If you don’t know how to invest in mutual funds, or don’t have the time to learn, then you need help to do it. A distributor and a registered investment adviser (RIA)—with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi)—are the two types of intermediaries who can help you to invest. But both charge you differently and offer you different bouquets of services. Mint helps you in choosing the one for you.
QUALIFICATION
Mutual fund distributors need to clear a basic exam that tests their knowledge of funds and investments. The exam is conducted by the National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM). A Sebi-registered adviser has to have a certification of financial planning from either NISM or any other recognised financial planning education body, apart from a post graduate degree or diploma.
