Gold prices are soaring, prompting investors to consider Gold ETFs and Gold Funds. Experts suggest a staggered approach, with gold funds ideal for those without demat accounts or preferring SIPs. Diversification into silver and industrial metals is also recommended for potential economic recovery scenarios. Both options offer similar returns, but ETFs are more liquid and cost-effective for lump sums.

Multi-asset allocation funds have consistently lagged precious metals like gold and silver across various time horizons, primarily due to their diversified structure and limited commodity exposure. Experts attribute metals' outperformance to global uncertainty and inflation, yet caution against replacing diversified portfolios. They emphasize that multi-asset funds offer better long-term risk-adjusted returns and wealth creation through balanced asset allocation.

Retirement planning involves a process. Determine years to retirement and post-retirement life. Account for inflation effects on expenses. Estimate your costs after retirement. Choose investment instruments by your age. Compute the total amount for your retirement. Begin investing early for corpus growth.

Quant Mutual Fund has highlighted in its monthly release that its portfolio continues to be tilted towards large-cap stocks and the fund house has recently increased exposure in select NBFCs and public sector banks.

DSP World Mining Overseas Equity Omni FoF topped September 2025 with a 13.15% return, driven by its heavy exposure to gold and copper mining companies. The fund benefited from the commodities upcycle, particularly precious metals, despite unrated status by major agencies. Experts suggest emerging markets offer better diversification than developed ones.

Consumption-based mutual funds posted negative returns last year, but recent GST 2.0 reforms, simplifying tax slabs and cutting FMCG rates, are seen as a major positive. Experts believe these changes, coupled with India's evolving consumption story, create an opportune moment for long-term investors, with new funds launching.

ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund has launched the ICICI Prudential Conglomerate Fund, an open-ended equity scheme focusing on promoter-led Indian business groups with diverse listed entities. The NFO, open until October 17, aims to capture the resilience and growth potential of these diversified entities across various sectors and market caps.