Riskometer

Riskometer

Like all other investment instruments, mutual funds also carry some risk. Weighing these risks is essential before investing. Usually, an investor’s level of risk tolerance is taken into account when making investing selections. A riskometer for mutual funds can help you with this. 

What is a riskometer? 

A riskometer is a visual representation of a mutual fund scheme’s risk profile. It demonstrates the degree of risk connected to the initial investment made in a mutual fund. Five levels make up the riskometer: low, substantially low, moderate, moderately high, and high. 

Investors may use a riskometer as a part of their metrics to choose mutual funds that match their degrees of risk tolerance, given the wide range of mutual funds available. Investors who want to evaluate the fund’s risk levels and determine if they match their own might benefit from this indicator. 

Understanding a riskometer 

Investors can use a riskometer as one of their criteria to choose mutual funds that match their degree of risk tolerance, given the wide range of mutual funds available. Investors who want to evaluate the fund’s risk levels and determine whether they match their own can benefit from this indicator. 

It is vital to remember that while the riskometer can give an overview of the risk level, it cannot be the only factor considered when choosing a fund to invest in. When choosing a fund, you should consider several other factors, like your investment objective, time horizon, past performance, etc. 

Riskometer risk levels 

There are five risk levels in the riskometer. It displays the scheme’s level of risk and is designed to resemble a speedometer. The five risk categories are: 

• Low-risk level 

This category typically includes securities and products, including fixed maturity plans, gilt funds, and income funds. These mutual funds are considered the safest, making them ideal for investors searching for reliable income. 

• Moderately low-risk level 

Bonds with a short to medium term are typically included in this group. They are suitable for investors who can commit to a position for one to three years and are considered safe investments. 

• Moderate risk level 

It means that the principle of the funds in this category is at moderate risk. Arbitrage funds, MIP funds, and hybrid debt-oriented funds are suitable for semi-conservative investors who wish to limit risk while still booking respectable profits. These funds are appropriate for investors with a medium- to long-term time horizon. 

• Moderately high-risk level 

The principle of the funds in this category is at fairly high risk. This category typically includes gold ETFs, diversified equity funds, balanced equity-oriented funds, and index funds. Investors looking to build wealth over an extended period might consider the products sold under this brand. These funds invest in equity, which is tied to the large-cap market. 

• High-risk level 

This designation indicates that the principal of the funds falling under this category is highly risky. Examples of funds that fall under this category include sectoral, thematic, international, and micro-cap funds. Products bearing this designation are appropriate for investors who want to build wealth over an extended period and are comfortable taking a significant risk on their investment. 

Types of risks in mutual funds measured by riskometer 

Here are five different risks that can impact your portfolio of mutual funds. 

• Market hazard 

Loss of all or a portion of your capital is a possibility. As markets change, the value of your mutual funds may decrease. 

• Risk of inflation 

The potential loss of buying power If the cost of living increases by 2% and your mutual funds gain 5% annually, your real return is only 2%. 

• Interest rate uncertainty 

Increasing interest rates may result in a value reduction for your mutual funds. Bond mutual funds may experience a decline due to falling bond prices when interest rates rise. 

• Financial risk 

Your benefits may be diminished if the exchange rate declines (or add to losses). A drop in foreign currency can lower your profits when converted back into Canadian dollars, even if the value of a fund denominated in that currency increases. 

• Credit danger 

A bond or other security issuer may not have enough cash to pay interest or redeem the bonds for face value when they’re due. Higher default risk securities typically offer higher rewards. 

Frequently Asked Questions