Equity Fund Categories
Multi Cap Funds
At least 25% each in large, mid and small caps.
Updated 27 September 2026 · SEBI rules as of 2026
SEBI mandate
≥ 75% equity; ≥ 25% each in large, mid, small
Equity Fund CategoriesOverview
Since SEBI’s 2020 revision, multi cap funds must keep at least 75% in equity with a minimum of 25% each in large, mid and small caps. This forced small-cap exposure makes them more volatile than flexi cap funds.
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| SEBI mandate | ≥ 75% equity; ≥ 25% each in large, mid, small |
| Riskometer (typical) | Very High |
| Suggested horizon | 7+ years |
| Tax | Equity: STCG 20% (< 12 m); LTCG 12.5% above ₹1.25 lakh a year |
| Benchmark | Relevant total-return index (TRI) |
Who should invest
- Investors who want guaranteed exposure to all three market-cap segments
What to check before choosing
| Parameter | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Rolling returns | 3- and 5-year rolling returns vs benchmark and category |
| Consistency | Percentage of periods the fund beat its benchmark |
| Downside capture | How much it falls when the market falls |
| Expense ratio | Direct plans cost less than regular plans |
| Portfolio | Concentration, top holdings, sector tilt |
| Fund manager | Tenure and process |
| AUM | Very large AUM can hurt small/mid-cap agility |
Risks
- Equity market volatility — NAV can fall sharply in the short term
- Category and style cycles (e.g. small caps can underperform for years)
- Fund-manager or process risk
- Liquidity risk in smaller stocks during sell-offs
Plan your investment
Frequently asked questions
Multi cap vs flexi cap?
Multi cap has fixed minimums in each segment; flexi cap lets the manager move freely.
Mutual fund investments are subject to market risks; read all scheme-related documents carefully. Information is educational and may change with SEBI / tax rules — verify with the AMC, AMFI or SEBI. FinancePortal is not an investment adviser.