Indian investors have three main ways to access global markets: International mutual funds offered in India, funds based in GIFT City and direct investments through overseas brokerage accounts. The routes differ in how money is invested, which assets are available and how much administration falls on the investor.
International mutual funds offer a familiar starting point. Investors can buy units through Indian investment platforms and transact in rupees, while the fund provides exposure to overseas markets. Depending on the scheme, this could mean tracking a global index, investing in a particular country or gaining exposure to a specific sector.