The New Financial Year Investment Dilemma

As the new financial year FY26 begins, investors are actively revisiting their strategies to align with long-term wealth creation goals. Mumbai-based investor Yash Shrimali faced a common conundrum: how to invest Rs 1 lakh monthly in mutual funds while maintaining stability and manageability. His current method of spreading Rs 10,000 across 10 different funds prompted expert advice for a smarter approach.

Overcoming the Over-Diversification Trap

Financial expert Shweta Jain, Founder of Investography, highlighted a prevalent investment mistake: over-diversification. She noted that having too many funds, particularly those with thematic or sectoral exposure, can dilute potential returns and complicate monitoring. “There’s a problem of plenty here,” Jain mentioned, suggesting a refined strategy with fewer funds.

Simplifying with Four Well-Chosen Mutual Funds

Jain proposed a consolidated plan: a four-fund strategy for a Rs 1 lakh monthly SIP. This approach balances diversification with simplicity, enhancing efficiency and returns. Here’s the allocation she recommended:

  • DSP Nifty 50 Index Fund - Rs 25,000/month: A passive fund that brings market stability and forms the portfolio’s core.
  • Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund - Rs 25,000/month: Offers midcap exposure with strong growth potential.
  • ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund - Rs 25,000/month: An actively managed large-cap fund for consistency and strength.
  • Bandhan Smallcap Fund - Rs 25,000/month: Captures potential alpha from the small-cap segment.

Optional Flexibility: The Flexicap Add-On

For those seeking more diversification, Jain suggested considering the Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund. This fund fuses large-cap, midcap, and small-cap exposure with some international allocation. By incorporating this option, the investor can balance their SIP across five funds at Rs 20,000 each.

Embracing Simplicity for Long-term Success

As FY26 unfolds, the key to successful financial planning lies in creating a straightforward, well-diversified, and consistent portfolio. Over-diversifying can add complexity without enhancing returns. For investors like Yash, discipline, fund selection, and consistency are paramount for wealth creation.

By concentrating his SIPs from 10 funds to a strategically chosen 4 or 5, Yash is poised to achieve financial goals while minimizing unnecessary volatility. According to The Economic Times, sticking to a streamlined strategy enhances both peace of mind and investment outcomes.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations and views shared by experts are their own and do not represent the opinions of Economic Times.)