Introduction
SBI Mutual Fund has recently introduced the Nifty 500 Index Fund, which provides investors with exposure to the top 500 companies on the National Stock Exchange (NSE) based on market capitalization. This fund encompasses large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks, thereby allowing investors to diversify their portfolios across different market segments. The question now arises: Is this fund a wise choice for first-time mutual fund investors?
Current Landscape of Nifty 500 Index Funds
The SBI Nifty 500 Index Fund is not the only option available in the market. In fact, it follows the launch of similar funds by other notable players. Motilal Oswal launched its Nifty 500 Index Fund five years ago, and just two months back, Axis Mutual Fund introduced its own version. The Nifty 500 Index captures approximately 92% of all listed companies by market capitalization, ensuring a comprehensive representation of various sectors including small, medium, and large enterprises.
Sector Weightage in Nifty 500 Index
| Sector | Weightage (%) |
|---|---|
| Financial Sector | 27.60 |
| Information Technology | 9.90 |
| Oil, Gas, and Consumables Fuel | 8.75 |
| Automobile | Various |
| FMCG | Various |
Dominating this index is HDFC Bank, which holds a weightage of 6.41%, followed by Reliance Industries at 5.31%. Other significant companies include ICICI Bank, Infosys, and ITC, each contributing to the overall diversity and stability of the fund.
Performance Overview
The Motilal Oswal Nifty 500 Index Fund has shown commendable performance over the years, delivering a return of 35.29% over the past year, 16.73% over three years, and 21.84% over five years. Notably, this fundโs returns surpass those of the Nifty 100 Total Return Index (TRI) as well as the Nifty 50 Total Return Index.
Investment Allocation
The investment distribution in this fund is as follows:
- Large-cap stocks: 74.5%
- Mid-cap stocks: 16.6%
- Small-cap stocks: 8.9%
Should New Investors Consider This Fund?
Experts endorse the idea that new investors should consider investing in index funds with a broad portfolio like the SBI Nifty 500 Index Fund. The rationale is simple: in case of a market downturn, such diversified funds tend to experience less severe declines compared to more concentrated portfolios. According to Deepak Chhabria, CEO of Axion Financial Services, certain sectors and stocks may hold their ground during market crashes, helping to cushion the overall impact.
Investment Strategy and Considerations
While the Nifty 500 Index boasts a diverse portfolio, it is important to note that large caps have a more substantial share within the fund. Additionally, some sectors may weigh heavier than others. High-net-worth individuals typically gravitate towards passive funds like these due to their broad exposure and inherent stability. New investors should evaluate their investment objectives and risk tolerance before making a commitment to this fund.
In conclusion, the SBI Nifty 500 Index Fund offers a compelling opportunity for first-time investors seeking diversified exposure to the Indian equity market. However, thorough research and personal reflection on investment goals are crucial before proceeding.
