Jio BlackRock Raises $2.1B, Disrupts India Mutual Fund Market

Jio Financial Services and BlackRock have partnered to launch Jio BlackRock, aiming to transform India's mutual fund market by introducing nearly a dozen low-cost equity and debt funds by the end of 2025. Targeting small investors with investments starting at just ₹500, the venture bypasses traditional distributors to reduce costs, leveraging Jio's vast digital network and BlackRock's investment platform Aladdin. This direct-to-investor approach has already attracted over $2.1 billion from 90 institutional and 67,000 retail investors, signaling strong market interest. By eliminating middlemen, Jio BlackRock plans to offer funds with expense ratios significantly lower than the industry average, which typically ranges around 1.78% for active funds. The initiative reflects a broader trend toward more accessible and inclusive financial markets in India, potentially expanding investment opportunities for both new and seasoned investors. Overall, Jio BlackRock's strategy threatens to disrupt India's $844 billion mutual fund sector by making investing more affordable and accessible through digital channels.