Stock market investments can be rewarding. But they are also equally risky. You must carefully monitor the market and analyze different stocks to make informed decisions. This is why most investors turn to mutual funds. They are convenient and managed by experts called fund managers.
Think of them as the captain of a ship, keeping it afloat and guiding it to its destination.
Similarly, a mutual fund manager takes all financial decisions to ensure the fund’s constant growth as it cruises through the torrential weather of the financial markets.
Keep reading to learn who is a fund manager and how they help you reach your financial goals.
A fund manager is an investment expert who manages different types of funds to generate good returns for their clients. This includes mutual funds, pension funds, and hedge funds. Some fund managers also provide portfolio management services. They
-study all the assets in a particular class of funds to select the best ones
-allocate different percentages of accumulated funds to the selected assets, and
-continuously monitor the fund’s performance to make amends to the portfolio
A fund manager is responsible for handling a vast pool of money. This requires mental strength backed by profound knowledge of the financial markets. The role of the fund manager includes:
1. Investment research: Investment decisions must be built on extensive research and analysis. A fund manager is responsible for conducting an in-depth analysis of the financial instrument under his management. They evaluate financial statements, monitor market changes, and predict market trends.
2. Risk management: Managing risk is the topmost priority for any fund manager. They maintain the risk-reward ratio through strategies like portfolio diversification, hedging, and calculated asset allocation.
3. Portfolio construction: A fund manager constructs the perfect portfolio based on market trends, risk management, and investment opportunities. This portfolio comprises various securities allocated in different percentages to generate positive returns.
4. Portfolio monitoring: The fund manager continuously monitors the portfolio performance and makes necessary adjustments to reduce risk while maximizing returns. They constantly stay updated with financial developments to make strategic decisions based on future predictions.
Fund managers are different in all segments. They can be categorized into passive or active based on their portfolio management techniques.
| Category | Active fund manager | Passive fund manager |
| Investment approach | A take-charge approach to outperform the benchmark index | A compliant approach to replicate the performance of the benchmark index |
| Research and analysis | Conducts extensive research and analysis of securities and market trends | Conducts limited research with more focus on replicating the index |
| Return potential | The aim of outperforming the index can fetch higher returns | Returns can be based on the index’s performance |
| Flexibility | Might deviate from the benchmark and adjust strategies according to changes in market conditions | Replicates the index movement, hence has lower flexibility |
| Target client | Suited for aggressive investors with a high-risk appetite and an urge for higher returns | Suited for conservative investors seeking steady wealth generation |
| Fees | Higher fees due to more involvement of the manager | Lower fees due to less hands-on involvement of the manager |
| Example | Flexi-cap equity fund, Funds of fund | Nifty50 Index funds, Midcap Index funds |
Careful analysis and expertise are required in managing both kinds of funds. However, the true talent of a fund manager is showcased in active funds, compared to passive funds.
The qualifications and expertise of a fund manager determine their ability to manage the funds and deliver favorable outcomes. If you wish to become a fund manager, you must have in-depth knowledge of financial markets, macroeconomics, and mathematics. Additionally, you must also have the following qualifications:
1. Bachelor’s degree: Undergraduate degree in any finance-related stream like economics, finance, commerce, or business administration.
2. Master’s degree: Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) in finance is preferred by most asset management companies.
3. Professional certification: A relevant professional certification like Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) or Certified Financial Planner (CFP) boosts your profile.
Apart from certifications, gaining hands-on experience through internships and entry-level finance jobs is recommended. These experiences will develop your skills in analyzing financial statements, identifying investment opportunities, and predicting market trends. Gaining experience will also let you network with brilliant minds in finance, motivating you to upskill yourself to bag the position you dream of.
Selecting the right fund manager for your portfolio is crucial. After all, they will be responsible for managing your hard-earned money.
Consider these factors when choosing your fund manager:
1. Investment style: Determine if the fund manager’s investing style aligns with yours. If you are a conservative investor, opting for someone with an aggressive investment style may not be ideal. To understand a fund manager’s investment style, evaluate their risk management techniques and read their monthly reports and investor updates.
2. Experience: Check if the fund manager has enough experience and a good track record. You can look up this information on the AMC’s official website. You can also access the fund manager's qualifications and overall experience in asset management.
3. Fees and expenses: A fund’s expense ratio not only depends on the type of fund but also on who manages it. A fund manager with years of experience and an active management style usually has a higher expense ratio. Make sure you check this ratio carefully before selecting a fund to avoid any inconvenience later.
4. Fund size: Most investors prefer investing in a scheme with a larger fund size. Why? Because it shows the fund manager’s competence and that their system is trusted and profitable. A company with a large AUM generally has many resources for its fund manager to work with.
Fund managers are experienced professionals with a strong grasp of the market. They are experts in investing and handling a high volume of funds to generate profitable returns. An experienced fund manager is the perfect captain of your ship of investments.
Start your mutual fund investments with Tata Capital Moneyfy’s expert fund managers or download the Moneyfy app today!
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20 June 2023
6 mins read
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