THE MUTUAL FUND industry in India has witnessed significant growth over the last decade, showcasing the increasing trust and participation of investors in MFs as a viable investment option. From February 2014 to February 2024, the industry’s assets under management (AUM) has seen a near six-fold jump, from ₹9.16 lakh crore to over ₹54 lakh crore. This rapid growth is partly owing to the significant rise in equity assets, which now stand at ₹25.5 lakh crore. The equity assets, including equity-linked savings schemes and index funds, have compounded at an impressive rate of 25% since FY19. This growth rate surpasses the 14% rate at which the Nifty has compounded over the same period, highlighting the attractive returns offered by equity mutual funds compared to the broader stock market.