Asset allocation is a critical factor when it comes to balancing the risk and return associated with any investor’s portfolio. Balanced advantage funds, a type of hybrid mutual funds, align with this concept as they provide investors with the opportunity to diversify their mutual fund portfolio by combining both equity and debt investments.
Unlike other more static investment strategies, these funds employ a dynamic asset allocation approach, allowing the fund manager to adjust the number of assets allocated across these asset classes based on market conditions.
Considering its importance, here is an overview of what role asset allocation plays in balanced advantage funds and how varying levels of equity-to-debt ratio in their funds can impact their investment performance.
Understanding the concept of asset allocation
Asset allocation is a strategy of dividing an investor’s portfolio among different asset classes based on their goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. An investor’s asset allocation can be composed of stocks, bonds, cash, real estate, commodities, and alternative investments such as hedge funds. The goal is to create a diversified portfolio that provides returns while minimising risk.
How does asset allocation impact balanced advantage funds?
1) It helps manage risk/return trade-offs
The primary purpose of asset allocation in balanced advantage funds is to create a balance between risk and return. To achieve this balance, the fund manager will adjust their strategy accordingly by shifting assets away from stocks during market downturns and towards debt instruments during bull markets. This helps to maximise returns by allowing investors to benefit from both equity and bond markets without having to choose one over the other.
2) It takes advantage of market volatility
Dynamic asset allocation allows investors to take advantage of market volatility. When markets are volatile, it can be difficult for buyers to make informed decisions about whether they should buy or sell certain assets. However, with a balanced advantage fund, investors can rely on the expertise of professional money managers who are able to identify opportunities and adjust allocations accordingly. This helps investors create a balanced investment portfolio that minimises losses during volatile periods while still capturing gains over time.
3) It helps control emotions
Asset allocation plays an important role in helping investors control their emotions. This is because when markets are volatile, it’s easy to get caught up in the emotion of fear or desire and make investment decisions that are not rational. With dynamic allocation through balanced advantage funds, investors can stay disciplined and focused on their long-term goals.
4) Allows access to higher-quality investments
Asset allocation in BAFs also allows investors to invest in higher quality investments since fund managers actively diversify across different sectors and markets. This way, investors can benefit from lower volatility compared with what they would experience when investing solely in individual or high-risk securities.
Closing thoughts
Asset allocation is an essential component of a balanced advantage fund as fund managers are able to hedge against market downturns, thus contributing to investors’ growth and returns. Also, with access to various digital platforms and mutual fund investment apps, investors can quickly compare funds and invest with a simplified process. However, it is equally important to consult a financial advisor frequently to make an investment as per one’s risk appetite, security preferences, liabilities, and time horizon.
