Synopsis: Thematic-Quant mutual funds use quantitative models to identify stocks aligned with long-term investment themes. This article lists the top 5 Thematic-Quant mutual funds in India based on their 3-year annualised returns.
Thematic-Quant funds are equity mutual funds that use quantitative, data-driven models that take stock decisions and weighting in contrast to the discretion of a fund manager. The models rely on a rules-based approach to screening and rebalancing the portfolio and take into consideration the value, momentum, quality, growth and volatility of the stocks. They are equity-based funds and, thus, come with market risk and can become volatile depending on the performance of the underlying quantitative factors.
Top 5 Thematic-Quant Mutual Funds
1. Quant Quantamental Fund
- NAV: ₹27.28
- AUM: ₹1,652.82 Cr
- Expense Ratio:1.57%
- Exit Load: 1% (within 15 days)
- Performance Snapshot
- 3-Year CAGR: 18.3%
- 3-Year Absolute Return: 68.8%
2. 360 ONE Quant Fund
- NAV: ₹19.79
- AUM: ₹856.46 Cr
- Expense Ratio: 1.42%
- Exit Load: 1% (within 12 months)
- Performance Snapshot
- 3-Year CAGR: 17.3%
- 3-Year Absolute Return: 59.6%
3. Nippon India Quant Fund
- NAV: ₹79.35
- AUM: ₹114.82 Cr
- Expense Ratio: 0.93%
- Exit Load: 0.25% (within 1 month)
- Performance Snapshot
- 3-Year CAGR: 15.2%
- 3-Year Absolute Return: 54.9%
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4. ICICI Prudential Quant Fund
- NAV: ₹23.82
- AUM: ₹150.28 Cr
- Expense Ratio: 1.99%
- Exit Load: 1% (within 3 months)
- Performance Snapshot
- 3-Year CAGR: 13.4%
- 3-Year Absolute Return: 46.5%
5. Axis Quant Fund
- NAV: ₹17.38
- AUM: ₹835.40 Cr
- Expense Ratio: 3.00%
- Exit Load: 1% (within 3 months)
- Performance Snapshot
- 3-Year CAGR: 10.3%
- 3-Year Absolute Return: 35.7%
Note: NAV, AUM, expense ratio and exit load data are sourced from Groww. Data is as of 22nd July 2026.
Risks of Investing in Thematic-Quant Mutual Funds
- Theme Risk: Funds may underperform when the selected theme or investment factor falls out of favour.
- Model Risk: Returns depend on the effectiveness of the quantitative model used for stock selection.
- Market Risk: Equity market fluctuations can impact fund performance.
- Long-Term Risk: Investors need a long-term horizon to manage short-term volatility.
Key Takeaways
- Quant Quantamental Fund delivered the highest 3-year CAGR of 18.3%, making it the top-performing fund on this list.
- 360 ONE Quant Fund ranked second with a 3-year annualised return of 17.3%.
- Nippon India Quant Fund has the lowest expense ratio (0.93%), making it the most cost-efficient among the listed funds.
- Axis Quant Fund carries the highest expense ratio (3.00%), highlighting the importance of comparing costs before investing.
- Thematic-Quant funds use rules and data driven investment models to choose stocks which also helps to eliminate emotional investment decision-making.
Who Should Invest?
Investors with a high-risk appetite and who can withstand equity market volatility can invest in thematic-Quant mutual funds. They are suitable for investors who want to have a systematic approach to investing rather than relying on the discretion of a fund manager, and have a long-term investment horizon of 5+ years, in order to spread their equity investments.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice or investment recommendation. Returns mentioned are based on historical performance and may not be sustained in the future. Mutual fund investments are subject to market risks, including potential loss of capital. Investors are advised to assess their risk appetite and financial goals and to consult a certified financial advisor before investing.
