Our Bureau DSP Mutual Fund has launched DSP Healthcare Fund, an open ended fund, scheduled to close on November 26.

The investment would predominantly be in equity and equity-related securities in healthcare and pharma sector. Investment up to 25 per cent could also be in international healthcare stocks, especially in large US companies, giving investors access to international diversification, said Kalpen Parekh, President, DSP Investment Managers.

The benchmark for the fund would be the S&P BSE Healthcare Index.

Stating that the fund aims to benefit from three major growth drivers — growing demand, export opportunities and a conducive policy environment, Parekh said the healthcare sector in India is witnessing growing demand, driven by rising income and affordability. “This is an interesting time for the Indian healthcare sector. There is a growing elderly population, changing disease pattern, rise in medical tourism and better awareness of wellness, preventive care and diagnosis.

“Export opportunities are expected to increase after the bottoming out of the US pricing cycle, opening up of Chinese market and dedicated R&D to create patented revenues in exports.”

Further government measures such as Ayushman Bharat is also expected to spur growth, said Vinit Sambre, Head — Equities, DSP Investment Managers.