Whalesbook
Younger Women Drive Mutual Fund Growth
Women under 35 have become the leading force in mutual fund (MF) investing, according to new data from Computer Age Management Services (CAMS). By March 2026, 38.6% of women investors were younger than 35, a significant jump from 30% in 2022. This trend highlights increased financial awareness and participation among younger women.
Shifting Investor Demographics
An additional 35.8% of women investors are between 36 and 50 years old. Together, these two age groups represent nearly three-quarters of all female investors. This concentration indicates a broader move towards financial inclusion and greater comfort with market-linked investments for women under 50.
Faster Growth in Holdings
Although starting from a smaller base, women investors are growing their MF holdings at a faster rate than men. By the end of fiscal year 2026, women's holdings across CAMS-serviced Asset Management Companies (AMCs) reached Rs 11.3 trillion, a 13% increase year-over-year. In comparison, the total managed by male investors grew by 11% during the same period, suggesting the investment gap may be narrowing.
Rise in SIP Adoption
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) are becoming a popular choice for women investors due to their consistent investment approach. The percentage of gross inflows from women via SIPs increased from 25% in FY25 to 28% in FY26. The total number of active SIPs held by women reached 20.3 million, accounting for 29% of all SIPs serviced by CAMS. In fiscal year 2026, 28% of women's total mutual fund investments were made through the SIP route.