The old mutual funds in India that have been around for the longest period are considered the industry pioneers. Some of the earliest mutual funds in the country include SBI Mutual Fund, Aditya Birla Sun Life Mutual Fund (ABSLMF), Canara Robeco Mutual Fund, HDFC Mutual Fund, ICICI Prudential Mutual Fund, and UTI Master Share Unit Scheme.
In this blog, you will discover the oldest mutual fund in India, its details, performance, comparison with the benchmark, benefits of investing in these funds, how you can invest and more.
Types of Oldest Mutual Funds in India
These funds have built a legacy of stability, consistent performance, and trust among Indian investors over the decades.
- UTI Master Share Unit Scheme (launched 1986) is India’s oldest surviving mutual fund, categorised as a large-cap equity fund.
- SBI Magnum Equity ESG Fund (launched 1991) is one of the earliest thematic funds, focusing on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria.
- UTI Flexi Cap Fund (launched 1992) is among the oldest flexi-cap funds, investing across large, mid, and small-cap stocks for diversification.
- Franklin India Prima Fund (launched 1993) is a pioneer in the mid-cap category, targeting high-growth mid-sized companies.
- Franklin India Bluechip Fund (launched 1993) is one of the oldest large-cap funds, investing in established blue-chip companies.
- SBI Large & Mid Cap Fund (launched 1997) is a long-standing fund investing in large stocks for balanced growth.
List of the Oldest Surviving Mutual Funds in India – A Look at the Pioneering Mutual Funds in India
Follow this table to know the oldest mutual funds in India:
| Fund Name | Date of Inception | Category |
| UTI Flexi Cap Fund – IDCW | 30th June 1992 | Equity: Flexi Cap |
| SBI Large & Mid Cap Fund (D) | 31st March 1997 | Equity: Large & MidCap |
| Franklin India Prima Fund (G) | 1st December 1993 | Equity: Mid-Cap |
| SBI Magnum Equity ESG Fund | 1st January 1991 | Equity: Thematic – ESG |
| Tata Large & Mid Cap Fund | 25th February 1993 | Equity: Large & MidCap |
| UTI Master Share Unit Scheme – IDCW | 15th October 1986 | Equity: Large Cap |
| Franklin India Bluechip Fund (G) | 1st December 1993 | Equity: Large Cap |
Performance Comparison Between Old and New Mutual Funds in India
In this table, you can find the performance of some old mutual funds in India and the comparison with one of the new funds of the same category:
| Fund Name | 1Y Annualised Returns | New Fund Name | 1Y Annualised Returns |
| UTI Flexi Cap Fund – IDCW | 9.36% | Quant Flexi Cap Fund – IDCW | -3.12% |
| SBI Large & Mid Cap Fund (D) | 8.54% | Motilal Oswal Large and Midcap Fund (D) | 14.49% |
| Franklin India Prima Fund (G) | 13.63% | HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund (D) | 8.05% |
| SBI Magnum Equity ESG Fund | 5.83% | Nippon India Quant Fund | 6.20% |
| Tata Large & Mid Cap Fund | 4.34% | Mirae Asset Large & Midcap Fund | 3.20% |
| UTI Master Share Unit Scheme – IDCW | 4.79% | JM Large Cap Fund – IDCW | -0.69% |
| Franklin India Bluechip Fund (G) | 5.96% | Axis Bluechip Fund (G) | 4.88% |
Note: Yearly Returns as of 17th March 2025 and subject to change as per market movement.
How to Invest in the Oldest Mutual Funds in India?
These are the steps to invest in the oldest mutual funds in India:
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Compare Different Mutual Funds
To start your mutual fund investment in India’s oldest mutual funds, you have to choose the correct oldest mutual fund that matches your investment goals.
For example, if you are looking for high-risk, high-return investments, you may choose funds with high risk such as small-cap funds, mid-cap funds, etc. If you are a conservative investor, you may invest in liquid funds with low or moderate risk.
When you finalise it, you may consider other factors such as historical performance, expense ratio, lock-in period, exit load, etc., to choose the best in the category.
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Open Your Account to Start Investment
You can invest in a mutual fund through stock brokers or directly from the fund house’s website. In India, different stock brokers also offer direct mutual funds where you can save money than regular funds which deduct commission from your returns.
At Torus Digital we offer 2-in-1 and 3-in-1 demat accounts and help you invest in direct mutual funds to maximise your mutual funds investment. Before you start your new MF investment, you must complete the KYC process with the AMC.
To invest in MFs from our platform, you must complete the KYC the first time you open your Demat account. After that, no new KYC submission is required if you invest in any of the mutual funds.
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Place Your Mutual Fund Order
There are two main types of investment options in an MF: SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) and a One-Time Investment or sum investment. Based on your goals and affordability, you can choose the investment type.
Moreover, you must check the fund’s performance, expense ratio, rankings, etc., periodically to rebalance and change your investment strategy (if needed).
Advantages of Investing in Old Mutual Funds
The primary benefit of investing in the oldest mutual funds in India is their established track record, which highlights stability and strong performance through various market cycles. Here are some key benefits of investing in old mutual funds in India:
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Proven Track Record
The old MFs have shown steady performance over the years, highlighting their ability to withstand market fluctuations. This historical performance allows investors to assess their stability and reliability, offering reassurance about their potential to deliver returns.
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Long-Term Growth
The oldest mutual funds typically have a track record of steady growth, backed by diversified portfolios. This benefit is ideal for investors focused on consistent wealth accumulation over time, making them well-suited for long-term financial planning and objectives.
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Experienced Management
Operated by experienced fund managers and strong strategies, these funds benefit from a team with extensive knowledge of market trends and risk management. This expertise leads to well-informed decisions and consistent growth of the fund.
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Experience in Market Cycles
These funds have successfully navigated different economic cycles, from recessions to periods of growth. Their evolving strategies over time demonstrate their ability to adapt to changing economic conditions, providing investors with a sense of security and confidence.
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Investor Confidence
Long-established mutual funds get investor trust through years of dependable service and transparency. Their track record and solid reputation make them appealing to risk-averse investors looking for reliable investment options.
Summing Up
If you plan to invest in old mutual funds in India and your goal is wealth creation, you may choose the growth option and direct funds. Here the fund house reinvests your profits and you enjoy the benefits of compounding.
Before investing in any of the oldest MFs, it’s essential to research and define your investment goals. Open a Demat account with us to invest in direct mutual funds, avoid commission charges, and maximise your returns.
