Skip to main content

Direct Mutual Funds - When Should You Choose Them Over Their Regular Counterparts?

What isdirect mutual fund? Should you choose these funds over your regular peers? A closer understanding of the two types is essential before deciding. 

Regular Mutual Funds 

You can use a mutual funds app to invest in these funds, and they are ones where you invest through any broker, intermediary, or distributor. The intermediaries will handhold the customer throughout the investment process and assist with documentation and transactions while offering advice. 

Direct Mutual Funds

These plans do not come with any assistance or support from intermediaries. In this case, you will buy mutual funds directly from the mutual fund house or AMC (asset management company). These plans often ensure higher returns owing to lower expense ratios than regular funds. However, investors with a solid understanding of various schemes and the market can only choose them since this is the only available guidance. 

Things to Consider When Switching to a Direct Mutual Fund

If you are thinking of switching to a direct mutual fund from regular options, then here are a few other things worth consideration: 

  • Lock-in periods- You can only change to a direct plan from a regular plan once the lock-in period expires. ELSS (equity-linked savings schemes) has lock-in periods of three years. You cannot switch before the conclusion of this period. Some other funds often have five-year lock-in periods. If you are investing via SIPs (systematic investment plans), then the lock-in period calculation takes place separately from every installment date. Every such investment should complete its lock-in period before you switch. 
  • Exit Load- Many schemes have penalties for investors withdrawing early, known as the exit load. It may be a percentage of the NAV (net asset value) that is subtracted during redemption. It is imposed if the investment is redeemed within a year from any equity fund. If you are investing in a regular mutual fund scheme through SIPs, then the exit load calculation is from the date of every monthly installment. 
  • Taxes- Switching to a direct mutual fund will mean redemption from the current plan and new investment in the new one. Hence, the redemption of regular mutual fund units will lead to capital gains taxes. The duration to be eligible for capital gains will begin once again from the investment date in the direct mutual fund scheme. Keep these aspects in mind to bypass unnecessary deductions by way of taxes. 

Why Should You Consider a Direct Mutual Fund

All said and done, direct plans may have several benefits for investors. Some of them include the following: 

  • These plans may offer higher returns than their regular counterparts since there are zero distribution costs and lower expense ratios. This seemingly nominal difference may add up to a sizable amount in the long haul due to compounding. 
  • These plans have a simpler process, where you directly purchase them from the mutual fund house or AMC. 
  • Mutual fund information relating to schemes, market movements, analysis, and other aspects is readily available online for investors. Hence, with some homework and knowledge, investors can skip the assistance part in regular fund schemes. 

Conclusion

Choose as per your knowledge, expertise, and time. You can earn higher returns with direct plans if you take risks without additional guidance. However, if you are a newbie without any idea of the market and mutual fund types, you can start with a regular mutual fund scheme.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Strategies for Building a Diversified Mutual Fund Portfolio

  When it comes to mutual fund investment , diversification is a tried-and-true strategy that can help you manage risk and potentially enhance your returns. Diversifying your mutual fund portfolio involves spreading your investments across different types of mutual funds in India to create a well-rounded and balanced approach to wealth creation. In this article, we'll explore strategies for building a diversified mutual fund portfolio tailored to your financial goals.     Understand Your Investment Goals     Before you embark on your journey of mutual funds investment plans , take a moment to define your investment goals. Are you saving for retirement, buying a house, or building an emergency fund? Understanding your objectives beforehand will help you determine the appropriate mix of mutual funds. If your goal is long-term wealth creation, you might consider equity mutual funds for higher potential returns. For short-term goals, debt funds could be mo...

Liquid Funds: Your Ultimate Solution for Short-Term Financial Goal

  In the dynamic world of finance, liquid funds emerge as a versatile category of debt funds tailored to cater to the short-term financial aspirations of investors . But what exactly are liquid funds, and why should they be on your radar when charting your financial course? In this article, we will unravel the essence of liquid funds, steer clear of jargon, and present a comprehensive guide to this financial instrument in the Indian context.   Demystifying Liquid Funds     Liquid funds belong to the realm of debt funds, making them a low-risk investment option. These funds primarily deploy your capital in short-term fixed-interest money market instruments. To put it more plainly, these funds allocate your capital into assets like Treasury bills, commercial paper, and comparable financial instruments. These holdings offer investors the dual benefit of safety and liquidity, making them an attractive choice for those with short-term financial goals.     ...

ELSS Funds: Building a Diversified Portfolio for Long-Term Growth

  Are you looking for a smart investment option that offers long-term growth potential and tax benefits? ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme) funds present a optimal opportunity for investors to enjoy the best of both worlds. Not only do they have the potential to grow your wealth over time, but they also provide valuable tax-saving advantages. We will start by understanding ELSS funds, uncover their tax-saving benefits, and discuss how they can play a vital role in building a diversified portfolio for long-term growth. So, let's dive in and discover the exciting world of ELSS funds! Understanding ELSS Funds: ELSS funds are a category of mutual funds that primarily invest in equity markets. These investments are meant to generate long-term growth in value and come with tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act under the old tax regime. Unlike traditional tax-saving instruments such as Fixed Deposits and Public Provident Funds, ELSS funds have a lower lock-in period of...