7 Best Fund of Funds in India 2021

fund of funds is one of the Top Mutual Funds for investors whose investment amounts are not too large and it is easier to manage one fund (a fund of funds) rather than a number of Mutual Funds. In this form of mutual fund investment strategy, investors get to hold a number of funds under the umbrella of a single fund, hence the name funds of funds.

Often going by the name of multi-manager investment; it is considered as one of the mutual fund categories. One of the key advantages of multi-manager investments is that at a lower ticket size, the investor can diversify themselves across a gamut of mutual fund schemes. So let us go through the numerous aspects of fund of funds like why to invest in a fund of funds, advantages of fund of funds, fund of funds in India, the performance of fund of funds, and other important aspects.

What are Fund of Funds?

In simple words, a Mutual Fund Investing its collected pool of money in another mutual fund (one or maybe more) is referred to as fund of funds. Investors in their portfolios take exposure to different funds and keep track of them separately. However, by Investing in multi-manager mutual funds this process gets more simplified as investors need to track only one fund, which in turn holds numerous mutual funds within it. Assume an individual has invested in 10 different funds having exposure in various financial assets like stocks, Bonds, government securities, gold, etc. However, he finds it difficult in managing those funds as he needs to keep a track of each fund separately. Therefore, to avoid such hassles, the investor invests money in a multi-management investment (or a single funds of funds strategy) which has its stakes in different Mutual Funds.

What are the Types of Fund of Funds?

1. Asset allocation funds

These funds consist of a diverse asset pool – with securities comprising of equity, debt instruments, precious metals, etc. This allows Asset Allocation funds to generate high returns through the best performing instrument, at a reduced risk level guaranteed by the relatively stable securities present in the portfolio.

2. Gold funds

Investing in different Mutual Funds, primarily trading in gold securities are gold funds. Fund of funds belonging to this category can have a portfolio of Mutual Funds or the gold trading companies themselves, depending upon the concerned asset management company.

3. International fund of funds

Mutual Funds operating in foreign countries are targeted by the international fund of funds. This allows investors to potentially yield higher returns through the best-performing stocks and bonds of the respective country.

4. Multi-manager fund of funds

This is the most common type of fund of funds Mutual Funds available in the Market. The asset base of such a fund comprises of various professionally managed Mutual Funds, all of which have a different portfolio concentration. A multi-manager fund of funds usually has multiple portfolio managers, each dealing with a specific asset present in the Mutual Fund.

5. ETF Fund of Funds

Fund of funds comprising Exchange Traded Fund in their portfolio is a popular investment tool in the country. Investing in an ETF through fund of funds is more accessible than a direct investment in this instrument. This is because ETFs require the a Demat Trading Account while investing in ETF fund of funds have no such limitations.

However, ETFs have a slightly higher risk Factor associated with them as they are traded like shares in the stock market, making these fund of funds more susceptible to the volatility of the market.

Who should Invest in Fund of Funds?

The main aim of the top fund of funds is to maximise returns by investing in a varied portfolio posing minimal risk. Individuals with access to a small pool of financial resources which they can spare for a more extended period of time can choose such a Mutual Fund. Since the portfolio of such funds consists of varying Types of Mutual Funds, it ensures access to high-value funds as well.

Ideally, investors with relatively fewer resources and low liquidity needs can choose to invest in the top fund of funds available in the market. This enables them to earn maximum returns at minimal risk.

Advantages of Investing in Fund of Funds

There are various benefits of investing in a fund of funds Mutual Fund –

1. Diversification

Fund of funds target various Best Performing Mutual Funds in the market, each specialising in a particular asset or sector of fund. This ensures gains through diversification, as both returns and risks are optimised due to underlying portfolio variety.

2. Professionally trained managers

Fund of funds is managed by highly trained people with years of experience. Proper analysis and calculated market predictions made by such portfolio managers ensure high yields through intricate investment strategies.

3. Low resource requirements

An individual with limited financial resources can easily invest in the top fund of funds available to earn higher profits. Monthly investment schemes can also be availed while choosing a fund of funds to invest in.

Limitations of Fund of Funds

1. Expense ratio

Expense ratios to manage a fund of funds Mutual Funds are higher than standard Mutual Funds, as it has a higher managing expense. Added expenses include primarily choosing the right asset to invest in, which keeps on fluctuating periodically.

2. Tax

Tax levied on a fund of funds are payable by an investor, only during Redemption of the principal amount. However, during recovery, both short-term and long-term Capital gains are subjected to tax deductions, depending upon the annual Income of the investor and the time period of investment.

Best Performing Fund of Funds to Invest 2021

Advantages of Fund of Funds

Like every mutual fund, fund of funds also has numerous advantages. Some of them are:

1. Portfolio Diversification and Fund Allocation

One of the key primary benefits is portfolio diversification. Here, despite investing in one single fund, the investment is made in several mutual fund schemes, where the fund is allocated in an optimal manner with the aim to earn maximum returns at a given level of risk.

2. Gateway for Diversified Assets

Multi-management investment helps retail investors to get access to funds that are not easily available for investments. A single fund of fund can take exposure in turn to Equity Funds, Debt fund or even commodity based mutual funds. This ensures diversification for the retail investor by just getting into one Mutual fund.

3. Due Diligence Process

All the funds under this category are expected to follow a due diligence process conducted by the fund manager where they need to check the background and credentials of the underlying fund managers before making an investment to ensure the strategy is in-line with expectations.

4. Less Investment Amount

This is a good option for retail investors who wish to venture into this investment avenue with a lower ticket size.

How Does a Fund of Fund Works?

For understanding the modalities of how multi-manager investment functions, it is important to understand the concepts of fettered and unfettered management. Fettered management is a situation when the mutual fund invests its money in a portfolio containing assets and funds managed by its own company. In other words, the money is invested in the funds of the same asset management company. In contrast, unfettered management is a situation where the mutual fund invests in external funds managed by other Asset Management Companies. Unfettered funds have an advantage over fettered funds as they can exploit opportunities from numerous funds and other schemes instead of limiting themselves to the same family funds.

Why Choose Fund of Funds?

The following image gives clarity on how multi-management investment can help an individual instead of a simple mutual fund to achieve their objectives.

Though multi-management investment has a lot of benefits associated with it, one of the important factors that one needs to be aware of is the fee associated with it. Investors should be aware of any charges or expenses that a mutual fund will attract and make their investments accordingly. Therefore, in a nutshell, it can be concluded fund of funds is an ideal investment option for investors who seek to enjoy a hassle free investment in mutual funds.

How to Invest in FOF Mutual Funds Online?

1. Open Free Investment Account for Lifetime at Fincash.com.

2. Complete your Registration and KYC Process

3. Upload Documents (PAN, Aadhaar, etc.). And, You are Ready to Invest!

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FAQs

1. What is the most significant advantage of FOFs?

A: The most significant advantage of FOFs is that it diversifies your investment and ensures good returns. If you are planning to diversify your investment portfolio, it is good to invest in FOFs. It reduces your risk and ensures that you enjoy good returns on your investments.

2. What are the different types of FOFs?

A: There are five different types of FOFs, and these are as follows:

• Asset Allocation funds
• Gold funds
• International FOFs
• ETF FOFs
• Multi-manager FOFs

Each of the FOF has unique features. For example, in gold funds you will invest in gold ETF and in multi-managers FOFs you will invest in different types of mutual funds.

3. What are the parameters to consider while investing in FOFs?

A: FOFs are mutual funds, hence, when you invest you should consider your risk taking capacity and the amount of money you want to invest. The percentage of returns you expect in the given time will give you an idea of your capacity to take risks. Based on that, you should evaluate the money you want to invest. Your financial condition should also help you decide how much money you should invest in FOFs.

Once you have assessed these two factors, select a particular FOF and start investing.

4. Which FOF has shown the best returns?

A: Gold FOFs are considered one of the most secure investments. These are like gold ETFs, and when you invest in gold FOF, it is like investing in physical gold without the added issues like paying GST, Sales Tax, or wealth tax. This investment is secure as gold price never falls extensively compared to the market and hence, produces good returns. Thus, often gold FOF is considered one of the best and safest investments.

5. Is there any commonest FOFs?

A: The Exchange Traded Funds or the ETFs are the most popular FOFs as investing in these funds is the easiest. All you need to do is open a Demat account to trade in ETFs, and there are no limitations as to the amount of money you can invest in ETFs.

6. What is one of the most critical limitations of FOF?

A: It is taxable. As an investor, you will have to pay tax on the principal amount when you redeem your investment. If you invest in FOF for the short-term, you will have to pay Taxes on the principal and the returns. However, dividend earned is not taxable as the fund house bears the taxes.

7. Do FOFs have a long lock-in period?

A: Different FOFs have different investment periods. However, if you want to earn maximum returns, you must invest in FOFs for a reasonably long time.