AIFs offer opportunities in under-researched areas that yield higher returns'

Shailesh Agrawal, chief investment officer (CIO), Alternates, at IIFL Oswal Financial Services (MOFSL), is responsible for ₹5,831 crore worth of portfolio management (PMS) and ₹2,999 crore in alternate investments (AIFs), as of June 30, 2025.

- Shailesh Agrawal, chief investment officer (CIO), Alternates, at IIFL Oswal Financial Services (MOFSL)

Shailesh Agrawal, chief investment officer (CIO), Alternates, at IIFL Oswal Financial Services (MOFSL), is responsible for ₹5,831 crore worth of portfolio management (PMS) and ₹2,999 crore in alternate investments (AIFs), as of June 30, 2025. Agarwal tells Sil Staney that the firm’s ability to invest in asset classes such as unlisted equity and structured products helps them generate higher yields. Excerpts:

What is your current number of clients?

We currently serve approximately over 21,000 clients as on March 31, 2025. What truly sets our service apart is our long-term investment focus, a disciplined and research-driven approach, and strong alignment with our investors’ interests, demonstrated by significant sponsor investment in our own strategies.

What factors should investors consider while investing in AIFs?

Investors should evaluate the asset manager’s track record, including AUM and past performance. Equally important aspects are the fund’s theme, its specific series of strategy, as well as the profile of its distributors and investors. These provide insights into the fund’s credibility.

What is your best performing equity fund?