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Difference Between Equity Fund vs Balanced Fund

Selecting an equity or balanced fund is one of the most critical strategic decisions for any investor and must be done carefully. The primary investment of equity funds is stocks, which will provide faster growth than bonds at a greater level of risk. Hence, it is suited for investors who want more growth.
Conversely, balanced funds invest in stocks and bonds with moderate risk levels. Whether your investment goal is a long-term or conservative investment, there is value in learning more about these investment choices. Continue reading this article to gain more clarity about the differences between equity funds vs balanced funds.
Table of Contents
What are Balanced Funds?
A balanced fund or hybrid fund is an investment product that combines debt and equity in its portfolio to achieve significant returns. It aims to capture desirable returns while managing risks. This is done by including equities and fixed-income securities in a single investment portfolio.
These funds minimise risks by diversifying their assets, making them preferred by investors with moderate risk-taking abilities. Balanced funds can adjust their investment based on current market conditions.
This dynamic investment strategy seeks to combine capital gains with capital protection. It offers a combination of growth potential through equities and stability through fixed-income securities, making it suitable for investors looking for a balanced approach.
What is an Equity Fund?
An Equity Fund is a type of mutual fund that primarily invests in stocks or equities of publicly traded companies. They invest in various companies in different sectors of the economy with varying market capitalisations. The primary goal of these funds is to provide enduring high rates of return using market and company performance.
Equity mutual funds are bought and managed by professionals. They choose stocks with the potential to yield high returns while simultaneously minimising the effects of risk by investing in diverse stocks.
Key Differences Between Balanced Funds and Equity Funds
Investors choose either of the two funds according to their choice and risk level. An equity fund is used for capital appreciation, and a balanced fund distributes and combines equities with bonds. Here are some of their key differences:
Pros of Investing in Balanced Funds and Equity Funds
Investing in balanced and equity funds presents excellent opportunities. Here's a breakdown of the key advantages of investing in them:
Cons of Investing in Balanced Funds and Equity Funds
Balanced and equity funds are different investment options, each with advantages and disadvantages. Some of the drawbacks are given in the table below:
Equity Fund vs Balanced Fund - Which is Better?
Equity and balanced funds are the most commonly invested funds suited to different risk levels and investment requirements. Here are certain key points that guide investors in making informed decisions:
1. Higher Returns
Equity funds emphasise stocks, providing more returns and higher volatility. Balanced funds consist of stocks and bonds, giving moderate returns with lower risks. Therefore, it is less volatile than an equity fund but gives steadier growth.
2. Investment Strategy
Equity funds use an aggressive approach, targeting growth through investing in stocks. These are suited to the risk-tolerant investor. Balanced funds take a conservative approach, using stocks and bonds to offer lower risks and much more stable returns.
3. Volatility
Equity funds are highly volatile. The price of stocks fluctuates very frequently, so there will be ups and downs. Balanced funds are less volatile because the risk is spread across stocks and bonds, so returns are more stable and predictable.
Therefore, it is always wise to focus on your risk tolerance level, time horizon, and goal when investing in equity and balanced funds.
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We do not promote or endorse any financial product or service mentioned in these articles. Readers are advised to conduct their own research, consult with financial experts, and make informed decisions based on their unique financial circumstances. Any reliance you place on the information provided here is strictly at your own risk.
FAQs about Equity Funds vs Balanced Funds
Which fund is better for long-term wealth creation: equity or a balanced fund?
Are any fixed returns to balanced funds higher than equity funds?
Is an equity fund riskier than a balanced fund?
Which type of fund is more suitable for retirement: equity or balanced funds?
What tax options are available between a balanced and an equity fund?
Which fund type needs a more extended period to grow?
Do balanced funds also invest in equities like equity funds?
Yes, balanced funds bring equity investment into the portfolio, though it usually constitutes between 40% and 60% of the portfolio and 80% to 100% of the equity funds.
Are equity funds appropriate for aggressive investors?
Do balanced funds shift the funds on their own?
Can you invest in diversified funds, including equity and balanced funds?
Which is better, equity funds or balanced funds?
What is the difference between equity funds and balanced funds?
Do equity funds generate better returns than balanced funds?
What are the advantages of investing in balanced funds over equity funds?
Balanced funds offer lower risk and more stability by combining equity and debt, making them suitable for conservative investors.
Other Important Articles about Mutual Funds
Disclaimer
- This is an informative article provided on 'as is' basis for awareness purpose only and not intended as a professional advice. The content of the article is derived from various open sources across the Internet. Digit Life Insurance is not promoting or recommending any aspect in the article or its correctness. Please verify the information and your requirement before taking any decisions.
- All the figures reflected in the article are for illustrative purposes. The premium for Coverage that one buys depends on various factors including customer requirements, eligibility, age, demography, insurance provider, product, coverage amount, term and other factors
- Tax Benefits, if applicable depend on the Tax Regime opted by the individual and the applicable tax provision. Please consult your Tax consultant before making any decision.
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