Aggressive Hybrid Funds are like a mix of two kinds of money jars — one that can grow quickly (but can go up and down a lot), and one that grows slowly but does not fluctuate. These funds try to give you more money in the long run by using both jars together.
What are Aggressive Hybrid Funds?
Aggressive Hybrid Funds are Mutual Funds that invest a major portion in equities, and the remaining in debt or fixed-income instruments. This unique mix offers a balance between growth potential from equities and stability from debt. If you're okay with a bit of risk and want your money to grow more over time — even if it sometimes goes up and down — this kind of fund could be a smart choice.
How do Aggressive Hybrid Funds work?
Aggressive Hybrid Funds combine two key investment types: equity (stocks) for growth and debt (bonds) for stability. Fund managers allocate around 65-80% of the fund in equities, to get higher returns. The remaining portion is invested in debt instruments, which provide steady returns and lower risk.
Features of an Aggressive Hybrid Fund
- Mix of stocks and bonds: These funds invest in both stocks (which grow fast) and bonds (which are safe).
- Focus on stocks: They usually put more money in stocks than in bonds — about 65% or more, to grow money faster. However, there might be more ups and downs.
- Expert handling: Professionals decide where to put the money — in which companies or bonds. It is like having a coach who picks the best team for a game.
- Balanced risk: Since it's not all in stocks, it's less risky than pure Equity-oriented Funds. It's like riding a skateboard with knee pads — more exciting, but still has some safety.
- SEBI-regulated: These funds follow regulations laid out by the SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India), ensuring transparency.
Benefits of investing in Aggressive Hybrid Funds
- Early investing: Starting with Hybrid Funds early means you give your money more time to grow. Thanks to compound interest, even small amounts invested now can turn into something impressive later.
- Automatic rebalancing: These funds self-adjust over time, so the balance between risky (stocks) and stable (bonds) investments stays on track. No need to constantly monitor the market.
- Starter investment: Not sure whether to go for stocks or bonds? This fund gives you exposure to both, making it a perfect first step into investing.
- Effortless diversification: You’re not just putting your money in one company or one type of investment. They automatically spread your money across different sectors and assets, lowering your risk.
- Builds financial discipline: Investing regularly in an Aggressive Hybrid Fund — even a small amount every month — helps you build the habit of saving and investing.
How to invest in an Aggressive Hybrid Fund?
- Risk tolerance: Understand how much risk you're comfortable taking before choosing a fund that leans more towards equity or safety.
- Set goals: Decide what you’re investing for — short-term needs or long-term growth. Ideally, stay invested for the long term. This gives your money time to grow.
- Start with an SIP: Investing monthly through the Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) helps build discipline and reduces risk by averaging out the market highs and lows.
- Choose a fund house: Pick funds managed by trusted asset management companies (AMCs) with a strong track record, transparency, and experienced fund managers.
- Review fund performance: Regularly check how your fund is performing compared to its benchmark and peers. Aggressive Hybrid Funds show better results when you stay invested for at least 3–5 years.
- Exit loads and taxes: Check for any exit fees or tax rules to avoid surprises when redeeming your investment. If you're unsure, talk to a financial advisor.
Taxation rules of Aggressive Hybrid Funds
Since these funds are treated as equity-oriented funds (due to more than 65% equity exposure), the taxation is as follows:
Holding Period |
Type of Gain |
Tax Rate |
Less than 1 year |
Short-term (STCG) |
20% |
More than 1 year |
Long-term (LTCG) |
12.5% (on gains above ₹1.25 lakh/year) |
Dividends, if any, are added to your income and taxed as per the applicable slab.
Also Read: Understanding how Mutual Funds work
Conclusion
Aggressive Hybrid Funds are an excellent middle-ground option if you are seeking high returns with some level of safety. By combining a larger share of equity exposure with a smaller share of debt allocation, these funds offer a balanced investment strategy that aligns with medium- to long-term goals.
Disclaimer: This article is for information purpose only. The views expressed in this article are personal and do not necessarily constitute the views of Axis Bank Ltd. and its employees. Axis Bank Ltd. and/or the author shall not be responsible for any direct / indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.
Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risk, read all scheme related documents carefully. Axis Bank Ltd is acting as an AMFI registered MF Distributor (ARN code: ARN-0019). Purchase of Mutual Funds by Axis Bank’s customer is purely voluntary and not linked to availment of any other facility from the Bank. T&C apply.