What are the two main types of mutual funds?

The two main types of mutual funds are categorized into equity funds and fixed-income funds. Equity funds primarily invest in stocks and are designed for capital appreciation, meaning they aim to grow the investment over time through increases in stock prices. These funds are generally considered higher risk due to the volatility of the stock market, but they offer the potential for higher returns.

On the other hand, fixed-income funds invest in debt securities such as bonds and government debt. These funds provide regular income through interest payments, making them typically less risky than equity funds. They are appealing to investors who seek stability and fixed returns, particularly during economic uncertainty.

This classification effectively captures the primary investment strategies that mutual funds employ, distinguishing them based on the nature of the assets they hold and the corresponding risk-reward profiles associated with those assets.