5 Rare Facts About AIF Investments That Even Regular Traders Don’t Know

13 January 2026

Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs) have become more widely recognised in India as investors look beyond traditional products for diversified exposure.

While many people understand the broad categories and minimum investment requirements, several lesser-discussed features shape how these funds operate.

These aspects often remain unnoticed even by individuals who regularly trade in the markets.

In this article, we explore five lesser-known facts about AIF investments that can help investors develop a clearer understanding of how these funds work.

What Are The Top 5 Things You Must Know About Alternative Investment Funds?

When you are dealing with the AIFs, you must have a clear understanding of these.

So, here are the facts you must be aware of:

1. AIF Commitments Are Not Always Fully Deployed At Once

AIFs are nothing like mutual funds or equities. When it comes to mutual funds, the entire investment amount is usually deployed immediately.

But you will notice that some AIFs operate through a “drawdown” system.

This means:

Investors commit a certain amount upfront
The fund calls for capital in stages, depending on when investment opportunities arise

As a result, the actual cash outflow may take place over several months or even years in an AIF investment. This structure is more commonly seen in private equity, venture capital, and infrastructure-focused AIFs.

2. AIFs Can Use Multiple Valuation Methods

Mutual funds follow standardised valuation practices, but AIFs have more flexibility.

The valuation approach depends on the nature of the underlying assets. Okay, I will give you a good example to understand this better.

I suppose we know that private equity holdings may use discounted cash flow. Also, they may use the comparable company analysis.

On the other hand, the credit-oriented investments may be valued based on yield expectations. Additionally, you can also place their value based on credit profiles.

Because of these varied methods, NAV updates may not always follow the same pattern or frequency seen in public-market products.

3. Some AIFs Have Longer Lock-In Structures Than Expected

AIFs generally operate with predefined tenures, which can extend across several years depending on the strategy and mandate.

The makers have specifically designed these funds. This is because it allows the investment team enough time to identify opportunities.

Additionally, you will also learn how to effectively execute and exit opportunities.

Early exits are usually limited, and liquidity is shaped by the nature of the underlying assets.

In some cases, the fund tenure may also be extended with investor approval.

As a result, AIFs are better suited for investors comfortable with long-term commitments.

4. AIFs Can Invest in Instruments That You Won’t Usually Find in Regular Portfolios

AIF regulations allow flexibility to invest in diverse assets such as:

Unlisted equity
Structured credit
Distressed assets
Special situation opportunities
Hybrid strategies combining equity, debt, and alternative structures

These are assets not typically accessible through traditional products like mutual funds.

Because of this expanded scope, AIFs may follow investment approaches that look very different from public-market strategies.

5. AIF Performance Reporting Is Not Standardised Like Mutual Funds

AIFs do not follow uniform reporting standards across all information formats.

There are certain aspects that may differ between funds. such as

Disclosure intervals
Portfolio visibility
Benchmark usage
Performance-tracking formats

Due to this, investors often rely on periodic reporting shared by the fund house.

Additionally, they offer documents and review meetings. So, they find it better than daily NAV updates.

In fact, they choose this over widely available public disclosures.

What Is The Role Of Due Diligence In Alternative Investment Funds?

Conducting due diligence helps investors develop a clear understanding of an AIF.

Now, this is important before you commit capital. Now, it’s the same whether investments are made directly or monitored through a trading app.

Investors should review the Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) to understand the fund’s structure.

Additionally, they also need this to analyze the investment strategy and objectives.

In fact, you also need to understand this to keep up with the expected tenure.

In addition, it is important that you examine the fee details. Why? Of course, because you need to gain clarity on management fees.

Additionally, you will get a fair idea of the ideal performance fees.

Also, it will help you understand all the other charges associated with the fund.

Investors should assess the fund’s reporting practices to understand the frequency, format, and transparency of performance updates.

Reviewing the portfolio guidelines helps investors understand how the fund plans to allocate capital across asset classes or investment instruments.

Important Things To Keep In Mind About Alternative Investment Funds

Certain practical considerations help investors assess whether an AIF is suitable for their long-term financial plans.

Investors should check the minimum investment requirement to ensure it aligns with their overall financial capacity and allocation strategy.
Understanding the fund tenure and exit conditions is essential, as AIFs generally have longer lock-in periods and limited liquidity.
Investors should review disclosure practices to know how regularly the fund communicates performance, risks, and portfolio changes.
It is important to understand the valuation methodology to gain clarity on how the fund calculates and reports its NAV.
Evaluating the overall fee structure helps investors understand the total cost impact on returns over the investment period.
Finally, investors should assess whether the fund’s investment strategy aligns with their risk tolerance and existing portfolio composition.

Important Facts About Alternative Investment Funds Explained

AIFs operate in a manner that differs significantly from traditional investment options.

Additionally, you might not notice several aspects unless you review them pretty closely.

Elements such as phased capital deployment and varied valuation approaches are quite unique to them.

In addition, features such as longer fund tenures and access to non-traditional instruments highlight their specialised nature.

For investors exploring whether AIFs align with their long-term approach, reviewing these details can offer helpful clarity.

Platforms and research teams such as those at Yes Securities can also support investors by providing structured information and due diligence material.

This helps investors make decisions based on a clearer understanding of how AIFs function.

Read Also:

Barsha Bhattacharya

Barsha Bhattacharya is a senior content writing executive. As a marketing enthusiast and professional for the past 4 years, writing is new to Barsha. And she is loving every bit of it. Her niches are marketing, lifestyle, wellness, travel and entertainment. Apart from writing, Barsha loves to travel, binge-watch, research conspiracy theories, Instagram and overthink.

View all posts

Importance Of COVID-19 Coverage Under Group Health Insurance Policy

India has come a long way from fighting COVID-19 to rising above it. However, just after the lockdown was lifted and companies start urging employees to return to the workplace, a concern remains: who would protect employees against COVID-19 at the workplace? That is why COVID-19 coverage under group health insurance policy. Before the pandemic, companies often purchased group health insurance without this coverage; however, COVID-19 changed everything. Thus, it becomes crucial to understand the exact benefits of this coverage for employees and organisations. COVID-19 Coverage Under Insurance Policy COVID-19 is a communicable disease that spreads through air and human contact. Although the spread of COVID-19 is now containing and people are more aware of precautionary measures, the disease has not eradicating. That is why, to safeguard the welfare of employees who are most exposed to COVID-19, the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) made it mandatory for every organisation to provide COVID-19 coverage under their group health insurance policy. Benefits Of COVID-19 Coverage Under Insurance Policy Here are some of the benefits of COVID-19 coverage under the group health insurance that employees can take advantage of. IRDAI Mandatory As per the orders from the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), it has been made mandatory to provide COVID-19 coverage to every employee of an organisation. Without this coverage, companies are not allowed to start their in-office operations. Medical Expense Coverage Under the group health insurance policy, employees are covered for medical expenses relating to COVID-19. It means that all financial expenses incurred, from diagnostics to treatment and medicines, will be covered by the policy. Employee Dependent Coverage Several group health insurance policies extend their coverage to employees’ dependents; the same applies to COVID-19 coverage. The policy provides COVID-19 coverage to the employee's spouse, children, and dependent parents. Provides A Sense Of Security COVID-19 is a life-threatening disease, and providing coverage for this disease gives employees a sense of security. They feel safe and secure coming to the office premises to do their work. Employee Loyalty When employers buy medical insurance for their employees, they establish a good rapport and loyalty in their minds. This loyalty reflects in the work of employees and the productivity of their outputs. Inclusions And Exclusions Of Coverage When we refer to health insurance for COVID-19 coverage under insurance policy, we need to know what's covered and what's not. It is always best to know this in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises at the time of a health emergency and ensure that you make the most of your policy benefits. Just like any other medical insurance policy, the COVID-19 cover also has some inclusions (what is included) and exclusions (what is excluded). Let me break these down to you in detail so that you have a crystal clear understanding well in advance, even before you make a claim. Inclusions The inclusions detail all the medical expenses and services you'll cover for with your COVID-19 cover. The following is what you can generally expect: Pre And Post-Hospitalisation Cover - The COVID-19 cover provides coverage for expenses incurred during pre- and post-hospitalisation treatment. It includes expenses such as diagnosis, doctor’s appointments, and medicines. Pre-Hospitalisation: The costs of medical examinations, specialist visits, COVID-19 tests, and medication before hospital admission are eligible. For example, if you had to undergo blood exams, a PCR exam, or a CT scan to confirm the infection, the cost would be eligible. Post-Hospitalisation: You can be ill for a few days, and you will require follow-up consultations, medication, or physiotherapy. These are also covering for a few days after discharge (likely 30 to 60 days). Second Opinion - The COVID-19 coverage under the group health insurance policy also provides coverage for expenses related to a second medical opinion. For example, if you are not satisfied with the diagnosis from your first doctor’s visit, you can always seek a second medical opinion without worrying about finances. You may consult with another physician or specialist to confirm your treatment regimen. The cost of this consultation, either face-to-face or by telemedicine, is paid for. Daycare Treatment Cover - The group health insurance policy also provides coverage for expenses incurred during COVID-19 daycare procedures. Even some antiviral drugs, oxygen therapy, or even other minor procedures associated with COVID can be done without overnight admission. Your group health insurance cover for COVID-19 pays for these charges just the same way it would pay for inpatient care. Ambulance Cover - In case you need ambulance services from your resident to the hospital or from one hospital to another recommended hospital, then the COVID-19 coverage will also cover its cost. Exclusions While the cover is extensive, there are certain conditions and medical costs that are not included. Understanding these exclusions allows you to have realistic expectations and avoid claims rejection. Pre-Existing Diseases - The COVID-19 coverage under the group health insurance policy is limited to treatment for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). If the insured is suffering from a pre-existing illness, there will be no coverage for treatment of that illness. Maternity Or Newborn Cover - There is no coverage for maternity or newborn treatment under the COVID-19 cover of the group health insurance policy. Waiting Period - Several health insurance policies have a waiting period; similarly, there is a 30-day waiting period for getting coverage under COVID-19. Thus, if you make any claim before the waiting period, you will not get a claim. Summing Up The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way the entire medical and insurance field operates. Before the pandemic, group health insurance policies typically provided coverage for most medical emergencies; however, with the addition of COVID-19 coverage under insurance policies, the policies have become more comprehensive. As employees, one must check for this coverage in their group health insurance policy. Employers have the responsibility to find a trusted insurer, such as TATA AIG, which includes this coverage in their group health insurance, to comply with the IRDAI orders. Moreover, organisations can buy business insurance online, such as fire and burglary, marine, and workers' compensation, to safeguard their other assets.

How To Choose The Right Loan For Seasonal Business Expansion?

Seasonal businesses face unique financial challenges characterised by concentrated revenue periods followed by extended low-activity phases. Enterprises selling festive products, weather-dependent items, or services tied to specific calendar periods must manage to do the following things: Substantial inventory investments. Staffing requirements. Operational expenses (during off-seasons with minimal incoming cash flow). This is because expansion during such cycles requires a careful financing strategy. That is something that can help accommodate revenue fluctuations. Traditional loan structures designed for steady income patterns often mismatch seasonal business realities. Selecting appropriate financing products that align repayment obligations with revenue cycles prevents cash flow stress. And having the right seasonal business loan enables sustainable growth through market opportunities. Seasonal Business Loan: What Financing Structures Suit Seasonal Operations? Working capital demand loans are great for short-term funding when you just need a bit of help. You get the money upfront and pay it back within a year, which works if your business has busy and slow seasons. Businesses can get cash ready to buy supplies, get more staff, and ramp up ads before things get crazy busy. Then, once the busy season is over and the money rolls in, you pay back the loan. This way, your payments line up with when you actually have money. Overdrafts let you borrow money from your checking account, even if you don't have enough in there. You only pay interest on what you actually use and for the time you use it. This is perfect if your cash flow is all over the place. When things are slow, and you're spending more than you're making, you can use the overdraft to keep things running. Then, when you start making money again, you put it back in the account, so you don't have to pay as much interest. Cash credit is like an overdraft, but you have to put up your stuff, like inventory, as security. If you're in manufacturing or trading and have tons of stock, this can be a good way to get some extra cash. You can get bigger credit lines and only pay interest on what you borrow. If you're waiting ages to get paid by big companies or the government, invoice financing can help. Instead of waiting two or three months, you sell your invoices to a bank at a discount and get paid right away. This speeds things up so you can keep going, even when business is up and down. Types Of Seasonal Business Loans Here are some of the most popular types of seasonal business loans that you should know about: Business Line of Credit: It's a credit line where you only pay interest on what you use. Works great for things like payroll or sudden repairs – those everyday costs. Short-Term Loans: These are loans you pay back in a set amount over a short time, like 3–18 months. They're good for one-off seasonal projects, like buying a bunch of inventory before your busy season or doing a marketing push. Merchant Cash Advance (MCA): Basically, it's an advance based on your future sales. You pay it back with a cut of your daily card sales, so payments go up and down with your business. Inventory Loans: These loans are just for buying stock. Often, the stock itself secures the loan. This lets you buy in larger amounts before things get busy. Equipment Loans: This is money to buy or upgrade machines when you need them most. The machine itself usually acts as security for the loan. Which Seasonal Business Loan Features Support Expansion Plans? For seasonal businesses, being able to repay loans conveniently is super important. Setting up payment plans that align with when the company is making money helps them avoid missing payments when things are slow. Some lenders let you pay back the main loan amount at the end, just paying interest fees in the meantime. This helps keep cash flow steady during slow times. Having a grace period before you need to start paying back the loan is also great. It allows businesses to use the borrowed money to grow before they have to worry about payments. Getting an extra 3-6 months can make a big difference, giving them time to buy stuff, get the word out, and start selling before the payments kick in. This time is helpful for businesses trying new markets or selling other products, and need a little time to get going. Pre-approved credit lines mean no reapplying all the time. If a business has a solid relationship with its bank, it can prepare for credit in advance. Then, when they need it, it is just there. No need for new approval. This gives them peace of mind that they can handle regular seasonal needs without the headache of waiting around when time is tight. Having ways to withdraw money little by little, rather than all at once, gives companies choices about how they spend it. Instead of receiving a single large sum, they can withdraw cash as they need it. This helps to save on interest because they only pay for what they actually need at each step. Before applying for a business loan, businesses should review the business loan eligibility criteria. They need things like a decent credit score, decent sales, and a history of good financial management to get approved. Plan Your Season Business Loan! The seasonal business growth needs financing products designed to accommodate changes in revenue patterns. These business cycles aligned flexible access through working capital demand loans, overdraft facilities, and cash credit arrangements make it possible. Key features, such as repayment flexibility, moratorium periods, and multiple drawdown options, for instance, make the loans a support unit rather than a burden on operations. Those companies that properly align the structure of their loans with the seasonal pattern of their cash flows and, at the same time, maintain their financial discipline, can pursue expansion opportunities with a sense of security. Thus, creating sustainable growth despite the fact that their revenues are concentrated in certain periods of the ‍‌‍‍‌‍‌‍‍‌year. Read Also: How To Use An SBA Loan For Business Purchase Benefits Of Using Business Loan EMI Calculators To Manage Your Repayments

7 Best Term Insurance Options For NRIs Explained Simply

Life is full of surprises. Some surprises bring happiness. Some surprises might bring stress. That is why having a term insurance plan is so vital, and this becomes more so if you are an NRI and staying away from your family. A term plan provides massive financial assistance to your family in case anything untoward happens to you. It guards your family members against harm, even if you are not with them. And guess what? Buying a term plan as an NRI customer today is extremely easy. But here, I will give an overview of these 7 best term insurance plans available for NRIs with words as simple as possible. There will be no usage of any medical term. Just easy-to-understand information. Why NRIs Should Buy Term Insurance A discussion on the best plans would be incomplete without understanding why an NRI needs a term insurance plan. Let us learn about it beforehand: Your family needs you for financial support. You would like to safeguard your spouse, children, or parents. You want low rates and comprehensive benefits. You want peace of mind while living abroad. You want your family to receive money readily if anything happens. NRIs usually have homes very far from their. A term plan ensures financial security and eliminates worries. It’s an easy-to-make plan that keeps your family members secure for several years. The 7 Best Term Insurance Plans Available for NRIs (Explained Simply) Here are seven very reliable term plans that are highly recognized and offer some very good benefits and can be easily purchased by NRIs. I will explain all these options in simpler terms so that you can decide what works best for you. 1. LIC Tech Term Plan It is India’s most trusted insurance brand. It is preferred primarily by NRIs due to its trustworthiness and easy claiming process. Why is it good for NRIs: You can purchase it from any country online. It provides great coverage at an affordable price. The claim settlement ratio at LIC is very good. Your family can claim at any LIC office in India. Best for: NRIs who value trust and stability more than flashy functionality. 2. HDFC Life Click 2 Protect Super This is among the most flexible term plans available for NRIs. Why NRIs like it: You have several options for your coverage. You can extend your coverage if there are changes in your life (marriage, family, and so on). It also provides benefits for critical illnesses. Best for: NRIs who prefer high flexibility and strong features within a single plan. 3. ICICI Pru iProtect Smart It is among the most sought-after term insurance plans available for purchase in India because it offers massive coverage at an affordable cost. It works well for NRIs because: It encompasses 34 serious illnesses. It also provides accidental death benefits. Easy medical testing at global partner hospitals. Buying online is very easy. Best for: NRIs who require comprehensive medical insurance as well as life insurance. 4. Max Life Smart Secure Plus Plan Max Life specialises in offering low-cost protection and excellent claim settlements. Why NRIs prefer it: Extremely low premium cost compared with other plans. Adding an option for accidental coverage and disability benefits. Good customer service for NRIs. Best for: NRIs who are looking for an affordable term insurance product with valuable benefits. 5. Tata AIA Sampoorna Raksha Supreme Tata and AIA are well-known brands. Tata AIA Policies are very sought after among NRIs who look for safety and value for money. Why is it good for NRIs: Extremely high ratio of claims settled. You can include return-of-premium benefits. Good international service support. Facilitates a smooth documentation process for NRIs. Best for: Non-Resident Indians who seek an unwavering brand commitment and efficient service. 6. Bajaj Allianz Smart Protection Plan It is very easy, neat, and clear with no ambiguity. Why NRIs choose it: Examines terminal illness. Benefit for child education. Easy Process and Clear Terms. Competitive rates for high-quality coverage. Best for: NRIs who want an easy-to-understand policy with no gimmicks at an affordable price. 7. SBI Life eShield Next SBI Life enjoys government recognition and has a prominent online term plan for NRIs. Why is it a good choice? Competitive rates. Option to increase coverage with age. The SBI banking network assists families with claims. Easy for NRIs residing in Middle Eastern as well as Asian countries. Best for: NRIs who seek straightforward coverage offered by a brand they trust. A Guide On How To Opt For The Best Term Insurance Plan As An NRI Different NRIs have different ways of life and thus have different requirements. Below given are some easy tips that will help you choose an apt plan. 1. Examining Claim Settlement Ratio However, it highlights the number of claims that the company settles. Higher Ratio = better peace of mind. 2. Choose the right coverage A simple rule: Your term life insurance should be at least 10-15 times your annual salary. Example: Earnings: If your earnings are ₹20 lakh per annum → Choose at least ₹2-₹3 crore. 3. Search for additional benefits for accidental and critical illnesses It will surprise no one that these small accessories offer enormous security In case you fall ill or have an accident, your family will get special benefits. 4. Pick an organization with global backing As an NRI, you will want: Online document upload Medical tests abroad Local assistance available in your country Even some companies have tie-ups with hospitals abroad, outside India. 5. Verify premium payment options Many plans provide: Yearly payment Half-year Monthly or even a single payment Do what is easy for you. Why Term Insurance For NRI Is Important Today NRIs believe that they do not need insurance because they are earning well. However, life can be uncertain for all people, irrespective of geography. Below are the reasons why term insurance for NRI customers matters more today: Healthcare expenses are on the rise all around the world. Job security is never guaranteed. NRI remittances help sustain Indian families. There can be changes in currency. A term plan provides stable coverage irrespective of the scenario. A term insurance plan will protect your family in the easiest and strongest manner. Frequently Asked Questions By Non-Religiously Affiliated Individuals 1. Is term insurance available for NRIs from India? Yes! Moreover, most companies enable NRIs to purchase online from anywhere around the world. 2. Do NRIs need to come to India for medical tests? Typically not. Many firms conduct medical tests within your country. 3. Can my family members call India if I am abroad? Yes. Your family members can assert with ease even if you are staying outside India. 4. Are foreign currencies accepted as payment? Yes. You can pay with: NRE Account NRO account Foreign bank card Conclusion It can be quite confusing while purchasing a term insurance plan. However, once you put it into perspective, it becomes one of the easiest ways to plan for your family’s future. As an NRI, you earn your money through your hard work. Your family believes in you. Your family relies on you. A term plan ensures they are protected no matter what life has in store for them. The 7 best term insurance plans for NRIs mentioned above are reliable, easy, and simple to purchase, irrespective of your location. You can pick any plan as per your needs, budget, and goals. Read Also: Which Health Insurance Plan Offers The Best Coverage For A 23-Year-Old In India Flexible Car Insurance Options For Changing Lifestyles

5 Rare Facts About AIF Investments That Even Regular Traders Don’t Know

What Are The Top 5 Things You Must Know About Alternative Investment Funds?

1. AIF Commitments Are Not Always Fully Deployed At Once

2. AIFs Can Use Multiple Valuation Methods

3. Some AIFs Have Longer Lock-In Structures Than Expected

4. AIFs Can Invest in Instruments That You Won’t Usually Find in Regular Portfolios

5. AIF Performance Reporting Is Not Standardised Like Mutual Funds

What Is The Role Of Due Diligence In Alternative Investment Funds?

Important Things To Keep In Mind About Alternative Investment Funds

Important Facts About Alternative Investment Funds Explained

Tips For Pursuing A Degree In The Legal Field

Insider Secrets: Why Borrowing Money Isn’t Always the Trap You Think It Is

Barsha Bhattacharya

Leave a Reply

Popular

Technologies For Creating A Startup Idea

How to Download Facebook Videos on Android?

7 Rules of Effective Ecommerce Web Design

Why Are Online Transactions Convenient?

Follow Us

Recent

Insider Secrets: Why Borrowing Money Isn’t Always the Trap You Think It Is