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Tuesday, August 26, 2025

26/08/25, Types of Portfolio Services

 

When you're trying to grow your money or plan for your retirement, how you manage the investments is just as […]

When you're trying to grow your money or plan for your retirement, how you manage the investments is just as important as where you invest.

That's where Portfolio Management Services (PMS) come in. They help create personalized strategies based on your goals and the level of risk you are comfortable taking.

But not all Portfolio management types are the same. It's important to know the difference between Discretionary, Non-Discretionary, and Advisory PMS, as each gives you a different level of control and involvement.

From complete delegation to personalized guidance, each type of PMS investment offers you a different level of decision-making freedom and customization.

As part of this beginner's guide to PMS, let's explore the different types of portfolio management services to help you choose the right one for your investment journey.

What Are Portfolio Management Services?

In simple terms, Portfolio Management Services (PMS) are professional investment services offered by qualified portfolio managers who build and manage a customized portfolio on behalf of clients.

Classification of Portfolio Management Services in India

In India, portfolio management services are typically classified into three broad categories, based on how investment decisions are taken and who controls the final execution.

Here's a quick look:

Portfolio Management TypeDecision Control
Execution
Investor Involvement
Discretionary PMSFund ManagerBy Fund ManagerMinimal
Non-Discretionary PMSInvestorBy InvestorModerate
Advisory PMSInvestorBy InvestorHigh

These classifications help investors select services based on their comfort with risk, investment knowledge, and time availability.

Discretionary Portfolio Management Services

Under Discretionary PMS, the portfolio manager takes complete control of all investment decisions. From choosing the right stocks to deciding when to buy or sell, everything is handled professionally without the investor's involvement.

Key Features

1. The manager has full discretion over the investment strategy:The portfolio manager independently selects assets, allocates funds, and manages investments without needing approval from the investor for each move.

2. Ideal for investors who prefer a hands-off approach:Perfect for those who want professional management without being involved in daily decisions or constantly monitoring the market themselves.

3. The portfolio is personalized based on the investor's risk profile, but the manager drives daily decisions:While tailored to your goals and risk level, the manager takes complete charge of buying, selling, and strategy implementation.

4. Generally suited for High Net-Worth Individuals (HNIs):Best for busy or less-experienced investors who trust professionals to manage large investments efficiently and strategically.

Discretionary PMS is among the most popular portfolio management types in India, especially for those looking for long-term wealth creation without daily market monitoring.

Non-Discretionary Portfolio Management Services

In Non-Discretionary PMS, the portfolio manager only provides recommendations. The final decision to buy or sell securities lies with the investor. Execution also happens only after the investor's approval.

Key Features

1. Investor retains control over final transactions:In Non-Discretionary PMS, the investor makes the final call, giving full control over buying and selling decisions.

2. Portfolio managers give advice, but no action is taken without approval:Managers suggest investment moves, but nothing happens unless the investor agrees, ensuring complete involvement in every portfolio decision.

3. Suitable for investors who are knowledgeable and want better transparency and control:Best for experienced investors who prefer to stay involved and value having a clear view of all portfolio actions.

4. Helps build confidence and allows for real-time involvement in the investment process:Since investors stay actively engaged, it boosts their confidence and understanding, making the investment journey more hands-on and transparent.

If you are someone who enjoys reviewing suggestions and wants custom advice with control, this type of PMS investment may be for you.

Advisory Portfolio Management Services

The Advisory PMS model is the most flexible and cost-efficient among all portfolio management types. Here, the manager provides advice, but the investor takes full responsibility for executing trades and managing funds.

Key Features

1. No direct execution by the portfolio manager:In this model, the advisor only gives recommendations-all buy/sell decisions and trade execution are done by the investor.

2. Offers suggestions for portfolio allocation, diversification, and asset strategy:The manager provides expert advice on where to invest, how to spread risk, and align strategy with financial goals.

3. Great for investors who prefer DIY investing with expert guidance:Ideal for investors who like managing their own money but still want support from professionals for smarter decision-making.

4. Often comes at a lower fee structure, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious investors:Since the advisor doesn't handle transactions, fees are usually lower, making it a more affordable choice for budget-aware investors.

Advisory PMS works best for financially savvy individuals who want expert inputs while maintaining full autonomy.

Which Type of PMS is Best for You?

Selecting the right types of portfolio management services depends on your investment goals, time availability, market knowledge, and risk appetite.

Here's a simple comparison to help you decide:

FactorDiscretionary PMSNon-Discretionary PMSAdvisory PMS
ControlLowModerateHigh
CostHigherModerateLower
FlexibilityMediumHighVery High
Ideal ForBusy ProfessionalsInformed InvestorsDIY Investors

SEBI Guidelines for Different PMS Types

The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) regulates all types of portfolio management services to ensure transparency, fairness, and investor protection.

Key Guidelines Include:

  • Minimum Investment: SEBI mandates a minimum investment of ₹50 lakhs for PMS accounts.
  • Registration: All PMS providers must be registered with the SEBI.
  • Disclosure Norms: Clear performance reporting, risk metrics, and fee structures must be disclosed.
  • Audit & Compliance: Regular audits and compliance checks ensure the safety of investor funds.

These regulations build trust and promote compliance in the financial ecosystem. Whether it's discretionary or advisory, every portfolio management type is subject to strict governance.

How Do Portfolio Managers Customize These Services?

Each type of PMS investment allows for customization based on client profiles, investment goals, and market outlook.

Common Customization Strategies:

  • Large-cap focused portfolios: Stable returns with lower risk.
  • Mid & small-cap portfolios: High-growth potential with higher volatility.
  • Thematic investing: Based on emerging trends like ESG, digital India, or green energy.
  • Sectoral Strategies: Focused exposure to sectors like banking, IT, pharma, etc.

Whether you choose discretionary or non-discretionary PMS, your portfolio can be customized with different strategies to match your goals, highlighting key PMS benefitslike flexibility and personalisation.

Common Myths About PMS Types

Many investors hesitate to use PMS due to confusion or myths around various portfolio management types. Let's bust a few of them:

Myth 1: Non-discretionary PMS means no advice

Fact: Non-discretionary PMS provides regular expert recommendations, but the investor takes final action.

Myth 2: Advisory PMS is the same as mutual funds

Fact: Mutual funds pool money from multiple investors, while advisory PMS offers personalized recommendations based on your profile.

Myth 3: Discretionary PMS locks you out of your portfolio

Fact: While the manager takes decisions, you can monitor performance and receive detailed reports regularly.

Myth 4: All PMS types are risky

Fact: Risk varies by strategy, not by portfolio management type. A conservative discretionary PMS can be less risky than an aggressive advisory plan.

Understanding the types of portfolio management services and debunking these myths can help you make smarter financial decisions.

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of portfolio management is like picking the perfect travel guide - you need someone who understands your journey and moves at your pace. Whether you are a busy professional seeking a fully managed solution or a hands-on investor who enjoys being involved, there's a PMS model that fits.

With guidance from a trusted share market advisor, you can assess your risk appetite, time commitment, and financial goals to choose between discretionary, non-discretionary, or advisory PMS services.

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