Hybrid Funds

Hybrid funds, mostly known as Balanced Funds, invest in two or more asset classes so that you can avail the benefit of all asset classes. There are various types of hybrid funds in the Indian mutual fund industry. The most popular kind of Hybrid Funds are the ones that invest in Equity and Debt. There are funds that also invest in Gold along with Equity and Debt. Hybrid funds are classified as Conservative, Aggressive and Asset allocation funds.

1. Ideally preferred by investors who would like to take limited risk on their investment
2. Since Hybrid funds are a mix of two or more asset classes - they are not as risky as equity funds, neither are they as safe as Debt funds.
3. Conservative Hybrid Funds invest in a blend of Debt and Equity. Minimum 75% of allocation in these funds is in Debt instruments. It is a good option for investors who wish to take very limited risk.
4. Aggressive Hybrid Funds can have up to 80% in equity depending on market conditions. These funds have the highest risk among all hybrid funds.
5. Asset Allocation Funds invest dynamically in equity and debt depending on the fund manager's view on economy, interest rate cycles, etc.