With increasing awareness and accessibility, mutual funds are no longer limited to urban investors. Today, even individuals from smaller towns and diverse professions are actively exploring market-linked investments for long-term wealth creation. For investors with a long horizon and no immediate liquidity needs, a disciplined and well-diversified equity portfolio can play a crucial role in building a sizeable corpus over time.

A similar query came from Ram Kumar, a 60-year-old farmer from Haryana and a viewer of The Money Show, who is looking to invest Rs 10 lakh in mutual funds for the next 15 years. With a fixed deposit maturing next year and no near-term requirement for funds, he is open to taking equity exposure and wants to build a portfolio across four schemes that cover the broader Indian market.

Also Read |Can Rs 70 lakh grow to Rs 5 crore? Expert says a 10% step-up SIP may fall short of the goal
According to Srikanth Bhagavat, MD, Principal Advisor, Hexagon Wealth, the first thing to acknowledge is the investor’s long-term mindset. A 15-year horizon allows for meaningful participation in equities, but it also requires the ability to stay invested through market volatility. Investors must be prepared for phases of correction and avoid emotional decisions, neither panic during downturns nor excessive risk-taking during market rallies.

“It is amazing to see how a farmer in Haryana is now confident of investing in mutual funds. A few years ago, we just could not have thought of this kind of a scenario. This is the kind of penetration that we have reached and there is a way to go,” Bhagavat said.

Given the long investment horizon and no immediate need for withdrawals, a predominantly equity-oriented portfolio is considered appropriate. The expert said that the investor should be aware that he will go through volatile phases and not trade on it. When markets are down, as they are today and are bound to happen in the future also, do not panic and do not become exuberant and take excessive risks when markets are high either.
To build a simple yet effective allocation, the expert suggests starting with a core exposure to large-cap stocks through a Nifty index fund. Choosing a low-cost index fund with minimal tracking error ensures efficient participation in the broader market without active management risks.
To complement this, flexi-cap funds can be added to the portfolio. These funds dynamically allocate across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks, offering both stability and growth potential. Among the options, schemes like HDFC Flexi Cap Fund, Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund, and Kotak Flexi Cap Fund are cited as examples of established funds in this category. Typically, such funds maintain a strong large-cap base while selectively investing in mid- and small-cap stocks to enhance returns over time.
This combination helps create a balanced portfolio, index funds provide stability and market-linked returns, while flexi-cap funds add active management and potential alpha generation.

Also Read |Low-cost index funds & ETFs should form backbone of your portfolio: Vishal Jain, CEO, Zerodha Mutual Fund
In essence, a simple four-fund portfolio anchored by a Nifty index fund and supported by flexi-cap funds can offer broad market exposure and growth potential. For investors like Ram Kumar, the real edge lies not just in fund selection, but in patience, consistency, and the ability to stay invested through market ups and downs.

(Disclaimer: Recommendations, suggestions, views and opinions given by the experts are their own. These do not represent the views of The Economic Times)

If you have any mutual fund queries, message on ET Mutual Funds on Facebook/Twitter. We will get it answered by our panel of experts. Do share your questions on ETMFqueries@timesinternet.in alongwith your age, risk profile, and twitter handle

Over the five trading sessions ending April 30, the Sensex benchmark slipped 0.97%, falling 751 points to close at 76,913. The index ended lower in three of the five sessions between April 24 and 30. Despite some market weakness, 15 stocks from the BSE SmallCap index recorded gains in all five sessions, with cumulative gains of up to 25% over the period. (Data source: ACE Equity)

Income is one of the most powerful words in investing.

Say “growth,” and some investors get excited. Say “value,” and others nod politely. But say “income,” and everybody pays attention.

I get it.

The whole

MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota Timberwolves superstar Anthony Edwards will miss the start of the Western Conference semifinals against the San Antonio Spurs due to a left knee bone bruise and hyperextension, dealing a significant blow to the team’s playoff hopes just as they advance past the Denver Nuggets.

ESPN’s Shams Charania reported Friday that Edwards is expected to be sidelined for the opening games of the series, which tips off Monday in San Antonio. The injury, suffered in Game 4 of the first-round series against Denver, is a multi-week issue — at minimum two weeks — though the 24-year-old has a reputation as a quick healer.

“This is a multi-week, minimum two-week injury,” Charania said on ESPN’s “Get Up.” “Anthony Edwards, who’s a very quick healer, they nicknamed him the Wolverine out there in Minnesota just because of his pain threshold, but he will be out to start this next series against San Antonio Spurs.”

The Timberwolves officially diagnosed Edwards with a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise following an MRI at Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine. Tests confirmed no ligament damage, a major relief after the frightening moment when his knee buckled awkwardly while contesting a shot.

Edwards left Game 4 in the second quarter after landing hard on a rim attempt and hyperextending his leg while trying to block Cam Johnson. He was helped off the court and ruled out for the remainder of that contest. The Wolves went on to win the series in six games without him, showcasing impressive depth in a gritty victory in Game 6.

For a player who averaged 28.8 points, 5.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists during the regular season while shooting 48.9% from the field and 39.9% from three, Edwards’ absence creates a massive void. The All-Star guard has been the engine of Minnesota’s offense, blending explosive athleticism, scoring versatility and leadership that carried the Wolves to the playoffs.

Impact on Timberwolves’ Playoff Run

Minnesota enters the second round as underdogs against a Spurs team led by Victor Wembanyama, boasting a strong 62-20 regular-season record. The Spurs swept the season series or performed well against the Wolves, adding pressure.

Without Edwards, the Wolves will lean heavily on veterans like Julius Randle, if healthy, and role players such as Naz Reid, Mike Conley and emerging contributors. Coach Chris Finch has emphasized team resilience, noting the group’s ability to close out Denver despite multiple injuries, including Donte DiVincenzo’s season-ending Achilles tear in the same game.

“Ant is a huge part of what we do, but we’ve shown we can compete and win without him,” Finch said in a post-series news conference. “Our focus is on preparation and staying ready for when he’s able to return.”

Edwards’ high pain tolerance and recovery history offer hope. Dubbed “the Wolverine” by teammates for his durability, he has bounced back from previous knocks quickly. An estimated return around mid-May could align with potential later games in the series, assuming Minnesota advances.

The Injury Details and Recovery Outlook

Bone bruises in the knee are painful and limit mobility but typically heal with rest, physical therapy and anti-inflammatory measures. Unlike ligament tears, they don’t require surgery, allowing for a more optimistic timeline. Edwards avoided structural damage, which was the primary concern immediately after the hyperextension.

Rehabilitation will focus on reducing swelling, restoring range of motion and gradually rebuilding strength. The Wolves’ medical staff, working with specialists at Mayo Clinic, will monitor progress daily. Week-to-week status means updates could come frequently, but rushing back risks re-injury in the high-stakes playoff environment.

NBA history shows stars like Edwards often return stronger after such setbacks. His explosiveness and ability to elevate above defenders make knee health critical, but early indicators suggest a positive path.

Edwards’ Rise and Stakes for Minnesota

Selected first overall in 2020 out of Georgia, Edwards has blossomed into one of the league’s premier talents. At 6-foot-4 and 225 pounds, he combines elite scoring with improving playmaking and defense. His playoff performances this year, before the injury, included explosive outings that reminded fans of his superstar potential.

The Timberwolves invested heavily in surrounding Edwards with talent, pairing him with Rudy Gobert’s rim protection and other pieces to contend in the West. Reaching the conference finals or beyond has been the goal, but Edwards’ health could determine how far they go.

Fans and analysts have flooded social media with support and speculation. Many highlight the Wolves’ resilience in Game 6 as a sign of depth, while others worry about matching up with Wembanyama’s size and skill without their primary scorer.

Broader Playoff Context

The Western Conference remains wide open. With injuries affecting multiple teams — including concerns around other stars — depth and adaptability are proving decisive. The Spurs present unique challenges with their young core and home-court advantage in the early games.

If Edwards returns mid-series, it could shift momentum dramatically. His ability to create shots, attack the rim and stretch the floor would complement Minnesota’s defensive identity. Until then, the Wolves must execute a team-first approach, emphasizing ball movement, rebounding and opportunistic scoring.

Team officials remain optimistic. “Ant’s work ethic and commitment to recovery are unmatched,” one source close to the organization said. “We’re preparing as if he’s out initially but staying ready for his impact when cleared.”

What Fans Can Expect

As the series approaches, all eyes will be on Edwards’ recovery updates. Practice participation, if any, and travel with the team could signal progress. The NBA’s injury reporting rules ensure transparency, with daily statuses for playoff games.

For Edwards personally, this setback tests his mental toughness after a breakout campaign. At just 24, he has time on his side, but the urgency of playoffs adds pressure. His social media posts have shown positivity, focusing on supporting teammates from the sidelines.

Minnesota’s front office and coaching staff face tough roster decisions, potentially adjusting rotations to maximize production from bench units. Players like Anthony Edwards’ understudies will get expanded roles, creating opportunities for breakout performances.

The injury also underscores the physical toll of the modern NBA playoff grind. Hyperextensions can occur on routine plays, reminding everyone of the sport’s risks even for elite athletes.

Looking Ahead

The Timberwolves-Spurs series promises drama, with or without Edwards initially. Game 1 on May 4 at Frost Bank Center sets the tone. Minnesota aims to steal a road win before returning home, where Edwards could potentially make his return.

Edwards’ long-term outlook remains bright. This injury, while disruptive, appears manageable. For now, the Wolves march forward, embodying the “next man up” mentality that defined their first-round comeback.

As updates emerge, basketball fans worldwide will track every development. Anthony Edwards’ return could ignite Minnesota’s postseason run, turning a challenging series into a memorable one. Until then, the focus shifts to collective effort in pursuit of advancement

This article was written by

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After 16 years dominating global algorithmic trading, AlphaGrep is pivoting to the Indian retail market. CEO Bhautik Ambani identifies a critical “whitespace” where institutional-grade rigor meets individual portfolios. By replacing discretionary bias with systematic, model-driven frameworks, India’s newest mutual fund aims to democratize the sophisticated quant strategies once reserved for the world’s largest institutions.

Edited excerpts from a chat:

AlphaGrep has spent 16 years as a powerhouse in global quantitative and algorithmic trading. What was the internal “tipping point” that made you decide it was time to bring this institutional-grade rigor to the Indian retail mutual fund investor?

The tipping point was recognising a clear gap or whitespace. Globally, investing has become increasingly driven by algorithms, models, and AI-led frameworks, while in India, retail portfolios are still largely discretionary. With participation scaling rapidly, it felt like the right time to bring institutional-grade, systematic investing into a mutual fund format.

The Indian MF space is dominated by large, legacy players with massive distribution networks. As a new entrant, how tough is it going to be competing with big names like BlackRock on one hand and bank-backed fund houses on the other side?

Distribution scale is an advantage, but outcomes are driven by process. We’re not trying to out-distribute incumbents—we’re focused on building differentiated, model-driven portfolios. If the process is robust and consistent, distribution tends to follow.

To begin your journey in the mutual fund industry, which scheme would you be launching first?

Subject to regulatory approvals, we are looking at a dynamic multi-asset allocation strategy—allocating across equity, debt, and commodities using algorithms and models. The idea is to build a portfolio that adapts to changing market conditions rather than staying static.

Many argue that the industry is polarizing between low-cost passive index funds and high-conviction active management. Where does Alpha Grep fit in this spectrum?

We operate in the active systematic space. Passive is rules-based but static; traditional active is flexible but discretionary. Our approach uses algorithms, AI, and models to take active calls within a disciplined, repeatable framework.

In an increasingly efficient market, generating consistent alpha is becoming harder. How does a quantitative approach improve the probability of beating the benchmark compared to traditional stock-picking methods?

Alpha is getting harder, especially in efficient segments. A systematic approach improves the odds by removing behavioural biases, processing large datasets, and enforcing consistency. It’s about compounding multiple small, disciplined decisions—not relying on a few big calls.

What does success look like for Alpha Grep Mutual Fund in the next 3–5 years? Is the goal to dominate market share, or to pioneer a specific category of “quant-first” investing in India?

Success is building credibility for model-driven investing in India. If investors start seeing algorithms, AI, and systematic strategies as a core allocation—not a niche—that’s success. Scale will follow trust.

We are seeing a massive surge in AI adoption across finance. Do you believe we are reaching a point where “non-quant” funds will struggle to compete in the long run?

It’s less about replacement and more about evolution. Just as businesses can’t ignore AI today, investing too is becoming more data-driven. Funds that don’t integrate algorithms and models may find it harder to deliver consistency over time.

As someone who looks at data and signals, how do you view the current state of the Indian equity markets? What are your models telling you?

Markets are being driven as much by flows and liquidity as by fundamentals. Our proprietary asset allocation model is currently at ~50% of its peak equity exposure, reflecting a more balanced stance. The key variable ahead is earnings—higher oil and commodity prices, along with potential supply-side pressures, could impact margins. Our approach is to adapt dynamically as data evolves, with risk management at the core.

Foreign portfolio investors were cautious on Indian debt in April, with returns weighed down by a combination of global and domestic headwinds. They invested a modest ₹1,976 crore through the fully accessible route (FAR) for eligible government securities during the month, following net sales of ₹17,688 crore in March.

Economists said elevated real interest rates in advanced economies such as the United States and Japan, a weakening rupee, the risk of higher domestic interest rates, and mounting concerns over fiscal slippage have all combined to temper foreign appetite for Indian debt.

“Outflows could continue intermittently as the impact of higher oil prices on India’s macroeconomic outlook will be felt,” said Dhiraj Nim, economist and FX strategist, ANZ Bank. “Debt inflows are likely to remain patchy amid growing risks of higher interest rates, rupee depreciation expectations and concerns over the fiscal deficit, all of which could keep foreign portfolio investors on the sidelines.”

The FAR pertains to a specialised window, introduced by the central bank six years ago, that allows overseas funds to own specified Indian sovereign debt without caps.

Near-term outlook for Indian debt remains challenging, with economists not expecting any meaningful inflows into Indian bonds. Over the longer term, substantial inflows are likely only if a significant catalyst emerges, such as the inclusion of Indian sovereign debt in a major global benchmark index like the Bloomberg Aggregate Bond Index.
The Indian rupee fell to a fresh record low of 95.33 against the dollar on Thursday, as a sharp rise in crude oil prices triggered a broader risk-off move across global asset classes. Higher oil prices have also intensified concerns over India’s fiscal position, given the country’s heavy dependence on energy imports.
The 10-year Japanese government bond yield reached a 29-year high of 2.52% on Thursday due to an increase in oil prices, according to Reuters. The 10-year US bond yield was up at 4.41%.
“The yield differential between India and US or Japan is also causing many FPIs to move out of emerging markets like India and invest in those bonds, especially at these rates,” said a senior fixed income trader at a foreign bank.