Stock markets in free fall: Is it a good time to invest in mutual funds?

The alarm bells are blaring on Dalal Street as domestic stock markets have been in a free fall over the past month, hurt by weak Q2 results and unprecedented selling by foreign investors.
With the Sensex and Nifty tumbling nearly 10% from their peaks, investors are wondering: Could this market correction be a blessing in disguise for mutual fund investors?
The numbers paint a dramatic picture. The Sensex has fallen 8,553 points from its September 29 peak of 85,978.25, while the Nifty has retreated 2,744 points since September 27. Yet beneath these sobering figures lies an intriguing paradox—the broader market remains resilient, with small-cap, mid-cap, and large-cap indices maintaining impressive year-on-year gains of 10-15%.
“This correction presents an attractive level for those with additional funds to capitalise on long-term opportunities,” says Swapnil Aggarwal, Director at VSRK Capital. His optimism isn’t unfounded—October witnessed equity mutual fund inflows soaring to Rs 41,886 crore, a robust 22% increase from September, according to AMFI data.
The market’s recent turbulence stems largely from foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) heading for the exit, pulling out an unprecedented Rs 94,017 crore in October alone. However, domestic mutual funds have emerged as market champions, injecting Rs 90,000 crore to stabilize the ship.
The correction has put premium valuations under the microscope, especially as corporate earnings struggle to keep pace. Yet this recalibration might be exactly what the doctor ordered. Analysts at JM Financial and Jefferies suggest this cooling period could set the stage for healthier, more sustainable growth, particularly in segments driven by consumption and economic expansion.
For mutual fund investors, the current scenario presents a strategic window. Mid-cap, large-cap, and consumption-driven funds are drawing particular attention for their long-term growth potential.
With domestic institutional investors providing a sturdy buffer against market volatility, this correction might well be the foundation for the next bull run.
“Investors can view these market dips as opportunities to strengthen their portfolios, particularly as markets typically recover over time, reflecting economic resilience. For those with additional funds, this level presents an attractive investment opportunity, especially in mid-cap, large-cap, and consumption-driven mutual funds, to leverage long-term growth potential,” Aggarwal said.
(Disclaimer: The views, opinions, recommendations, and suggestions expressed by experts/brokerages in this article are their own and do not reflect the views of the India Today Group. It is advisable to consult a qualified broker or financial advisor before making any actual investment or trading choices.)