Which mutual fund categories caught investors’ attention in 2025

Silver ETFs - Silver ETFs gained attention in 2025 due to significant price increases in India, driven by local shortages that inflated prices above global benchmarks [1][2] - The supply deficit in the physical silver market is expected to persist, potentially impacting new investments in Silver ETFs [1] - The strong performance of silver is attributed to its dual role as a precious metal and an industrial commodity, with high industrial demand contributing to price increases [2] Gold ETFs - Gold ETFs reached new all-time highs in 2025, with returns up to 78.76%, led by Axis Gold ETF [5] - Investors turned to gold as a hedge against uncertainty and equity volatility, appreciating the liquidity and transparency of gold ETFs [4] - The outlook for gold in 2026 is influenced by real yields, the US dollar, and central bank demand, with forecasts suggesting prices could stabilize around $4,500–$5,000 [6] Consumption Funds - Consumption funds attracted interest following the restructuring of the goods and services tax (GST) in September 2025, which aimed to improve household disposable incomes [7][8] - Despite the potential for recovery, consumption funds have faced losses since the implementation of GST 2.0, with significant declines observed in specific funds [9] - A gradual recovery in consumption growth is anticipated in 2026, driven by improved consumer confidence and discretionary spending [10] International Funds - International funds outperformed domestic funds in 2025, with average returns of 27.06%, bolstered by the depreciation of the Indian rupee [11][12] - Notable performances included the NASDAQ 100 and S&P 500, which delivered returns of 23.18% and 20.60%, respectively [12][23] - The recommendation for investors is to allocate 10–20% to international funds, focusing primarily on US markets [14] Auto Sector Funds - Auto sector funds experienced significant growth in 2025, supported by strong domestic consumption and lower input costs [15] - Average returns for auto sector funds were 17.15% in the current calendar year, although future performance may be more selective due to higher valuations [16][17] - The sector is expected to be suitable for tactical allocations rather than core holdings in 2026 [17] Technology Sector Funds - Technology sector funds were among the worst performers in 2025, with the Nifty IT index declining by 9% year-to-date [18][20] - Factors impacting performance included delayed tech projects due to macroeconomic uncertainties and policy issues, leading to a negative average return of 3.10% for tech funds [19][20] - There is cautious optimism for a rebound in the tech sector as demand improves and AI opportunities become clearer, although recovery is expected to be gradual [21][22]