Balanced Fund

Balanced funds, also known as hybrid funds, combine stocks and bonds in a single portfolio to achieve both capital appreciation and income generation with lower risk compared to pure equity funds. 

Balanced funds differ from equity funds by including bonds in their portfolio mix, offering investors a more conservative approach with a balance of growth and income. 

Balanced funds aim to achieve moderate growth while managing risk through diversification across asset classes. They typically maintain a mix of stocks, bonds, and sometimes other asset types. 

Balanced funds offer investors a convenient way to achieve diversification and manage risk. They provide exposure to both stocks and bonds, potentially offering smoother returns than pure equity funds.

The asset allocation (mix of stocks and bonds) is typically determined by the fund's investment objective and risk tolerance it aims to offer. 

Risks associated with balanced funds include market risk, interest rate risk, credit risk, and inflation risk. Changes in market conditions and interest rates can impact the performance of both stocks and bonds. 

Balanced funds may be suitable for investors seeking a balance of growth and income with lower volatility compared to pure equity funds. However, individual suitability depends on factors such as risk tolerance and investment goals.