India's $177 Billion Pension Funds Gain Broader Investment Access

• India's pension regulator has broadened investment options for its $177 billion National Pension System (NPS) funds.
• Revised guidelines allow NPS funds to invest in a wider range of equities, debt securities, and alternative assets.
• The expanded scope includes more stocks (Nifty 250/BSE 250), select debt with single ratings, and real estate vehicles.
• For the first time, NPS vehicles can now invest in gold and silver exchange-traded funds (ETFs), adding commodity exposure.
• The changes aim to improve portfolio diversification, liquidity, and long-term returns, reflecting a move towards greater risk tolerance.

Why It Matters: Your Indian pension investments now have broader options, potentially higher returns, and more risk.