Wealth Management in India: 7 trends reshaping how wealthy Indians invest

India’s affluent investors are changing the way they look at money. Equity, mutual funds, PMS and AIFs are no longer limited to a small group of investors, and many people with larger portfolios are exploring a wider mix of options to grow and manage their wealth. The Economic Survey 2025-26 found that equity and investment funds accounted for 23% of household financial assets in March 2025, up from 15.7% in March 2019.

That change is also creating a larger opportunity for financial institutions and wealthy businesses looking to reach investors. Brands looking to Advertise on ET can tap into conversations around investing, capital, and wealth creation while reaching an audience that actively follows financial decisions.

1. Equity is becoming a bigger part of wealth creation


Affluent investors are increasingly treating equities as a long-term wealth creation tool rather than simply a short-term trading opportunity. The broader rise in household equity participation supports this shift, with the Economic Survey pointing to sustained growth in both direct and indirect equity ownership.

2. Mutual funds continue to gain ground

Mutual funds remain an important part of Indian wealth management, supported by systematic investing and wider investor participation. The industry’s AUM reached ₹87.08 lakh crore in August 2026, while total folios stood at 28.35 crore, according to the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI). Affluent investors are also using mutual funds as part of broader portfolios rather than relying on a single asset class.

3. PMS is moving further into the wealth conversation

Professional portfolio management is gaining attention as investors look for greater customisation. SEBI data shows that PMS had more than 2.13 lakh discretionary clients in July 2026, with total reported PMS assets at about ₹44.1 lakh crore across categories. This points to growing demand for professionally managed strategies alongside traditional investment products.

4. Alternative investments are becoming more relevant

AIFs are giving sophisticated investors access to strategies and opportunities beyond conventional market products. SEBI data shows cumulative AIF commitments of ₹16.94 lakh crore and investments of ₹6.76 lakh crore as of March 2026. Private markets, real estate, venture capital and special situations are therefore becoming part of the wider wealth management discussion.

5. Diversification is replacing one-size-fits-all portfolios

Affluent investors are increasingly looking at how different assets work together instead of chasing one product or market theme. Equity, debt, mutual funds, alternatives, gold and international exposure can serve different roles depending on risk, liquidity and time horizon. This is making asset allocation and portfolio construction more important than simply selecting individual investments.

6. Wealth planning is moving beyond returns

Wealth planning also goes well beyond finding the next investment opportunity. Once a portfolio reaches a certain size, questions around taxes, retirement, insurance, and passing wealth on to the next generation become equally important. These are among the wider issues discussed at ET Wealth Expo, which brings investors, financial experts, institutions, family offices, and wealth creators into the same space to discuss how wealth can be built, managed, and protected over the long term.

7. Investors are looking for better financial conversations

Greater choice also means greater complexity. Investors need access to credible information and expert perspectives to understand changing markets, products and regulations. That creates a valuable space for AMCs, PMS firms, AIFs and wealth managers to engage with informed audiences through meaningful financial conversations. Partner with Us can help brands become part of these discussions rather than simply competing for attention.

The shift in Indian wealth management is ultimately about more than rising investment volumes. It reflects a change in how affluent Indians think about money, with greater emphasis on diversification, professional management, protection, and legacy. ET Wealth Expo brings these audiences and conversations together, allowing financial brands to build stronger relationships with the people shaping India’s next phase of wealth creation. Partner with us to connect your brand with this evolving investment ecosystem.