Risks involved in Mutual Fund / SIF / PMS / AIF investments
The risks every investor should weigh before investing in mutual funds, specialised investment funds, portfolio management services or alternative investment funds.
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The risks, in plain terms
Market risks — mutual funds are subject to market risks that may affect the value of investments.
Market volatility and NAV impact — fluctuations in market conditions can lead to changes in the Net Asset Value (NAV) of the fund.
Geo-political risks — events such as wars, political instability or regulatory changes in countries can impact fund performance.
Principal investment risk — there is no guarantee of the return of the principal amount invested in mutual funds.
Risk of returns — returns on mutual funds are not fixed and are subject to market fluctuations.
Past performance — past performance of a mutual fund scheme does not guarantee future results.
Change in scheme objectives — the investment objective of a mutual fund scheme may change, which could affect its performance.
Re-categorisation risk — changes in the categorisation of schemes by regulatory authorities or the AMC may alter the risk-return profile.
Fund management risks — performance may vary due to changes in the fund management team or fund manager.
Takeover or merger of an AMC — the acquisition or merger of the Asset Management Company may lead to changes in management and strategy.
Closure or merging of an AMC — the closure of an AMC or its merger with another AMC may disrupt the management of funds.
Segregated portfolio risks — AMCs may segregate portfolios due to issuer defaults, market events or unforeseen circumstances, impacting fund liquidity and performance.
Risks in New Fund Offerings (NFOs) — NFOs may face price volatility, liquidity concerns or even delisting risks.
Scheme winding up — funds may be wound up due to illiquid instruments, high redemption pressures or adverse market conditions.
Force majeure risks — unforeseen events like natural disasters, pandemics or global financial crises may impact investments.
Default risks — defaults or insolvency by issuers of securities held by the fund could affect NAV and returns.
Inflation risks — inflation may erode the real value of returns earned on mutual fund investments.
Liquidity risks — certain mutual fund schemes may have investments in illiquid securities, which can delay or impact redemption proceeds.
Regulatory risks — changes in government or SEBI regulations may impact the functioning or taxation of mutual funds.
Foreign investment risks — for funds investing overseas, currency fluctuations and geopolitical events in foreign markets could pose risks.
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Investor note
Investors are requested to carefully evaluate all the risks mentioned above, read the scheme's offer documents and riskometer, and consult their Mutual Fund Distributor or a suitably qualified professional before making investment decisions. Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks, read all scheme related documents carefully.