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6 lessons, about 54 min

Mutual funds, index funds and ETFs

Six lessons on pooled investing, which is where most beginners should start and where many people should stay. Covers how funds work, what SIPs actually do, why index funds are the sensible default, and the fee differences that compound into large sums.

Start with the first lesson

  1. Mutual funds

    Pooling money with other investors so a manager invests it for you.

    11 min read

  2. SIP explained

    Investing a fixed amount every month, and why it removes your worst decisions.

    9 min read

  3. ETFs

    Funds you buy and sell like a share, usually at a very low fee.

    9 min read

  4. Index funds

    Funds that copy a market index instead of trying to beat it.

    9 min read

  5. Direct vs regular plans

    The same fund at two different fees, and what the gap costs over 20 years.

    7 min read

  6. ELSS and tax saving funds

    Equity funds with a lock-in that qualify for a deduction. Who they suit.

    9 min read

The other groups

Start here: investing basics

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Ways of investing: seven approaches compared

7 lessons

Understanding a company: how to judge a business

5 lessons

Risk and behaviour: lessons on what decides outcomes

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Practical matters for Indian investors

10 lessons

All 42 lessonsGlossary