Specialized Investment Funds
Specialized Investment Funds (SIFs) are a SEBI-regulated mutual fund category, offered by eligible fund houses. Depending on the strategy, they can take limited short positions through derivatives, which regular mutual fund schemes cannot. Each strategy has its own objective, risk band and liquidity terms.
Terms vary by fund house and strategy. Check the strategy’s ISID before investing.
In minimum investment and flexibility, SIFs sit between mutual funds and PMS. Eligible fund houses launch them under a separate brand, and each strategy has its own Investment Strategy Information Document (ISID).
Strategies may take short positions through derivatives, within SEBI limits, so their returns can behave differently from a regular fund, in both directions.
At least ₹10 lakh in total, in one or more of a fund house’s strategies.
Into a strategy with its own objective and strategy document.
In equity, debt or both; strategies may use limited short positions.
NAV moves with the strategy; redeem as per its frequency and notice period.
SIF rules provide for seven strategy types across equity, debt and hybrid. Each fund house chooses which to offer, and each strategy carries its own risk band. “Long-short” means a strategy can hold investments and also take limited positions that gain if certain prices fall.
Mainly equity, with limited short exposure; values can fluctuate significantly. “Ex-Top 100” invests mainly outside the 100 largest listed companies.
Mainly debt instruments, with limited derivative use; interest-rate and credit risks apply.
Move across equity, debt and other assets; risk depends on the mix and strategy.
This is general information, not an assessment of your suitability, which depends on your circumstances and the specific scheme or product.
Regulation and risk labels do not guarantee returns or prevent losses.
We understand your goals, time horizon, existing holdings and comfort with risk.
We set out relevant options from regulated providers, with costs, liquidity and risks side by side.
Once you decide, we help with KYC, paperwork and onboarding with the provider.
Supported holdings appear in our app, and we review them with you as markets and life change.
You decide whether to invest, in what, and on what terms. How we are paid for each product is disclosed before you invest. See how we’re paid →
Short answers to what families ask us most. For anything specific to your situation, talk to us.
Yes. SIFs are market-linked, and some use derivatives. The value of your investment can fall, including when a short position moves against the strategy. Check each strategy’s risk band and ISID.
Both are regulated by SEBI under the Mutual Funds Regulations. A SIF has a higher minimum (₹10 lakh) and can use strategies, such as limited short positions, that regular schemes cannot.
A SIF is a pooled fund with units, like a mutual fund. In PMS, securities are held directly in your demat account, and the minimum is ₹50 lakh.
No. It applies at PAN level, across all the SIF strategies of the same fund house. Accredited investors are exempt.
It depends on the strategy. Some offer daily redemption; others are weekly or less frequent, and a notice period of up to 15 working days may apply. The ISID sets this out.
Yes, where the strategy offers it. SIPs, STPs and SWPs are allowed, subject to the ₹10 lakh minimum and the terms in the ISID.
Only distributors registered for SIF, with the required certification. DreamLadder is an AMFI Registered Mutual Fund Distributor & SIF Distributor.
Tax depends on the strategy’s structure and how long you hold it. Please refer to current tax rules or consult your tax adviser.
We’ll explain the options and trade-offs. You decide.
SIF investments are subject to market risks. Some SIF strategies may use derivatives and long-short positions. Read the Investment Strategy Information Document carefully before investing.
