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.
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.
Category II
Private equity, private credit and debt funds that do not use leverage beyond permitted limits.
Category III
Advanced strategies, including long-short equity, derivatives and arbitrage, for shorter-term opportunities.
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
Who AIF is for
An AIF may be right for you if
Who AIF is for?
- 1₹1 crore+ to deploy
- 2Next-level diversification
- 3Beyond listed markets
- 4Experienced investor
- 5Longer lock-ins OK
AIF vs PMS
Both for larger portfolios, structured differently
| PMS | AIF | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum investment | ₹50 lakh | ₹1 crore |
| Asset classes | Listed equities, debt | Private equity, credit, infrastructure, hedge strategies |
| Liquidity | Relatively liquid | Lower; lock-in periods apply |
| Structure | Individual portfolio in your demat | Pooled fund |
| Regulation | SEBI PMS Regulations | SEBI AIF Regulations, 2012 |
| Best suited for | HNI investors | HNI 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 CallReady 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.