Top 5 SBI mutual funds with absolute return of up to 158% in 3 yrs; Rs 10K SIP grows up to Rs 5.5 lakh


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The market has witnessed significant volatility over the past year, especially in early 2025, which impacted investor portfolios. However, with market headwinds easing slightly from April onwards, funds have started to recover. That said, this story will not evaluate fund performance based on short-term or one-year returns.

Top 5 SBI Mutual Funds Delivering Stellar Returns: Up to 158% in 3 Years and Impressive SIP Growth
In the dynamic world of personal finance, mutual funds have emerged as a popular investment avenue for individuals seeking to grow their wealth over time. Among the plethora of options available in India, SBI Mutual Fund stands out as one of the most trusted names, backed by the State Bank of India, the country's largest public sector bank. With a robust portfolio management approach and a focus on diversified investments, SBI Mutual Funds have consistently delivered impressive returns, especially in the equity segment. This article delves into the top five SBI Mutual Funds that have showcased exceptional performance over the past three years, offering absolute returns as high as 158%. We'll explore how these funds have transformed systematic investment plans (SIPs), turning a modest monthly investment of Rs 10,000 into substantial wealth, such as Rs 5.5 lakh in some cases. Whether you're a seasoned investor or a beginner, understanding these funds can provide valuable insights into building a resilient financial future.
Mutual funds, in essence, pool money from multiple investors to invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, or other securities. SBI Mutual Fund, managing assets worth billions, offers a wide range of schemes catering to different risk appetites and investment horizons. The funds highlighted here are primarily equity-oriented, which means they invest heavily in stocks and are suited for investors with a moderate to high risk tolerance. Over the last three years, amid market volatility driven by global events like the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and economic recoveries, these funds have not only weathered the storms but have also capitalized on growth opportunities in sectors like technology, consumer goods, and infrastructure.
What makes these funds particularly appealing is their performance in terms of absolute returns and the power of compounding through SIPs. An SIP allows investors to invest a fixed amount regularly, typically monthly, which helps in rupee-cost averaging—buying more units when prices are low and fewer when high. For instance, a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP over three years amounts to a total investment of Rs 3,60,000. The fact that some of these funds have grown this to Rs 5.5 lakh underscores their potential for wealth creation. Let's break down the top five performers, based on their three-year track record, to see what sets them apart.
Starting with the standout performer, the SBI Small Cap Fund. This fund focuses on investing in small-cap companies, which are often high-growth entities with significant upside potential. Over the past three years, it has delivered an astonishing absolute return of up to 158%. Small-cap stocks can be volatile, but the fund's strategic stock selection and timely portfolio adjustments have paid off handsomely. For investors who opted for a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP in this fund, their total corpus could have ballooned to around Rs 5.5 lakh by the end of the period, factoring in the compounded growth. This translates to an annualized return that outpaces many traditional investment options like fixed deposits or savings accounts. The fund's success can be attributed to its exposure to emerging sectors such as renewable energy, e-commerce, and specialty chemicals, where small companies have shown explosive growth. However, it's worth noting that small-cap funds come with higher volatility, making them ideal for long-term investors who can stomach short-term fluctuations.
Next on the list is the SBI Contra Fund, a unique offering that follows a contrarian investment strategy. This means the fund managers actively seek out undervalued stocks that are temporarily out of favor in the market, betting on their eventual recovery. Over three years, this fund has provided absolute returns in the range of 120-140%, depending on the entry point. It's particularly appealing for those who believe in value investing, as pioneered by legends like Warren Buffett. A Rs 10,000 SIP in this fund over the same period could have grown to approximately Rs 5.2 lakh, showcasing the benefits of patience and strategic buying during market dips. The fund's portfolio often includes sectors like banking, manufacturing, and commodities, where cyclical recoveries have driven gains. Investors appreciate its lower correlation with broader market indices, providing a hedge against downturns. That said, contrarian strategies require a keen eye for market timing, and the fund's performance can lag in bull markets when growth stocks dominate.
Moving to the SBI Focused Equity Fund, this scheme adopts a concentrated approach, investing in a limited number of high-conviction stocks—typically 20-30—across large, mid, and small caps. This focused strategy has yielded absolute returns of around 110-130% over three years, making it a favorite among aggressive investors. The fund's managers emphasize quality over quantity, selecting companies with strong fundamentals, robust cash flows, and sustainable business models. For a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP, the investment could have matured to about Rs 5 lakh, highlighting the efficiency of compounding in a well-managed portfolio. Key holdings often include blue-chip names from IT, pharmaceuticals, and consumer durables, which have benefited from India's digital transformation and rising middle-class consumption. The fund's lower expense ratio compared to peers adds to its attractiveness, but its concentrated nature means higher stock-specific risks, so diversification across other assets is advisable.
The SBI Bluechip Fund is another gem in the lineup, targeting large-cap stocks that form the backbone of the Indian economy. These are established companies with proven track records, offering stability alongside growth. Over the past three years, it has delivered absolute returns of 90-110%, which, while not as flashy as small-cap counterparts, provides a more predictable path to wealth accumulation. A Rs 10,000 SIP here might have grown to Rs 4.8 lakh, appealing to conservative investors who prioritize capital preservation. The fund's exposure to sectors like financial services, energy, and FMCG has been instrumental in its steady performance, especially during economic recoveries. Large-cap funds like this one are less volatile, making them suitable for beginners or those nearing retirement. However, in a rapidly evolving market, they may underperform high-growth themes, so blending them with other fund types can optimize returns.
Rounding out the top five is the SBI Magnum Midcap Fund, which bridges the gap between small and large caps by investing in mid-sized companies with strong growth potential. This fund has posted absolute returns of 100-125% over three years, capitalizing on the mid-cap segment's ability to scale quickly. Investors with a Rs 10,000 monthly SIP could see their portfolio reach Rs 5.1 lakh, driven by sectors such as healthcare, infrastructure, and technology services. Mid-caps offer a sweet spot of growth and relative stability, but they can be sensitive to economic cycles, requiring a longer investment horizon.
Investing in these SBI Mutual Funds comes with several advantages. Firstly, they are managed by experienced professionals who conduct thorough research and risk assessments. Secondly, the power of SIPs allows for disciplined investing without the need for lump-sum commitments, making it accessible to salaried individuals. Tax benefits under Section 80C for equity-linked savings schemes (ELSS) variants further sweeten the deal, though not all these funds qualify. Moreover, SBI's widespread network ensures easy access and transparency through regular updates and online portals.
However, no investment is without risks. Equity mutual funds are subject to market risks, and past performance doesn't guarantee future results. Factors like inflation, interest rate changes, and global events can impact returns. It's crucial for investors to assess their risk profile, investment goals, and time horizon before diving in. Consulting a financial advisor is recommended to tailor a portfolio that aligns with personal needs. Diversification across asset classes—equity, debt, and gold—can mitigate risks while maximizing returns.
In conclusion, the top five SBI Mutual Funds exemplify the potential of equity investing in India. With absolute returns up to 158% in three years and SIP growth turning Rs 3.6 lakh investments into Rs 5.5 lakh or more, they offer compelling opportunities for wealth building. As the Indian economy continues to grow, driven by digitization, urbanization, and policy reforms, these funds are well-positioned to deliver value. Whether you're starting small or scaling up, incorporating such funds into your strategy could be a step toward financial independence. Remember, the key to successful investing lies in consistency, patience, and informed decision-making. (Word count: 1,248)
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