Confused about all the different types of mutual funds out there? You’re not the first one. Luckily we’ve simplified all the different fund types right here. To help you understand the difference between everything from ELSS funds, Liquid funds & Equity funds to Debt Funds. Let’s start by understanding the basics of mutual funds.

What is a mutual fund?

A mutual fund is, in simplified terms, a large pool of money that is managed by a professional fund manager. This fund manager (or multiple fund managers) invest(s) this money in stocks, bonds, and other securities. The goal is to manage the money in a manner that investors get a good return. A mutual fund is, therefore, considered safer than buying stocks directly. Depending on the kind of asset a mutual fund invests in it is further divided into multiple categories. Let’s take a look at these different types of mutual funds.

Equity Funds

Equity funds are mutual funds that primarily invest in stocks.

1. They own shares of companies & this is why Equity Funds are also called stock mutual funds.

2. Equity Funds are categorized by the size of the companies they are invested in.

3. The holdings they have in their portfolio and the geographical location of the company. You can consult a Cube wealth coach or download the Cube wealth app.

Debt Funds

Debt funds or Bond funds are mutual funds that invest in government bonds, liquid funds, treasury bills and other fixed-income securities.

1. Since they do not invest in equities and invest in fixed income instruments they are considered safer than equity funds.

2. However, there is no guarantee on this low-risk investment. Returns are expected in a predictable range making Debt Mutual Funds a favourite for conservative investors. You can consult a Cube wealth coach or download the Cube wealth app.

3. Debt Mutual Funds are managed by professional Fund Managers that have strategies they diversify and align their fund to.

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Money Market Funds

Money market funds are also debt mutual funds but these funds invest in short term instruments. 

1. They usually invest for periods of 12 months, with the aim to maintain high liquidity.

2. High-risk, money market funds can also invest in corporate debt which can lose value during volatile markets situations.

3. These funds are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

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Index Funds

The concept of an Index Fund is fairly simple - it imitates the whole portfolio of the market. 

1. So, for example, an index fund that imitates the NIFTY 50 will invest in all the funds mirroring the market.

2. The cost of managing these mutual funds is lower and they are fast becoming popular in India as well.

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Balanced Funds

As the name suggests, balanced funds tend to spread their investments across asset classes. 

1. They have a healthy mix of low-risk, medium-risk and high-risk assets. These assets also range across stocks, bonds and other securities. 

2. They have a combination of debt and equity to achieve their goal of balanced portfolios. 

3. These funds are also referred to as hybrid funds.

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Fixed Income Funds

A fixed-income fund is a type of mutual fund that aims at giving investors returns at regular intervals.

1. The fixed-income, in this case, can come monthly, quarterly, half-yearly or even annually.

2. This fixed-income that investors get by investing in such a fund is based on a set percentage and may not be the same amount at each payout.

3. Fixed income funds invest in government bonds, corporate bonds and other such securities.

4. Due to the fixed term of these funds, the returns are also reasonably predictable but depend on the performance of the fund.

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Fund of Funds

This is what you could call Christopher Nolan’s version of a mutual fund. It isn’t one fund but many.

1. They are also called multi-manager funds. Funds of funds (FOF) do not directly invest in stocks, bonds and other securities like most mutual funds.

2. Instead, they invest in multiple mutual funds. This makes funds of funds a large pool of several other funds. You can consult a Cube wealth coach or download the Cube wealth app.

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Speciality Funds

Speciality funds get their name from their approach towards investments. 

1. These funds are mutual funds or other funds that focus on one particular sector, geographical region or industry.

2. A good example of this would be funds that invest in renewable energy or power etc.

3. These funds reflect a specific view and can reflect an investor’s personal belief about the nature of industries, sectors or show a bias towards anyone “speciality”.

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You can also watch Cube Wealth’s Perfect Portfolio builder guide
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Conclusion 

In conclusion, the variety of mutual funds available in India provides investors with a diverse range of options to suit their financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Whether you're seeking capital appreciation, regular income, or a balance of both, you can find a mutual fund category that aligns with your objectives. From equity funds to debt funds, hybrid funds, and specialized sectoral or thematic funds, India's mutual fund landscape offers ample opportunities for portfolio diversification and wealth creation. However, it's essential to conduct thorough research, consider your risk appetite, and consult with a financial advisor when selecting the right mutual funds for your investment strategy. By making informed choices, investors can harness the potential of mutual funds to achieve their financial aspirations in the Indian market.

FAQs 

1. What are hybrid mutual funds in India?

Ans. Hybrid or balanced mutual funds combine both equity and debt investments to provide a balanced approach. They aim to offer a mix of capital appreciation and income generation.

2. What is a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) in mutual funds?

Ans. A SIP is a method of investing in mutual funds where investors contribute a fixed amount regularly (e.g., monthly) to purchase units of a fund. It promotes disciplined investing.

3. What are equity mutual funds in India?

Ans. Equity mutual funds primarily invest in stocks of companies. They aim for capital appreciation and are suitable for long-term investors willing to accept higher market volatility.

4. Are mutual funds in India subject to taxation?

Ans. Yes, mutual funds in India are subject to taxation. The tax treatment varies based on factors like the type of fund and the holding period.

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