stdClass Object ( [id] => 18468 [paper_index] => 202512-11-025387 [title] => INVESTOR INSIGHTS: EVALUATING AWARENESS AND PERCEPTION OF MUTUAL FUND INVESTMENTS [description] => [author] => Mr. B Santosh, Dr. G. Ramesh [googlescholar] => [doi] => https://doi.org/10.36713/epra25387 [year] => 2025 [month] => December [volume] => 13 [issue] => 9 [file] => fm/jpanel/upload/2025/December/202512-11-025387.pdf [abstract] => The rapid growth of mutual fund options and Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) in India has opened up new chances for wealth building. However, investor participation varies across different regions and demographic groups. Previous research shows clear differences in financial literacy, product understanding, access to information, and behavioral obstacles that affect investment decisions. This study looks at investors’ awareness and thoughts about mutual fund investments. It examines their technical knowledge, satisfaction levels, challenges faced by non-investors, the role of distributors in promoting SIPs, and preferences among the categories defined by SEBI. We conducted a structured survey using a Likert scale with a varied group of respondents, including both investors and non-investors, focusing particularly on underrepresented markets. The results indicate that while general knowledge of mutual funds is improving, understanding of essential concepts like NAV, risk categories, taxes, and expense ratios is still weak. Non-investors often cite confusion, lack of guidance, and fear of risk as significant barriers. Financial advisors play a crucial role in influencing both commitments to SIPs and ongoing investment. Preferences for mutual fund categories generally relate to perceived risk tolerance and investment goals rather than objective assessments. This study highlights the need for better financial literacy, more outreach in rural and semi-urban areas, clearer advisory practices, and targeted communication aimed at investors to encourage informed participation. These insights provide useful information for policymakers, financial institutions, and educators looking to boost investor confidence and engage the market effectively. [keywords] => • Investor Awareness • SIP Commitment • Financial Literacy • SEBI Categories • Distributor Influence [doj] => 2025-12-20 [hit] => [status] => [award_status] => P [orderr] => 3 [journal_id] => 11 [googlesearch_link] => [edit_on] => [is_status] => 1 [journalname] => International Journal of Indian Economic Light(JIEL) [short_code] => IJPT [eissn] => 2277-3142 [pissn] => [home_page_wrapper] => images/products_image/8.JIEL H.png ) Error fetching PDF file.