NISM VA Short Notes

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS
EXAMINATION
Short Notes for Revision
1. Investment Investor
The first step in goal setting is to identify life-cycle events in

life.
After identifying the events, one needs to assign priorities–
which of these are more important than the others.
Retirement, or children’s education fall into the
responsibility’s category, whereas a grand vacation maybe a
good-to-have goal. Having said that, it is only the individual
and the family that can decide which is which.
After that, one needs to assign a timeline as well as amount

of funding required at the time of such events. Take for
example, if someone is planning to buy a house, one needs to
decide the type of house one wants, as well as the location.
These inputs would help arrive at approximate cost. After
that one needs to decide by when one would like to buy this.
Both the timeline and amount are critical for one to be able
to plan to achieve the goal. Such an exercise allows one to
classify the goals in terms of the timeline – are the goals in
the near term, or far in the future?
NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |1

1.1 Financial Goals, Time Horizon for their achievement and
Inflation
The next step would be to assign amount to the financial
goals. In the process of planning, this is an important
question: How much would it cost? Shalini, the eight-year-
old, wants to be a space scientist, for which she needs a good
quality education. How much would such education cost?
Well, this question must be answered in terms of amount
needed when Shalini reaches college. And that is roughly a
decade from now. In such a case, the costs are quite likely to
move up. Such a rise in the cost of the goals is called
inflation. It applies to many other areas of personal finance.
This is known as inflation with respect to the goal value.
Inflation has a long-term impact, and hence while planning

for funding all the long-term goals, one must consider
inflation in the cost of the goal. On the other hand, the
immediate term and near-term goals may not have a big
impact due to changes in price.
1.2 Factors to evaluate investments

The three most important factors to evaluate investments
are safety, liquidity, and returns.
In addition to these, there are few more parameters such as
convenience, ticket size (or the minimum investment
required), taxability of earnings, tax deduction, etc. These
factors have been discussed below:
Safety: This begins with the safety of capital invested.

However, one could stretch that to also include the degree of
surety of income from investment. In order to understand

the safety of an investment, it is important to understand the
risks involved.
Liquidity: How easily can one liquidate the investment and

convert it to cash? The degree of ease is different across
different categories, and even within the categories, the
same could be different across products. Sometimes, the
nature of the product could be such that selling it is difficult,
whereas sometimes there could be some operational
features, e.g., a lock-in for a certain period, after which one
may be able to liquidate the investment, or a penalty for
early exit. While such a penalty does not hamper liquidity, it
only lowers the investment returns. Another aspect that one
may also want to look at is the divisibility. Is it possible to
liquidate part of the investment or is it necessary to sell the
whole thing?
Returns: As seen earlier in the definition of investments, the

major purpose is to get some returns from investment. Such
returns may be in the form of regular (or periodic) income,
also known as current income, and capital appreciation, or
capital gains.
The current income is receivable periodically, without having

to sell the investment, whereas the capital gains can be
realized only when one sells the investment.
The exit charges, or penalty would bring down the returns, as

seen earlier. Hence, whenever there are any such charges for
early withdrawals, the same must be considered as a trade-
off between liquidity and returns.

Convenience: Any investment must be evaluated in terms of
convenience with respect to investing, taking the money out–
fully or partially, as well as the investor’s ability to
conveniently check the value of the investment, as well as to
receive the income.
Ticket size: What is the minimum amount required for

investment? There are some avenues where an investor can
start investing amounts as small as Rs. 50 or Rs. 100, whereas
some require more than Rs. 1 lakh, and sometimes more
than Rs. 1 crore. This becomes an important factor while
taking a decision about selection of investment options.
Taxability of income:
What one retains after taxes is what matters, and hence,
taxation of the earnings is another important factor that one
must consider.
1.3 Different Asset Classes

Various investment avenues can be grouped in various
categories, called asset classes. An asset class is a grouping of
investments that exhibit similar characteristics. There are
four broad asset categories or asset classes, and then there
are various subcategories, within each of these. The four
broad categories—Real estate, Commodities, Equity and
Fixed income.
1.3.1 Real Estate

Real estate is considered as the most important and
popular among all the asset classes. However, the popularity
of this asset category is largely because of a reason not
related to investment. For those who have bought their own

houses, it is the largest expense in life. The word used here is
“expense”, and not “investment”. This would be elaborated
later, but it is pertinent to mention here that in majority of
cases, individuals purchase real estate for self-occupation.
This should not be considered as investment, since selling the
same may have a negative impact on one’s lifestyle.
1.3.2 Commodities
This is another asset category that people at large are
familiar with in various ways. On a regular basis, people
consume many commodities, e.g., agricultural commodities
like spices; petroleum products such as petrol and diesel; or
metals like gold and silver. However, it is not possible to
invest in most of these, as many of these are either
perishable and hence cannot be stored for long, or storage of
the same could take a lot of space, creating different kind of
difficulties. Though, there are commodities derivatives
available on many commodities, it may not be wise to call
these “investments” for two reasons, (1) these are leveraged
contracts, i.e., one can take large exposure with a small of
money making it highly risky and (2) these are normally
short-term contracts, whereas the investors’ needs may be
for longer periods. On the other hand, there are at least two
commodities that many investors are quite familiar with as
investment avenues, viz., gold, and silver.
1.3.3 Fixed Income

When someone borrows money, one has to return the
principal borrowed to the lender in the future. There could
also be some interest payable on the amount borrowed.
There are various forms of borrowing, some of which are

through marketable instruments like bonds and debentures.
There are many issuers of such papers, e.g., Companies,
Union Government, State Governments, Municipal
Corporations, banks, financial institutions, public sector
enterprises, etc.
1.3.4 Equity
This is the owner’s capital in a business. Someone who
buys shares in a company becomes a part-owner in the
business. In that sense, this is risk capital, since the owner’s
earnings from the business are linked to the fortunes, and
hence the risks, of the business. When one buys the shares of
a company through secondary market, the share price could
be high or low in comparison to the fair price. Apart from
long term capital appreciation, equity share owners may also
receive dividends from the company. Such dividends are
shared out of the profit that the company has generated
from its business operations. If the company does really well,
the dividends tend to grow over the years. To sum up, equity
share prices generally fluctuate a lot, often without regard to
the business fundamentals. However, over long periods of
time, the share prices follow the fortunes of the firm. If the
profits of the company continue to grow over the years, the
share price follows.
1.3.5 ELSS for Tax Saving

Investors have multiple saving products such as NSC,
PPF, Bank deposits and others which enable them to save tax
under section 80 C of the Income Tax Act. Equity Linked
Savings Schemes (ELSS) is equity mutual funds that are also
permitted investments under section 80 C. The lock-in period

in the ELSS is the lowest at 3 years while compared to the 15
years in PPF, 5 /10 years in NSC and 5 years in bank fixed
deposits, among others. Investment up to Rs. 150,000 in a
financial year in such funds can be deducted from taxable
income of individual investors. An ELSS holds at least 80% of
the portfolio in equity securities.
1.3.6 There are similarities and differences between the

various asset categories.
Investments in equity and bonds can be done only in financial

form, whereas one can buy the other two assets, viz., real
estate and commodities either in financial or in physical
form. It is this physical form that gives a feeling of safety to
many. Anything that is tangible is perceived to be safer than
something intangible. Investor in equity, real estate and
commodities is an owner of the asset, whereas an investor in
bonds has lent money to someone. In such a case, the
lender’s receipts—be it interest payments or return of
principal amount invested – are agreed at the time of the
issue of such instruments. In all the other three cases, the
investor’s cashflows (or receipts) are unknown.
To that extent, the future returns from these assets, which

may also be called ownership assets, would be highly
uncertain in comparison to the lending assets like bonds or
fixed deposits.
1.4 Investment Risks

To obtain a better understanding of the investment
avenues, it is essential to understand the different types of
risks involved.
1.4.1 Inflation Risk

Inflation, or price inflation is the general rise in the
prices of various commodities, products, and services that we
consume. Inflation erodes the purchasing power of the
money. The following table explains what inflation can do to
the purchasing power of our money.
1.4.2 Liquidity Risk

Investments in fixed income asset are usually
considered less risky than equity. Even within that,
government securities are considered the safest. In order to
avail the full benefits of the investments, or to earn the
promised returns, there is a condition attached. The
investment must be held till maturity. In case if one needs
liquidity, there could be some charges, or such an option may
not be available at all.
1.4.3 Credit Risk

When someone lends money to a borrower, the
borrower commits to repay the principal as well as pay the
interest as per the agreed schedule. The same applies in case
of a debenture or a bond or a fixed deposit. In case of these
instruments, the issuer of the instruments is the borrower,
whereas the investor is the lender. The issuer agrees to pay
the interest and repay the principal as per an agreed
schedule. There are three possibilities in such arrangements:
(1) The issuer honours all commitments in time

(2) The issuer pays the dues, but with some delay
(3) The issuer does not pay principal and the interest
at all. While the first is the desirable situation, the latter
two are not. Credit risk is all about the possibility that
the second or the third situation may arise.
Any delay or a default in the repayment of principal or

payment of interest may arise due to a problem with one or
both of the two reasons:
(1) the ability of the borrower
(2) the intention of the borrower. While the ability of
the borrower, if the same happens to be a company, is a
function of the business stability and profitability of the
company.
1.4.4 Market Risk and Price Risk

When securities are traded in an open market, people
can buy or sell the same based on their opinions. It does not
matter whether these opinions are based on facts, or
otherwise. Since the opinions may change very fast, the
prices may fluctuate more in comparison to the change in
facts related to the security. Such fluctuations are also
referred to as volatility.
There are two types of risks to a security—market risk and
price risk.
1.4.5 Interest Rate Risk

Interest rate risk is the risk that an investment's value
will change as a result of a change in interest rates. This risk
affects the value of bonds/debt instruments more directly
than stocks. Any reduction in interest rates will increase the

value of the instrument and vice versa. While most investors
are familiar with the concept of debentures, they normally
buy and hold these bonds till maturity. On maturity of the
bond, they get the maturity amount, since it is part of the
bond agreement (assuming the company does not default on
the commitment).
1.5 Risk Measures and Management Strategies

Many of the risks cannot be eliminated, and the investor
must take some of those, in order to earn decent returns on
one’s investment portfolio. However, one needs to manage
the risks that one is taking. One may consider the following
strategies for management of the investment risks:
• Avoid
One may totally avoid certain investment products, if one
does not want to take the respective risk. However, this may
also mean giving up the opportunity to benefit out of the said
investment.
• Take a position to benefit from some event / development
An investor can also take an investment position in

anticipation of some development in the market. Let us take
an example here: a bond investor expects the interest rates
to go down. In such a case, one may sell the short maturity
bonds and invest in long maturity bonds. If the interest rates
move down, the investor’s judgment would be rewarded
handsomely. At the same time, if the judgment is wrong,
there could be losses, too. This is an example of managing
the interest rate risk.

Diversify
While the previous strategy is possible when one has
superior knowledge, not everyone would possess the same.
Those who do not know everything about everything, a
prudent approach would be to diversify across various
investment options. This spreads the risk of loss and thus the
probability of losing everything can be significantly reduced
through diversification.
1.6 Behavioural Biases in Investment Decision Making
Availability Heuristic
Most people rely on examples or experiences that come to
mind immediately while analyzing any data, information, or
options to choose from. In the investing world, this means
that enough research is not undertaken for evaluating
investment options. This leads to missing out on critical
information, especially pertaining to various investment risks.
Confirmation Bias
This is the tendency to look for additional information that
confirms to their already held beliefs or views. Investors
decide first and then look for data to support their views.
Familiarity bias: This bias lead investor to choose what they
are comfortable with. This may be asset classes they are
familiar with, stocks or sectors that they have greater
information about and so on.
Herd Mentality: This bias is an outcome of uncertainty and a

belief that others may have better information, which leads

investors to follow the investment choices that others make.
Such choices may seem right and even be justified by short-
term performance, but often lead to bubbles and crashes.
Loss Aversion: Investors prefer to do nothing despite

information and analysis favouring a particular action that in
the mind of the investor may lead to a loss. Holding on to
losing stocks, avoiding riskier asset classes like equity when
there is a lot of information and discussions going around on
market volatility are manifestations of this bias.
Overconfidence
This bias refers to a person’s overconfidence in one’s abilities
or judgment. This leads one to believe that one is far better
than others at something, whereas the reality may be quite
different. One tends to lower the guards and take on risks
without proper assessment.
Recency Bias: The impact of recent events on decision
making can be very strong. This applies equally to positive
and negative experiences. Investors tend to extrapolate the
event into the future and expect a repeat. The recent
experience overrides analysis in decision making.
1.7 Risk Profiling

The risk profilers try to ascertain the risk appetite of the
investor so that one does not sell mutual fund schemes that
carry higher risk than what the investor can handle. In order
to ascertain the risk appetite, the following must be
evaluated:

• The need to take risks
• The ability to take risks, and
• The willingness to take risks
Out of the above, the need to take risk arises when the
investor needs higher returns to reach one’s goals. The ability
to take risk refers to the financial ability, and the investment
horizon, whereas the willingness is linked to the
psychological capacity to handle risk. The distributor has to
evaluate these three, and strike a balance between these,
whenever there is a conflict.
1.8 Understanding Asset Allocation
‘Don’t put all your eggs in one basket’ is an old proverb. It

equally applies to investments. Different economic
conditions may impact the performance of different asset
classes differently. The distribution of an investor’s portfolio
between different asset classes is called asset allocation.
Some international research suggest that asset allocation and
investment policy can better explain portfolio performance,
as compared to selection of securities within an asset class
(stock selection) and investment timing.
Types of Asset Allocation
Strategic Asset Allocation: It is the ideal that comes out of

the risk profile of the individual, the return requirement to
meet the goals and the investment horizon. Risk profiling is
key to deciding on the strategic asset allocation. The
allocation to the various asset classes is not driven by their
expected performance.

Tactical Asset Allocation: is the decision that comes out of
calls on the likely behaviour of the market. An investor who
decides to go overweight on equities i.e., take higher
exposure to equities, because of expectations of buoyancy in
industry and share markets, is taking a tactical asset
allocation call.
Rebalancing
An investor may select any of the asset allocation approach,
however there may be a need to make modifications in the
asset allocations. The rebalancing approach can work very
well over the years, when the various asset categories go
through many market cycles of ups and downs.
On the other hand, one may also need to do a rebalancing of
the asset allocation, when the investor’s situation changes
and thus the needs or the risk appetite might have changed.
Rebalancing in required in case of strategic asset allocation as
well as tactical asset allocation.
2. CONCEPT AND ROLE OF A MUTUAL FUND
2.1 Concept of a Mutual Fund
Mutual fund is a vehicle to mobilize money from investors, to

invest in different markets and securities, in line with the
common investment objectives agreed upon, between the
mutual fund and the investors. Through mutual funds, an
investor can get access to equities, bonds, money market

instruments and/or other securities and they also avail of the
professional fund management services offered by an asset
management company.
2.1.1 Role of Mutual Funds

▪ Assist investors in earning income or building wealth
▪ Mobilization of savings
▪ Facilitating the infusion of capital in the economy
▪ Market stabilizer
2.1.2 Investment Objectives of Mutual Funds

Various investors have different investment preferences and
needs. In order to accommodate these preferences, mutual
funds mobilize different pools of money. Each such pool of
money is called a mutual fund scheme. Every scheme has a
pre-announced investment objective. Investors invest in a
mutual fund scheme whose investment objective reflects
their own needs and preference.
Net Asset Value

The true worth of a unit of the mutual fund scheme is
otherwise called Net Asset Value (NAV) of the scheme. When
the investment activity is profitable, the true worth of a unit
increases. When there are losses, the true worth of a unit
decreases. The NAV is also the net realizable value per unit in
case the scheme is to be liquidated–how much money could
be generated if all the holdings of the scheme are sold and
converted into cash.
2.1.5 Advantages of Mutual Funds for Investors
1. Professional Management

Mutual funds offer investors the opportunity to earn an
income or build their wealth through professional
management of their investible funds. Investing in the
securities markets will require the investor to get into a lot of
formalities. Mutual fund investment simplifies the process of
investing and holding securities.
2. Affordable Portfolio Diversification

Investing in the units of a scheme provide investors the
exposure to a range of securities held in the investment
portfolio of the scheme in proportion to their holding in the
scheme. Thus, even a small investment of Rs.500 in a mutual
fund scheme can give benefits of a diversified investment
portfolio.
3. Economies of scale
Pooling of large sum of money from many investors makes it
possible for the mutual fund to engage professional
managers for managing investments. Large investment
corpus leads to various other economies of scale. Costs
related to investment research, office space, brokerages and
other bank services. Thus, investing through a mutual fund
offers a distinct economic advantage to an investor as
compared to direct investing in terms of cost saving.
4. Liquidity
Investors in a mutual fund scheme can recover the market
value of their investments, from the mutual fund itself at any
point of time (Except fund with a lock-in period). Schemes,
where the money can be recovered from the mutual fund
only on closure of the scheme, are compulsorily listed on a

stock exchange. In such schemes, the investor can sell the
units through the stock exchange platform to recover the
prevailing value of the investment.
5. Tax Deferral
Mutual funds are not liable to pay tax on the income they
earn. If the same income were to be earned by the investor
directly, then tax may have to be paid in the same financial
year. Mutual funds offer options, whereby the investor can
let the money grow in the scheme for several years. By
selecting such options, it is possible for the investor to defer
the tax liability. This helps investors to legally build their
wealth faster than would have been the case, if they were to
pay tax on the income each year.
6. Tax benefits
Specific schemes of mutual funds (Equity Linked Savings
Schemes) give investors the benefit of deduction of the
amount subscribed (Up to Rs. 150,000 in a financial year),
from their income that is liable to tax. This reduces their
taxable income, and therefore the tax liability.
7. Convenient Options
The options offered under a scheme allow investors to
structure their investments in line with their liquidity
preference and tax position. There are also great transaction
conveniences like the ability to withdraw only part of the
money from the investment account, ability to invest
additional amount to the account, setting up systematic
transactions, etc.

8. Investment Comfort
Once an investment is made with a mutual fund, they make it
convenient for the investor to make further purchases with
very little documentation.
9. Regulatory Comfort
The regulator, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
has mandated strict checks and balances in the structure of
mutual funds and their activities. Mutual fund investors
benefit from such protection.
10. Systematic Approach to Investments

Mutual funds also offer facilities that help investor invest
amounts regularly through a Systematic Investment Plan
(SIP); or withdraw amounts regularly through a Systematic
Withdrawal Plan (SWP); or move money between different
kinds of schemes through a Systematic Transfer Plan (STP).
Such systematic approaches promote investment discipline,
which is beneficial to investors
2.1.6 Limitations of a Mutual Fund
1. Lack of portfolio customization

A unitholder in a mutual fund is just one of several thousand
investors in a scheme. Once a unit holder has bought into the
scheme, investment management is left to the fund
manager. Thus, the unitholder cannot influence what
securities or investments the scheme would invest into.
2. Choice overload

There are multiple mutual fund schemes offered by 42
mutual funds – and multiple options within those schemes
which make it difficult for investors to choose between them.
3. No control over costs

All the investor's money is pooled together in a scheme.
Costs incurred for managing the scheme are shared by all the
Unitholders in proportion to their holding of Units in the
scheme. Therefore, an individual investor has no control over
the costs in a scheme.
4. No Guaranteed Returns
A mutual fund is not a guaranteed return product. The
performance of the investments impacts the returns
generated by the mutual fund scheme. The deciding factors
are: the movement of the specific market in which the
money is invested, the performance of individual securities
held and the skills of the investment management team.
2.2 Classification of Mutual Funds
2.2.1 By the structure of the fund
Open Ended Funds: - These funds are open for investors to

enter or exit at any time, even after the NFO. Although some
unitholders may exit from the scheme, wholly or partly, the
scheme continues operations with the remaining investors.
The scheme does not have any kind of time frame in which it
is to be closed.

Close ended funds: - These funds have a fixed maturity.
Investors can buy units of a close-ended scheme, from the
fund, only during its NFO. The fund makes arrangements for
the units to be traded, post-NFO in a stock exchange.
Interval Funds: - The funds combine features of both open-

ended and close-ended schemes. They are largely close
ended but become open-ended at pre-specified intervals.
The periods when an interval scheme becomes open-ended,
are called ‘transaction periods.
2.2.2 On basis of management style
Actively managed funds: - These funds where the fund

manager has the flexibility to choose the investment
portfolio, within the broad parameters of the investment
objective of the scheme. Since this increases the role of the
fund manager, the expenses for running the fund turn out to
be higher. Investors expect actively managed funds to
perform better than the market.
Passive funds: - These funds invest on the basis of a specified

index, whose performance it seeks to track. Thus,
performance of a passive fund tends to mirror the concerned
index. They are not designed to perform better than the
market
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs): - They are also passive funds

whose portfolio replicates an index or benchmark such as an
equity market index or a commodity index. The units are
issued to the investors in a new fund offer (NFO). The units of

the ETF are traded at real time prices that are linked to the
changes in the underlying index.
2.2.3 Equity Schemes
Multi Cap Fund: An open-ended equity scheme investing

across large cap, mid cap, small cap stocks.
Minimum 75% of total assets should be in equity in the
following manner. Minimum 25% in Large cap, minimum 25%
in Mid cap & Minimum 25% in Small cap.
Large Cap Fund: An open-ended equity scheme

predominantly investing in large cap stocks. The minimum
investment in equity and of large cap companies shall be 80
percent of total assets.
Large and Mid-Cap Fund: An open-ended equity scheme

investing in both large cap and mid cap stocks. Minimum 35%
of total assets should be invested in large cap stocks and
minimum 35% of total assets should be invested in mid cap
stocks.
Mid Cap Fund: An open-ended equity scheme predominantly

investing in mid cap stocks. The minimum investment in
equity of mid cap companies shall be 65 percent of total
assets.
Small cap Fund: An open-ended equity scheme

predominantly investing in small cap stocks. Minimum
investment in equity of small cap companies shall be 65

Dividend Yield Fund: An open-ended equity scheme
predominantly investing in dividend yielding stocks. Scheme
should predominantly invest in dividend yielding stocks.
Minimum 65% of total assets should be in equity.
Value Fund or Contra Fund: A value fund is an open-ended

equity scheme following a value investment strategy.
Minimum 65% of total assets should be in equity.
Focused Fund: An open-ended equity scheme investing in

maximum 30 stocks (the scheme needs to mention where it
intends to focus, viz., multi cap, large cap, mid cap, small
cap). Minimum 65% of total assets should be in equity.
Sectoral/ Thematic: An open-ended equity scheme investing

in a specific sector such as Bank sector, Power sector etc. is a
sectoral fund. While an open-ended equity scheme investing
in line with an investment theme is a thematic fund. For
example, an infrastructure thematic fund might invest in
shares of companies that are into infrastructure,
construction, cement, steel, telecom, power etc. The
minimum investment in equity and equity related
instruments of a particular sector/ theme shall be 80 percent
of total assets.
Equity Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS): An open-ended equity

linked saving scheme with a statutory lock in of 3 years and
tax benefit. The minimum investment in equity and equity
related instruments shall be 80 percent of total assets.

2.2.4 Debt Schemes
Overnight Fund: An open-ended debt scheme investing in

overnight securities. The investment is in overnight securities
having maturity of 1 day.
Liquid Fund: An open-ended liquid scheme whose

investment is into debt and money market securities with
maturity of up to 91 days only.
Ultra-Short Duration Fund: An open ended ultra-short-term

debt scheme investing in debt and money market
instruments with Macaulay duration between 3 months and
6 months.
Low Duration Fund: An open-ended low duration debt

scheme investing in debt and money market instruments
with Macaulay duration between 6 months and 12 months.
Money Market Fund: An open-ended debt scheme investing

in money market instruments having maturity up to 1 year.
Short Duration Fund: An open-ended short-term debt

with Macaulay duration between 1 year and 3 years.
Medium Duration Fund: An open-ended medium-term debt

with Macaulay duration of the portfolio being between 3
years and 4 years.

Medium to Long Duration Fund: An open-ended medium-
term debt scheme investing in debt and money market
instruments with Macaulay duration between 4 years and 7
years.
Long Duration Fund: An open-ended debt scheme investing

in debt and money market instruments with Macaulay
duration greater than 7 years.
Dynamic Bond: An open-ended dynamic debt scheme

investing across duration.
Corporate Bond Fund: An open-ended debt scheme

predominantly investing in AA+ and above rated corporate
bonds. The minimum investment in corporate bonds shall be
80 percent of total assets (only in AA+ and above rated
corporate bonds)
Credit Risk Fund: An open-ended debt scheme investing in

below highest rated corporate bonds. The minimum
investment in corporate bonds shall be 65 percent of total
assets (only in AA (excludes AA+ rated corporate bonds) and
below rated corporate bonds).
Banking and PSU Fund: An open-ended debt scheme

predominantly investing minimum 80 percent of total assets
in debt instruments of banks, Public Sector Undertakings,
Public Financial Institutions and Municipal Bonds.
Gilt Fund: An open-ended debt scheme investing in

government securities across maturity. The minimum

investment in G-secs is defined to be 80 percent of total
assets (across maturity).
Floater Fund: An open-ended debt scheme predominantly

investing in floating rate instruments (including fixed rate
instruments converted to floating rate exposures using
swaps/derivatives). Minimum investment in floating rate
instruments (including fixed rate instrument). Minimum
investment in floating rate instruments shall be 65
2.2.5 Hybrid Schemes
Conservative Hybrid Fund: An open-ended hybrid scheme

investing predominantly in debt instruments. Investment in
debt instruments shall be between 75 percent and 90
percent of total assets while investment in equity shall be
between 10 percent and 25 percent of total assets.
Balanced Hybrid Fund: An open-ended balanced scheme

investing in equity and debt instruments. The investment in
equity shall be between 40 percent and 60 percent of total
assets while investment in debt instruments shall be
between 40 percent and 60 percent. No arbitrage is
permitted in this scheme.
Aggressive Hybrid Fund: Investment in equity and equity

related instruments shall be between 65 percent and 80
percent of total assets while investment in debt instruments
shall be between 20 percent and 35 percent of total assets.

Dynamic Asset Allocation or Balanced Advantage: It is an
open-ended dynamic asset allocation fund with investment
in equity/debt that is managed dynamically.
Multi Asset Allocation: An open-ended scheme investing in

at least three asset classes with a minimum allocation of at
least 10 percent each in all three asset classes. Foreign
securities are not treated as a separate asset class in this kind
of scheme.
Arbitrage Fund: An open-ended scheme investing in

arbitrage opportunities. The minimum investment in equity
and equity related instruments shall be 65 percent of total
assets.
Equity Savings: An open-ended scheme investing in equity,

arbitrage and debt. The minimum investment in equity and
equity related instruments shall be 65 percent of total assets
and minimum investment in debt shall be 10 percent of total
assets.
2.2.6. Other Schemes
Index Funds/ Exchange Traded Fund: An open-ended

scheme replicating/ tracking a specific index. This minimum
investment in securities of a particular index (which is being
replicated/ tracked) shall be 95 percent of total assets.
Fund of Funds (Overseas/ Domestic): An open-ended fund of
fund scheme investing in an underlying fund. The minimum
investment in the underlying fund shall be 95 percent of total
assets.

Fund of Funds (Overseas/Domestic): An open-ended fund of
fund scheme investing in an underlying fund. The minimum
investment in the underlying fund shall be 95 percent of total
assets.
There can be only one scheme per category, except in the

following cases:
• Index funds and ETFs replicating or tracking different
indices,
• Fund of Funds having different underlying schemes, and
• Sector funds or thematic funds investing in different sectors
or themes
Real Estate Mutual Fund Schemes / Real Estate Investment

Trusts
(1) Real Estate Mutual Fund
(2) Real Estate Investment Trusts (REIT)
(3) Infrastructure Investment
3. LEGAL STRUCTURE OF MUTUAL FUNDS IN INDIA
3.1. Key constituents of a Mutual Fund
3.1.1. Sponsor
The application to SEBI for registration of a mutual fund is
made by the sponsor/s. Thereafter, the sponsor invests in the
capital of the AMC. Since sponsors are the main people
behind the mutual fund operation, they have a set of
eligibility criteria as well. The sponsor is the promoter of the
mutual fund, who sets up the Trust and the AMC, appoints

the board of trustees and the board of directors of the AMC.
The sponsor seeks regulatory approval for the mutual fund.
3.1.2. Trustee
The trustees have a critical role in ensuring that the mutual
fund complies with all the regulations and protects the
interests of the unit holders. The mutual fund itself is set up
as a trust. Investors in the mutual fund are the beneficiaries
of the trust. Trustees are appointed by the sponsor, with Sebi
approval, to act on behalf of the investors.
The trust deed is executed by the sponsor in favour of the
trustees and it deals with the establishment of the trust, the
authority and responsibility of the trustees towards the unit
holders and the AMC. SEBI has also laid down the clauses
that have to form part of the Trust deed.
3.1.3. Asset Management Company

Day to day operations of mutual fund is handled by the AMC.
The sponsor or, the trustees if so, authorized by the trust
deed, shall appoint the AMC with the approval of SEBI. The
AMC needs to have a minimum net worth of Rs. 50 crores.
3.1.4. Custodian
The custodian has custody of the assets of the fund. As part
of this role, the custodian needs to accept and give delivery
of securities for the purchase and sale transactions of the
various schemes of the fund. Thus, the custodian settles all
the transactions on behalf of the mutual fund schemes. The
custodian also tracks corporate actions such as dividends,
bonus and rights in companies where the fund has invested.

3.1.5. Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTA)
The Registrars and Transfer Agents (RTA) maintain investor
records. Their offices in various centers serve as Investor
Service Centers (ISCs), which perform a useful role in
handling the documentation of investors. The appointment
of RTA is done by the AMC.
3.1.6. Auditors
Auditors are responsible for the audit of accounts. Accounts
of the mutual fund schemes need to be maintained
independent of the accounts of the AMC. The auditor
appointed to audit the mutual fund scheme needs to be
different from that of the AMC.
3.1.7. Fund Accountants

The fund accountant performs the role of calculating the
NAV, by collecting information about the assets and liabilities
of each scheme.
3.1.8. Distributors
Distributors have a key role in selling suitable types of units
to their clients i.e., the investors in the schemes of mutual
funds with whom they are empanelled. Distributors can be
individuals or institutions such as distribution companies,
broking companies and banks. Distributors may work for
more than one mutual fund. Upfront commissions are
banned. Distributer is paid trail commission till the investor is
there in the fund.
3.1.9. Collecting Bankers

The investors’ money goes into the bank account of the
scheme they have invested in. These bank accounts are
maintained with collection bankers who are appointed by the
AMC.
3.1.10. KYC
To do away with multiple KYC formalities with various
intermediaries, SEBI has mandated a unified KYC for the
securities market through KYC Registration Agencies (KRA)
registered with SEBI. Any new investor, Joint holders, Power
of Attorney holders, Donors and Guardian (in case of minors)
have to comply with the KYC formalities.
3.1.11. Payment Aggregators

Payment Aggregators such as Tech Process, Bill Desk etc. are
service providers that facilitate payment processing in the
online marketplace. Payment aggregators enable the users to
make the payments online through their existing bank
account in a secured and a convenient manner.
3.1.12. Stock exchange

Investors can also transact in mutual fund units through
Stock exchanges. ETFs and close ended funds have to be
compulsorily listed in one of the exchanges. Open ended
schemes can also be traded through stock exchange
platforms.
At the BSE Limited, this segment is known as BSE-Star MF;
while at the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE), it is
called NMF-II.
MF Utilities India is another transaction platform for units of
mutual funds.

3.2 Role and Function of AMFI
Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) is the association
of all the registered Asset Management Companies.
A major role of AMFI involves the registration of mutual fund
distributors, by allotting them AMFI Registration Number
(ARN), which is mandatory for becoming a mutual fund
distributor. Periodically, AMFI also issues various circulars
recommending best practices for the asset management
companies, as well as the distributors. An important point
to note here is that AMFI is neither a regulatory body nor a
Self-Regulatory Organisation (SRO).
4. LEGAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK
4.1. Role of regulators in India
Currently, there are four regulators, viz.,
• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) that regulates the banking

system, as well as money markets;
• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) that
regulates the securities markets;
• Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of
India (IRDAI) that regulates the insurance market; and
• Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority of
India (PFRDA) that regulates the pension market.
These regulators come under the purview of the Ministry of

Finance.

4.2. Role of Securities and Exchange Board of India
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is the

regulatory authority for securities markets in India. It
regulates, among other entities, mutual funds, depositories,
custodians and registrars and transfer agents in the country.
Stock Exchanges are regulated by SEBI. Every stock exchange
has its own listing, trading and margining rules. Mutual Funds
need to comply with the rules of the exchanges with which
they choose to have a business relationship.
4.2.1 Investment restrictions and portfolio diversification norms for

mutual fund schemes
SEBI Regulations provide for various limits to the kind of

investments that are possible in mutual fund schemes, and
the limits thereof. In a few cases, there are also aggregate
limits for all schemes of a mutual fund together. The
regulator’s objective behind setting these limits is to ensure
mitigation of risks in the scheme and protecting the
investor’s interests.
General Restrictions
• Mutual Fund will buy and sell securities on delivery
basis.
• Mutual funds shall not advance any loans.
• Investment in the listed securities of the group
companies of the sponsor is limited to 25% of the net
assets.
• Scheme investment in other schemes of the same
Mutual Fund or other Mutual Funds is limited to not
more than 5 percent of the net asset value of the
scheme. No fees will be charged on such investments.

This does not apply to Fund of Funds.
Restrictions pertaining to investments in Debt Securities
• A mutual fund scheme cannot invest more than 10% of

its NAV in debt instruments issued by a single issuer.
This can be extended to 12% with the approval of the
trustees.
• Investment in unrated debt securities of a single
issuer is limited to 10% of its net assets and the
total investments in such securities cannot exceed
25%. These limits do not apply to investments in
Government securities, treasury bills and CBLO.
• Investments in Short-term deposits with all
scheduled commercial banks is limited to 15% of
the net assets of the scheme. This can be raised to
20% with the approval of the trustees.
• Scheme cannot invest in the short-term deposits
of a bank that has invested in the scheme.
Restrictions pertaining to investment in Equity:
• At least 80% of the ELSS’ funds should be invested in

equity and equity-linked securities.
• A mutual fund scheme cannot invest more than 10% of
its net assets in the equity shares and equity related
instruments of a company.
4.2.2 Guidelines for Published Fund Performance

Return and performance data for mutual fund schemes
should always be published along with the comparable

statistics for the benchmark of the scheme, for periods as
stipulated by Sebi and use computational methodologies as
prescribed.
Schemes in existence for more than 3 years.
Performance advertisement of mutual fund schemes shall be

provided in terms of CAGR for the past 1 year, 3 years, 5
years and since inception.
Point-to-point returns on a standard investment of Rs.
10,000/- shall also be shown in addition to CAGR for a
scheme in order to provide ease of understanding to retail
investors.
It should be clearly mentioned whether the disclosed

performance is of regular or direct plan of the Mutual Fund.
A footnote should clearly mention that different plans have
different expense structures.
If the same fund manager has not managed the scheme for
the full period for which the information is being published in
the advertisement, the same should be disclosed in the
footnote.
Schemes in existence for more than 1 year but less than 3

years.
Performance of the scheme along with its benchmark index

performance for as many twelve-month periods as possible
shall be disclosed, counted from the last calendar quarter.
When a scheme has been in existence for more than 1 year

but less than 3 years or 5 years, the same shall be mentioned
as a footnote in the performance advertisement of the
Mutual Fund scheme.
Schemes in existence for less than 1 year

In case of such schemes, past performance shall not be
provided in advertisements.
Money market schemes or cash and liquid schemes.

The performance can be advertised by simple annualization
of yields if a performance figure is available for at least 7
days, 15 days and 30 days. Further, it should not give an
unrealistic or misleading picture about the performance or
future performance of the scheme.
In addition to the returns disclosed above, the

performance advertisement shall also include return in
rupees and CAGR for the following in addition to the
respective scheme benchmark.
Scheme Type Benchmark
Equity Fund Sensex or Nifty
Long term Debt Fund 10 year dated GoI security
Short-term Debt Fund 1-year T-Bill
4.2.3 Investors’ Rights & Obligations

Right to beneficial ownership
Unit-holders have proportionate right to the beneficial
ownership of the assets of the scheme. Investor can ask for a
Unit Certificate for his Unit-holding.

Right to change the distributor
Investors can choose to change their distributor or opt for
direct investing. This needs to be done through a written
request by the investor. In such cases, AMCs will need to
comply, without insisting on any kind of ‘No Objection
Certificate’ from the existing distributor.
Right to Inspect documents
Unit-holders have the right to inspect key documents such as
the Trust Deed, Investment Management Agreement,
Custodial Services Agreement, RTA agreement and
Memorandum & Articles of Association of the AMC.
Right to appoint nominees
The investors can appoint upto 3 nominees, who will be
entitled to the ‘Units’ in the event of the demise of the
investors. The investor can also specify the percentage
distribution between the nominees. If no distribution is
indicated, then an equal distribution between the nominees
will be presumed.
Right to pledge mutual fund units
Investors can pledge their mutual fund units. This is normally
done to offer security to a financier.
Right to grievance redressal
SEBI has mandated that the status of complaints redressed
should be published by each AMC in their annual report. The
same should be available on the website of the mutual fund
and on AMFI’s website.

Rights of investors in context of change in Fundamental
Attributes
If there is a change in the fundamental attributes of a mutual
fund scheme, then the unit holders are provided the option
to exit at the prevailing NAV without any exit load. This exit
window has to be open for at least 30 days. The
Trustees/AMC have to send a written communication about
the change in fundamental attributes of a scheme to all the
unit holders and have to advertise about the change in
fundamental attribute in an English daily newspaper having
nationwide circulation and, in a newspaper, published in the
language of the region where the head office of the mutual
fund is located.
Rights to terminate appointment of an AMC
75 percent of unit holders can terminate the appointment of
an AMC. The Trustees are bound to obtain consent of the
unit-holders:
• Whenever required to do so by SEBI, in the interest of
the unit-holders.
• Whenever required to do so by 75 percent of the unit-
holders (in practice, Unit-holding) of the scheme.
• When the trustees decide to wind-up or prematurely
redeem the scheme.
If an investor feels that the trustees have not fulfilled their
obligations, then he can file a suit against the trustees for
breach of trust.
Right to Unclaimed Amount
AMC is expected to make a continuous effort to remind the

investors through letters to claim their dues. Annual Report
has to mention the unclaimed amount and the number of
such investors for each scheme. Recovery of unclaimed
amounts by the investors is as follows:
• If the investor claims the money within 3 years, then
payment is based on prevailing NAV i.e., after adding
the income earned on the unclaimed money.
• If the investor claims the money after 3 years, then
payment is based on the NAV at the end of 3 years.
Proceeds of Illiquid Securities
It is possible that a security was treated as wholly or partly

non-recoverable at the time of maturity or winding up of a
scheme. The security may subsequently yield a higher
amount to the scheme. Treatment of such excess is as
follows:
• If the amounts are substantial, and recovered within 2
years, then the amount is to be paid to the old investors
• In other cases, the amount is to be transferred to the
Investor Education Fund maintained by each mutual
fund
4.3 Due Diligence process by AMC

SEBI has mandated AMCs to put in place a due diligence
process to regulate distributors who qualify any of the
specified criteria. At the time of empanelling distributors and
during the period i.e., review process, mutual funds/AMCs
have to undertake a due diligence process to satisfy ‘fit and
proper’ criteria that incorporate.

4.4 Investor Grievance Redress Mechanism
In the event of any issue with the AMC or mutual fund
scheme, the investor can first approach the investor service
centre. If the issue is not redressed, even after taking it up at
senior levels in the AMC, then the investor can write to SEBI
with the complaint details.
SEBI Complaint Redress System
SEBI Complaint Redress System (SCORES) is a web based
centralized grievance redress system of SEBI. SCORES enables
investors to lodge, follow up on their complaints and track
the status of redressal of such complaints online on the
website (http://scores.gov.in).
4.5 AMFI Code of conduct for Intermediaries
4.5.1 AMFI Code of Ethics (ACE)

One of the objectives of the Association of Mutual Funds in
India (AMFI) is to promote the investors’ interest by defining
and maintaining high ethical and professional standards in
the mutual fund industry. The AMFI Code of Ethics (ACE) sets
out the standards of good practices to be followed by the
Asset Management Companies in their operations and in
their dealings with investors, intermediaries and the public.
4.5.2 AMFI’s Code of Conduct for Intermediaries of Mutual Funds
AMFI has also framed a set of guidelines and code of conduct

for intermediaries (known as AMFI Guidelines & Norms for
Intermediaries (AGNI)), consisting of individual agents,
brokers, distribution houses and banks engaged in selling of
mutual fund products. If a distributor breaches the code of

conduct, AMFI is authorized by SEBI to seek explanation
within a period of 3 weeks). Thereafter AMFI issues warnings,
or cancel the registration of the intermediary for repeat
violation of the code. These are performed within the
stipulations in the code of conduct and an intermediary can
appeal to AMFI to seek redressal.
5. SCHEME RELATED INFORMATION
5.1 Mandatory Documents

The legal documents that provide the information that the investor
requires is available in the scheme related documents (Scheme
Information Document, Statement of Additional Information) and
the Key Information Memorandum.
Investors need to note that their investments are governed by the
principle of caveat emptor i.e. let the buyer beware. An investor is
presumed to have read and understood the scheme related
documents before investing in a mutual fund scheme. Since this is a
contractual arrangement, the person signing the application form
has legally accepted the terms of the offer. Therefore, an investor
cannot claim at a future date of being unaware of a fact that was
disclosed in the scheme related documents.
There are primarily two important documents for understanding
about the mutual fund scheme:
• a) Scheme Information Document (SID), which has details of the
particular scheme
• b) Statement of Additional Information (SAI), which has statutory
information about the mutual fund or AMC, that is offering the
scheme.

Single SAI is relevant for all the schemes offered by a mutual fund. In
practice, SID and SAI are two separate documents, though the legal
technicality is that SAI is part of the SID. Both documents are
prepared in the format prescribed by SEBI and submitted to SEBI.
While SEBI does not approve or disapprove the Scheme Related
Documents, it gives its observations.
5.1.1 Scheme Information Document
Scheme Information Document (SID) has details of the

particular scheme. The SID is structured in the following manner:
• Table of Contents
• Highlights
• Introduction
• Risk Factors
o Standard
o Scheme-specific
• Provisions regarding minimum number of investors in the
scheme
• Due Diligence Certificate (issued by the AMC)
• Information about the scheme
o Scheme type (open or closed-end)
o Investment objective
o Asset allocation
o Investment strategies
o Terms with regard to liquidity
o Fees and expenses
o Benchmark for the scheme
o Investment restrictions
o Mandatory disclosures and disclaimers pertaining
to the Scheme.

5.1.2 Statement of Additional Information (SAI) has
statutory information about the mutual fund or AMC, which
is offering the scheme. The SAI contains information
common to all schemes of a mutual fund. A mutual fund is
required to file it only once with SEBI and not with each
scheme it launches. The information in the SAI includes the
following:
1. Details of Sponsor, Trustees and AMC
2. Financial Information
3. Rights of Unit Holders
4. Investment Valuation Norms
5. Tax, Legal & General Information
6. Investor Grievance
5.1.3 Key Information Memorandum (KIM)
KIM is essentially a summary of the SID and SAI. It contains
the key points of the offer document that are essential for
the investor to know to make a decision on the suitability of
the investment for their needs. It is more easily and widely
distributed in the market. As per SEBI regulations, every
application form is to be accompanied by the KIM.
5.1.4 Addendum
While the SID, SAI and KIM need to be updated periodically, the
interim changes are updated through the issuance of such
addendum. The addendum is considered to be a part of the scheme
related documents, and must accompany the KIM.
5.1.5 Updation of Scheme Documents—Regulatory provisions
Updation of SID and SAI

Any material changes to the SAI and SID have to be updated
immediately. It will have also to be notified in any two
newspapers (one English national daily and one regional
language daily in the location where the mutual fund’s
registered office is located). An updated version is
maintained on the website of the fund.
If there are no material changes, the SID and SAI have to be

revised and updated every financial year, within three
months of the end of the financial year.
Schemes launched in the second half of a financial year may
update the offer document after the next financial year, after
a period of 12 months has elapsed.
Updation of KIM
KIM is to be updated at least once a year. As in the case of SID, KIM is
to be revised in the case of change in fundamental attributes.
5.1.6 Other Mandatory information/disclosure
Disclosure of Daily NAV
Each scheme’s NAV is required to be disclosed at the end of each
business day on AMC and AMFI’s website. In case of open ended
schemes, the NAV is calculated for all business days and released to
the Press. In case of closed ended schemes, the NAV is calculated at
least once a week.
Disclosure of Total Expense Ratio
SEBI has mandated that AMCs should prominently disclose on a daily
basis, the Total expense ratio (scheme-wise, date-wise) of all
schemes under a separate head – “Total Expense Ratio of Mutual
Fund Schemes” on their website and AMFI website. AMCs are also
required to send the update to the investors through email

whenever there is a change in the expense ratio.
Portfolio disclosure
AMCs shall send half yearly portfolio via email within 10 days from
the end of each half year to Unit holders, whose email address is
registered with the fund. The advertisement for the same is required
to be published by the fund in all India edition of at least two daily
newspapers, one each in English and Hindi.
Financial results
Mutual fund shall before the expiry of one month from the close of
each half year, (Mar 31st and Sep 30th) shall display the unaudited
financial results on AMC website, the advertisement in this reference
will be published by the fund in at least one English daily newspaper
having nationwide circulation and in a newspaper having wide
circulation published in the language of the region where the head
office of fund is situated.
Annual reports and related disclosures
Scheme-wise Annual Report or an abridged summary has to

be emailed to all unitholders within four months of the close
of the financial year. The scheme wise annual report or
abridged summary thereof may be sent to investors in
electronic form.
5.2 Non-Mandatory Disclosures

Fund Factsheet
Fund Factsheet is extensively used by investors, fund distributors,
fund rating agencies, research analysts, media and others to access
information about the various schemes of the mutual fund. While it
is not a regulatory requirement to publish the monthly fact sheet, it
is a market practice followed by all the fund houses, on a voluntary

basis. Since fund factsheet is a marketing and information document,
various SEBI regulations pertaining to information disclosure are
applicable to it.
6. FUND DISTRIBUTION AND CHANNEL MANAGEMENT

PRACTICES
6.1 The role and importance of mutual fund distributors
Mutual fund distributor’s job is to assess the needs, limitations,
resources and financial goals of the investor. This analysis would help
the mutual fund distributor arrive at a suitable asset allocation plan
for the investor. The distributor then goes on to identify mutual fund
schemes, which are appropriate for the investor in the given
situation.
6.2 Different kinds of mutual fund distributors

1. Individual: Individual distributors, also referred to as
Individual Financial Advisors (IFA) continue to be a large force
for distribution numerically, though the volume of sales
generated are significantly lower than other distribution
channels such as Institutional Distributors.
2. Non-individual entities: Non-individual entities include

partnerships, regional distributors, national distributors, NBFCs,
banks, stock brokers, etc. Out of these, the distribution companies
and banks are sometimes referred as institutional distributors.
Banks have emerged as a prominent channel for distribution of
mutual fund products to their account holders. Mutual funds have
built relationships with PSU banks that have a wide reach in the non-
urban centers to distribute mutual fund products through them.
Also, private and foreign banks actively participate in the distribution
process of mutual fund products.
6.3 Modes of distribution

6.3.1 Online Channel Partners
Distributors expand their business beyond geographical boundaries
using internet. Investors, also prefer to transact through the internet,
rather than the cumbersome paper work and dependence on
distributor. A few distributors offer transaction support through their
own websites.
6.3.2 Stock Exchange Platforms
SEBI has facilitated buying and selling of mutual fund units

through the stock exchanges. Both NSE and BSE have extended
their trading platforms to help the stock exchange brokers become a
channel for investors to transact in Mutual Fund units. NSE’s
platform is called NMF II Platform. BSE’s platform is BSE StAR Mutual
Funds Platform.
6.3.3 MF Utilities
MF Utilities (MFU) is a transaction aggregating platform that
connects investors, RTAs, distributors, banks, AMCs and others. MFU
facilitates the distributors with online access to submit investor
transactions. This platform provides them with a single point for
time- stamping of transactions, document submission, paperless
transaction facility, and login facility for their clients. It offers a
Common Transaction Form to transact in multiple schemes across
participating mutual funds using a single form.
6.4 Pre-requisites to become Distributor of a Mutual Fund

1. Obtaining NISM certifications
2. KYD Requirements
3. Obtaining AMFI Registration Number
4. Empanelment with AMC’s

6.5 Revenue for a mutual fund distributor
The mutual fund distributor earns revenue in the form of
commission income for distribution of the mutual fund products. The
commission may be linked to either the transaction or to the assets
under management.
The transaction-based commission accrues at the time of a
transaction, whereas the AUM-linked commission is payable on an
on-going basis, so long as the investor remains invested.
6.5.1 Concept of Trail Commission
Trail commission is calculated as a percentage of the net

assets attributable to the Units sold by the distributor. The
commission payable is calculated on the daily balances and
paid out periodically to the distributor as per the agreement
entered into with AMC.
No commission is payable to the distributor for their own
investments (self-business).
6.5.2 Additional commission for promoting mutual funds in small
towns
With a view to promoting mutual funds in smaller towns, SEBI has
allowed mutual funds to charge additional expenses, which can be
used for distribution related expenses, including distributor
commission. Distributors mobilizing funds from investors located in
B-30 locations would earn higher commission.
6.5.3 Transaction Charges
Transaction charges are paid to distributors for investments

of Rs. 10,000 and over. This does not apply to direct
investments. For subscriptions from existing investors the
distributor will be paid Rs. 100 per transaction and for new

investors across mutual funds they will be paid Rs. 150 to
encourage widening the investor base of mutual funds.
6.6 Commission Disclosure mandated by SEBI

SEBI has mandated Mutual Funds/AMCs to disclose on their
respective websites the total commission and expenses paid to
distributors who satisfy one or more of the following conditions with
respect to non-institutional (retail and HNI) investors:
• Multiple point of presence (More than 20 locations)
• AUM raised over Rs. 100 crore across industry in the non-
institutional category but including HNIs.
• Commission received of over Rs. 1 crore p.a. across industry
• Commission received of over Rs. 50 lakhs from a single Mutual
Fund/AMC.
6.7 Due Diligence Process by AMCs for Distributors of Mutual

Funds
SEBI has mandated AMCs to put in place a due diligence process to
regulate distributors who qualify any one of the following above
mentioned criteria in topic 6.6.
Customer relationship and transactions shall be categorized as:
• Advisory – where a distributor represents to offer advice while
distributing the product.
• Execution Only – in case of transactions that are not booked as
advisory.
6.8 Nomination facilities to Agents/Distributors and Payment of

Commission to Nominee
AMCs provide nomination facility to the mutual fund distributors at
the time of empanelment.
Accordingly, commissions are paid to the nominees or legal heirs

(where no nominee is registered) of the deceased MFDs. The AMCs
may require the legal heirs to produce necessary documents
evidencing legal heirship/succession where nomination is not
registered. Such commission shall be payable till such time the ARN
code of the deceased agent/distributor is not changed by the
investor. However, no new business is permitted under the ARN
code of the deceased MFD. Also, no new systematic transactions or
changes to existing systematic transactions can be registered under
the ARN code of the deceased MF.
6.9 Change of distributor

The mutual fund industry allows the investor to change the
distributor, without specifying any reason. In case of change of
distributor code in a folio, no commission would be payable to any
distributor, neither the old one nor the new one.
Investors can choose to change their distributor or go direct. This
needs to be done through a written request by the investor. In such
cases, AMCs will need to comply, without insisting on any kind of ‘No
Objection Certificate’ from the existing distributor.
7. NET ASSET VALUE, TOTAL EXPENSE RATIO AND PRICING

OF UNITS
7.1 Valuation
▪ A traded security shall be valued at the last quoted closing
price on the principle stock exchange where it is traded.
▪ A non-traded or thinly traded equity instrument may be

valued using the capitalization of earnings method, using
the PE ratio of comparable traded securities for
capitalization after discounting it for lower liquidity.
▪ There are detailed norms on when a security is to be
treated as a Non-Performing Asset (NPA), how much is to

be written off (treated as a loss) at various points of time,
when the amounts written off can be added back to the
value of the asset (treated as income), and when a NPA
can be treated as a Standard Asset.
▪ The value of the gold held by a gold ETF will be valued at

the AM fixing price of London Bullion Market Association
(LBMA) in US dollars per troy ounce for gold.
▪ AMFI has appointed third party valuation agencies

(currently CRISIL and ICRA) to provide security level pricing
of fixed income securities with maturity greater than 60
days. Valuation of every security is the responsibility of the
AMC and SEBI has only provided the principles of
valuation.
7.2 Computation of Net Assets of Mutual Fund Scheme and

NAV
7.2.1 Net Assets of Scheme
The unit-holders’ funds in the scheme are commonly referred

to as “net assets”. The assets of the scheme are the
investments held by it. This along with the accrued income
which include dividend or interest due on securities held in
the portfolio but not yet received, and receivables, such as
amount due on shares sold, constitute the total assets.
7.2.2 Net Asset Value

NAV refers to the value of each unit of the scheme.

NAV = (Current value of investments held + Income accrued +
Current assets – Current liabilities –Accrued expenses) / No.
of outstanding units
7.2.3 Mark to Market

The process of valuing each security in the investment
portfolio of the scheme at its current market value is called
‘mark to market’ i.e., marking the securities to their market
value. This is because investors buy or sell units on the basis
of the information contained in the NAV.
7.2.4 Total Expenses in Mutual Fund Scheme

Types of Expenses
All types of expenses incurred by the AMC have to be clearly
identified and appropriated for all mutual fund schemes.
Investment and Advisory Fees are charged to the scheme by the
AMC. The details of such fees are fully disclosed in the Scheme
Information Document.
Recurring Expenses are the fund running expenses incurred to

manage the money raised from the investors. These are
charged to the scheme. Since the recurring expenses drag
down the NAV, SEBI has laid down the types of expenses,
which can be charged to the scheme and the limits to such
expenses.
The total expense ratio of the scheme whether initially borne by the
mutual fund or by AMC, but including the investment management
and advisory fee shall be subject to the following limits:
(a) In case of fund of funds: investing in liquid schemes, index
fund scheme and ETFs, the total expense ratio of the scheme

shall not exceed 1% of the daily net assets of the scheme.
(b) In case of equity oriented schemes: total expense ratio shall
not exceed 2.25% of the daily net assets of the scheme.
(c) Investing in schemes other than as specified above, total
expense ratio of the scheme shall not exceed 2% of the daily
net assets of the scheme.
In addition to the above-mentioned limits, the following expenses
may be charged to the scheme:
• Brokerage and transaction cost incurred for the purpose of
execution of trade and is included in the cost of investment to
the extent of 0.12 percent for cash market transactions and
0.05 percent for derivatives transactions.
• If the new inflows from beyond top 30 cities are at least (a) 30
percent of gross new inflows in the scheme or (b) 15 percent
of the average assets under management (year to date) of the
scheme,
whichever is higher, funds can charge additional expense of up to

0.30 percent of daily net assets of the scheme.
7.3 Dividends & Distributable Reserves

SEBI guidelines stipulate that dividends can be paid out of
distributable reserves. In the calculation of distributable reserves:
• All the profits earned (based on accrual of income and
expenses) are treated as available for distribution.
• Valuation gains are ignored. But valuation losses need to be
adjusted against the profits.
• That portion of sale price on new units, which is attributable to
valuation gains, is not available as a distributable reserve.
The trustees shall decide the quantum of dividend and the record
date.

7.4 Concept of Entry and Exit Load and its impact on NAV
• SEBI has banned entry loads. So, the Sale Price is same
as the NAV (subject to deduction of applicable transaction
charges, if any)
• While charging exit loads, no distinction will be made
among unit holders on the basis of the amount of
subscription. While complying with the same, any
imposition or enhancement in the load shall be
applicable only on prospective investments. The parity
among unit holders on exit load shall be made
applicable at portfolio level.
• No exit load will be charged on bonus units and units
allotted on reinvestment of dividend.
• Exit loads have to be credited back to the scheme immediately
i.e. they are not available for the AMC to bear selling expenses.
• Upfront commission to distributors will be paid by the investor
directly to the distributor, based on his assessment of various
factors including the service rendered by the distributor.
7.5 Key Accounting and Reporting Requirements

• NAV is to be calculated up to 4 decimal places in the
case of index funds, liquid funds and other debt funds.
• NAV for equity and balanced funds is to be calculated up
to at least 2 decimal places.
• Investors can hold their units even in a fraction of 1 unit.
However, current stock exchange trading systems may
restrict transacting on the exchange to whole units.
8. TAXATION
8.1. Applicability of taxes in respect of mutual funds

8.1.1 Income from investment in mutual fund units
Investors must consider the effect of taxes on their
investment returns. It is not how much you earn, but how
much you keep after taxes that counts. As mutual fund is
pass-through vehicle, we must consider the income at two
levels– income earned by the fund, and income earned by
the investor.
8.1.2 Income earned by mutual fund schemes

The schemes of the mutual funds invest in marketable
securities like shares and debentures. These securities
generate income in the form of dividend or interest. Apart
from this, when the fund buys and sells the shares and
debentures in the securities market, there could be capital
gains or losses. Interest, dividend and capital gains form the
income of the mutual fund. As per the prevailing tax laws in
India, a mutual fund’s income is exempt from income tax,
since mutual funds are constituted as trusts in India for the
benefits of the unit holders. Section 10(23)(D) of the Income
Tax Act exempts all the income earned by the mutual fund
schemes from any tax.
8.1.3 Income earned by the investor from investment in mutual

fund units
The tax structure is different for different types of investors, as well
as for different categories of funds, too.
The applicable tax rates in case of capital gains and dividends would
vary on account of the following:
• Type of income: The capital gains are taxed differently in

comparison to the dividend income.
• Type of mutual fund schemes: Income from equity-oriented
mutual fund schemes is taxed at different rates in comparison
to the non-equity-oriented schemes.
• Type of investor: The tax treatment may differ for Resident
Indian Investors, NRIs, and non-individual investors.
• 8.2 Capital Gains
8.2 Capital Gains
Capital gains are classified into two categories: short term capital
gains and long term capital gains. Long-term is defined as holding
period of more than three years in case of non-equity- oriented
funds, whereas the same more than 1 year in case of equity-oriented
funds. Capital gains booked before completion of this period would
be treated as short term capital gains.
Table 8.1: Capital Gains Tax
Equity mutual funds were exempt from long term capital

gains tax earlier. In the Union Budget of the year 2018, this
was changed. Starting April 2018, long term capital gains
became taxable at the rate of 10 percent. Relating to this,
there are two important provisions that are discussed here:
1. Exemption up to Rs. 1 lakh: In case of long-term capital

gains arising out of equity shares and equity-oriented
mutual funds, the tax is applicable only on the capital

gains above Rs. 1 lakh. The first Rs. 1 lakh worth of long-
term capital gain from this category is tax-exempt.
2. Grandfathering of capital gains: Grandfathering of the

capital gains meant that the capital gains earned till
January 31, 2018 would not be taxable, which means
that for all the equity mutual funds that one has
invested in, the valuation as on January 31, 2018
becomes the base point. Gains would be calculated for
the purpose of tax by taking the higher of the purchase
price or the NAV as on January 31, 2018.
8.3. Dividend income
In the Union Budget presented by the Finance Minister in

February 2020, the situation changed. The dividend
distribution tax has been done away with, whereas the
dividend would henceforth be added to the taxable income
of the assessee for the year. This means, the dividends would
be taxable in the hands of the recipient at the applicable tax
rate.
8.4 Stamp Duty on Mutual funds
With effect from July 1, 2020, mutual fund units issued

against Purchase transactions (whether through lump-sum
investments or SIP or STP or switch-ins or dividend
reinvestment) would be subject to levy of stamp duty* @
0.005% of the amount invested. Transfer of mutual fund
units (such as transfers between demat accounts) are subject
to payment of stamp duty* @ 0.015%.

1. Stamp duty @0.005% of the investment amount shall be
applicable at the time of issue of units for both physical
and demat units.
2. Units will be allotted for the amount available post
deduction of stamp duty.
3. Stamp duty will be applicable to all transactions
pertaining to scheme inflows: Purchase, Additional
Purchase, Dividend reinvestment, Systematic
Investment Plan (SIP), Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) &
Dividend Transfer Plan (DTP).
This will also include triggers from past SIP/STP registrations.
8.5 Setting off of Capital Gains and Losses under Income Tax Act
The rules for set off are as under:
• Loss arising from a short-term capital asset can be set
off against the gains arising from the sale of a long or
short-term capital asset.
• Loss arising from a long-term capital asset can be set off
only against the gains from the sale of long-term assets.
• Any loss under the head capital gains, either short or
long-term, can be set-off only against income from the
same head (capital gains).
• Short or long-term capital losses cannot be set-off
against any other source of income.
8.6. Securities Transaction Tax

When an investor sells units of an equity fund in the stock
exchange, or offers them for repurchase to the fund, he will
have to incur Securities Transaction Tax (STT) i.e., STT is
applicable only on redemption/switch to other schemes/sale

of units of equity oriented mutual funds whether sold on
stock exchange or otherwise. STT is not applicable on
purchase of units of an equity scheme. It is also not
applicable to transactions in debt securities or debt mutual
fund schemes.
STT applicability for Investors in Equity oriented Mutual
funds
8.7. Tax benefit under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act
Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) are eligible for
deduction under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act. The
benefit is available up to Rs. 1.50 lacs per year per taxpayer in
case of individuals and HUFs. The scheme has a lock-in period
of three years from the date of investment.
8.8. Tax Deducted at Source

There is no TDS on the dividend distribution or re-purchase
proceeds to resident investors. However, for certain cases of
non-resident investments, the same is applicable. The
income tax regulations prescribe different rates, depending
on the nature of the investor (Indian/Foreign and
Individual/Institutional), nature of investment (equity/debt)
and nature of the income (dividend/capital gain).

8.9. Applicability of GST
Goods and Services Tax (GST) became applicable since the
year 2017. AMC(s) can charge GST, as per applicable Taxation
Laws, to the schemes within the limits prescribed under SEBI
(Mutual Fund) Regulations.
▪ GST on fees paid on investment management and advisory
fees shall be charged to the scheme in addition to the
overall limits specified as per the Total Expense Ratio (TER)
provisions.
▪ GST on all the fees other than investment and advisory
fees shall be charged to the scheme within the maximum
limit of TER.
▪ GST on exit load, if any, shall be deducted from the exit
load and the net amount shall be credited to the scheme.
▪ GST on brokerage and transaction cost paid for execution
of trade, if any, shall be within the limit of TER.
▪ The commission payable to the distributors of mutual
funds may be subject to GST, as applicable in case of the
ARN holder. Such tax cannot be charged to the scheme.
9. INVESTOR SERVICES
9.1 The NFO Process
Units in a mutual fund scheme are offered to public investors

for the first time through an NFO. The offer is made through
a legal document called the Offer Document.
NFO Open Date – This is the date from which investors can
invest in the NFO

NFO Close Date – This is the date up to which investors can
invest in the NFO
Scheme Re-Opening Date – This is the date from which the investors
can offer their units for re-purchase to the scheme (at the re-
purchase price); or buy new units of the scheme (at the sale price).
The AMC announces Sale and Re-purchase prices from the Scheme
Re-Opening Date.
Under the SEBI guidelines, NFOs other than ELSS can remain open for
a maximum of 15 days. Allotment of units or refund of moneys, as
the case may be, should be done within 5 business days of closure of
the scheme. Further, open-ended schemes have to re-open for
sale/re- purchase within 5 business days of the allotment.
9.2 New Fund Offer Price/On-going Offer Price for subscription
9.3 Investment Plans and Services

9.3.1 Direct and Regular Plans
Each mutual fund has to offer two plans to the investors, viz., regular
plan and direct plan. Both these would have different total expense
ratio (TER).
The direct plan shall have a lower expense ratio excluding
distribution expenses, commission, etc., and no commission shall be
paid from such plans. Since the TER is different in both cases, the
plans will have separate NAVs.
9.3.2 Dividend Pay-out, Dividend Re-Investment and Growth
Options
In a dividend pay-out option, the fund declares a dividend

from time to time.
In a dividend re-investment option, as in the case of
dividend pay-out option, NAV declines to the extent of
dividend and dividend distribution tax. The resulting NAV is

called ex-dividend NAV. However, the investor does not
receive the dividend in his bank account; the amount is re-
invested in the same scheme and additional units are allotted
to the investor.
In a growth option, dividend is not declared. Therefore,
nothing is received in the bank account (unlike dividend pay-
out option) and there is nothing to re-invest (unlike dividend
re-investment option).
Parameter Dividend Pay- Dividend Re- Growth Option
out Option investment Option
Dividend received in bank Yes No No

account
Dividend Distribution Tax Yes Yes N.A.
Increase in number of units No Yes No

on account of re-investment
of dividend
NAV change AV declines to NAV declines to the NAV captures

the extent of extent of dividend and the portfolio
dividend and dividend distribution change entirely
dividend tax
distribution tax
9.4 Allotment of Units to the Investor
In a rights issue, the price at which the units are offered is

clear at the time of investment. The investment amount
divided by the rights price gives the number of units that the
investor has bought.
In a bonus issue, the investor does not pay anything. The
fund allots new units for free. Thus, in a 1:3 bonus issues, the

investor is allotted 1 new unit (free) for every 3 units already
held by the investor.
9.5 Account statements for investments

Annual Account Statement
Mutual Funds provide Account Statement to the Unit-holders who
have not transacted during the last six months prior to the date of
generation of account statements. The Account Statement reflects
the latest closing balance and value of the units prior to the date of
generation of the account statement.
Consolidated Account Statement
Consolidated Account Statement is also issued to investors.

This statement provides information in terms of name of
schemes where the investor has invested, number of units
held and its market value. Investors in whose folios
transactions have taken place during a calendar month shall
be sent a Consolidated account statement (CAS) by the 10th
of the next month. In case of investors who have no
transactions in their folio in the last six months ending every
half year (September/ March), CAS shall be sent by the 10th
of the next month giving holding at the end of the six
months.
9.6 Mutual Fund Investors

Eligibility to invest
The following categories of people/entities are eligible to purchase
units of most schemes of mutual funds:
Individual Investors
▪ Resident Individuals

▪ Minors
▪ Hindu Undivided Families
▪ NRI’s
▪ Foreign Investors
Non-Individual Investors
▪ Companies/ Corporate Bodies
▪ Registered societies
▪ Universities and educational institutions
▪ Association of persons of body of individuals
▪ Foreign Portfolio Investors
▪ Banks and financial Institutions
9.7 Filling the Application Form for Mutual Funds

• Direct Plan and Regular Plan
• Unit Holder Information
• Minor as a unit holder
• POA as a unit holder
• Status of the Holder and Mode of Holding
• KYC Details
• FATCA and CRS Details: For applicants, including guardians,
whose country of birth/citizenship/nationality/tax residency is
other than India, the application requires additional
information under Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act
(FATCA) and Common Reporting Standards (CRS).
• Bank Account Details
• Investment Details
• Payment Details
• Unit Holding Option
o Physical: Holding MF units via Unit Confirmation
Receipt (UCR)
o Demat: Holding MF units in demat account through

a SEBI registered depository participant (DP).
• Nomination
• Minimum Investment
9.8 Financial Transactions with Mutual Funds

Initial Purchase of Mutual Fund Units
Fresh purchase or initial purchase of mutual fund units in a scheme
can be made during the new fund offer (NFO) period or even
subsequently in an open-ended scheme, during the open offer
period.
Additional purchase of units

Once an investor has a folio with a mutual fund, subsequent
investments with the same mutual fund do not call for the
full application form and documentation. Only a transaction
slip needs to be filled giving the folio number and submitted
with the requisite payment. Most mutual funds send a
transaction slip (with the investor’s folio number pre-printed)
along with the Statement of Account).
Repurchase of Units
The investor in an open-ended scheme can offer the units for
repurchase to the mutual fund. The transaction slip needs to be filled
out to effect the re-purchase. The folio number, names of the unit
holders and the scheme, plan and option from which the redemption
is requested should be clearly mentioned. The request should be
signed according to the mode of holding of the folio.
Switch
A switch is a redemption from one scheme and a purchase into
another combined into one transaction.
9.8.1 Payment Mechanism for mutual fund purchases

Online Transactions
Investors can conduct their mutual fund transactions online.

The investor is required to fill the requisite details in an
application form. Based on this, the investor would be
allotted a username and password (Personal Identification
Number – PIN). This can be used by the investor to make
additional purchases of units in the mutual fund, or to
request re-purchase of the units held in the mutual fund.
Some distributors too, through their websites, facilitate
online transactions by investors.
Payment Mechanism for Purchase / Additional purchase

▪ Cheque/ DD
▪ Internet Banking
▪ M-Banking and Cash Payments
▪ Unified Payment Interface
▪ Aadhar Enabled Payment System
▪ National Unified USSD platform
▪ Cards and E-Wallets
▪ One-Time Mandate and Application supported by
Blocked Amounts (ASBA)
9.9 Cut-off Time and Time Stamping

SEBI has prescribed cut-off timing to determine the applicable NAV.
The provisions, which are uniformly applicable for all mutual funds,
are as follows:
Type of Scheme Transaction Cut off time Applicable NAV
Equity oriented Purchases and 3.00 pm • Same day NAV if

funds and debt funds Switch ins received before cut

(except liquid funds) off time.
Purchase < 2L • Next business day
NAV for applications
received after cut
off time.
Equity oriented Purchases and 3.00 pm NAV of the business day
funds and debt funds Switch ins on which the funds are
(except liquid funds) available for utilisation
Transaction >=2L without availing of any
credit facility before the
cut-off time of that day is
applicable.
Liquid fund Purchases and 1.30 pm Previous day NAV if money
Switch ins is transferred before the
cut-off time, otherwise
same day NAV.
Equity Oriented Redemptions 3.00pm • Same day NAV if
Funds, Debt funds and Switch outs received before cut
(Other than Liquid off time.
funds) • Next business day
NAV for applications
received after cut
off time
Liquid funds Redemptions 3.00 pm Previous day NAV if money
and Switch outs is transferred before the
cut-off time, otherwise
next business day NAV
The above cut-off timing is not applicable for NFOs and International
Schemes.
The time stamping on the transaction requests is done at the official
points of acceptance.
9.10 KYC Requirements for Mutual Fund Investors

9.11 Systematic Transactions
9.11.1 Systematic Investment Plan

SIP is an approach where the investor invests constant
amounts at regular intervals. A benefit of such an approach,
particularly in equity schemes, is that it averages the unit-
holder’s cost of acquisition since more units are bought for
the same amount of investment when the price/markets are
down and fewer units when the price/markets are up.
9.11.2 Systematic Withdrawal Plan
Mutual funds make it convenient for investors to manage

their SWPs by registering an amount, periodicity (generally,
monthly) and period for their SWP. Some schemes even offer
the facility of transferring only the appreciation or the
dividend. In this option, the withdrawal is not fixed but will
vary depending upon the availability of appreciation in the
specific investment chosen by the investor. The advantage of
a variable SWP relative to a fixed amount of withdrawal is
that the capital invested will not be withdrawn.
9.11.3 Systematic Transfer Plan (STP)

In a STP, the amount that is withdrawn from a scheme (called
the source scheme) is re-invested in some other scheme
(called the target scheme) of the same mutual fund. Thus, it
operates as a SWP from the source scheme, and a SIP into
the target scheme. Since the investor is effectively switching
between schemes, it is also called “switch” if it is just one
transaction or tranche. If there are multiple tranches over a
fixed period on pre-defined date of an amount that is defined
ahead, then it is an STP.
9.11.4 Dividend Transfer Plan

Dividend Transfer Plan (DTP) is a facility that allows investors
to invest the dividend earned in a mutual fund investment
into another scheme of the same mutual fund. Investors with
a low risk profile can get some benefits of diversification by
transferring dividends earned from debt funds into equity
funds. Similarly, dividends earned in equity funds can be
transferred into debt funds to rebalance the portfolio and
manage risks. Mutual funds decide the schemes, plans and
options from which the dividends can be transferred and the
target schemes to which they can be transferred.
9.12 Operational aspects of Systematic Transactions

SIP Top-up Facility
Mutual funds provide an additional facility through an SIP to
enhance the disciplined savings of investors. It is called the
SIP Top-Up facility. Investors have the option to increase the
SIP amount at intervals chosen by them. The increase can be
of a fixed amount or a percentage of the existing SIP amount.
9.13 Non-Financial Transactions in Mutual Funds

9.13.1 Nomination
A Nomination Form is where the nominee’s name is

specified. The nomination made in a folio applies to all the
investments held under the folio. Nomination can be made in
favour of a maximum of three nominees by defining the
percentage holding for each nominee making a total of 100
percent. The nominee can be an individual, including minors
and NRIs, central and state governments and local
authorities. For units held in dematerialized mode, the
nominee made for the demat account will apply. Such

nominations will be governed by the byelaws of the
depository.
9.13.2 Pledge/Lien of Units
Banks, NBFCs and other financiers often lend money against

pledge of Units by the Unitholder. This is implemented
through a Pledge Form executed by the unitholder (pledger).
The form has a provision for specifying the party in whose
favour the units are pledged (pledgee). The units that are
offered as security for a loan should have completed the
lock-in period, if any. All the unitholders, irrespective of the
mode of holding, of the folio must sign the form requesting
the marking of the lien in favour of the lender.
9.13.3 Transmission of units

Transmission is the process of transferring units to the
person entitled to receive it in the event of the death of the
unit holder. A request for transmission has to be made in the
format prescribed by the mutual fund. It must include the
documents to establish death and claim.
9.14. Investor Services
The following is the summary of the service standards

imposed on mutual funds by Sebi:
Transaction Turnaround Time
Maximum NFO period 15 days
Allotment of units in a NFO 5 days from NFO closing date
(other than ELSS and RGESS)
Allotment of units in a ELSS NFO 30 days from NFO closing date
Refund of money 5 business days from NFO

closing date
Dispatch of Statement of 5 working days from closure of
account - NFO or request by unit subscription list / request
holder
Dispatch of Consolidated 10 days from end of each
Account Statement (CAS) calendar month if
transaction has taken place
during the month.
Dispatch of dividend warrants 30 days from date of dividend
declaration
Dispatch of redemption 10 working days from
proceeds transaction request
Account statement for SIP, STP, 5 working days
SWP: 10 working days from the end of
Initial transaction End of every the quarter
calendar quarter
If there is a delay in dispatching dividend warrants or
redemption proceeds the AMC has to pay the unit-holder
interest at the rate of 15% p.a. This expense has to be borne
by the AMC and cannot be charged to the scheme.
10. RISK, RETURN AND PERFORMANCE OF FUNDS
10.1 General and Specific Risk Factors

General Risk Factors:
• Liquidity Risk
• Interest Rate Risk
• Re-investment Risk
• Political Risk
• Economic Risk
• Foreign Currency Risk

• Risks associated with transaction in Units through stock
exchange(s)
10.1.2 Specific Risk Factors

Risk related to equity and equity related securities
Equity and equity related securities are volatile and prone to price
fluctuations on a daily basis. Equity schemes may have risk
associated with short selling and stock lending, dividend paid by the
company and risk associated with derivatives.
Risk related to debt funds
Debt funds are exposed to reinvestment risk, rating migration risk,
credit risk. Floating rate funds may have spread risk and basis risk.
Risk Factors Associated with Investments in REITs and InvITs:
ReITs and InvITs are exposed to price-risk, interest rate risk, credit
risk, liquidity or marketability risk, reinvestment risk.
10.2 Factors that affect mutual fund performance

Different asset classes have different characteristics. Also, different
fund managers may adopt different approaches and strategies which
may impact the performance of the schemes. Fund managers take
certain risks in order to outperform the respective benchmark’s
performance. This means that the schemes may be subject to the
risks that an asset class is exposed to, as well as the risks that the
fund manager may choose or avoid.
10.3 Drivers of Returns and Risk in a Scheme

10.3.1 Factors Affecting Performance of Equity Schemes
Fundamental and Technical analysis
Fundamental Analysis: Earning per Share, PE Ratio, PEG

Ratio, Book Value per share, Price to book value, Dividend
Yield.
Technical Analysis: Price behaviour, Volume, Price trends,
Support and resistance levels, breakouts.
Investment Styles – Growth and Value
Growth investment style entails investing in high growth
stocks i.e., stocks of companies that are likely to grow much
faster than the market. Many market players are interested
in accumulating such growth stocks.
Value investment style is an approach of picking up stocks,
which are priced lower than their intrinsic value, based on
fundamental analysis. The belief is that the market has not
appreciated some aspect of the value in a company’s share –
and hence it is cheap.
Portfolio building approach – Top down and Bottom up

In a top-down approach, the portfolio manager evaluates
the impact of economic factors first and narrows down on
the industries that are suitable for investment. Thereafter,
the companies are analysed and the good stocks within the
identified sectors are selected for investment.
A bottom-up approach on the other hand analyses the
company-specific factors first and then evaluates the industry
factors and finally the macro-economic scenario and its
impact on the companies that are being considered for
investment.
10.3.2 Factors affecting performance of Debt Schemes

Interest Rates: If the yields in the market go down, the debt
security will gain value. Thus, there is an inverse relationship
between yields and value of such debt securities, which offer
a fixed rate of interest.
Credit Spreads: The market will be prepared to accept a

lower credit spread for a security whose credit rating
improves and vice versa. Correspondingly, the value of the
debt security will increase in the market.
10.3.3 Factors Affecting Performance of Gold Funds
Gold is a truly international asset, whose quality can be

objectively measured. The value of gold in India depends on:
▪ Global price of gold
▪ Strength of rupee
10.3.4 Factors affecting performance of Real Estate funds
Unlike gold, real estate is a local asset. It cannot be

transported – and its value is driven by:
▪ Economic scenario
▪ Infrastructure development
▪ Interest Rates
10.4 Measures of Returns

a. Simple Return = (Sale Value- cost value)/ Cost Value
b. Annualized Return = (Simple Return * 12)/ Period of
simple return (in months)
c. Compounded Return
d. Compounded Annual Growth Rate

10.5 Pros and Cons of Evaluating Funds only on the Basis of
Return Performance
The primary factor that investors use for selecting a mutual

fund for investment is the return that it has generated. To
make the selection more robust, it is important to consider
the consistency of the return performance and the
performance relative to the benchmark of the scheme and its
peer group funds. However, the return number alone is not
adequate to make a decision to invest in a scheme or exit
from a scheme. The suitability of the scheme to an investor’s
needs must also consider the risk associated with the
scheme. This includes evaluating factors like the volatility in
returns over time. The extent of volatility indicates the
riskiness of the scheme. First, the asset allocation of the
scheme should be in line with the investor’s need for growth,
income or liquidity. The discipline with which the scheme
sticks to the stated asset allocation, the scheme’s policy of
moving to cash, the extent of diversification across stocks
and sectors and the credit rating and duration of debt
securities will have an impact on the returns but also on the
risk.
10.6. Risk in Mutual Fund Schemes

▪ Portfolio risks
▪ Portfolio liquidity
10.7 Measures of Risk

Variance
Variance measures the fluctuation in periodic returns of a
scheme, as compared to its own average return. This can be

easily calculated in MS Excel using the following function: =
var (range of cells where the periodic returns are calculated)
Variance as a measure of risk is relevant for both debt and
equity schemes.
Standard Deviation
Standard Deviation too measures the fluctuation in periodic
returns of a scheme in relation to its own average return.
Mathematically, standard deviation is equal to the square
root of variance. Standard deviation is a measure of total risk
in an investment. As a measure of risk, it is relevant for both
debt and equity schemes. A high standard deviation indicates
greater volatility in the returns and greater risk.
Beta
Beta is based on the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM),
which states that there are two kinds of risk in investing in
equities – systematic risk and non-systematic risk. Beta
measures the fluctuation in periodic returns in a scheme, as
compared to fluctuation in periodic returns of a diversified
stock index (representing the market) over the same period.
Modified Duration
The modified duration measures the sensitivity of value of a
debt security to changes in interest rates. Higher the
modified duration, higher is the interest sensitive risk in a
debt portfolio.
Weighted Average Maturity

While modified duration captures interest sensitivity of a
security better, it can be reasoned that longer the maturity of

a debt security, higher would be its interest rate sensitivity.
Extending the logic, weighted average maturity of debt
securities in a scheme’s portfolio is indicative of the interest
rate sensitivity of a scheme.
Credit Rating
The credit rating profile indicates the credit or default risk in
a scheme. Government securities do not have a credit risk.
Similarly, cash and cash equivalents do not have a credit risk.
Investments in corporate issuances carry credit risk. Higher
the credit rating lower is the default risk.
10.8 Certain Provisions with respect to Credit risk

In debt markets, the credit risk arises on account of three things, viz.,
default, delay in payments, or rating downgrade. Any of these may
result in fall in prices of the concerned debt securities. Such an event
is also called a credit event.
10.8.1 Gating or restriction on redemption in mutual funds
Such restrictions may be imposed only when there are circumstances
leading to a systemic crisis or event that severely constricts market
liquidity or the efficient functioning of markets.
According to SEBI regulations, such restrictions may be imposed only
for a specified period not exceeding 10 working days in any 90-day
period. When restriction on redemption is imposed, the following
procedure shall be applied:
• No redemption requests upto Rs. 2 lakhs shall be subject to

such restriction;
• When redemption requests are above Rs. 2 lakhs, AMCs shall
redeem the first Rs. 2 lakhs without such restriction and
remaining part shall be subject to the restriction.

10.8.2 Segregated portfolio or side pocketing
Segregated portfolio” means a portfolio, comprising of debt or
money market instrument affected by a credit event, that has been
segregated in a mutual fund scheme. “Main portfolio” means the
scheme portfolio excluding the segregated portfolio.
SEBI has mandated that all new schemes launched after November 7,
2019 shall have the enabling provisions included in the SID for
creation of segregated portfolio. AMCs shall have a detailed written
down policy on creation of segregated portfolio and the same shall
be approved by the trustees.
• Segregated portfolio shall be effective from the day of credit event.
• AMC shall issue a press release immediately regarding details about

segregated portfolio.
• NAV of both segregated and main portfolio shall be disclosed from

the day of the credit event.
• All existing investors shall be allotted equal number of units in the

segregated portfolio as held in the main portfolio as on the day of
the credit event.
• No redemption or subscription is allowed in the segregated

portfolio. However, in order to facilitate exit to unitholders in
segregated portfolio, AMC shall enable listing of units of
segregated portfolio on the recognized stock exchange within 10
working days of creation of segregated portfolio and also enable
transfer of such units on receipt of transfer requests.
The Net Asset Value (NAV) of the segregated portfolio is required to

be declared on a daily basis.
Risks Associated with Segregated Portfolio
1. Investor holding units of segregated portfolio may not able to

liquidate their holding till the time of recovery of money from the
issuer.
2. Securities comprising segregated portfolio may not realize any
value.
3. Listing of units of segregated portfolio in recognized stock
exchange does not necessarily guarantee their liquidity. There may
not be active trading of units in the stock market. Further trading
price of units on the stock market may be significantly lower than the
prevailing NAV.
11. MUTUAL FUND SCHEME PERFORMANCE
11.1. Benchmarks and Performance
11.2 Price Return Index or Total Return Index

Benchmark return has to be presented with scheme
performance advertisement. With effect from February 1,
2018, the mutual fund schemes are benchmarked to the
Total Return variant of an Index (TRI). The Total Return
variant of an index takes into account all dividends/ interest
payments that are generated from the basket of constituents
that make up the index in addition to the capital gains. Earlier
schemes were benchmarked to Price return index where
Dividends were not taken in the index.
11.3 Basis of Choosing an appropriate performance benchmark

Selection of a benchmark for the scheme of a mutual fund to be in
alignment with the investment objective, asset allocation pattern
and investment strategy of the scheme.

11.4 Benchmarks for equity schemes
The following aspects of the investment objective (scheme type,
choice of investment universe, portfolio concentration, underlying
exposure) drive the choice of benchmark in equity schemes.
11.5 Benchmarks for Debt Schemes

As per the SEBI guidelines, the benchmark for debt (and balanced
schemes) should be developed by research and rating agencies
recommended by AMFI. CRISIL, ICICI Securities and NSE have
developed various such indices.
CRISIL has a set of indices for debt schemes.

Scheme Category CRISIL Index
Overnight Fund CRISIL Overnight Index
Liquid Fund CRISIL Liquid Fund Index
Ultra Short Term CRISIL Ultra Short Term Debt Index
Fund
Money Market CRISIL Money Market Index
Fund
Low Duration CRISIL Low Duration Debt Index
Fund
Short Duration CRISIL AA Short Term Bond Fund Index
Fund
Medium Duration CRISIL Medium Term Debt Index
Fund
Medium to Long CRISIL Medium to Long Term Debt Index
Duration Fund
Long Duration CRISIL Long Term Debt Index
Fund
Dynamic Bond CRISIL Composite Bond Fund Index
Corporate Bond CRISIL Short Term Corporate Bond Index,
Fund CRISIL Medium Term Corporate Bond

Index, CRISIL Long Term Corporate Bond
Index, CRISIL Corporate Bond Composite
Index
Credit Risk Fund CRISIL Credit Risk Index
11.6 Benchmarks for Other Schemes

Hybrid Funds
Hybrid funds invest in a mix of debt and equity. Therefore, the
benchmark for a hybrid fund is a blend of an equity and debt index.
For instance, a hybrid scheme with asset allocation of about 65
percent in equity and balance in debt, can use a synthetic index that
is calculated as 65 percent of S&P BSE Sensex and 35 percent of I-
Bex.
Gold ETF: Gold price would be the benchmark for such funds.
Real Estate Funds: Real estate indices have been developed

by few real estate services companies. However, these are
still at nascent stage and gaining popularity.
International Fund: Benchmark would depend on where the

scheme proposes to invest. It could be a synthetic index if the
fund is invested across countries.
Standard benchmark indices

For the sake of standardization, schemes need to disclose
return in INR and by way of CAGR for the benchmarks shown
on the right, apart from the scheme benchmarks:
Scheme type Benchmark
Equity Scheme Sensex/Nifty
Long term debt scheme 10 year dated paper

Short term debt fund 1 year T bill
11.7 Quantitative Measures of Fund Manager Performance

Sharpe ratio
Sharpe ratio = Excess return / Standard Deviation
For the Sharpe ratio to be high, a fund needs to post a higher
return for the same risk, or lower risk for the same return
Treynor Ratio
Treynor Ratio = Excess return/Beta. Higher the Treynor ratio,
better the fund performance.
Beta measures only systematic risk, Standard deviation
measures total risk
Alpha: The difference between a scheme’s actual return and
its optimal return is its Alpha – a measure of the fund
manager’s performance.
11.8 Tracking Error

The standard deviation of excess return is called the tracking
error. Lower the tracking error, higher the consistency in
performance. Tracking error of an index fund will have to be
zero
12. MUTUAL FUND SCHEME SELECTION
12.1. Scheme Selection: Basic

1. Understanding investment objectives of the investor and
financial goals.
2. Ascertain the risk profile based on need, willingness and
capability to take risk.

3. Asset allocation is based on investors expectation of
return, time horizon, age, situation and assessment of risk
profile.
4. Suitable schemes matching the above in terms of risk
return levels are accordingly selected.
12.2. Risk levels in mutual fund schemes

Return increases when Risk level increases.
12.2.1. Risk-Return Hierarchy of mutual funds

Liquid funds – Debt funds – Hybrid funds – Equity funds
as one moves from liquid funds to debt funds to hybrid funds
to equity
funds, the potential returns as well as the investment risks
increases. Broadly, one can say
that moving from left to right, the risk as well as potential
return would go up.
12.2.2. Risk-Return Hierarchy of debt funds

Overnight funds – Liquid funds – Ultra short duration funds
– Low duration funds – Short duration funds – Medium
duration funds – Medium to long duration funds – Long
duration funds
As we move from left to right, the potential returns as well as
the interest rate risk increases. The assumption here is that
the credit risk is more or less similar in each of the categories.
12.2.3. Hierarchy of Credit risk in debt funds

Gilt fund – Banking and PSU fund – Corporate bond fund –
Credit risk fund

As we move from left to right, the potential returns as well as
the credit rate risk move up. The assumption here is that the
interest rate risk is more or less similar in each of the
categories.
12.2.4. Risk-Return Hierarchy of equity mutual funds

Small cap funds – Mid-cap funds – Multi cap funds – Large
and mid-cap funds – Large cap funds
Smaller companies are riskier than their larger counterparts,
and hence small cap funds carry higher risk than mid cap
funds, which in turn are riskier than the large cap funds.
12.2.5. Risk-Return Hierarchy of Diversified to Concentrated

funds
Diversified funds – Focused funds – Thematic funds – Sector
funds
The risk and potential return increases as one moves from
left to right.
12.2.6. Risk Return Hierarchy of hybrid funds

Arbitrage fund – Equity savings fund – Conservative hybrid
fund – Dynamic asset allocation fund – Multi asset
allocation fund – Balanced hybrid fund – Aggressive hybrid
fund
The risk and potential return rise as one moves from left to
right.
12.3. Riskometer

SEBI reviewed the system of product labelling in mutual
funds. It was notified that the level of risk in mutual fund
schemes shall be increased from three to five as under:
i. Low - principal at low risk
ii. Moderately Low - principal at moderately low risk
iii. Moderate - principal at moderate risk
iv. Moderately High -- principal at moderately high risk
v. High - principal at high risk
The way of presenting the risk levels by mutual funds was
also modified. The depiction of risk using colour codes was
replaced by pictoral-meter named "Riskometer" which
categorises the risk in the scheme at one of five levels of risk.
There is also written statement of the risk to the principal
below the ‘Riskometer’.
12.4. Portfolio Turnover of Equity Funds

Portfolio turnover ratio = total sales or purchases of a fund
(Whichever is lower) divided by the average net assets of the
fund.
▪ Higher the ratio, greater the frequency of trading, and
lower the average holding period.
▪ Average Holding period = 365/Portfolio Turnover Ratio
▪ Low turnover indicates that the fund manager has high
conviction in the stocks selected.
▪ Frequent trading increases transaction costs of the
scheme.
12.5. Selection of Other Fund Types

1. Gold Funds: Value of gold ETFs will be in line with the price
of gold. Funds that invest in gold-linked company stocks may
behave more like equity funds. The impact of a change in the

price of gold, will be more direct on a gold ETF than on a gold
sector fund.
2. Arbitrage Funds: Arbitrage funds seek to benefit from
simultaneous exposure in equity and equity derivative
markets. Performance of these funds should be comparable
to that of short-term debt funds. They ride on the tax
benefits that equity schemes offer. It has Limited liquidity.
3. Fund of Funds: A fund of funds that chooses from across
fund houses to create its portfolio (multi-manager) may be a
better choice than one which only considers funds of its own
fund house. It is chosen based on investment objective.
Evaluated based on their ability to select and manage a
portfolio of funds.
4. International Funds: An international fund may invest in
ETFs, listed stocks, investment-grade bonds or act as feeder
funds investing in other funds. They are subject to currency
risk. Risk and return depends on strategy they adopt to invest
in international markets.
12.6. Selecting Options in Mutual Fund Schemes
1. Dividend payout option:
• Has the benefit of money flow to the investor
• Regular income
• Investor is not assured of dividend in the scheme even
when there is a monthly dividend option as dividend
comes out of distributable surplus
• So, a SWP (systematic withdrawal plan) at times is a
better option

• Dividend is subject to DDT which reduces the NAV and
growth
2. Dividend reinvestment Scheme: Scheme is not very
popular now.
3. Growth option:
• Growth option has the benefit of letting the money
grow in the fund on gross basis
• Tax liability is low only paid when redeemed
• Taxation and liquidity are important factors to consider
12.7. Dos and Don'ts for the Distributor
1. Ensure that the scheme suits the need of investor.
2. Asset allocation of the investor needs to be adhered to.
3. Recent past performance should not be the only criteria.
4. Investment objective and investment strategy of the
scheme is the main guiding force towards expectation
from it.
5. Taxes and loads applicable to the scheme have to be
considered while evaluating as they reduce the actual
return.
6. A proper methodology and checklist which is consistent
while selection would be beneficial for the distributor.

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NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS

Short Notes for Revision

The first step in goal setting is to identify life-cycle events in

After that, one needs to assign a timeline as well as amount

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |1

Inflation has a long-term impact, and hence while planning

1.2 Factors to evaluate investments

Safety: This begins with the safety of capital invested.

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |2

Liquidity: How easily can one liquidate the investment and

Returns: As seen earlier in the definition of investments, the

The current income is receivable periodically, without having

The exit charges, or penalty would bring down the returns, as

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |3

Ticket size: What is the minimum amount required for

1.3 Different Asset Classes

1.3.1 Real Estate

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |4

1.3.3 Fixed Income

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |5

1.3.5 ELSS for Tax Saving

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |6

1.3.6 There are similarities and differences between the

Investments in equity and bonds can be done only in financial

To that extent, the future returns from these assets, which

1.4 Investment Risks

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |7

1.4.1 Inflation Risk

1.4.2 Liquidity Risk

1.4.3 Credit Risk

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |8

Any delay or a default in the repayment of principal or

1.4.4 Market Risk and Price Risk

1.4.5 Interest Rate Risk

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |9

1.5 Risk Measures and Management Strategies

An investor can also take an investment position in

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |10

Herd Mentality: This bias is an outcome of uncertainty and a

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |11

Loss Aversion: Investors prefer to do nothing despite

1.7 Risk Profiling

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |12

1.8 Understanding Asset Allocation

‘Don’t put all your eggs in one basket’ is an old proverb. It

Types of Asset Allocation

Strategic Asset Allocation: It is the ideal that comes out of

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |13

2. CONCEPT AND ROLE OF A MUTUAL FUND

2.1 Concept of a Mutual Fund

Mutual fund is a vehicle to mobilize money from investors, to

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |14

2.1.1 Role of Mutual Funds

2.1.2 Investment Objectives of Mutual Funds

Net Asset Value

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |15

2. Affordable Portfolio Diversification

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |16

NISM VA – MUTUAL FUND DISTRIBUTORS EXAMINATION |17

10. Systematic Approach to Investments