Large Cap Mutual Funds - Meaning, Pros & Cons

What are Large Cap Mutual Funds?

Large cap mutual funds mainly invest in the stocks or shares of large companies with massive market capitalisation. 

Such companies are known for their outstanding reputation in the market and a steady track record of good profits on investments. 

Known for offering constant returns, good large cap mutual funds are perfect if you want stable growth over a medium to long-term period, generally 5 years or more.

How Do Large Cap Mutual Funds Work?

Large cap mutual funds work just like any other mutual fund. They pool money from multiple investors and invest it in various instruments.

These funds primarily invest money in the top 100 companies in India. The list includes names like Reliance Industries, Britannia, HUL, TCS, HDFC Bank, Nestle India, ITC, and more. 

As per regulations, large cap equity mutual funds have to invest 80% or more of their funds in such top 100 companies. 

Benefits of Investing in Large Cap Mutual Funds

With the best large cap mutual funds, you can enjoy the following benefits —

• Stability: Large cap funds are primarily known for their higher market share and less volatility. They present a great opportunity to make steady returns without compromising stability. This makes large cap funds ideal for those seeking a safer investment option. 
• High Rate of Liquidity: This type of mutual fund provides a high rate of liquidity in markets. So as an investor, you can easily liquidate your portfolio whenever required. 
• Lower Impact of Market Crashes: Large cap mutual funds are usually better to withstand market downturns than mid or small cap funds. They provide stability for your investment portfolio during challenging economic conditions. However, it’s worth remembering that diversification does not guarantee returns on investment to remove the risks of loss.
• Capital Appreciation and Dividends: In mutual funds, capital appreciation happens when the investment value increases. However, some of the top large cap mutual funds also offer steady dividends. 

Which are the Top Large Cap Mutual Funds India?

Here is the top large cap mutual funds’ list for India —

Who Should Invest in Large Cap Mutual Funds?

Large cap funds are usually ideal for conservative investors. 

Here’s who should invest in the best large cap mutual funds —

• Those Who Wish to Invest in Top Companies in India: Large cap firms are mostly reputable, reliable, and well-established companies in the market with highly successful business models. So if you invest in a large cap mutual fund, you become a partial owner of several top companies in India.
• Investors Seeking Less Volatile Returns: Large cap mutual funds make investments in well-established and leading firms across different sectors. These companies have stable growth and successful business models, large market shares, solid supply chains, and many other such factors. 

Compared to mid and small cap mutual funds, large cap funds are better equipped to endure market corrections and challenging financial situations. This makes them ideal for those who don't want much volatility.

Factors to Consider While Investing in Large Cap Mutual Funds

While the top large cap mutual funds are among the safest mutual fund options, it’s still important to consider certain factors —

• Check Investment Risks: It’s important to understand your own risk-taking ability. While the risk associated with large cap funds is typically lower, it cannot be removed completely as the funds are linked to the market. 
• Compare the Costs: Make sure that you compare the costs of different investment options. Check the large cap fund expense ratios, which show the costs related to fund management. The lower the ratio, the higher will be your overall returns.
• Check Past Performance: Explore the past performance of the fund. Ideally, check returns for the past 1, 3, and 5 years horizon. 
• Taxes on Capital Gains: While the UAE doesn’t have any taxes on personal income, mutual funds are taxed in India — based on whether your investment is for the short or long term. So before investing, check the taxability of your returns.
• Long-term Investment: The best large cap mutual funds offer good returns mainly in the long term. So if you’re looking for quick returns, it’s advisable to go for small or mid-cap mutual funds. 

How to Invest in Large Cap Mutual Funds? 

To invest in the top large cap mutual funds India as an NRI, you need to follow a few steps — 

• Open an NRE or NRO account.
• Choose whether you want to invest by yourself or through the Power of Attorney (PoA).
• Complete the KYC.
• Once done, start investing.

Note: Make sure you comply with the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) guidelines and other regulations.

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