best Apps for SIP Investment in India (2025)

App Name	SIP & Lump Sum Option	Key Highlights	App Ratings (Android / iOS)
Groww	Available	Stocks, F&O, IPOs, UPI Autopay, clean UI	4.7 * / 4.3 *
Zerodha Coin	Available	UPI SIP, STP, low-cost direct plans	3.8 * / 3.3 *
Kuvera	Available	UPI SIP, STP, low-cost direct plans	4.6 * / 4.5 *
Paytm Money	Available	Mutual Funds + Stocks, Stock SIP, IPOs, GTT orders	3.7 * / 4.4 *
INDmoney	Available	US stocks, credit score, tax tools, MF loans	4.6 * / 4.7 *
ET Money	Available	Smart fund picks, insurance & loan access, tax-saver packs	4.2 * / 4.4 *
Upstox MF	Available	Integrated with Upstox trading app, ₹0 brokerage, tax-saver funds	4.5 * / 4.3 *
Fisdom	Available	Mutual funds, stocks, IPOs, portfolio management services	4.5 * / 4.7 *
myCAMS	Available	Safe, paperless investing, no commission	3.9 * / 3.1 *
KFinKart	Available	Paperless and safe investing with no commission	3.1 * / 2.8 *

Note: App rating can change significantly based on launch of new features, better versions, etc., so check before choosing a SIP platform.

Read Also: How to Cancel Mutual Fund SIP?

Overview of 10 Best Investment Apps in India

An overview of the 10 best investment apps in India is given below:

1. Groww

Groww is one of the most trusted and user-friendly SIP investment apps in India today. By 2025, Groww has over 50 million users and has become an excellent platform for beginners, especially those who are investing in mutual funds for the first time.

Groww was started in Bengaluru in 2016, and was founded by four ex-Flipkart employees – who wanted to make investing simplified and digital.

Key Features:

SIP and lump sum investments in mutual funds from all major AMCs
Easy and seamless SIP setup via UPI Autopay
Along with mutual funds, corporate bonds, F&O, IPOs and digital gold are also available for investments
Simple and clutter-free interface, which makes it easy for even new users to understand
Curated fund suggestions in the “Explore” tab

Pros:

Zero commission on direct mutual funds
100% paperless KYC and instant account activation
Very easy to track and manage

Cons:

Goal-based planning features are still limited
Advance analytics tools are limited

Charges:

Groww does not charge for investing in mutual funds

Flat charge of ₹20 per executed order is applicable for Stock/F&O trading

Who is it suitable for?

If you are investing via SIP for the first time and want an easy, reliable and digital experience, then Groww is one of the best choices.

2. Zerodha Coin

Zerodha Coin, an offering from Zerodha Broking Ltd, was launched in 2017 and has become the largest zero-commission platform for direct SIP investments in India. Zerodha was established in 2010 and has a reach of over 13 million clients, making investing in Coin a safe and reliable option.

Key Features :

Zero-commission direct mutual funds (no leaked commission)
Instant mandate setup with UPI Autopay SIP – without ECS, and limit up to ₹1 lakh/day
STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) within the same AMC
Features such as weekly SIPs, XIRR, Family-portfolio views, etc.

Pros:

Zero commission investing in direct mutual funds
Part of the trusted Zerodha ecosystem

Cons:

Zerodha Coin requires a Zerodha Demat account as mutual fund units are held in Demat form.
Limited options for goal-based investing, limited advanced analytics

Charges:

Mutual Funds (SIP/lump sum) investing is absolutely free
Demat account maintenance charges ₹300/year (Quarterly ₹75).

Who is it right for?

Coin is a perfect fit for those who have a Zerodha trading account and want commission-free SIPs. For active traders and investors who like to use advanced features, Coin is a strong choice.

3. Kuvera

Kuvera was started in 2016 in Bengaluru, and was founded by Gaurav Rastogi (ex‑Morgan Stanley) and Neelabh Sanyal (ex‑Axis Capital). In 2024, it was acquired by Cred, which further expanded its resources and reach. Kuvera has become the preferred platform for trusted, smart and growth‑oriented investors.

Key Features:

Zero-commission for investing in direct mutual funds
Tax-harvesting & TradeSmart: Auto recommendations, exit-load and short‑term gain optimization for tax‑savings
Goal & Family Account: Create family investments and goal‑based SIP plans like child education, retirement, or other specific goals.
Portfolio consolidation CAS‑based import makes all MF investments visible at one place
Asset classes like US stocks, fixed income & sovereign gold bonds also included by 2025

Pros:

Completely commission-free investment in direct mutual funds through SIPs
Advanced portfolio tools and tax-saving features are great

Cons:

Some users have complained of UI and performance issues eKYC delays, app crash, duplicate SIPs
Customer support has improved since Cred acquisition

Charges:

Absolutely free in Mutual funds (SIP/lump sum)
Other assets like US Stocks and FDs may have some nominal charges (check terms on platform)

Who is it right for?

Investors looking for tax optimization
Like to set up family portfolios or goal-based SIPs
Trust DIY but want advanced tools

4. Paytm Money

Paytm Money was launched in January 2018 by One97 Communications (Paytm) to bring investing to India’s largest payment app. By 2025, the app has expanded rapidly, and has become popular for mutual funds as well as stock trading.

Key Features:

Direct mutual fund SIP and lump sum investment across all major AMCs
Instant SIP setup with UPI Autopay no paperwork
Features across mutual funds as well as stocks, digital gold, NPS, F&O, IPO
Smart investing tools like SIP reminder widgets and All-in-One SIP
Start SIP from just ₹250 possible with flexible frequency

Pros:

Zero commission direct SIP
Easy to start with Low entry SIP (₹250)
New trading tools like UPI Autopay, OCO (One Cancels Other) and GTT (Good Till Triggered) orders
Facility to do both SIP and stock investing in a single app

Cons:

Sometimes there are complaints of delay or rejection in SIP mandate setup
Limited goal-planning and advanced analytics features

Charges:

No charge for SIP and lump sum investment in mutual funds
On Stocks and F&O trading Flat brokerage of ₹20 per order

Who is it right for?

Paytm Money is great for those who want to do mutual fund SIPs as well as stock investing from a single platform. It is a flexible and all-in-one investing app for both beginners and active investors.

5. INDmoney

INDmoney is a modern super finance app that was launched in 2019. It is known not only for SIP but also for offering US stocks, fixed deposits, credit score tracking and goal-based financial planning. By 2025, INDmoney has established itself as an all-in-one personal finance platform.

Key Features:

SIP and lump sum investment in mutual funds from all major AMCs
Scheduled recurring US stock investments with fractional shares, similar to SIP.
Credit score tracking, insurance, loan offers and financial reports all in one place
Personalized goal planner and family portfolio management
Insta Plus feature also offers instant loans on mutual funds

Pros:

Zero commission SIP and global investing on one platform
Advance dashboard and insightful reports
Tax-saving options and flexibility of goal-based planning
Finance tools like credit score and loan eligibility

Cons:

Too many app features can be overwhelming for beginners

Charges:

SIP in mutual funds is completely free
There may be some nominal platform charges on US stocks and other financial products

Who is it right for?

INDmoney is great for investors who want to invest in US stocks along with SIP. This app is very useful for those who need credit score tracking, insurance and smart financial planning.

6. ET Money

ET Money is a trusted fintech platform launched in 2016 by Times Internet. It is known not only for SIP investment but also for features like insurance, credit score, expense tracking and tax-saving planning. By 2025, ET Money is being used by more than 1 crore users and its reputation is constantly getting stronger.

Key Features:

SIP and lump sum investments in direct mutual funds from all major fund houses
One-click SIP setup starting from ₹500
Tax-saving ELSS funds and 80C planning tools
Monthly expense tracker and custom goal planner
NPS (National Pension Scheme) and insurance products also available

Pros:

Direct SIPs without commission
Goal-based investing and smart fund recommendations
Integrated expense and insurance tracking in the app
Dedicated tools and reminders for tax-saving

Cons:

SIP cancellation or modification sometimes has to be done manually
No advance analytics or international investment options

Charges:

No charge for mutual funds SIPs
Third-party charges may apply for other services like NPS or insurance

Who is it suitable for?

ET Money is ideal for users who want to manage their personal finances along with SIP investments from one place. Especially those who want to keep track of expenses, tax planning and insurance together.

7. Upstox

Upstox, which started in 2009, is today one of the largest discount brokers in India. Its app provides the essential features of SIP in an easy and straightforward way, allowing investors to get started without any complications.

Key Features:

SIP and lump sum investment facility on both app and website
SIP can be started from ₹100, depending on AMC
Access to mutual funds from all major AMCs
Fund filter and curated list help in choosing the right scheme
Stocks and mutual funds both can be managed from a single login

Pros:

For those who are already using Upstox, starting a mutual fund is seamless
No brokerage or extra charge for SIP
The app interface is clean and user-friendly
It becomes easy to handle multiple investments from a single platform

Cons:

Features like goal-based investing are not available yet
Manual process has to be followed to modify or cancel SIP

Charges:

There is no charge for investing in mutual funds
The annual maintenance fee of Upstox demat account is ₹300 (₹75 quarterly)

Who is it right for?

If you already trade on Upstox and want to start investing in mutual funds as well, then Upstox is a practical and reliable option. Especially good for those who want to do SIP in various mutual funds.

8. Fisdom

Fisdom is an investment and wealth management platform started in 2015 in Bengaluru. It offers mutual fund SIPs as well as investment in stocks IPOs and portfolio management services. By 2025, Fisdom has gained a strong foothold among investors, especially in small towns.

Key Features:

SIP and lump sum investment facility in mutual funds of all major AMCs
Goal-based SIP plans and ready-made fund baskets
Value-added services like NPS, health insurance and tax filing
Auto-debit mandate and real-time SIP tracking

Pros :

Mutual funds as well as financial planning is done from one place
Simple guidance and curated fund packs for beginner investors
Additional features like tax tools, pension plans and insurance

Cons:

App interface may seem a bit outdated to some users
Advanced analytics or research tools are not very strong

Charges :

No charge on mutual fund investments (Direct plans available)
Some third-party services like tax filing or insurance may have nominal fees

Who is it right for?

Fisdom is perfect for those who want to manage their entire financial life from one place and not just mutual fund SIPs. This app can be very useful for beginners and salaried individuals.

9. MyCAMS

MyCAMS is a trusted name among mutual fund investors. It was started by Computer Age Management Services (CAMS), which is one of the largest back-end support companies in the mutual fund industry. MyCAMS App provides mutual fund investors a centralized, secure and paperless way to track not just SIPs but the entire portfolio.

Key Features:

Direct SIP plans from CAMS-registered AMCs (like HDFC MF, ICICI Prudential, SBI MF etc.)
Facilities to view and manage investments of multiple fund houses in a single app
Facilities like instant redemption, SIP pause/resume, nominee update
Family account mapping and consolidated portfolio view

Pros:

A completely secure and official mutual fund app as data is not shared with third parties
Detailed portfolio and transaction history for investors
Direct plans and zero commission investing

Cons :

Interface seems a bit old compared to other new apps

Charges:

No charge on SIP and lump sum investments
All plans are direct i.e. no brokerage or commission

Who is it right for?

MyCAMS is great for investors who just want to do SIPs in mutual funds and want their money to be completely secure, official and trackable. It is a solid choice especially for long-term and serious investors.

10. KFinKart

If you are looking for an app that lets you manage mutual funds hassle-free, KFinKart might be the right choice for you. It is developed by KFin Technologies, which has been handling the backend operations of the mutual fund industry for years. The best part of this app is that it gives you a simple and straightforward way to invest in mutual fund schemes offered by KFin-serviced AMCs such as Axis Mutual Fund, Nippon India, Kotak MF, etc.

Key Features :

SIPs starting from ₹500 and lump sum option
Track and manage all KFin supported mutual funds in one place
Easy to pause/resume SIP, update nominee or redeem units
Add family investments in one place

Pros :

Simple and clutter-free interface ideal for beginners
Invest in direct plan without any commission
Long-term portfolio tracking and detailed investment reports
Trusted backend system keeps data safe and verified

Cons:

UI and app design can feel a bit dated, especially when compared to other apps

Charges:

Mutual fund investments (SIP and lump sum Both) can be done without any fees

Best for whom?

KFinKart is best suited for investors who want to control their mutual fund investments through a trusted registrar. If you are doing SIPs in multiple AMCs and want to see everything in one place, on a clean interface then this app can be a practical and efficient choice for you.

Read Also: SIP vs Lump Sum: Which is Better?

Conclusion

SIP is an investment method that can make a big difference in the long run provided you choose the right app. There are many options in the market today, but not every app is right for everyone. So choose an app based on your needs, investment style and convenience. Things like an easy to use interface, better tracking and reliable support can make your investment journey successful. You can consult a financial advisor to select the best app to do SIPs.

S.NO.	Check Out These Interesting Posts You Might Enjoy!
1	Types of Mutual Funds in India
2	Mutual Fund Factsheet: Definition And Importance
3	Equity Mutual Funds: Meaning, Types & Features
4	What Is An IPO Mutual Fund? Should You Invest?
5	Who Regulates Mutual Funds in India?
6	History of Mutual Funds in India
7	How to Invest in Mutual Funds?
8	How to Check Mutual Fund Status with Folio Number?
9	Long-Term Capital Gain (LTCG) Tax on Mutual Funds
10	Mutual Fund Taxation – How Mutual Funds Are Taxed?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which is the best app for SIP investment in India?
Apps like Groww, Zerodha Coin, ET Money and INDmoney are considered good for SIP.
Are SIP apps safe to use?
Yes, if the app is offered by a SEBI registered and trusted platform; then it is safe to use.
Can I start SIP with just ₹100?
Yes, SIP can be started from as low as ₹100 on many apps like Groww, Zerodha coin, Paytm money, etc.
Do SIP apps charge any fees?
Most apps offer direct plans, with no commission or hidden charges.
Can I stop or pause SIP anytime through apps?
Yes, almost all SIP apps have the facility to pause or cancel that too without any paperwork.

July 11, 2025

Top 10 Fund Managers in India 2025

As important as it is to choose the right mutual fund in the market, it is equally important to know who is managing that fund. In 2025, there are many fund managers whose wisdom and experience have consistently brought good profits to investors.

In this blog, we will know about those top fund managers of India, due to whom the trust of many investors remains intact.

Who is a Fund Manager?

A fund manager is a professional who manages the investments of a mutual fund. That is, he decides how to invest your money. His aim is to get you better returns and manage the risk simultaneously. A fund manager does many important tasks, as listed below:

Portfolio management: Decides in which companies to invest and how much money to invest in which sector.
Market analysis: Analyzes the trends of the stock market, economic data and the performance of the company.
Risk control: Keeps the direction of investment such that the chances of loss in the long term are less.

A good fund manager can move your capital in the right direction. His strategy, research and experience can improve your returns manifold. On the other hand, if the decision is wrong, then even a good fund can perform poorly.

Before investing in a mutual fund, don’t just look at the return graph, but also know who is managing that fund. Understanding the fund manager’s past performance and investment philosophy is the mark of a smart investor.

Top 10 Fund Managers in India 2025

Fund Manager	AMC	AUM (in ₹ crores)	Schemes Managed	Experience
Sankaran Naren	ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund	6,74,085	23	26 years
R. Srinivasan	SBI Mutual Fund	1,14,343	14	30 years
Shreyash Devalkar	Axis Mutual Fund	1,16,687	6	14 years
Jinesh Gopani	Taksh Asset Management	Undisclosed	Undisclosed	20 years
Harsha Upadhyaya	Kotak Mahindra Mutual Fund	2,01,344	14	20 years
Sohini Andani	Ex-SBI Mutual fund	74,657	2	23 years
Manish Gunwani	Bandhan MF	35,683	7	25 years
Aniruddha Naha	PGIM AMC	19,777	4	22 years
Chandraprakash Padiyar	Tata Mutual Fund	23,149	3	25 years
Ankit Agarwal	UTI Mutual Fund	17,903	3	17 years

AUM = Assets Under Management, which shows the total investment of their funds.
Schemes Managed includes information on how many schemes they are managing.

Overview of the Top 1o Fund Managers in India

An overview of the top 10 fund managers in India is given below:

1. Sankaran Naren

Serving as CIO at ICICI Prudential since February 2011, Naren joined the AMC in October 2004 and has been active in the financial sector for nearly 26 years so far.

AUM and Schemes : Naren is currently managing 23 mutual funds with a total AUM of around ₹6.74 lakh crore This figure puts ICICI Prudential AMC among the top AMCs in the country.

Key schemes : He manages several leading equity and hybrid funds – such as Multi‑Asset Fund, Value Discovery Fund and Equity & Debt Fund .

Understanding risk-management : Naren also explains that with a large AUM, even a small mistake can lead to huge losses.

Why are they the best?

Reason	Description
Experienced and Strategic	26+ years of experience, Educated from IIT Chennai and IIM Kolkata
Experience of managing a Large AUM	Efficiently managing an AUM of over ₹6.7 lakh crore
Balanced Approach	Pays attention to risk and valuation along with returns

2. R. Srinivasan

R.Srinivasan joined SBI Mutual Fund in May 2009, and has been serving as CIO Equity for a long time now. He has over 30 years of experience in finance and equity investments.

AUM and Schemes : They manage SBI’s flagship equity and hybrid schemes such as SBI Small Cap Fund, Focused Equity Fund, and Equity Hybrid Fund. The total AUM of these funds was around ₹1,14,343 crore as of July 2025.

Performance of key schemes : SBI Small Cap Fund has delivered returns of around 19–21% CAGR over the last 10 years, and has topped the list with around 21.9% CAGR over the last seven years, reflecting its robust strategy.

Investment Strategy and Approach : Srinivasan believes in bottom-up stock selection emphasizing on the quality and valuation of individual companies. He adopts an investment approach based on a quantitative model, forensic accounting, etc. which keeps his portfolio balanced and diversified.

Why are they the best?

Reason	Description
Fund Outperformance	SBI Small Cap Fund has consistently given 19-21% CAGR and 7 year performance of above 21.9%
Decisions based on in-depth research	Stocks are selected using data and model based analysis
Core‑Satellite Approach	Allocates a significant portion of portfolio to stable, long-term investments and smaller portion to high-growth investments, effectively balancing risk and returns.

3. Shreyash Devalkar

Shreyash Devalkar is the head of equities at Axis Mutual Fund since August 2023 and has been associated with the company as a senior fund manager since November 2016. He started at JP Morgan as a credit analyst in 2004 and then worked for IDFC securities and BNP paribas, now with 16+ years of investment experience.

AUM and Schemes : Devalkar manages a total of 6 schemes with a total AUM of around ₹1.16 lakh crore as of July 2025

Performance of key schemes : Axis Growth Opportunities Fund has given around 20.35% CAGR in the last 3 years, while Mid Cap Fund has a 3-year AUM of ₹26,079 crore; both have ranked better than category average.

Investment strategy and approach : Devalkar relies on thematic- and bottom-up stock selection. He has identified 10 key themes such as auto, pharma, renewables in H1–2025 and focuses on finding value in industrial manufacturing

Why are they the best?

Reason	Description
Theme-Driven Strategies	Actively investing in upcoming sector themes (manufacturing, pharma, IT)
Fund performance	Funds like Axis Growth Opportunities give 20%+ CAGR
Experience	Consistent track record from BNP Paribas to Axis over 15+ years

4. Jinesh Gopani

Jinesh Gopani started Taksh Asset Management Private Limited in Jan 2024 and was previously employed at Axis Mutual Fund since 2009 as a senior fund manager and later on as Head of Equities. Prior to this, he also worked with Birla Sun Life AMC and Voyager India Capital, which gave him a deep understanding of the equity market.

AUM and Schemes : AUM of his company is not publicly disclosed as it is a private company. At Axis, he managed an AUM of $14 billion and his investments returned 35% CAGR in the last three years and 42% CAGR since its inception in 2009.

Key Schemes Managed at Axis: At Axis, he managed Axis Growth Opportunities Fund, Axis Focus 25 Fund, Axis ESG Fund, etc.

Investment Philosophy and Strategy : Gopani follows a ‘quality at reasonable price’ approach, where both quantitative analysis and qualitative team insights are valued. He has adopted a diversified approach, giving importance to thematic stock selection and global allocation.

Why are they the best?

Reason	Description
Impressive Returns	42% CAGR since inception at Axis.
Quality-based selection	Focus on ROE/ROCE, cash flow and management pedigree
Theme + Global Approach	International diversification with thematic picks

5. Harsha Upadhyaya

Harsha Upadhyaya serves as Chief Investment Officer – Equity at Kotak Mahindra AMC. He has held research and management roles at UTI, DSP BlackRock and Reliance and now has nearly 20+ years of investment experience.

AUM and Schemes : Harsha currently manages around 14 major equity/hybrid schemes including Kotak Flexi Cap Fund , Multicap Fund , ELSS Tax Saver, etc.

Performance of key schemes : Kotak Flexi Cap Fund was ranked third in the flexi‑cap category with ₹17,943 crore AUM at the start of 2025 and has delivered a CAGR of 27.5% over the last three years.

Investment Strategy and Approach : Harsha uses bottom‑up research and quantitative modelling. He adopts a highly diversified approach along with thematic investing (Manufacture in India), maintaining a balance of growth‑oriented and value‑based schemes in his portfolio

Why are they the best?

Reason	Description
Strong AUM	He manages 14 mutual fund schemes and has a total AUM of ₹2,01,344 crores
Outstanding performance	Consistent outperformance in Flexicap and Multicap categories
Data‑Based Decisions	Balanced portfolio using quant models and thematic investing

6. Sohini Andani

Sohini Andani joined SBI Mutual Fund as Head of Research in October 2007, and has been working as Portfolio Manager since May 2010. Her total investment experience spans around 23 years. She recently stepped down from the role in April 2024.

AUM and Schemes : She managed SBI Bluechip Fund and SBI Magnum Midcap Fund, with an AUM of ₹43,355 crores and ₹16,459 crores respectively.

Performance of Key Schemes : SBI Bluechip Fund has delivered around 15.4–15.5% annualised return over the last 10 years. SBI Magnum Midcap Fund has delivered 22.2% CAGR over the last 3 years, which is better than the category average.

Investment approach and strategy : Her focus was on companies with a long-term growth potential, strong management, and good promoter holding . She picks stocks that are not capital-intensive and show systematic growth over time.

Why are they the best?

Reason	Description
Strong AUM	₹43k Cr+ in Bluechip, ₹16k Cr+ AUM managed in Midcap
Performance	Two great funds with 15%+ and 22%+ CAGR
Smart Selection	Balance between growth and value, focus on promoter holding and capital intensity

7. Manish Gunwani

He is currently employed in Bandhan mutual fund as Head of Equities and has previously worked as CIO (Equities) at Nippon India Mutual Fund since September 2017, but resigned from the position in January 2023. His total experience in the equity sector spans nearly 25 years, including the role of senior fund manager at ICICI Prudential AMC .

AUM and Schemes : Gunwani handles around 4 mutual fund schemes namely Bandhan Focused Equity Fund, Bandhan Flexi Cap, Bandhan Innovation Fund, etc. Their collective AUM was around ₹35,000 crore as of July 2025.

Performance of key schemes : Bandhan Emerging Businesses Fund Direct Growth and Bandhan Core Equity Fund Direct Growth gave a CAGR of 35.8% and 29% in the last three years respectively.

Investment strategy and approach : Gunwani believes in ‘growth at a reasonable price’ style. He keeps the portfolio risk balanced through bottom-up stock picking and flexible asset allocation.

Why are they the best?

Reason	Description
Emphasis on quality	Growth at reasonable price to balance returns and risk
Large AUM and diversified schemes	₹35k Cr+ AUM across 7 schemes
Strong track record	CAGR of 14.3% in Growth Fund vs 12.7% of category

8. Aniruddha Naha

Aniruddha Naha serves as a CIO of Alternatives at PGIM India and joined the company as a Senior Fund Manager in 2018. He has nearly 22 years of experience in both equity and debt markets.

AUM and Schemes : As a Senior Fund manager and head of equities, Naha oversaw 4 flagship mutual fund schemes with a combined AUM of around ₹20,000 crores.

Performance of key schemes : Midcap Opportunities Fund has shown 19% (3Y) and 15.6% (5Y) CAGR under his leadership, while its benchmark was around 13% Balanced Advantage Fund has given around 8% CAGR returns, and aims to provide equity-like returns with low volatility .

Investment Strategy and Approach : Naha is a proponent of the GARP (Growth at Reasonable Price) approach as he picks businesses that have strong cash flows, healthy balance sheets, and modest valuations. He does bottom-up stock selection and controls downside risk with a core-satellite allocation.

Why are they the best?

Reason	Description
Strong Midcap Performance	Better returns than benchmark with 15–19% CAGR over 3–5 years
Process-driven selection	GARP + Cash-flow oriented Systematic Research
Downside Protection	Controlling volatility through diversification

9. Chandraprakash Padiyar

Chandraprakash Padiyar joined Tata Asset Management in September 2018 as a Senior Fund Manager. Prior to this, he has worked with UTI Mutual Fund and Alchemy Capital his total experience is around 25 years, which includes in-depth research and portfolio management.

AUM and Schemes : He handles flagship schemes like Tata Small Cap Fund, Tata Large & Mid Cap Fund, and Tata Aggressive Hybrid Equity Fund.

Performance of key schemes : Tata Small Cap Fund has consistently delivered high growth since September 2018, weathering market fluctuations.

Investment philosophy and strategy : Padiyar emphasises on ‘growth with free cash flow’ ; his focus is on companies that have strong balance sheets and are relatively undervalued. He maintains a narrow focus and pays equal attention to liquidity management.

Why are they the best?

Reason	Description
Small‑Cap Specialization	Maintained small-cap exposure with liquidity control for a small cap mutual fund scheme with an AUM of ₹10,000+ crore AUM
Long term consistency	Balance between growth and stability even across market cycles
Selection based on strong fundamentals	Priority given to businesses with free cash flow and low valuation

10. Ankit Agarwal

Ankit Agarwal is the Fund Manager for Equity Funds at UTI Mutual Fund since August 2019. He holds a PGDM from IIM Bangalore, and has worked with prestigious organizations like Lehman Brothers, Barclays Wealth, BNP Paribas, and Centrum Capital his total experience is about 17 years.

AUM and Schemes : Agarwal manages UTI Mid Cap Fund and UTI Small Cap Fund and UTI Innovation Fund. The combined AUM of his schemes is over ₹15,500 crore with the Mid Cap Fund alone reaching ₹10,900 crore .

Performance of key schemes : UTI Mid Cap Fund has generated around 24.37% (3Y) returns under his leadership and UTI Small Cap Fund has generated around 26.32% (3Y) returns.

Investment approach and strategy : Agarwal believes in bottom-up stock selection and prioritises aspects such as innovation and scalability. His Innovation Fund focuses on backing disruptive businesses, while Small/Mid Cap focuses on turnaround investment opportunities.

Why are they the best?

Reason	Description
Effective approach	Achieving returns with a focus on companies experiencing a turnaround and focussing on innovation
Strong AUM	Leading schemes with AUM above ₹17,000 crores

How to Choose the Right Fund Manager as an Investor?

You can choose the right fund manager for yourself based on the points mentioned below:

Check the track record of the fund manager : The past performance of any fund manager gives a glimpse of his/her strategy and investment style. See what kind of returns he/she has given in the last 5–10 years—not just in good times, but also how he handled the portfolio during economic downturns. Consistent performance is a characteristic of a reliable fund manager.
Fund managers’ investment strategy matches your Financial goals: Every fund manager has a specific investment philosophy—like value investing, growth, thematic or multi-cap approach. You should choose the manager whose strategy matches your financial goals and risk profile.
AMC and research support : A good fund manager can be successful only if he gets the support of a strong AMC and research team. Big AMCs like HDFC, SBI, Kotak, Axis and UTI also have strong research infrastructure and risk management teams.
Open and transparent communication style : Does the fund manager provide regular updates to investors on his strategy and market positioning? This is a sign of transparency and accountability.

Conclusion

The foundation of a successful investment is not just selecting the right fund, but also the right fund manager. His experience, way of thinking and ability to understand the market can directly affect your returns. Therefore, before investing in any scheme, it is good to assess the rating of the mutual fund scheme and the past performance and investment approach of that fund manager. Remember, a good fund manager can turn your financial goals into reality in the long run. It is advised to consult a financial advisor before investing in any mutual funds.

S.NO.	Check Out These Interesting Posts You Might Enjoy!
1	Arbitrage Mutual Funds – What are Arbitrage Funds India \| Basics, Taxation & Benefits
2	Debt Mutual Funds: Meaning, Types and Features
3	Decoding Credit Risk Funds In India
4	Decoding Hedge Funds In India – Types, Advantages And Distinctions
5	Bandhan Long Duration Fund NFO: Objective, Benefits, Risks, and Suitability Explained

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who is the best mutual fund manager in India right now?
Sankaran Naren, R. Srinivasan and Shreyash Devalkar are counted among the top fund managers in 2025.
How to evaluate a fund manager’s performance?
Assess the funds based on their long-term returns, consistency, and performance in market downturns.
Does a fund manager really impact mutual fund returns?
Yes, the investment strategy and experience of the fund manager directly impacts the fund’s returns.
Should beginners consider fund managers while investing?
Of course, choosing the right fund manager before investing can lead to better and stable returns.
Can the same fund perform differently under a new manager?
Yes, the new manager’s investment philosophy and style can change the fund’s performance.

July 9, 2025

Category: Mutual Funds

Top Gold Mutual Funds in India

Understanding Gold Mutual Funds

How Gold Mutual Funds Work

Top 10 Gold Mutual Funds in India

1. Nippon India Gold Savings Fund

2. HDFC Gold Fund

3. SBI Gold Fund

4. Axis Gold Fund

5. Kotak Gold Fund

6. ICICI Prudential Regular Gold Savings Fund

7. Aditya Birla Sun Life Gold Fund

8. DSP Gold Fund

9. Invesco India Gold Fund

10. Quantum Gold Fund

Benefits of Investing in Gold Mutual Funds

1. Simple & Secure Investment

2. Diversified Portfolio

3. Protection from Inflation and Market Volatility

4. High Liquidity and Convenience

Factors to Consider Before Investing

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the main difference between a Gold Fund and a Gold ETF?

Do Investors need a Demat account to start a Gold SIP?

How are Gold Mutual Funds taxed?

What is the minimum amount I can invest?

Shall I invest a lump sum amount or start a SIP in a Gold Fund?

Best Money Market Mutual Funds in India

What Are Money Market Mutual Funds?

Where do Money Market Funds Invest?

Best Money Market Mutual Funds in 2025

1. Tata Money Market Fund

2. HDFC Money Market Fund

3. ICICI Prudential Money Market Fund

4. Kotak Money Market Fund

5. Aditya Birla Sun Life Money Manager Fund

6. Nippon India Money Market Fund

7. UTI Money Market Fund

8. Axis Money Market Fund

9. Axis Money Market Fund

10. Axis Money Market Fund

Risks & Challenges in Money Market Mutual Funds

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Money Market Mutual Fund?

Are Money Market Funds safe to invest in?

What is the average return of money market funds in 2025?

Can I withdraw my money anytime?

Who should invest in money market funds?

Best Pharma Mutual Funds in India

What Are Pharma Sector Mutual Funds?

Best Pharma Sector Mutual Funds 2025

1. Nippon India Pharma Fund

2. SBI Healthcare Opportunities Fund

3. Tata India Pharma & Healthcare Fund

4. UTI Healthcare Fund

5. ICICI Prudential Pharma Healthcare & Diagnostics Fund

6. DSP Healthcare Fund

7. LIC MF Healthcare Fund

8. Aditya Birla Sun Life Pharma & Healthcare Fund

9. Mirae Asset Healthcare Fund

10. ITI Pharma and Healthcare Fund

Why Consider Pharma Mutual Funds in 2025?

1. Continuous increase in demand

2. Export boom and India’s global role

3. Government initiatives

4.Strong domestic demand base

5. India on the global supply chain

Key Things to Check Before Investing in Pharma Sector Mutual Funds

Risks & Limitations of Pharma Mutual Funds

Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are Pharma Mutual Funds?

Who should invest in Pharma Mutual Funds?

Are Pharma Mutual Funds risky?

What is the minimum SIP amount?

How long should I invest in Pharma Mutual Funds?

Best Thematic Mutual Funds in India

What are Thematic Mutual Funds?