INVESTORS need to focus on a few features when they are looking at equityoriented mutual funds because this will enable them to get a proper picture of how they are being managed. There has to be a proper way in which the entire effort is undertaken so that no important point is missed out. Here is a look at some factors that need your attention.

Diversification:

One of the main points of a mutual fund is that it allows for diversification of the portfolio. There are multiple holdings in the portfolio of the investor whereby this ensures that there is a lower amount of risk that is present with the mutual fund investment. However, there are times when the fund actually ensures that there is over diversification. This is a situation where there are so many holdings that this does not give any additional benefit to the investor, as the performance remains tepid even when there is a good rise in several holdings in the portfolio. This can be avoided if the fund is following a proper strategy with respect to the diversification in the portfolio and there is some element of concentration. This is required to some extent so the presence of this can be considered as a factor that would be significant.

Decision making process:

 There has to be an element of research that goes behind the decision making process for the fund.

The capability on this front is crucial because over a longer time frame,

the ability of the fund to undertake the necessary rigorous exercise to weed out investments that do not make the grade. The research strength will also ensure that the problems are known beforehand and the fund manager is able to take the necessary steps with respect to the portfolio. There will also be a specific process that goes behind the decision making while investing, which will set the benchmark for the fund to operate. So the presence of adequate research facilities is a good thing.

Consistency:

 Fund management calls for a consistent strategy that has to be followed over a long period of time. It should not be that when the times are good, a certain strategy is followed not because it is valid but due to the fact that this is giving some result and then this is immediately dumped as things go wrong. If there is an element of consistency for the purpose of managing the equity exposure and the way in which the funds are actually managed then the fund will be able to show results at the end of the day.

This will be in terms of the consistency in returns and this is something that every investor should look out for.

Facing tough times:

The real challenge for any fund is being able to face the tough times with an element of confidence and this would be possible only when there is adequate homework undertaken and when there is a clear thought and strategy behind the various steps. It is vital that the tough times have to be faced with the same action as good times and this is what will set a fund apart from its peers. It will help build confidence of the investor and this is something that needs attention so that the position on this front is known properly.

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