This document provides an introduction and overview of mutual funds. It begins by defining what a mutual fund is - an investment vehicle that pools money from many investors to purchase securities like stocks and bonds. Investors receive units or shares in the fund proportional to their investment. Mutual funds offer benefits like diversification, professional management, and low minimum investments.
The document then discusses the history and regulation of mutual funds in India. It notes that Unit Trust of India was the first mutual fund established in 1963. SEBI regulates the mutual fund industry and first issued rules for privately-managed funds in 1993.
Finally, the document outlines some objectives of studying mutual funds such as understanding the investment options, risks, trends, and performance