What is an AIF (Alternative Investment Fund)?

An AIF is a privately pooled, SEBI-regulated investment vehicle that invests using strategies beyond ordinary shares and bonds. It is built for diversification, and for investors who understand, and are comfortable with, a higher level of risk and complexity.

SEBI-regulatedPrivately pooledBeyond listed marketsLonger horizons

The three categories

SEBI classifies AIFs into three categories

Category I

Invests in start-ups, SMEs, social ventures and infrastructure projects at an early stage.

Start-upsSMEInfrastructure

Category II

Private equity, private credit and debt funds that do not use leverage beyond permitted limits.

Private equityPrivate credit

Category III

Advanced strategies, including long-short equity, derivatives and arbitrage, for shorter-term opportunities.

Long-shortHedge

How Masego helps

We help you find the right AIF for your corpus and goals

We explain the strategy, fees, lock-in period and risks in plain language

We shortlist AIF managers with a good track record and philosophy

We monitor performance and keep you informed

We understand your goals, risk appetite and investment horizon

We stay with you until exit, not just at entry

Sounds like what you need?Book a Call

Who AIF is for

An AIF may be right for you if

Who AIF is for?

  1. 1₹1 crore+ to deploy
  2. 2Next-level diversification
  3. 3Beyond listed markets
  4. 4Experienced investor
  5. 5Longer lock-ins OK
You have ₹1 crore or more ready to deploy
You want the next level of diversification
You want exposure beyond listed shares and bonds
You are an experienced investor
You are comfortable with higher risk and longer lock-in periods

AIF vs PMS

Both for larger portfolios, structured differently

PMSAIF
Minimum investment₹50 lakh₹1 crore
Asset classesListed equities, debtPrivate equity, credit, infrastructure, hedge strategies
LiquidityRelatively liquidLower; lock-in periods apply
StructureIndividual portfolio in your dematPooled fund
RegulationSEBI PMS RegulationsSEBI AIF Regulations, 2012
Best suited forHNI investorsHNI and ultra-HNI investors

Frequently asked questions

Your questions, answered

1. What is the minimum investment for an AIF?

SEBI mandates a minimum investment of ₹1 crore for most investors, across all three categories.

2. How long is my money locked in?

It depends on the fund. Many AIFs are close-ended, with terms of several years. The exact term is set out in the fund documents.

3. Is an AIF risky?

AIFs can carry higher risk, lower liquidity and more complexity than mutual funds. Returns are not guaranteed.

4. Does Masego manage AIFs?

No. Masego does not offer AIFs under its own licence. We facilitate access through SEBI-registered AIFs.

5. How are AIFs taxed?

Tax treatment depends on the category and structure of the fund. Please consult a qualified tax professional.

6. Can I invest in an AIF as an NRI?

In many cases, yes, subject to regulations and the fund’s own eligibility rules.

Still have questions?

Bring them to a short clarity conversation. Plain answers, no pitch.

Book a Clarity Call

Ready to go beyond conventional investing?

Talk to our team. We will understand your portfolio and goals, and show you the AIF options that make sense for you.

AIF investments carry higher risk and may have lock-in periods. Read all offer documents carefully. Masego facilitates access through SEBI-registered AIFs and does not offer AIFs under its own licence.