Category Archives: Mutual Fund

Allocating funds to assets to improve your future is known as investing. Investments are undertaken to produce returns, which increase the initial amount invested. Top 7 types of investment options available in India There are many different investment options available to you. However, you must be sure that you are only investing in options that match your risk tolerance and fulfill your needs. 1. Direct Equity The most successful investment vehicle is probably direct equity, sometimes known as stock investing. Purchasing stock in a firm entitles you to a part of that business. The expansion and improvement of the business are directly financed by you. To profit from your investment, you must have enough time and market understanding. Stocks are made available by publicly traded firms through recognized stock exchanges. The best investments for the long run are stocks. Due to the impact of various economic and commercial factors on equities, you must actively manage your investments. Additionally, you must be aware that the returns are not ensured and be prepared to accept the risks involved. Benefits and Types of Equity Mutual Funds Read More 2. Mutual Funds The last few decades have seen the development of mutual funds. A mutual fund pools investments from different institutional and individual participants who share the same investment goal. A financial expert known as the fund manager oversees the pooled funds and makes investments in securities and other assets to maximize returns for investors. Equity, debt, and hybrid funds are the three main categories of mutual funds. Debt mutual funds invest in bonds and papers, whereas equity mutual funds invest in stocks and instruments relating to the stock market. Equities and debt instruments are both invested in by hybrid funds. Mutual funds are adjustable investment products that allow you to start and stop investing whenever you like. Since the fund manager takes care of everything, investing in mutual funds doesn't require much time or expertise. To invest in mutual funds, all you need to do is invest and the fund manager will take care of the portfolio construction. However, it is advised to only invest in funds whose risk profiles and goals align with your own. Returns are not guaranteed because they are based on market fluctuations. Please take note that a fund's previous performance does not guarantee future results. Start Investing in Mutual Funds 3. Recurring Deposits Recurring Deposit (RD) enables investors to make a fixed monthly investment and receive a fixed rate of interest. RDs are available through bank and post office branches. An RD enables investors to make small monthly investments to build capital over a predetermined time. RDs provide total capital protection in addition to returns that are ensured. 4. Fixed Deposits FDs are a type of investment that banks and other financial institutions offer. You deposit a sum of money for a set period and receive a fixed rate of interest. Fixed deposits, as opposed to mutual funds and stocks, provide total capital protection and guaranteed returns. However, since the returns stay the same, you make a compromise. The interest rate on fixed deposits varies based on the state of the economy and is set by the banks per the RBI's policy review decisions. Although fixed deposits are traditionally locked-in investments, investors are frequently permitted to use them as collateral for loans or overdraft facilities. There is also a fixed deposit with tax benefits that has a 5-year lock-in. 5. Employee Provident Fund One of the retirement-focused investment vehicles is the EPF, which enables salaried people to benefit from a tax credit under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act of 1961. EPF deductions are normally made as a percentage of an employee's monthly pay, and the employer also contributes an equal amount. The EPF withdrawal corpus is completely tax-free once it matures. Each quarter, the Indian government also sets the EPF rates and offers a guarantee on your EPF deposits. You should be aware that your EPF account matures only after you reach retirement and that you may only access your assets in the EPF if you meet certain requirements. 6. Public Provident Fund PPF is a 15-year lock-in investment vehicle that offers long-term tax savings. The Indian government is the one who is offering it, and the government guarantees back your money. The Indian government reviews the PPF interest rate every three months. After 15 years, the investor can withdraw the full corpus completely tax-free. PPF permits partial withdrawals and loans as well, provided a few requirements are satisfied. If certain requirements are met, premature withdrawals are allowed, and when your investment reaches maturity, you can prolong it for an additional 5 years. 7. National Pension System A relatively recent investment option for reducing taxes is the National Pension System (NPS). Investors who subscribe to the NPS plan must remain locked in until retirement and can expect larger returns than those from PPF or EPF. This is so because the NPS provides plan options that also invest in stocks. A portion of the NPS maturity corpus, which is not tax-free, must be used to buy an annuity that will provide the investor with a regular pension. Only 40% of the total accumulated corpus may be withdrawn as a lump sum; the remainder is invested in an annuity plan. There are some government personnel who must subscribe to NPS. FAQs What are the 3 main types of investments? Stocks, bonds, and real estate are the three basic types of investments. Stocks represent ownership in a company, bonds are debt securities, and real estate involves owning property for potential income or capital appreciation. What are the six types of investments? The six types of investments encompass stocks, bonds, real estate, mutual funds, commodities (e.g., gold or oil), and alternative investments (e.g., hedge funds or cryptocurrencies). Each type offers varying levels of risk and potential returns, catering to different investment goals and preferences. What is investment and its types? Investment refers to the allocation of capital with the expectation of generating a return or profit over time. Types of investments include financial assets like stocks and bonds, tangible assets like real estate, and alternative investments like commodities or cryptocurrencies. Conclusion You should carefully select investments after conducting a thorough study. Avoid falling into schemes that promise big profits quickly, and always periodically evaluate your mutual fund and stock investments. Take into account the tax consequences of the investment returns you receive. Maintain simplicity and stay away from complex assets that you are unfamiliar with. If you have any questions or need any advice, our team of expert financial advisors is always available to you.

Investing in mutual funds is a smart way to grow your wealth and potentially beat the rising costs of college education. With a variety of top mutual funds available, it's important to choose the ones that align with your financial goals and risk tolerance. In this guide, we'll explore the top mutual funds for different investment needs, from long-term growth and SIP to high returns and dividends. We'll also answer common questions about the safety of mutual funds and how they compare to fixed deposits (FD). Top Mutual Funds to Invest Here are some of the best mutual funds to invest in 2023 for your kid’s future. Top Mutual Funds to invest in 2023Sr. No.CategoryScheme Name1Large CapCanara Robeco Bluechip Equity Fund2Mid CapAxis Mid Cap Fund3Small CapSBI Small Cap Fund4Small CapTata Small Cap Fund5Large and Mid-CapKotak Equity Opportunities Fund6Flexi CapHDFC Focused 30 Fund7Multi CapHDFC Multi Cap Fund8Aggressive HybridSBI Equity Hybrid Fund9Conservative HybridICICI Prudential Regular Savings Fund10Dynamic Asset AllocationHDFC Balanced Advantage Fund Important Note: This is not investment advice. Please do not invest in these mutual funds without proper financial consultation and review. Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme-related documents carefully. Start Investing in Mutual Funds Top Mutual Funds for SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) These are some of the top mutual funds for SIP in 2023 to consider for your kid’s future college fund: 1. HDFC Equity Fund Category: Equity Large Cap SIP Returns: This fund has a strong track record of delivering consistent returns over the long term. 2. Mirae Asset Emerging Bluechip Fund Category: Equity Mid Cap SIP Returns: Known for its potential to generate high returns over time, ideal for those with a longer investment horizon.Note: This is not an investment advisor. Please consult your financial advisor before investing in mutual funds. Mutual funds are subject to market risks. Read all scheme-related documents carefully.                               Top Mutual Funds High ReturnsSr. No.CategoryScheme Name1Small CapNippon India Small Cap Fund2Small CapAxis Small Cap Fund3Small CapTata Small Cap Fund4Mid CapPGIM India Mid Cap Opportunities Fund5Mid CapKotak Emerging Equity Fund6Mid CapSBI Magnum Midcap Fund7Flexi CapParag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund8Flexi CapCanara Robeco Flexi Cap Fund9ContraSBI Contra Fund10ValueICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund Important Note: This is not investment advice. Please do not invest in these mutual funds without proper financial consultation and review. Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme-related documents carefully. Top Mutual Funds for High Returns  These are some top mutual funds for higher returns that parents can use to pay for their child’s future college plans. Remember staying invested for a long time can help you yield higher returns. 1. Aditya Birla Sun Life Small & Midcap Fund Category: Equity Small Cap High Returns: This fund has historically provided high returns, but it comes with higher volatility. 2. Axis Long-Term Equity Fund Category: Equity ELSS (Tax-saving) High Returns: Offers the dual benefit of potentially high returns and tax savings under Section 80C.Note: This is not an investment advisor. Please consult your financial advisor before investing in mutual funds. Mutual funds are subject to market risks. Read all scheme-related documents carefully. Top Mutual Funds with DividendsSr. No.CategoryScheme Name1Dividend Yield FundAditya Birla Sun Life Dividend Yield Fund2Dividend Yield FundHDFC Dividend Yield Fund3Dividend Yield FundICICI Prudential Dividend Yield Equity Fund4Dividend Yield FundLIC MF Dividend Yield Fund5Dividend Yield FundSBI Dividend Yield Fund6Dividend Yield FundSundaram Dividend Yield Fund7Dividend Yield FundTata Dividend Yield Fund8Dividend Yield FundTempleton India Equity Income Fund9Dividend Yield FundUTI Dividend Yield Fund Important Note: This is not investment advice. Please do not invest in these mutual funds without proper financial consultation and review. Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme-related documents carefully. Top Mutual Funds with Dividends Consider these top mutual funds that offer dividends to their investors 1. ICICI Prudential Dividend Yield Equity Fund Category: Equity Dividend Yield Dividend Focus: Seeks to provide regular dividends while aiming for capital appreciation. 2. Franklin India Equity Hybrid Fund Category: Hybrid Equity-oriented Dividend Focus: Balances equity and debt investments, making it suitable for regular income.Note: This is not an investment advisor. Please consult your financial advisor before investing in mutual funds. Mutual funds are subject to market risks. Read all scheme-related documents carefully. Top Mutual Funds for Long-Term Investment 1. SBI Bluechip Fund Category: Equity Large Cap Long-Term Potential: Known for its stability and potential for wealth creation over the long haul. 2. Kotak Standard Multicap Fund Category: Equity Multicap Long-Term Potential: Offers flexibility to invest across market caps for sustained growth. Note: This is not an investment advisor. Please consult your financial advisor before investing in mutual funds. Mutual funds are subject to market risks. Read all scheme-related documents carefully. Top Mutual Funds to invest in short termSr. No.CategoryScheme Name1Short DurationTop Mutual Funds to Invest in short term2Dynamic BondICICI Prudential All Seasons Bond Fund3Dynamic BondAditya Birla Sun Life Dynamic Bond Fund4Dynamic BondSBI Dynamic Bond Fund5Dynamic BondUTI Dynamic Bond Fund6Corporate Bond FundICICI Prudential Corporate Bond Fund7Corporate Bond FundNippon India Corporate Bond Fund8Money MarketTata Money Market Fund9Liquid FundAditya Birla Sun Life Liquid Fund10Liquid FundUTI Liquid Cash Fund Note: This is not investment advice. Please consult your financial advisor before investing in mutual funds. Mutual funds are subject to market risks. Read all scheme-related documents carefully. Top Mutual Funds for Short-Term Investment  These are some of the best mutual funds for short-term investment that parents can consider for your kid’s future college plans.  1. UTI Banking & PSU Debt Fund Category: Debt Banking & PSU Short-Term Stability: Suitable for conservative investors seeking stable returns in the short term. 2. IDFC Banking & PSU Debt Fund Category: Debt Banking & PSU Short-Term Stability: Focuses on safety and liquidity, making it ideal for short-term parking of funds.Note: This is not investment advice. Please consult your financial advisor before investing in mutual funds. Mutual funds are subject to market risks. Read all scheme-related documents carefully. FAQs Are Mutual Funds 100% Safe? Mutual funds are not risk-free. They are subject to market fluctuations, and the returns are not guaranteed. However, investing in diversified funds with a long-term horizon can mitigate risks. Are Mutual Funds Safer than FDs? Mutual funds and fixed deposits serve different purposes. FDs are considered safer but offer lower returns, while mutual funds have the potential for higher returns but come with market-related risks. What Are the Top Mutual Funds to Invest in 2023? The top mutual funds for 2023 depend on your financial goals and risk tolerance. Consider consulting a financial advisor to choose the right funds for your specific needs. Thus, to beat the rising costs of college education, investing in mutual funds can be a viable strategy. Provide your child with a better future by choosing the right mutual fund. Choose funds that align with your investment horizon and risk tolerance, and consider a diversified portfolio for better risk management. Keep in mind that mutual funds carry some level of risk, so it's essential to invest wisely and for the long term.

Incorporated in the midst of the Global Financial Crisis, Quantum Mutual Fund has been in existence for approximately two decades now. The AMC offers a variety of mutual fund schemes, including equity funds, debt funds, and hybrid funds. Quantum Mutual Fund is known for its focus on active management and its commitment to providing investors with high-quality investment products. Quantum Nifty 50 ETF Fund of Fund  Investment Objective The primary investment objective of the Scheme is to provide capital appreciation by investing in units of Quantum Nifty 50 ETF - Replicating / Tracking Nifty 50 Index.  Quantum Nifty 50 ETF Fund of Fund - Direct Plan is mandated to always invest at least 80 percent of its assets in large-cap stocks. Being a fund of funds, it invests its assets in a set of mutual fund schemes instead of the underlying securities directly.  Portfolio Composition  The portfolio is biased towards large-cap stocks, with 99.65% of the funds allocated to large-cap stocks and the remaining 0.35% to mid-cap stocks. Significant sectoral exposure is to Financials, which accounts for more than one-third of the portfolio. The top five sectors hold more than 75% of the portfolio. Note: Data as of 31st August 2023.Source: quantumamc.com and Value Research Top Holdings for Quantum Nifty 50 ETF Fund of Fund Name Weightage % Quantum Nifty 50 ETF 99.97 Tri-party repo (TREP’s) 0.03 Others 0.00 Note: Data as of 31st August 2023. Source: quantumamc.com  Performance for Quantum Nifty 50 ETF Fund of Fund Particulars Since Inception 1 Year Scheme (₹) 10.95 9.46 Nifty 50-TRI (Benchmark) 11.23 10.98 S&P BSE Sensex TRI (Additional Benchmark) 11.91 11.74 Note: Returns in % as of 31st August 2023. Source: quantumamc.com Fund Manager  The scheme is managed by Mr. Hitendra Parekh who has work experience of 29.5 years. He has been managing this fund since August 5th,2022.  Who should invest in Quantum Nifty 50 ETF Fund of Fund?  The fund is suitable for investors who are seeking.   Long-term capital appreciation.  An investment opportunity that invests primarily in units of Quantum Nifty 50 ETF – Exchange Traded Fund.  Why invest in this Fund?  The fund is a first-of-its-kind Nifty 50 ETF wrapper fund.  It can identify low-tracking errors of underlying funds.  No Demat account is required.  The fund offers investors an opportunity to diversify their portfolio across top Nifty 50 in different sectors.  It gives the opportunity to start an investment with as low as ₹500.  Time Horizon  One should look at investing for at least five years or even more.  Investment through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) may help in tackling the volatility of the broader equity market.  Conclusion The Quantum Nifty 50 ETF Fund of Fund is an open-ended fund that allows investors to invest in units of Quantum Nifty 50 ETF. It’s been just a year since this fund was launched. Thus, it will be important to monitor how the fund performs in the upcoming future. DisclaimerThis is not recommendation advice. All information in this blog is for educational purposes only. 

New Zealand is a popular educational destination for studying a host of subjects from Business and Management to Tourism. As per NZ immigration info, there are over 1 lakh international students studying in New Zealand. Yet, sending your child to a foreign country is not cheap. Here are some tips on how to send your child to New Zealand debt-free. Why choose New Zealand for your child’s higher education?  Top 8 universities rank in World University Ranking Top 500 Affordable cost of studying as compared to the US, Canada, and the UK It hosts a plethora of opportunities for experimental and theoretical learning Around 97% of students get placed right after the degree completion; Students on scholarships may work 20 hours as a part-time Reasons to Study in New Zealand for Child Education Read More How to send your child to New Zealand? 1. Check education eligibility criteria  New Zealand requires Indian students to have the following requirements to study at their top universities:  Relevant 12th certificate / undergraduate degree from a recognized school/ university IELTS/ TOEFL score qualifications Statement of Purpose GRE OR GMAT scores Valid passport Bank statement as proof of financial coverage 2. Apply for Student Visa  International students wishing to study in New Zealand for more than 3 months must hold a relevant VISA. Indian students can opt for Fee Paying Student VISA. Having this VISA, an international Indian Student can learn, stay, and work part-time in the country for up to 4 years. On the flip side, students planning to land with guardians can opt for a generic Student VISA. Students must apply for the VISA 6 months earlier. Student Visa Qualification Requirements Valid passport, which must be valid for at least 6 months Age - 17-25 Student Visa Application Form and Fees ( ₹14,791) Proof of funds to cover your expenses, study, and accommodation costs Acceptance letter from the University, your child enrolled to confirm the eligibility for the particular course  Evidence of guarantor and their relationship to the child Evidence of tuition fee Duly signed and attested certificates for Health and Character IELTS Score Requirement - 6.0 Top Affordable Universities in NewZealand Read More 3. Explore the government-funded scholarships  The primary criterion to qualify for a New Zealand scholarship is MERIT. However, the cost of education depends on the location, course, university, and educational level. Some universities in New Zealand consider extra-curricular activities and volunteering experience as the base for providing scholarships. Always check the eligibility criteria before applying for New Zealand Government Scholarships. Some scholarships waive 100% of the tuition fee while others may waive a part.  Apply for Scholarship with EduFund Government Funded Scholarships:  NZIDRS (New Zealand International Doctoral Research Scholarship) for Ph.D. courses. (₹12,48,178.25) for a living stipend New Zealand Development Scholarships  New Zealand Commonwealth Scholarships for master’s degrees and PhDs (₹1,49,827.16 as Allowance) NZIUFS (New Zealand International Undergraduate Fees Scholarship).  Agatha Harrison Memorial Fellowship i) University-funded scholarships for Indian students Victoria Doctoral Scholarships It is provided to all the Doctorates studying at Victoria University of Wellington ($23000 (₹11,48,827) stipend + Fees)  Bamforth Postgraduate Scholarships Post-graduate students studying at the University of Otago are eligible for the scholarship. It waives tuition fees and provides $13000 (₹6,49,172.68.) University of Waikato International Scholarships The scholarship is for all Undergraduates and Postgraduate Indian Students. It waives off $5000 (₹2,49,704.09) tuition fees. University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarships International Students pursuing a Doctoral in the University of Auckland are eligible for it. Waives off $27,300 ((₹11,48,827) plus other compulsory costs. ii) Studentships provided by New Zealand This funding type is usually provided for a specific project, covering the cost of tuition fees and research material. It also offers stipends to students. Check for the eligibility requirement from the respective university or educational institution. Universities of Auckland, Otago, and Waikato University provide such studentships to Ph.D. students.  These are some ways to help your child study in New Zealand Debt-free. Scholarships are the best way to send your child to a foreign country without any financial stress. If you are someone who is planning to send your child to a foreign country in a few years then investing and saving early for your child’s higher education is a must! FAQsHow can I send my child to New Zealand for education without incurring debt?  To send your child to New Zealand debt-free, consider applying for scholarships and grants, researching low-cost educational institutions, and saving money in advance. Explore part-time work opportunities for your child and create a budget to manage expenses effectively.  Are there specific scholarships available for international students in New Zealand?  Yes, New Zealand offers several scholarships for international students. These scholarships may be provided by the New Zealand government, universities, or private organizations. Research and apply for scholarships that align with your child's field of study and qualifications.  What strategies can my child use to cover living expenses while studying in New Zealand?  Your child can cover living expenses by working part-time during their studies, choosing affordable accommodation options, and creating a realistic budget. Encourage them to explore on-campus employment opportunities and manage their finances responsibly.  How can I start saving early to fund my child's education in New Zealand?  Begin saving for your child's education in New Zealand by setting up a dedicated savings account or investment plan as soon as possible. Consider options like mutual funds, US ETFs or any investment vehicle that can beat education inflation. Regularly contribute to this fund and take advantage of compound interest to grow your savings over time.  TALK TO AN EXPERT

Market volatility is a hard fact and investors must be aware of ways to protect portfolio funds in a falling market. It is possible to limit loss, lock in profits and provide stability to your investments in adverse conditions with help of viable strategies.  Stock gains are steady over time but declines are often unexpected, freefall, and sudden.  Investors must ensure that their portfolio is well-positioned at all times so that it does not hamper overall growth. Making the right investment decisions is as important as protecting the portfolio fund during turbulent market conditions. 8 ways to protect portfolio fund in falling market An economic meltdown is a fact of the investment market that can wipe out hard-earned returns, savings, and retirement funds in hours. Investors must take appropriate steps early on to safeguard their portfolio fund in a falling market, market crash, or an economic depression through preplanned steps.  Some important ways to protect portfolio fund in a falling market are discussed below- 1. Diversification of portfolio funds Diversification of portfolio funds and spreading your money across different investment categories is one of the surest measures for shielding the portfolio fund in a bear market. Investors often invest in mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and individual stocks expecting good returns. They must have a proper plan in place to move a good chunk of the investment into safer options at short notices Sometimes, the market fall is sudden and it does not give the investor enough chance to move high-risk funds to safe horizons. Individuals should invest in a wide range of investment schemes with different levels of risk. These include stocks, real estate, precious metals, cash value life insurance, bonds, derivatives, annuities, alternative holdings, cash, etc. Additional read: Questions cosigners should ask before taking an education loan 2. Fine-tune the portfolio funds Reassess the asset allocation to determine whether the current portfolio matches your specific risk tolerance. Do not take on more risks than your capacity as it might trigger panic selling during adverse conditions and result in heavy losses. Investors should always be prepared to face a bear market hence they must fine-tune their funds to create a portfolio mix that will match both financial needs and risk tolerance. 3. Take the help of financial advisors Financial advisors often have a better understanding of the market trends than investors. They go through the available data and related information to make better predictions of both good and bad times in the market.  Use the financial consultants at the EduFund App as an effective tool for knowing about the market and for an ideal fund allocation. The app will help to meet your risk appetite by minimizing the risk profile eloquently. 4. Do not liquidate all the stocks In a falling market, it is easy to panic and liquidate all the stocks. It is a wrong move as doing so will lock the losses and prevent earnings when the market recovers. Maintain a portion of the funds in the stocks even in a falling market to take advantage of the subsequent recovery whenever it occurs.  5. Rebalance and reinvest Stock market returns vary on a yearly basis but in the long term, it tends to offer positive returns. Investors whose risk tolerance is high or who have a long period before retirement have the option of investing heavily in stocks but people close to retirement must consider gradual transferring of funds to short-term or cash bonds with less risk.  Consider risk-based rebalancing through the EduFund App to minimize losses and by reinvesting in mutual funds, REITs ETFs, etc.  6. Consider defensive picks Consider market volatility as an opportunity to buy REITs with stable dividends and strong cash flows. One viable option is the EduFund REIT+ portfolio that includes quality REITs 7. Sell call options Financial advisors recommend selling call options to protect portfolio funds and soften the blow of a falling market.  8. Stay the course Investors must realize that the bull market will always follow the bear market. The falling market is a concern no doubt but the slump will pass. This is not the time for panic selling instead stay the course and stick to your investment plan.  Consider speaking to the wealth advisors on our platform to create a recession-proof strategy that will make your investment portfolio resilient to the upcoming falling market. FAQsHow do I protect my portfolio from a market downturn?   To safeguard your portfolio during a market downturn:  Diversify your investments across different asset classes.  Consider holding defensive stocks, like utilities and consumer staples.  Keep a long-term view and abstain from rash choices.  Utilise stop-loss orders or put options for downside protection.  Investing and your emergency fund should not be combined.  How do you prepare a portfolio for a market crash?   Prepare for a market crash by:  Reducing exposure to high-risk assets before a crash.  Increasing allocation to safer investments, such as bonds or cash.  Ensuring your portfolio is well-diversified.  Continuously monitoring and rebalancing your portfolio.  Having a well-thought-out exit strategy and sticking to it.  What is the safest fund during a market crash?  The safest fund during a market crash is typically a money market fund or a short-term bond fund. These investments are known for stability and liquidity, making them less susceptible to significant value declines during turbulent market periods.  What to do with a falling portfolio?   When your portfolio is falling:  Avoid panic selling; stick to your long-term investment plan.  Reassess your portfolio's asset allocation and risk tolerance.  Consider buying more assets at lower prices (dollar-cost averaging).  Take a look at your investment plan and make any required adjustments.  Seek advice from a financial advisor if you're uncertain about your next steps.  Conclusion Ups and downs are an integral part of markets that investors must be prepared for at all costs. Seasoned investors try to keep strengthening their portfolio fund to make it more robust for an upcoming recession.  In this article, you have come to know about the various ways to protect portfolio funds in a falling market. These are tried and tested strategies that provide ample protection against market volatility so that investors can preserve and protect their investments. Consult an expert advisor to get the right plan TALK TO AN EXPERT

Incorporated amid the Global Financial Crisis, Quant Mutual Fund has been in existence for approximately two decades now. The AMC offers a variety of mutual fund schemes, including equity funds, debt funds, and hybrid funds. Quantum Mutual Fund is known for its focus on active management and commitment to providing investors with high-quality investment products. Quantum Tax Saving Fund  Investment Objective The primary investment objective of the scheme is to achieve long-term capital appreciation by investing primarily in shares of companies that will typically be included in the S&P BSE 200 Index and are in a position to benefit from the anticipated growth and development of the Indian economy and its markets.   Investment Strategy  The fund follows the bottom-up approach while selecting stocks for investment with an objective to minimize the risk.  The fund holds cash when it does not find any opportunity to invest and does not enter into derivatives.  Portfolio Composition  The portfolio is biased towards large-cap stocks, with 87.04% of the funds allocated to large-cap stocks and the remaining 12.96% to mid-cap stocks. Note: Data as of 31st August 2023. Source: quantumamc.com & Value Research Top 5 Holdings for Quantum Tax Saving Fund Name Weightage % HDFC Bank Limited 9.14 ICICI Bank Limited 6.59 Infosys Limited 5.12 Eicher Motors Limited 4.37 State Bank of India Limited 4.31 Note: Data as of 31st August 2023. Source: quantumamc.com  Performance for Quantum Tax Saving Fund Your investment of ₹10,000 in this would have performed as below table with respect to benchmarks. Period Scheme (₹) Tier 1 Benchmark Tier 2 Benchmark Additional Benchmark Since Inception 16.17%  16.26%  16.09%  15.37%  10 years 14.70% 16.42% 16.06% 14.75% 5 years 10.28% 12.55% 12.28% 12.25% 3 years 22.70% 23.31% 22.23% 20.30% 1 year  13.86% 11.31% 11.25% 11.74% Note: 1. Returns in % as of 31st August 2023. 2. Tier 1 Benchmark - S&P BSE 500 TRI, Tier 2 Benchmark - S&P BSE 200 TRI, Additional Benchmark – BSE Sensex Source: quantumamc.com  Fund Manager  The scheme is co-managed by Mr George Thomas & Mr Christy Mathai.  Mr. George Thomas has more than six years of experience and has been managing this fund since 1st April 2022.  Mr Christy Mathai has approximately seven years of experience and has been managing this fund effective from November 2022.  Who should invest in Quantum Tax Saving Fund?  The fund is suitable for investors who are seeking.   Long-term capital appreciation.  Invests primarily in equity and equity-related securities of companies in the S&P BSE 200 index and to save tax u/s 80 C of the Income Tax Act.   Why invest in this Fund?  Optimize tax saving under section 80C.  Uses a bottoms-up stock selection process to minimize risk.  It has a low portfolio turnover.  It holds cash when stocks are overvalued – no derivatives and no hedging.  It follows a disciplined research and investment process.  It has one of the lowest expense ratios in its category.  Time Horizon Investments in this product are subject to a lock-in period of 3 years. Conclusion The Quantum Tax Saving Fund is an open-ended equity-linked saving with a statutory lock-in of 3 years and tax benefits on investments up to ₹1.5 lakh in a financial year. Although the fund has underperformed in the long run, it has shown outperformance in the last year. Investors who wish to take the benefit of Sec 80C of the Income Tax Act can claim a deduction of up to ₹. 1.5 Lakhs can be considered this fund with an understanding of high risk for a long-term time horizon. DisclaimerThis is not recommendation advice. All information in this blog is for educational purposes only.

ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund is the second-largest asset management company in India. With over Rs 5 Lakh crore, the AMC is among the most trusted names in the mutual fund space. AMC offers products across asset classes. Let us talk about the flagship product of ICICI Prudential MNC Fund. ICICI Prudential MNC Fund Investment Objective The scheme primarily aims to provide capital appreciation by investing predominantly in equity and equity-related securities within the MNC space. Investment Process This is an open-ended equity scheme that follows an MNC theme, which falls under the thematic category. It invests in growing company stocks, which are selected based on extensive research and screening. Stocks selected for investment are reviewed periodically. ICICI Prudential MNC Fund broadly focuses on three approaches: 1. Indian Multi-national Companies - Companies incorporated in India with business operations across the globe. 2. Multi-national Companies listed in India - Foreign Companies having business operations in India and listed on Indian Stock exchanges. 3. Global Multi-national Companies - Foreign Companies having business operations across the globe but not listed on Indian Stock exchanges. Portfolio Composition The equity exposure is majorly in large-cap securities at 55%, followed by mid-cap and small-cap at 34% and 11%, respectively. The funds are invested across all the sectors without any specific sector being given more importance. The top 5 sectors hold nearly 53% of the portfolio. Note: 31st July 2023 Source: ICICI Pru Top 5 Holdings for ICICI Prudential MNC Fund NameSectorWeightage %Maruti Suzuki India LtdAutomobile8.70%Sun Pharmaceutical Ltd.Healthcare5.76%Infosys Ltd.Technology4.67%Hindustan Unilever LtdFMCG4.64%Bharti Airtel LtdTelecom Services4.12Note: Fund Performance since launch. Date: 17th June 2019Source: icicipruamc.com Invest in ICICI Mutual Fund Performance Since Inception Returns of ICICI Prudential MNC fund-Growth Option as of 30th June 2023. Particulars1 Year3 YearSince InceptionScheme20.4628.7920.20Nifty MNC TRI25.3419.8315.55Nifty 50 TRI 222.9124.5414.47Note: Fund performance since launch; Inception Date:17th June 2019.Source: icicipruamc.com The fund has given consistent returns and has outperformed both the benchmarks over the longer time horizon. If a person had invested Rs. 10,000 at the scheme's inception, it would now be valued at Rs. 21,020 against Rs. 17,923.78 in the NIFTY MNC TRI. Fund Manager The fund is ably managed by Roshan Chutkey, who has 28 years of experience and manages five funds in total. Who should invest in ICICI Prudential MNC Fund? Investors who aim to invest in a portfolio that invests primarily in securities within the MNC space and achieve goals like Wealth Creation. Why invest in ICICI Prudential MNC Fund? · High Quality & diversified portfolio: The scheme provides endeavors to invest in high-quality multi-national companies. · Flexibility: The scheme has the flexibility to invest across market caps and follow a sector-agnostic approach. · Bottom-up stock selection: The scheme follows a bottom-up approach while selecting stocks. Time Horizon · One should look at investing for a minimum of five years or more. · Investment through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) may help tackle broader equity market volatility. Conclusion ICICI Prudential MNC Fund provides access to well-researched multi-national companies, which are an integral part of the global economy and can navigate challenging market conditions with relative ease. The fund has consistently performed and has outperformed its benchmarks in the long run. Hence, investors seeking to invest for a long-term time horizon to generate high returns with higher risk can consider this fund

UTI is one of the pioneers of the Indian Mutual Fund Industry. With an AUM of approximately Rs 2.4 Lakh crore, the AMC is among the most trusted names in the mutual fund space. The UTI Mutual Fund offers products across asset classes. Let us discuss the flagship product – UTI Nifty 500 Value 50 Index Fund. UTI Nifty 500 Value 50 Index Fund Investment Objective: The investment objective of the scheme is to provide returns that, before expenses, correspond to the total return of the securities as represented by the underlying index, subject to tracking error. Investment Process: UTI Nifty 500 Value 50 Index Fund follows a passive style of investing; that is, it invests in all the companies forming part of the Nifty 500 Value 50 Total Return Index (the underlying index) in the same proportion of the underlying index to earn a return as much as the underlying index, before expenses. Portfolio Composition The portfolio is biased towards large-cap stocks, with 56.21% of the fund allocation in large-cap stocks and the remaining 31.43% and 12.36% in mid-cap and small-cap, respectively. The scheme had significant exposure to the Financial Services sector, followed by Oil, Gas and consumables, and Metals & mining. Note: Data as of July 31, 2023.Source: UTI MF Invest in Mutual Fund Top 5 Holdings for UTI Nifty 500 Value 50 Index Fund NameSectorWeightage %Power Finance Corporation Ltd.Financial5.78NTPC Ltd.Energy5.42Oil & Natural Gas CorporationLtd.Energy5.18Tata Steel Ltd.Metals & Mining5.15Hindalco Industries Ltd.Metals & Mining5.12Note: Data as of July 31, 2023.Source: UTI MF Performance since Inception If you had invested 10,000 at the fund's inception, it would now be valued at Rs. 11,479, whereas the benchmark (Nifty 500 Value 50 TRI) would have fetched Rs. 11,503. Note: Performance of the fund since launch; Inception Date: July 31, 2023. Source: utimf.com Fund Manager Sharwan Goyal is the Fund Manager and Head of Passive, Arbitrage, and Quantum strategies at UTI AMC. He is a CFA Charter holder from CFA Institute, USA, and holds a post-graduate degree in Management (MMS) from Welingkar Institute of Management, Mumbai. He has over 16 years of experience in Risk Management, Equity Research, Portfolio Analysis, and Fund Management at UTI AMC. Who Should Invest in UTI Nifty 500 Value 50 Index Fund? · This fund is suitable for Investors looking for returns that are commensurate with the performance of the Nifty 500 Value 50 Index over the long term. Ideal Time to Stay Invested · Ideal for investment with a time horizon of, preferably, five years or above. · Investment through a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) may help in tackling the volatility of the broader equity market. Conclusion UTI Nifty 500 Values 50 index fund is an open-ended fund that allows investors to invest in diversified companies with good growth potential. However, the fund was launched approximately three months ago, so it will be essential to monitor how the fund performs in the future. UTI Nifty 500 Value 50 Index Fund has been classified as having very high risk. Investors willing to invest passively for long-term growth and want to save on expense ratio can consider this fund. DisclaimerThis is not recommendation advice. All information in this blog is for educational purposes only.

Mutual funds are one of the most preferred avenues for multiplying investments over the years. Hence it is important to track the performance of mutual funds for that you must understand the necessary risk elements associated with it. Mutual fund houses release the performance sheet of the funds every month. Investors should track performance by multiplying the fund units with the current NAV and adding the received dividends. Comparing this amount with initial projections helps to identify whether the ongoing mutual fund is in alignment with the set financial goals or not.  Investing in a mutual fund scheme is not the end game as it will not ensure the achievement of your investment goals. Investors must track performance and review regularly to determine whether that specific scheme can meet their investment needs adequately. Track the performances of mutual funds Different parameters and tools to track the performance of mutual fund schemes include- 1. Mutual fund ratios Mutual fund ratios like standard deviation, Sharpe ratio, alpha, beta, and concentration ratio are primary tools to assess, analyze, and track the performance of mutual funds. The numerical figures help to identify and compare vital information in simple terms so that the investors can understand the overall scheme. For example, a positive alpha means that the scheme is profitable as it has surpassed the benchmark index. Similarly, a higher Sharpe ratio signifies the potential for higher returns and encourages investors to opt for the scheme. Start Investing in Mutual Funds 2. Fund fact sheet A fund fact sheet is published by the AMC every month to show the growth of the investments. Keeping track of this report card helps investors to know how the money is allotted in different schemes, the size of the investment, and overall fund performance in terms of standard deviation, beta, CAGR, and Sharpe ratio.  The fund fact sheet lists all the schemes in an easy-to-read manner and compares the mutual funds in the same category. Investors can know about the fund’s performance and turnover compared to other schemes.  3. Historical returns One of the simplest ways to track performance is by comparing and checking the historical returns for at least 5 – 15 years. These act as viable scorecards and allow investors to check the returns over a specific period.  Investors must treat historical returns as performance indicators to look for consistency and solid fundamentals in the schemes.  A regular spike in returns shows that it is the right mutual fund for investing and a one-time occurrence acts as a red flag and urges investors to stay away from it.  How to Start Investing in Mutual Funds? Read More 4. Portfolio composition Tracking mutual funds through portfolio composition helps to check the portfolio holdings. It also helps to verify whether the stocks included in the portfolio can generate higher returns and comply with the risk profile that the investor had foreseen at the time of investing.  Portfolio composition is used to understand whether the scheme is made of quality assets and whether it can handle short-term market volatility.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYlrsx9_yog&pp=ygUHZWR1ZnVuZA%3D%3D 5. Expense ratio The expense ratio is the overall expenses incurred in the mutual fund schemes charged to the investor. It minimizes the NAV and thus has a direct impact on the returns.  A lower expense ratio means higher returns because of minimum commission or intermediary fees. Using this tracker helps to choose the funds that will give the highest possible returns.  5. Peer factor One of the simplest ways to track the performance of your mutual fund is by comparing it against peer performance.  Investors must compare the scheme in the same category to get accurate results, for example, compare a blue-chip fund like Axis Blue Chip Fund with SBI Blue Chip Fund to know which one is showing better results.   6. Benchmark performance Keep track of the investment by comparing it with the benchmark performance. Investors can know whether the fund is showing a good performance by outperforming the benchmark index or if it is a below-par investment. A higher benchmark index means lower returns and vice-versa. When a mutual fund generates more returns than the benchmark index then it is the right fund for investing.  7. Risk-adjusted returns Track performance by comparing two funds with similar returns. The risk-adjusted returns help to identify and choose the fund with less risk option. Investors should be aware that funds with low risk than the benchmark will yield low returns and more risk will generate higher returns.  8. Rolling returns Checking the average of rolling returns helps to maintain the consistency of the mutual funds. It tracks the fund’s behavior in terms of volatility, loss proportion, and outperformance.  When the rolling returns are higher than the benchmark, it means that the investment will yield better results.  9. Online portfolio trackers Online portfolio trackers help to track and monitor mutual fund investments in a hassle-free way. The online platforms provide an updated value of all the investor’s funds.  A perfect example is EduFund’s scientific fund tracker which helps to track and monitor more than one lakh data points and 400+ financial situations. The RIA-registered app uses 128-SSL security for tracking transactions in a safe environment.  Advantages of tracking the performance of mutual funds Both new and seasoned investors should track the performance of mutual fund schemes for the following reasons- The mutual fund industry assures good returns but every scheme will not give high returns. Tracking performance and comparing the different schemes help to identify and choose the best scheme with consistent returns. Tracking performance regularly helps to stay in the loop and determine whether the funds are giving the expected returns. Investors can either add more units, stay invested, or switch to profitable funds based on the performance of the fund. Understanding key investment Metrics for Mutual Funds When considering mutual funds for your child's education, it's important to assess various metrics that provide insights into the fund's performance, risk, and suitability. Here are key factors to consider:  1. Alpha: Alpha measures a fund's performance relative to its benchmark after accounting for market risk. A positive alpha indicates the fund has outperformed the benchmark, potentially adding value to your investment.  2. Beta: Beta quantifies a fund's sensitivity to market movements. A beta of 1 suggests the fund moves in line with the market, while a beta greater than 1 indicates higher volatility and less than 1 suggests lower volatility.  3. Expense Ratio: The expense ratio represents the annual fee charged by the fund to manage your investment. Lower expense ratios are generally preferable as they impact your returns over time.  4. Do a Comparison of Similar Funds: Comparing similar funds helps you identify top performers within the same category. Analyze factors such as historical returns, risk measures, and fund manager track records.  5. Rolling Returns: Rolling returns provide insights into a fund's consistency over different time periods. Look for funds with consistently positive rolling returns, indicating sustained performance.  6. Sharpe Ratio: The Sharpe ratio assesses a fund's risk-adjusted returns. Higher Sharpe ratios imply better returns for the level of risk taken. Consider funds with higher Sharpe ratios within their category.  7. Consider Market and Economic Cycles: Understand that markets and economies go through cycles. Choose funds that have shown resilience across different cycles. Funds that perform well in various market conditions might provide better stability for long-term goals.  8. Risk Tolerance: Evaluate your risk tolerance. For long-term goals like funding education, you might accept a slightly higher risk for potentially higher returns. However, ensure the risk aligns with your comfort level.  9. Investment Horizon: The time until your child's education is a crucial factor. Longer horizons can accommodate more volatility, allowing for potential recovery from market downturns.  10. Diversification: Consider funds that offer diversification across sectors and asset classes. Diversification can help mitigate risk and enhance the potential for stable returns.  11. Past Performance vs. Future Outlook: While past performance provides insights, remember that it's not a guarantee of future success. Analyze a fund's strategy, manager's approach, and economic trends.  12. Professional Advice: Consult a financial advisor who can assess your financial situation, goals, and risk appetite. They can recommend suitable funds and help tailor a portfolio to your child's education needs.  Incorporating metrics into investment decisions When selecting mutual funds for your child's education, utilize these metrics collectively. Prioritize funds with favorable alphas, lower expense ratios, and consistent rolling returns. Balance risk and reward by considering beta and Sharpe ratios. Conduct thorough research perform due diligence, and consult a financial advisor to make informed decisions that align with your child's education goals. Remember that investments carry inherent risks, and diversification is essential for managing these risks effectively.  Conclusion Investors can use the above-mentioned tools to track the performance of their mutual fund schemes. Due diligence helps to measure the profitability of the fund, conduct informed decisions, and keep hard-earned money safe. TALK TO AN EXPERT

Investment is extremely important for your child’s future. But deciding the best investment tool is tough. Let’s look at Recurring deposits (RD) vs Mutual Funds to find out which tool can safeguard the future financial needs of your child.  Both Recurring deposits and Mutual Funds have their pros and cons. Let’s understand both of them in detail. What are Recurring deposits? Recurring deposits are a monthly financial commitment that provides customers with the flexibility to invest a specific amount. It follows a proper flow of saving money with ease. This facility is provided by most of the banks and NBFCs in India whose period can range somewhere between 6 months to 10 years. Key features of recurring deposits The schemes offering recurring deposits aim to habituate people to a regular saving pattern. The amount that can be saved depends from one bank to the other and it can be as small as rs 10. The minimum period for which you can avail of the scheme is 6 months and the maximum goes up to 10 years. The interest rate will the same as that of fixed deposits offered in the same bank. Interest rates vary from 5.8% to 7.8%. It provides an additional benefit of taking a loan against the deposit which acts as collateral. You can open an RD with your bank but remember that all RDs offer a fixed interest rate and are free of risk! Start Saving with EduFund What are Mutual funds?  Mutual Fund is a popular form of investment that acts as a financial tool that collects assets from different shareholders to invest in securities like bonds, debt, equity, stocks, and so on.   Each fund has a fund manager who looks after the performance, manages the risk, and allocates the fund’s assets.   Mutual funds are great for investors who cannot actively follow market performance and manage their investments on a daily basis. The fund manager acts as a custodian of your investments and takes calculated risks to provide maximum benefits! Key features of mutual funds Mutual funds manage a portfolio that contains stocks, bonds, and other types of securities. Mutual funds invest in different markets, industries, and companies. They offer market exposure to new investors who can reap the benefits of various professionally managed portfolios at a very low cost. There are different types of mutual funds such as equity, debt, hybrid, and gift funds. Mutual funds charge annual fees and a commission for managing the portfolio which might affect your overall returns. Debt funds are relatively safer than equity funds or hybrid funds. Invest in Mutual Funds Difference between recurring deposits and mutual funds  Frequency of Investment: Recurring Deposits require the investor to be regular and pay at fixed intervals of time whereas mutual funds involve frequencies like weekly, monthly, quarterly, and so on.  Returns: The returns in recurring deposits are based on the interest rate provided by the bank. In the case of mutual funds, the returns are variable and depend on the scheme which is opted by the investor.  Investment Schemes: There exists no schemes or options in the case of recurring deposits whereas there are various schemes available if you go for mutual funds.  Market Linked: Recurring deposits offer fixed interests at regular intervals of time because they are not affected by market performance. In the case of mutual funds, lumpsum, and SIP are subject to market risks. Hence, the returns are not guaranteed or fixed. How can these financial commitments be useful for your child? If your child is young and you have a low-risk appetite, then recurring deposits can be safe play for you. You can deposit a specific amount every month in his or her name which can be helpful for their higher education. It has no risk which assures that you will receive a good corpus at the end of your savings tenure. On the contrary, mutual funds are very effective if you consider the increasing rate of inflation in the domain of education. Equity is also a good option that you can go for. However, it is advised that you start these schemes well in advance so that you can counter volatility or crashes that may arise. Talk to an Expert FAQs Are mutual funds good for child education?  Yes, mutual funds can be a suitable investment option for funding a child's education due to their potential for growth over time. However, it's important to choose funds based on your risk tolerance and investment horizon.   Which mutual fund is best for child education?  To find out the best mutual funds for your child's education savings, you need to visit EduFund. You can find class-wise mutual funds for your child's future savings. For instance, if your child is in 1st grade then there are plenty of mutual funds selected by our experts that you can invest in for their college! What is the best way to invest in a child's education?  Investing in a mix of diversified mutual funds, specifically those with a long-term growth focus, can be a strong approach to funding a child's education. Regular contributions through SIPs, starting early, and adjusting risk as the child grows older are key considerations. Consulting a financial advisor is recommended.  

Many young adults’ first experience with financial management is in college. Parents must understand the value of this information, but some struggle to convey it to their children, and the majority of universities do not provide courses in this area. You can teach your children money management skills that they will need throughout their lives, and the money management habits they form in college are likely to stick with them for the rest of their lives. As parents, the lessons you teach about money management will give them the confidence to manage their finances in the future, save money, and stay out of debt by putting good money management skills into practice. Your children will be better prepared for the tension-free financial future they deserve if they learn how to manage money early. Long-term money management strategies As college students, they are always short on time as well as money and that is precisely why it is the right time to start building their financial habits. Some long-term strategies you can teach your child are- 1. Teach them how to budget Creating a budget is extremely important and it is something you should teach your child before sending them off to college. Recognizing the line between wants and needs is the key to budgeting. Make sure they fully portray their spending patterns by having them list their expected monthly costs for things like books, school supplies, laundry, eating outside, meal plans, and personal care products. Don't forget to include recreational activities. They will be on the right path to the future with better money management by establishing these limitations in advance. 2. Emergency savings fund Starting an emergency savings fund is essential for anyone's long-term financial stability, whether they are students or not. An emergency fund acts as a safety net that one can rely on for those "rainy days" when they find themselves in a financial crisis. They will be able to recover thanks to their emergency money. It is up to them how much money they save each month. No matter how tiny the amount may appear at first, they must save something each month. 3. Finding cheap housing Housing is a significant and inevitable expense in college. If you are preparing your child to manage their funds and create a budget on their own, encourage them to explore the options available on campus. The most affordable option to have the entire college experience is to live on campus. When it comes to housing, living with roommates is also a great way to save money. Your child needs to interact with the students around them who are also looking for a place to live. Who knows, maybe they'll find some of their closest friends! Money Management Tips for HomeMakers Read More Try to Save Money as Much as Possible Saving money isn't just a financial practice; it's a mindset that sets the tone for responsible adulthood. Even as a young adult, adopting a disciplined saving approach can yield substantial benefits over time. Here's how you can lay the groundwork for a successful savings journey:  Set Clear Goals: The foundation of effective saving is setting specific goals. Whether it's building an emergency fund, planning for a dream vacation, or saving for a down payment on a house, having well-defined objectives provides direction and motivation.  Automate Savings: Capitalize on automation by setting up automatic transfers from your checking account to your dedicated savings account. Treating saving as a non-negotiable expense encourages consistency.  Start Small, Think Big: It's not the initial amount but the consistency that matters. Even if you can only save a small percentage of your income initially, remember that small contributions compound over time to create substantial savings.  Embrace the 50-30-20 Rule: Divide your income into three categories: necessities (50%), discretionary spending (30%), and savings and debt repayment (20%). This balanced approach fosters responsible spending while prioritizing saving.  Build an emergency fund with enough money in it to cover three to six months' worth of expenses. This cushion safeguards you against unexpected financial shocks.  Start Investing in Mutual Funds Keep Track of Your Debts Effectively managing your debts is a pivotal aspect of financial stability. Proactively addressing your debt situation during your early adult years can avert future financial turmoil. Here's how you can navigate the complex terrain of debt management:  Catalog Your Debts: Start by creating a comprehensive list of all your debts, ranging from student loans and credit card balances to any outstanding loans. Note down interest rates and minimum payment requirements for each.  Prioritize High-Interest Debts: Tackle high-interest debts with unwavering focus. By paying off these obligations first, you're effectively minimizing the total interest you'll end up paying overtime.  Punctual Payments: Ensure that you meet at least the minimum payment requirement for each debt on time. Timely payments not only prevent late fees but also bolster your credit score.  Prudent Borrowing: Exercise discretion when considering new debt. Only borrow when it's necessary and within your means. Keep in mind that every debt you take on affects your future financial commitments.  Start Investing in US Market Stop Spending on Unnecessary Things Disciplining your spending habits is pivotal for maintaining financial equilibrium. Developing the ability to differentiate between essential needs and superfluous desires is a hallmark of fiscal prudence:  Create a Budget: Formulate a comprehensive budget that outlines your monthly income and expenditures. This provides clarity regarding your financial standing and empowers you to allocate funds judiciously.  Practice Delayed Gratification: Cultivate the habit of delaying purchases. This approach offers a cooling-off period that helps you evaluate whether a purchase is truly essential or merely impulsive.  Prioritize Quality Over Quantity: When making purchases, quality gives precedence. Investing in a few high-quality items that endure over time is more cost-effective than buying numerous lower-quality products.  Opt for Cash or Debit: Minimize reliance on credit cards. Opting for cash or debit cards makes you more mindful of your spending and curbs the tendency to overspend.  Guard Against Lifestyle Inflation: As your income increases, resist the urge to immediately inflate your lifestyle. Instead, continue living within or below your means, allowing you to save and invest more substantially.  https://www.youtube.com/shorts/jjXF-KC9iWI How to earn while in college? Your child will be able to cover their costs while in college and gain valuable work experience that will benefit them in the long run. They will be able to avoid future debt by making some income themselves. Students have a lot of work opportunities at universities. Your child should find out about working at the school bookstore or as a (resident assistant) RA. College students may also be eligible for additional employee benefits from several nearby businesses. Ask them to think about applying for summer jobs if work becomes a burden while studying. 1. Daily money-saving strategies You can teach your child a variety of money management techniques to help them become more frugal while they are in college. Here are a few daily financial management techniques. 2. Meal plans Ask about the college's meal plans. Teach your child to make the most of what they have by using it to the fullest. They should buy snacks they could use the next day if they have any spare cash left. 3. Student discounts A student ID card has a lot more uses than just serving as identification, including various ways your child can use it to save money. You should advise them to call ahead the next time they want to go watch a movie, get school supplies, or go for a haircut to see if the business provides any student discounts for nearby college students. They will have access to all campus facilities, including the gym, pool, library, etc., with their student ID card. 4. Cooking at home Teach them how to cook and how to utilize ingredients. Cooking their own food will help them save a lot of money that they’d be spending if they ordered or went out for meals. These are great skills they will value for life. They can also make cooking a fun activity by inviting their friends over and trying out new recipes. 5. Public transportation If your child does not live close to their college, they should take public transportation instead of driving there. They will be able to save money and avoid the stress of crowded school parking lots thanks to public transport. They will also save on the cost of car insurance, gas, and university parking passes. FAQs How do I teach my child to manage money? Start with simple concepts like saving, spending, and giving. Use clear jars for each purpose. Set an allowance, encouraging saving for goals. Involve them in budgeting decisions. Teach about needs vs. wants. As they grow, introduce bank accounts, investments, and wise spending. Be a role model for responsible money habits. What are the best money management tips? Create a budget, track spending, and prioritize saving. Pay off high-interest debt. Build an emergency fund. Invest for long-term goals. Live below your means. Avoid impulse buying. Comparison shop and look for deals. Continuously educate yourself about personal finance. Regularly review and adjust your financial plan. How do I teach my 4-year-old about money? Introduce coins and their values through play. Use a clear jar to show savings. Associate coins with small rewards. Teach basic needs vs. wants. Keep conversations simple and age-appropriate. Use stories or games to explain money concepts. Be patient, reinforce lessons, and set a positive example of smart money choices. How can a 10-year-old save money? A 10-year-old can start by setting a savings goal, like buying a toy or game. Help them create a simple budget and allocate a portion of their allowance or gifts to savings. Use a piggy bank or a savings jar to visually track progress. Encourage patience and celebrate milestones together. Conclusion The main conclusion is that although college is expensive, there are ways to lessen the financial pressure. Early financial management in college will help your child set themselves up for success in the future. Money management will make it easier for them as well as you while they’re studying in college. If they have the basic knowledge of how to handle their finances before going to college, they will be able to do it stress-free and be able to learn better with time. TALK TO AN EXPERT

Mutual funds have given exceptional performance over the period. Some investors just look for the returns irrespective of the risk and other parameters. So, here we have shortlisted the top-performing best SIP mutual funds with returns as a filter. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYlrsx9_yog What is a SIP? SIP or the Systematic Investment Plan refers to the investment tool associated with various mutual funds. SIP allows investors to invest money periodically for a long period.  Start Investing in Mutual Funds https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ETi60GetP8 Ignite Prosperity: Unleash the Power of SIP Mutual Funds S.No.Fund Name3-Yr Annualized Performance1Quant Small Cap Fund Growth Option Direct Plan44.30 %2PGIM India Mid-cap Opportunities Fund Direct Plan-Growth39.28 %3Canara Robeco Small Cap Fund Direct-Growth38.83 %4Bank of India Small Cap Fund Direct-Growth38.82 %5Quant Tax Plan Direct Option Growth Plan36.88 %6Quant Infrastructure Fund Growth Option Direct Plan36.47 %7Quant Mid Cap Fund-Growth Option Direct Plan35.89 %8Kotak Small Cap Fund Direct-Growth35.37 %9Quant Active Fund Growth Option Direct Plan33.28 %10Quant Flexi Cap Fund Direct Plan Growth Option32.25 %Note: Data as of July 25, 2022Source: Morningstar 1. Quant small cap fund direct plan-growth Fund analysis: The fund has delivered an exceptionally good performance. The fund is investing predominantly in small-cap companies. The fund is rated 5-star by Morningstar. The risk grade is high, and the returns grade is high. The fund follows a blended style of investing. The risk is spread across companies with the top 10 holdings consisting of 38.96%. The fund has a high risk (measured by standard deviation) than the category average. ProsConsA top performer in its category. Fund captured the market well when it was rising.Volatility is very high. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BIRf2Dm1wB8 2. PGIM India mid-cap opportunities fund direct plan-growth Fund analysis: The fund has outperformed the category and the benchmark with good margins. The fund is investing predominantly in mid-cap companies. The fund is rated 5-star by Morningstar. The risk grade is above average, and the returns grade is high. The fund follows a growth style of investing. The risk is spread across companies with the top 10 holdings consisting of 35.25%. The fund has a high risk (measured by standard deviation) than the category average. ProsConsA top performer in its category. The fund captured the market well when it was rising and falling, better than the category average.The minimum monthly SIP amount is Rs 1000/- thus marginal investors may not be able to take exposure Calculate Investment Using SIP Calculator 3. Canara Robeco small cap fund direct-growth Fund analysis: The fund has outperformed the benchmark over different horizons. The risk grade is average and the returns grade is high. The fund has a well-diversified portfolio invested across market capitalization. The top 10 holdings consist of a total of 22.88%. The fund is rated 5-star by Morningstar. The fund holds a good risk-to-reward ratio. The fund has low risk (measured in standard deviation) than the category average. ProsConsFund captured the market well when it was rising. The fund captured the market well when it was falling.Less exposure to small-cap stocks. 4. Bank of India small cap fund direct growth Fund analysis: The fund is rated 5-star by Morningstar. The risk grade is below average, and the returns grade is high. The fund has a beta of 0.84 indicating that the movement of the fund is less relative to the market movement. The fund follows a growth style of investing. The fund has a low risk (measured by standard deviation) than the category average. ProsConsMy risk grade is below average. Well-diversified portfolio.The fund has a high expense ratio. 5. Quant tax plan direct option growth plan Fund analysis: The fund’s objective is to generate capital appreciation by investing predominantly in a well-diversified portfolio of equity shares with growth potential. The risk grade is high and the return grade is high. The fund has a beta of 0.99 which means that the fund movement is very much relative to the market movement. The fund has a high risk (measured by standard deviation) than the category average. ProsConsWell-diversified portfolio.Tax benefit.Highly volatile. 6. Quant infrastructure fund growth option direct plan Fund analysis: The fund’s objective is to seek to generate capital appreciation & provide long-term growth opportunities by investing in a portfolio of infrastructure-focused companies. The risk and return grade of the fund is high. The fund follows a blended style of investing, indicating the fund has both value and growth stocks. The fund has invested majorly in large-cap companies. The fund has outperformed the category average with good margins. ProsConsFund has outperformed the category average over 1-Yr, 3-Yr & 5-Yr trailing returns. Fund has outperformed the category average when the market was falling.Low Assets Under Management. 7. Quant mid-cap fund-growth option direct plan Fund analysis: The fund’s objective is to seek to generate capital appreciation & provide long-term growth opportunities by investing in a portfolio of mid-cap companies. The risk grade is below average, and the returns grade is high. The fund has a beta of 0.85 indicating that the movement of the fund is less relative to the market movement. The fund has a concentrated portfolio of 34 stocks, investing in both value & growth stocks. The fund has low risk (measured by standard deviation) than the category average. ProsConsA consistent top performer in its category. The fund captured the market well when it was rising and falling, better than the category average.Concentrated portfolio of 34 stocks. 8. Kotak small cap fund direct growth Fund analysis: The fund has outperformed the category average in terms of trailing returns over different horizons. The risk grade is above average and the returns grade is above average. The fund has a beta of 0.95 indicating that the movement of the fund is quite closely relative to the movement of the market. The fund has a well-diversified portfolio of growth stocks consisting of 72 companies spread over different sectors and market-cap companies. The fund has a high risk (measured in standard deviation) than the category average. ProsConsThe fund has a favorable expense ratio. Fund captured the market well when it was falling.Too much diversification may hamper the returns. 9. Quant active fund growth option direct plan Fund analysis: The fund’s primary objective is to generate capital appreciation & provide long-term growth opportunities by investing in a portfolio of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap companies. The risk grade is above average and the returns grade is high. The fund is rated 5-star by Morningstar. The fund has invested 59.45% in large-cap, 28.07% in mid-cap, and 12.48% in small-cap companies. The fund has outperformed the category average over 1-yr, 3-yr & 5-yr trailing returns. ProsConsThe fund has a risk grade of above average, whereas the returns grade is high. Consistent performance over the period.Fund has underperformed the category average over 5-Yr trailing returns. Source: pexels 10. Quant Flexi cap fund direct plan growth option Fund analysis: The fund’s objective is to seek to generate capital appreciation & provide long-term growth opportunities by investing in a portfolio of consumption-driven companies. The risk grade is above average high. The fund has outperformed the category average and the benchmark with good margins over the long-term period. The fund has limited holdings of 36 stocks but is well-diversified across sectors. ProsConsAttractive risk-to-reward ratio. The fund captured the market well when it was rising & falling, better than the category average.Exit load of 1.00%, if units redeem within 1 year. Benefits of SIP investments Compounding: SIPs are based on the compounding theory and prove more advantageous at the end of a specific period. The interest rates are calculated and added based on compound interest which brings forth a better investment return than simple interest.  Discipline: SIPs help parents become disciplined and regular investors who are fully involved in their child’s future. Systematic and easy to manage: In this era, where everyone is so busy, SIPs are very easy to handle. Investors are allotted units every month based on the NAV at the time of their SIP. The amount is automatically deducted from the account of the investor. Flexibility: SIP helps to gain control of the finances as it is possible to start or stop a SIP anytime. Higher returns: It helps investors to earn greater returns compared to other investment opportunities like fixed deposits. Small investments: It is possible to start a SIP investment with as low as INR 100 per month, hence anyone willing to invest in their child’s future can do so easily.  Tax benefits: Some SIPs like ELSS funds have tax benefits, hence it is doubly advantageous for investors to invest in such schemes. The abundance of options: Numerous asset management houses offer SIP options to meet even the minimum criteria of an investor. Best deals: The most important benefit of a SIP for regular investors is that they can buy mutual fund units at different prices. The average investment premium is much lower compared to other investments. How to get higher returns from SIP mutual funds? To get higher returns from SIP mutual funds, you need the help of an expert or a financial advisor. They can help you invest right, manage the funds properly and conduct market research to help you maximize your returns. Here is a helpful way to get higher returns from your SIP mutual funds: Research the funds that are performing well for a longer time and shortlist the names which show good potential. It is important to start investing in SIP as early as possible as it will give you a longer window to save more. Create a rough layout financial goal, for example, the time horizon, the amount needed, and your risk profile. Invest in mutual funds that have a diversified portfolio to reduce the risk of losing money all at once. Take the help of experts in the EduFund App to make wiser and safer investment decisions.  Consider the additional expenses and costs associated with the funds like expense ratio (the cost charged by the AMC to manage your funds). Tax-saving benefits are attached to several mutual fund schemes that can help parents to save a considerable amount through tax exemptions. How to start a SIP investment on the EduFund App? Step 1: Download and Sign up with EduFund Go online with SIP investments with EduFund. Download the application and sign up with personal details. The whole signup process takes just 3 seconds.  Step 2: Identify your goals for your child’s future  The application provides a gamut of options for your child’s education. Evaluate the goal. Whether you wish to: Save for school fees Save for higher education in India or overseas Step 3: Calculate the total cost with a FREE calculator After identifying the goals, calculate the total costs of higher education for undergraduate or postgraduate studies. You could calculate basing National or International academic education expectations. Select the specialization and the country you are seeking higher education. Step 4: Get your investment map and invest Soon after filing the details, you will get how much you could get after investing for the respective number of years. You will get a number of SIP suggestions that you could compare with yours. You could increase or decrease the sum to invest monthly as per financials. We provide an overview of your savings transitioning into returns until you get the investment sum. You could go for a lump sum payment if you are an entrepreneur with unstable finances. Place the order as a secured investment through UPI or other methods. You could start with just ₹100 in Edufund SIP investments. Step 5: Track, revisit and reset goals anytime Once you set up a SIP plan, you can edit goals according to the revised economic situation. Edufund captures the sensitivity that comes with finances. Revisit the plan and modify it as per goals and finances. You will get a new investment plan with new goals. Plan your savings accordingly. Factors to Take into Account Before Choosing the Best Mutual Funds for SIP 2023 Investing Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is a popular way to invest in mutual funds by making regular, fixed investments over time. Selecting the right mutual funds for your SIP investments requires careful consideration of various factors. Here are key points to evaluate before making your investment decisions in 2023:  1. Investment Goals and Horizon: Identify your investment goals—whether it's wealth creation, retirement planning, or funding-specific goals. Determine your investment horizon, as different funds suit short, medium, or long-term goals.  2. Risk Tolerance: Assess your risk tolerance before investing. Different funds carry varying levels of risk. Choose funds aligned with your risk appetite to avoid discomfort during market fluctuations.  3. Fund Performance: Analyze the historical performance of mutual funds. Look for consistent returns over multiple market cycles rather than just short-term outperformance.  4. Fund Category: Understand the different mutual fund categories such as equity, debt, hybrid, and thematic funds. Choose categories that match your risk profile and investment goals.  5. Fund Manager Expertise: The fund manager's experience and track record play a crucial role. Research the manager's history and style to ensure their approach aligns with your investment philosophy.  6. Expense Ratio: Lower expense ratios are preferable as they directly impact your returns. Compare expense ratios among similar funds to choose cost-efficient options.  7. Fund Assets and AUM: A fund's size can influence its performance and liquidity. While larger funds might offer stability, smaller ones can be more agile in taking advantage of market opportunities.  8. Consistency of Returns: Look for funds that consistently deliver steady returns over time, even if they are not the highest performers in the short term.  9. Portfolio Holdings: Examine the fund's portfolio holdings to understand its asset allocation, sector exposure, and quality of securities. Diversification is key to managing risk.  10. SIP Period and Amount: Determine the SIP period and the amount you can comfortably invest regularly. Consistency in SIP investments is more important than the amount invested.  11. Exit Load and Lock-in Period: Check for any exit loads or lock-in periods associated with the mutual funds. These can impact your ability to withdraw funds when needed.  12. Market Conditions and Economic Outlook: Consider the current market conditions and economic outlook while selecting funds. Different sectors perform differently in various market cycles.  13. Tax Implications: Understand the tax implications of the funds you're considering. Different funds have different tax treatments for gains.  14. Regulatory and Corporate Governance: Research the fund house's reputation, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance practices to ensure a trustworthy investment.  15. Diversification: Diversify your SIP investments across different fund categories and asset classes to mitigate risks and capture potential opportunities.  Conclusion: If one selects the right mutual fund then it can fetch you good returns over the period, but the selection criteria should not be based on the returns only. One should consider other factors like risk, expense ratio, etc. FAQs Which is best for mutual fund SIP? Quant Small Cap Fund Growth Option Direct PlanPGIM India Mid-cap Opportunities Fund Direct Plan-GrowthCanara Robeco Small Cap Fund Direct-GrowthBank of India Small Cap Fund Direct-GrowthQuant Tax Plan Direct Option Growth PlanQuant Infrastructure Fund Growth Option Direct PlanQuant Mid Cap Fund-Growth Option Direct PlanKotak Small Cap Fund Direct-GrowthQuant Active Fund Growth Option Direct PlanQuant Flexi Cap Fund Direct Plan Growth Option What is SIP mutual fund? A Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) is an investment tool in mutual funds at regular intervals. The investor can decide the amount, and date of investment and choose to stop or pause. Is SIP better than FD? A SIP is likely to get you better returns than an FD. FD is an investment product while SIP is an investment tool - a way to invest rather than a product itself. You can start a SIP in mutual funds, direct stocks, or ETFs that have historically beaten inflation and FD rates in India. What is the difference between a SIP and a mutual fund? Mutual Fund is an investment product while SIP is an investment tool - a way to invest rather than a product itself. TALK TO AN EXPERT Disclaimer:This is not recommendation advice, use it for educational purposes only. Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme-related documents carefully. The NAVs of the schemes may go up or down depending upon the factors and forces affecting the securities market including the fluctuations in the interest rates. The past performance of the mutual funds is not necessarily indicative of the future performance of the schemes.

Incorporated in the midst of the Global Financial Crisis, Quantum Mutual Fund has been in existence for approximately two decades now. The AMC offers a variety of mutual fund schemes, including equity funds, debt funds, and hybrid funds. Quantum Mutual Fund is known for its focus on active management and its commitment to providing investors with high-quality investment products. Quantum India ESG Fund Investment Objective The investment objective of the scheme is to achieve long-term capital appreciation by investing in shares of companies that meet Quantum’s Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria.  Investment Process  The Quantum India ESG Equity Fund invests in companies that are focused on conserving the environment, positively impacting communities that they operate in, and conducting business ethically.  These sustainable businesses are not only environmentally and socially responsible but also make great sense as investments as you look to build wealth over the long term.  The fund invests after comprehensive research on Environmental, Social, and Governance or ESG factors following the risk and liquidity controls on investing.    Portfolio Composition The portfolio is biased towards large-cap stocks, with 78% of the funds allocated to large-cap stocks, the remaining 19% and 3% to mid-cap and small-cap stocks respectively. Note: Data as of 31st July 2023. Source: Quantum Mutual Fund, Value Research Top 5 Holdings for Quantum India ESG Equity Fund Name Weightage % HDFC Bank Limited 8.21 TVS Motor Company Limited 4.35 Tata Communications Ltd 4.13 Tata Consultancy Services Ltd 3.95 The Indian Hotels Company Ltd 3.59 Note: Data as of 31st July 2023. Source: Quantum Mutual Fund Performance for Quantum India ESG Equity Fund   NIFTY100 ESG TRI S&P BSE Sensex TRI Period Scheme (₹) Benchmark Additional Benchmark Since Inception  17.24%  15.81%  15.65%  3 Years  22.52%  20.82%  22.38%  1 Year 15.69%  13.53%  20.70%  Note: Returns in % as of 31st, July 2023. Source: Quantum Mutual Fund  Since its inception, the fund has generated a CAGR (Compounded Annual Growth Rate) of 17.24%. Invest in Fund Fund Manager  The scheme is co-managed by Mr. Chirag Mehta & Ms. Sneha Joshi.  Mr. Chirag Mehta has more than 19 years of experience and has been managing this fund since July 2019.  Ms. Sneha Joshi has more than 9 years of experience and has been managing this fund since July 2019.  Who Should Invest in Quantum India ESG Equity Fund?  The fund is suitable for investors who are seeking.   Long-term capital appreciation.  An investment opportunity that invests in shares of companies that meet Quantum's Environment, Social, Governance (ESG) criteria.  Why Invest in this Fund? The fund offers a solution for investing in businesses where sustainable practices drive long-term performance.  It invests after comprehensive research on Environmental, Social, and Governance or ESG factors.  It provides exposure to good quality sustainable companies with low volatility and downside risk.  It is a well-diversified portfolio that follows a disciplined investment process.  It follows risk and liquidity controls on investing.  Time Horizon One should look at investing for at least five years or even more.  Investment through Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) may help in tackling the volatility of the broader equity market.  Conclusion Quantum India ESG Equity Fund is an open-ended fund that allows investors to invest in equities following the ESG theme. The fund has outperformed its benchmark consistently. However, the fund was launched approximately 3 years ago, so it will be important to monitor how the fund performs in the upcoming future. Hence, investors who believe in the ESG theme of investing can consider this fund with a long-term time horizon. DisclaimerThis is not recommendation advice. All information in this blog is for educational purposes only.