AMC & product-related updates
Industry data shows that Nippon India Mutual Fund, ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund and HDFC Mutual Fund ranked as the top three AMCs by folio count in March 2026.
Gold ETFs saw strong growth in FY26, with AUM rising by 213%. Maharashtra led the growth, while several emerging states also recorded sharp increases.
In the insurance-linked investment space, Bajaj Life launched a ULIP focused on low-volatility stocks. The offer is open from April 16 to April 30.
Regulatory & policy developments
RBI has partially rolled back restrictions on rupee derivative trading. Limits on NDF positions for banks have been eased after earlier controls were introduced to manage currency volatility.
Mutual fund & distribution signals
SIP flows remained steady even as equity MF NAVs declined around 14% from September 2024 levels, leading to lower returns across SIP cohorts.
Investors who started SIPs between 2022 and 2025 are now seeing muted or negative XIRRs, compared to earlier double-digit returns during the post-pandemic period.
Mutual funds increased allocation to defensive sectors. Healthcare exposure rose to 7.8% in March, reaching an eight-month high, while exposure to cyclical sectors was reduced.
Markets & sectoral trends
Indian equity markets closed flat on April 20, 2026, after a volatile session. Benchmark indices ended with marginal gains amid rising geopolitical tensions and higher crude oil prices.
Investor sentiment remained cautious ahead of the expected expiry of the US–Iran ceasefire on April 22.
In the broader economy, core sector output declined by 0.4% in March due to weakness in coal, crude oil and fertiliser production.
Corporate actions, capital flows & business developments
Pernod Ricard has started the process for a potential IPO of its India business.
India Post reported revenue of ₹15,296 crore in FY26, marking a 16% increase compared to the previous year.
Bajaj Consumer Care is targeting ₹500 crore revenue from its non-Almond portfolio over the next three years.
India and South Korea have set a trade target of $50 billion by 2030 as part of expanded economic cooperation.
In the sectoral outlook, the paint industry is expected to see double-digit volume growth, supported by demand trends despite rising input costs.
Source: Moneycontrol, Business Standard, CNBC TV18, Financial Express, CafemutualDisclaimer: The content shared above is intended solely for general awareness and educational purposes for mutual fund and financial product distributors. It does not constitute investment advice, solicitation, or a recommendation of any kind. Investments in securities markets are subject to market risks. Distributors and investors should review all relevant documents carefully before making any decision.
