International funds gain traction on returns, diversification boost

Apart from diversification, rupee depreciation has helped some global funds post returns of 42-44%

International funds offered by domestic mutual funds (MFs) have gained currency as investors have looked to limit their exposure to local stocks. This, coupled with the attractive returns generated by global markets, particularly technology stocks, over the last few years have further propelled asset managers to aggressively launch such international offerings.

Since January, fund houses have collected over Rs 4,753 crore from launching various international fund of funds (FoF). Besides, fund houses also offer exchange traded funds (ETFs) and index funds that invest in global stocks and indices.

The data from Value Research shows that in the last one-year international