Impact of NAV fluctuations on mutual fund performance
In mutual funds, the Net Asset Value (NAV) holds paramount importance. As an Indian investor, understanding NAV fluctuations can significantly impact your investment decisions. By grasping the significance of NAV and its correlation with market prices, you can equip yourself with the essential knowledge to make informed choices and achieve your financial goals.
What is NAV?
NAV, or Net Asset Value, is the per-unit value of a mutual fund scheme. It represents the fund’s assets’ value after deducting its liabilities, divided by the total number of units investors hold. Simply put, it is the price at which you buy or sell a mutual fund unit.
How does NAV work?
The NAV of mutual funds is calculated daily based on the closing market prices of its underlying assets. Mutual funds are traded in various bonds, stocks and other securities whose price changes throughout the trading day. Finally, the fund’s net asset value (NAV) are calculated after deducting debt.
Since NAV is calculated daily, it gives investors an up-to-date investment valuation. This enables you to monitor your investment’s performance and make informed decisions.
Should investors pay attention to the NAV?
Yes, the NAV is an essential factor to consider. Still, it should not be the sole basis for making investment decisions. While a lower NAV might seem attractive, it doesn’t necessarily mean the fund performs better. The key is to assess the fund’s performance over time rather than focusing solely on the latest mutual fund NAV. Consider other factors like the fund’s historical returns, investment strategy, and risk profile.
NAV allotment for different investment types
The NAV allotment process differs for various types of mutual fund investments. Let’s take a look at two common types:
- Lump-sum investment: When you invest a lump sum amount in a mutual fund, the NAV is considered for allotting units at the time of your investment. The units allotted to you will be calculated based on your invested amount and the NAV on that specific day.
- Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): The NAV is relevant for each installment date for SIP investments. Every month, as you invest a fixed amount, you will be allotted units based on the NAV on that particular date. One way to implement the principle of rupee-cost averaging is to buy more units when the NAV is low and fewer units when the NAV is high. This strategy helps to maintain a well-balanced investment approach.
To wrap up
The net asset value plays a crucial role in the performance of mutual funds in India. Consider the fund’s historical performance, investment strategy, risk, and your own financial goals.
