Try GOLD - Free
Themes Of Choice
THE WEEK India
|September 29, 2024
As Savvy Investors Seek New Avenues, Thematic Mutual Funds Are Gaining Popularity
Mutual funds have taken off in a big way in the past few years. The surge started when central banks slashed interest rates during the Covid-19 pandemic, making investors chasing high returns turn to capital markets, either investing directly or via mutual funds. Interestingly, this phenomenon has survived the high interest rate phase of the past two years, and more and more investors are investing in equity now.
The latest data from Association of Mutual Funds of India (AMFI), says average assets managed by the Indian mutual fund industry was ₹66.04 lakh crore in August 2024, a 40 per cent jump over August 2023 when it was ₹46.94 lakh crore. Equity-oriented schemes now account for about 60 per cent of the industry assets, up from 52.7 per cent in August 2023.
Between January and August 2024, the total net inflow into equity mutual funds has been around ₹2.48 lakh crore. Just in August, some 64 lakh new systematic investment plans (SIP) were registered and the monthly SIP contribution hit a new high of ₹23,547.34 crore. While August was the 42nd consecutive month of positive equity inflows, one category of funds seems to have attracted a lot of interest this year—sectoral/thematic funds.
Sectoral funds are equity mutual funds that focus on businesses operating within a specific industry, like technology, health care, defence, energy, automobile, or financial services. There are funds that focus on specific themes like consumption, manufacturing, infrastructure or clean energy as well.
Such funds have received around ₹1.03 lakh crore in net inflows between January and August. What is driving this huge interest?
This story is from the September 29, 2024 edition of THE WEEK India.
Subscribe to Magzter GOLD to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 10,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
MORE STORIES FROM THE WEEK India
THE WEEK India
AI ALONE WON'T HEAL INDIA'S HEALTH CARE
India needs a mission-driven, public-first approach in using AI for health, not a race to mimic the west
4 mins
November 23, 2025
THE WEEK India
A Lifeline of Hope Compassionate Revolution ft. Sushena Health Foundation
In a world often focused on metrics and outcomes, a quiet but profound revolution based on compassion and equitable access is being envisioned.
2 mins
November 23, 2025
THE WEEK India
Precision is the New Default Why Robotic Surgery Has Become the Mainstream
In a world where our phones unlock with a glance and our cars can drive themselves, it would be unfair if the operation theatre remained trapped in yesterday's technology. Surgery today is about purposeful precision with every movement measured, every outcome intentional. The evolution of robotic surgery represents this very shift — from ‘good enough’ outcomes to outcomes that are consistently excellent and predictable.
1 mins
November 23, 2025
THE WEEK India
New kids on the stage
For these next-gen actors, theatre holds as much appeal as stardom in cinema
5 mins
November 23, 2025
THE WEEK India
Precision Driven IVUS-NIRS Technology is Transforming Cardiac Care
Dr Balbir Singh, Chairman and Head of Cardiology at Max Healthcare, is a recipient of numerous prestigious honours, including the Padma Shri, for his exceptional skills and contributions in interventional cardiology and electrophysiology. Dr Singh has performed thousands of Intra-Vascular Ultrasound (IVUS) driven Angioplasties. IVUS is used in angioplasty to provide doctors with a detailed, real-time, three-dimensional view of the artery's interior, which helps them to precisely assess blockages, guide stent placement, and confirm the success of the procedure.
3 mins
November 23, 2025
THE WEEK India
White Spot Lesions in Dentistry
White spot lesions (WSLs) are the earliest visible signs of dental caries, appearing as chalky white or opaque areas on tooth surfaces. They indicate early enamel demineralization and can be seen with the naked eye. Early recognition and management are essential to prevent progression into cavities.
1 mins
November 23, 2025
THE WEEK India
The New Age of Spine Surgery
Taking care of your spine begins with small, consistent habits. Maintaining correct posture while sitting or lifting, walking regularly, and strengthening back and core muscles can go a long way in preventing problems. Eating a balanced diet and keeping body weight under control also help reduce stress on the spine.
1 min
November 23, 2025
THE WEEK India
THE RED FLAG IN YOUR URINE: Understanding and Detecting Bladder Cancer
The bladder is an organ which stores urine, which is produced by the kidneys. The bladder is a hollow, viscus organ that holds it for a few hours before it is eliminated. While it can occur at any age, the median age of diagnosis is typically 70 years or older.
1 mins
November 23, 2025
THE WEEK India
INTERNATIONAL QUALITY HEALTHCARE MADE AFFORDABLE IN VELLORE
Naruvi Hospitals, creating new benchmarks in affordable world class health care, spreading its ‘Fragrance of Care’ in Vellore, and beyond.
4 mins
November 23, 2025
THE WEEK India
Richardsons Face Hospital
India's first face hospital
1 mins
November 23, 2025
Listen
Translate
Change font size