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Soon You May Be Able To Buy Mutual Funds On Flipkart, Amazon

Soon You May Be Able To Buy Mutual Funds On Flipkart, Amazon
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izzetugutmen via Getty Images
finance

E-commerce sites such as Flipkart and Amazon may soon be allowed to sell mutual fund products on their site as markets regulator, Sebi, considers making these investment schemes more accessible to consumers, Mint reported.

The move would allow customers to invest in mutual funds at lowest commissions while taking advantage of a “simple, seamless experience” of the web that could lower instances of transaction-related disputes that arise because of technical glitches.

Customers would also get a warning message if the products are deemed high risk as funds take into consideration, age, income and location details of potential customers.

According to the Mint report a panel on “digitization of financial services” headed by Infosys Co-founder Nandan Nilekani has submitted its recommendation to SEBI recently.

In the early stages, only a handful of e-commerce players may be permitted to sell depending on criteria such as minimum net worth, sales, brand popularity, and customer service track record, Mint said citing sources. The products could be rolled out within one month.

Retail demand for mutual funds has been on the rise. So far this year, as many as 50 new mutual fund offers have been filed with the regulator, according to media reports. Some fund names plan to launch under Hindi brand names to help rural customers better understand the objectives of these schemes, The Economic Timesreported.

Mutual funds are diversified pools of capital that allow investors to spread risk by investing across a pool of stocks, bonds or other investment securities. According to ET, the top five mutual fund schemes that have returned over 20 per cent over three years include SBI Bluechip Fund; Quantum Long Term Equity Fund; DSP Focus 25 Fund; Birla Sun Life Top 100 Fund; and Reliance Top 200 Fund.

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Chasing The Monsoon In India
Havelock Island, Andaman(01 of19)
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When was the last time you saw a sea this clear? If not recently, consider visiting Andaman and Nicobar. The islands are the first to welcome the monsoon, before it hits Kerala (there is also some rainfall during November). Thanks to the efforts of the government, Havelock island is now a popular eco-tourism destination. One can head to Radha Nagar beach and swim with Rajan the elephant in the limpid blue-green waters or, to Elephant Beach for snorkeling. Fishing, scuba diving and jungle treks and kayaking trips are also popular activities here. Here’s how to get to Andaman and Nicobar. (credit:Sourav Saha Photography via Getty Images)
Kovalam(02 of19)
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A popular holiday destination during the winter, Kovalam is at its quietest during the monsoon season, but no less beautiful. Aside from witnessing its rain-washed beaches, one can indulge in Ayurveda therapies: several Ayurveda facilities in Kerala tout the monsoon as the best time to visit. According to them, Ayurveda’s benefits, such as the cleansing of the body, are best realised during this season. Kovalam experiences mid to heavy rainfall, so it is best to carry an umbrella at all times. The usual sporting activities are not available during this time, so instead focus your energies on some excellent local food. Try Curry Leaf on Samudra Beach or Malabar Café on Lighthouse Beach road. Here are some other excellent restaurants to visit. (credit:David Sutherland via Getty Images)
Munnar(03 of19)
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An umbrella, a camera, and a cup of hot masala chai are your best friends on a trip to the scenic hill station of Munnar. If you’re not on a romantic sojourn, that is. Munnar is also known for its Ayurveda treatments. It is advisable to book a room with an excellent view to really enjoy the misty panoramas that the monsoon brings with it. Go see the Atukkad and Lakkom waterfalls – all of Kerala’s waterbodies are a beautiful watch during this season, or trek across to Anamudi Peak and Hill View Park (keep an eye out for leeches). The tea museum, Eravikulam National Park, and Top Station are must-visits. Here's how to get there, and get around. (credit:Paddy Photography via Getty Images)
Varkala(04 of19)
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Approximately an hour-and-a-half by road from Trivandrum, Varkala (a Hindu pilgrimage centre dating back to the 12th century) is a shopper’s and beach lover’s haven. It is not advisable to venture too close to the sea during the monsoons, but Varkala’s long stretch of cliffs offer spectacular views of the rain-swept sea. There are plenty of eateries and the toddy shops near Velliyazhchakkavu are a must-visit for their variety of fresh produce. The natural springs near the beach traditionally known for their medicinal benefits are also frequented regularly. (credit:Lindsay Brown via Getty Images)
Goa(05 of19)
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The monsoon doesn't settle in Kerala, but moves on to Goa by the first week of June. While beach shacks are generally closed around this time, there are other interesting activities in the city to explore. The well-known Sao Joao festival takes place at this time of the year: it involves several men jumping into wells, and ponds to retrieve bottles of Feni and other presents. (credit:Chris Hepburn via Getty Images)
Coorg(06 of19)
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After hitting Goa, the monsoon makes a beeline for Karnataka. The well-recognised hill station of Coorg is one of the best places in the state to experience the rains along with a steaming cup of coffee. Tadiyandamol and Brahmagiri are ideal options for trekkers and campers, although one should be vigilant about small snakes and slippery paths. River rafting also picks up during the monsoon here at the rivers Barapole and Kaveri. Coorg also has many waterfalls that swell to the peak and are a delight to watch – Chingara, Irpu, Mallalli and Cheluvara are a few one can visit. (credit:Joe Ravi via Getty Images)
Agumbe(07 of19)
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Also nestled in the Western Ghats, Agumbe, which is often referred to as the Cherrapunji of south India, receives its heaviest rainfall between the months of June to September. It’s mist-covered forests come alive during this season: waterfalls and rivers transform from tiny streams to gushing bodies of water, and a motley of crabs, insects and amphibians are suddenly visible everywhere. The Onake Abbi Falls, Kunchikal Falls and Barkana Falls are breath-taking, and one can also visit the ARRS- Agumbe Rainforest Research Station. One can also visit Dodda Mane, where the famous sitcom Malgudi Days was shot, where visitors are at leisure to pay what they feel the trip and fare is worth. (credit:Journey with my kaleidoscope via Getty Images)
Malshej Ghat(08 of19)
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Famous for its flamingoes and other types of fauna that flock around, Malshej Ghat can prove a fun and comfortable monsoon trip, given its smattering of private resorts as well as campsites. Head to Darkoba Peak for some rock climbing or trekking, or simply admire the many waterfalls that seemingly sprout out of nowhere in this area. (credit:RBB via Getty Images)
Kaas Plateau(09 of19)
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Situated near Satara, Kaas Plateau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The monsoon season is the best time to visit this belt, hosting as it does over 850 different species of flowers. The endless variety of flowers blossoming underneath an overcast sky make it the perfect romantic getaway. The drive from Satara to Kaas is also beautiful with many interesting stops such as Sajjangad fort that houses the samadhi of saint Ramdas Swami, Shivsagar lake and Pateshwar, an old Shiva temple. (credit:(c) Anand Joshi via Getty Images)
Thoseghar Falls(10 of19)
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There are a series of waterfalls located near the village of Thoseghar, ranging from 20 - 500 metres in height. The best time to visit these falls is during the monsoon, when there is a heavier flow of water. Even if it can get slightly crowded at the waterfalls, the area offers quiet respite from the busy city of Mumbai. (credit:www.chitrakatha.in via Getty Images)
Bakkhali(11 of19)
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One of the many islands dotting southern Bengal, this quiet seaside resort offers a beautiful view of the monsoon rolling in from the Bay of Bengal. A short walk through the mangroves will bring you to a seven-kilometre long beach with hard sand that makes it ideal to walk or cycle across its length. Aside from this and the rich variety of seafood there is not much to do here, making it ideal for a quick weekend getaway. Make sure you carry a flashlight and enough cash as there are no ATMs here. (credit:Krishnendu Chatterjee via Getty Images)
Jim Corbett(12 of19)
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Bad roads notwithstanding, the pristine Jim Corbett National Park can be a beautiful destination to take in the monsoons as they make their way across the sub-continent. The park is partly closed during this season, effectively slowing down the rush of tourists, which can be a blessing if you are looking for some peace and quiet. While the weather can get quite humid, the forests here take on brilliant shades of green and are dotted with brimming lakes and ponds that are visited by frolicking animals and a plethora of birds. (credit:Safique Hazarika Photography via Getty Images)
Cherrapunji(13 of19)
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It rains in Cherrapunji when moisture-laden clouds approaching from the Bay of Bengal hit the Khasi hills. Most of the rain here occurs in the mornings. The city is also famous for its ‘living root bridges’ which are shaped by manipulating the aerial roots of Banyan tress across rivers streams over many years so that they can be used as bridges by people. (credit:Mahesh via Getty Images)
Shillong(14 of19)
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Though not frequented often during the monsoon months, Shillong is at its most beautiful during the season. The sight of the rolling Khasi hills enveloped by misty clouds, stunning wild flowers and swelling waterfalls makes it worth getting drenched in the rain. The biggest advantage of the off-season, is good bargains for hotels and food. A trip to the All Saints Cathedral, and the Don Bosco Museum of Indigneous Cultures is a must-do. Shillong's golf course during this time is best avoided. (credit:Danielrao via Getty Images)
Valley Of Flowers(15 of19)
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Possibly one of the most beautiful treks in India, the Valley of Flowers is transformed into a kaleidoscope of wild flowers such as zinnias, petunias and poppies, between June and September. It also hosts several species of butterflies and endangered animals such as the mountain leopard and the blue sheep. A moderately challenging climb (the entire trek can take a week), the 10-kilometre valley is situated at a height of 3,600 metres above the sea level. (credit:John Brown via Getty Images)
Zanskar Valley(16 of19)
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Zanskar Valley, a popular trekking route during the month of January, also offers some excellent trekking trails and an opportunity to go white-water rafting during the monsoon months. One can sample some excellent food, and witness the region's colourful cultural dances at the many festivals that occur during this time (June to September). (credit:www.tonnaja.com via Getty Images)
Courtallam(17 of19)
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Often referred to as the Spa of Southern India, on account of the numerous health and wellness resorts it hosts, Courtallam witnesses heavier rains during the months of October to December, and lighter showers from June to September. It is frequented more often during the latter months for its waterfalls (Thenaruvi, Aintharuvi and Peraruvi) and scenic temples (Thirukutralanaadhar Temple and Thirumalai Kovil). (credit:Martin Siepmann via Getty Images)
Kodaikanal(18 of19)
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Kodaikanal takes on a greener hue in October, during the monsoon season. It is preferable to cycle or walk around the lake instead of trekking across its slippery hills. Visitors must leave with several bottles of eucalyptus oil, which is available in ample quantity. (credit:Paddy Photography via Getty Images)
Kanyakumari(19 of19)
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The best time to visit Kanyakumari is during October, which is just before the monsoons set in. The famous Vivekananda memorial (set amidst the sea) attracts larger crowds during this time. One can also participate in the Cape Festival, a three-day affair (celebrated around this time). (credit:Soumya Sumitra Behera via Getty Images)
-- This article exists as part of the online archive for HuffPost India, which closed in 2020. Some features are no longer enabled. If you have questions or concerns about this article, please contact indiasupport@huffpost.com.