Best Performing Mid Cap Growth Mutual Funds December 2012

Best performing mid cap growth mutual funds December 2012 are Aquila Three Peaks Opportunity Growth fund, Kinetics Internet fund, Harbor Mid Cap Growth, etc.

Mid Cap Growth Funds

Mid cap growth mutual funds may invest in equities of all sizes or in equities of midsize companies with high potential growth. They invest mainly in U.S. companies or corporation. These companies have market capitalization between $2 billion - $10 billion. The fund managers may use different matrices such as high growth rate for earnings, sales, book value, and cash flow) and high valuation (high price ratios and low dividend yield).

These top performers are sorted based on its year to date performance in 2012 (up to December 28, 2012). You can find the fund review and other fund information such as expense ratio, Morningstar rating, fund’s market price, managers, fund’s holdings, yield, etc.

Best Performing Mutual Funds

The 10 best performing mid cap growth mutual funds December 2012 are:

1. Aquila Three Peaks Opportunity Growth Fund (ATGAX)
2. Kinetics Internet No Load (WWWFX)
3. Davenport Equity Opportunities (DEOPX)
4. PRIMECAP Odyssey Aggressive Growth (POAGX)
5. Harbor Mid Cap Growth Fund (HIMGX)
6. Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund (TEGAX)
7. Legg Mason ClearBridge Mid Cap Growth Fund (LBGAX)
8. Hartford Midcap Fund (HFMCX)
9. Goldman Sachs Small/Mid Cap Growth Fund (GSMAX)
10. Artisan Mid Cap Fund (ARTMX)

Updated on 12/30/2012

ING Global Real Estate Fund (IGLAX)

ING Global Real Estate fund (Ticker: IGLAX) is an international stock mutual fund. It focuses its investment in real estate companies around the world.

ING Global Real Estate A (MUTF: IGLAX)

The investment objective of ING Global Real Estate fund is to provide high total return, consisting of capital appreciation and current income. The mutual fund utilizes its net assets to purchase a portfolio of equity securities of companies that are principally engaged in the real estate industry. It may invest in companies located in countries with emerging securities markets. The fund may invest in other investment companies, including exchange-traded funds (ETFs).

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: 11/4/2001
• Ticker Symbol: IGLAX
• CUSIP: 44980R326
• Beta (3yr): 0.98
• Rank in category (YTD): %
• Category: Global Real Estate
• Distribution: 2.02%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.31%
• Net Assets: $ 4.48 billion
• Number of Years Up: 7 years
• Number of Years Down: 3 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 37.99%

Updated on 12/29/2012

PIMCO Unconstrained Bond Fund (PUBAX)

PIMCO Unconstrained Bond Fund (Ticker: PUBAX) is part of taxable bond fund. It invests in nontraditional bonds and provides regular income for investors.

PIMCO Unconstrained Bond A (Ticker: PUBAX)

The PIMCO Unconstrained Bond fund aim is to achieve maximum long-term return, consistent with capital preservation and prudent investment management. The mutual fund invests majority of its assets (>80%) in a diversified portfolio of both investment-grade securities and high yield securities (“Junk bonds”). The fund’s NAV is $11.68 (as of 12/2/2012).

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: 06/29/2008
• Ticker Symbol: PUBAX
• CUSIP: 72201M479
• Beta (3yr): 0.31
• Rank in category (YTD): 29%
• Category: Nontraditional Bond
• Yield: 1.94%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.30%
• Net Assets: $ 15.08 billion
• Number of Years Up: 3 years
• Number of Years Down: 0 years
• Effective duration: 0.24 years
• Effective maturity: -0.37 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 1,001%

Updated on 12/28/2012

Top Performer Small Blend Mutual Funds December 2012

The 10 top performer small blend mutual funds December 2012 are Hennessy Cornerstone Growth fund, Mairs & Power Small Cap, PIMCO Small Cap StocksPLUS TR, etc.

Best Performer Mutual Funds

Small blend mutual fund invests mainly in U.S. companies with small market capitalization. It invests in a mix of value and growth stocks where neither growth nor value characteristics predominate. This equity fund provides higher risk and higher reward opportunity for investors. It is higher risk than typically large cap mutual funds.

These top performers are sorted based on its year to date performance in 2012 (up to December 13, 2012). You can find the fund review from this article. Other fund information can be found below such as expense ratio, Morningstar rating, fund’s NAV, managers, fund’s holdings, yield, etc.

The 12 top performer small blend mutual funds December 2012 are:

1. Hennessy Cornerstone Growth Investor (HFCGX)
2. Mairs & Power Small Cap (MSCFX)
3. PIMCO Small Cap StocksPLUS TR A (PCKAX)
4. Cortina Small Cap Value (CRSVX)
5. Vulcan Value Partners Small Cap (VVPSX)
6. Bogle Small Cap Growth Investor (BOGLX)
7. RBC Enterprise A (TETAX)
8. Keeley Small Cap Value A (KSCVX)
9. Touchstone Small Cap Core A (TSFAX)
10. Brown Advisory Small-Cap Fundamental Val Investor (BIAUX)
11. Fidelity Small Cap Discovery (FSCRX)
12. Olstein Strategic Opportunities A (OFSAX)

Updated on 12/27/2012

Vanguard Pacific Stock Index Fund (VPACX)

Vanguard Pacific Stock Index Fund (Ticker: VPACX) is a popular international stock mutual fund. The mutual fund focuses its investment in stocks of companies located in Pacific/Asia region.

Vanguard Pacific Stock Index Fund (MUTF: VPACX)

The Vanguard Pacific Stock Index Fund objective is to track the performance of the MSCI Pacific Index, a benchmark index.  The index comprises of stocks issued by companies located in the major markets of the Pacific region. The MSCI Pacific Index consists of approximately 470 common stocks of companies located in Japan, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, and New Zealand.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: 06/17/1990
• Ticker Symbol: VPACX
• CUSIP: 922042106
• Beta (3yr): 0.77
• Rank in category (YTD): 83%
• Category: Diversified Pacific/ Asia
• Distribution: 4.42%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.26%
• Net Assets: $ 3.91 billion
• Number of Years Up: 13 years
• Number of Years Down: 8 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 4.00%

Updated on 12/26/2012

Best Performing World Allocation Mutual Funds 2012

The best performing world allocation mutual funds December 2012 are Strategic Latin America fund, PIMCO All Asset All Authority, Templeton Global Balanced, etc.

Top Performer World Allocation Funds

World allocation mutual fund is considered as a balanced mutual fund. This fund invests in 3 major categories: stocks, bonds, and cash. The mutual fund may invest in companies and government around the world. It focuses on the U.S., Canada, Japan, Europe, and other developed countries. It may invest about 10% in emerging markets.

These best performing mutual funds are sorted based on its year-to-date performance up to December 16, 2012. You may find other fund review information: expense ratio, fund’s NAV, management, objective, yield, top holdings, etc.

The 8 best performing world allocation mutual funds December 2012 are:

1. Strategic Latin America A (SLATX)
2. VALIC Company I Global Strategy (VGLSX)
3. PIMCO All Asset All Authority A (PAUAX)
4. Templeton Global Balanced A (TAGBX)
5. Nuveen Real Asset Income A (NRIAX)
6. Ivy Asset Strategy A (WASAX)
7. Waddell & Reed Asset Strategy A (UNASX)
8. Goldman Sachs Satellite Strategies A (GXSAX)

Updated on 12/24/2012

Fidelity Japan Fund (FJPNX)

Fidelity Japan Fund (Ticker: FJPNX) is an international stock mutual fund. This fund invests in equities of Japanese companies. More review can be found inside.

Fidelity Japan Fund (MUTF: FJPNX)

The investment aim of Fidelity Japan Fund is to provide long-term capital appreciation. The fund utilizes its assets to purchase securities of Japanese issuers and other investments that are tied economically to Japan. It invests mainly in common stocks. The fund may use fundamental analysis of factors such as financial condition and industry position, as well as market and economic conditions to select investments.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: 09/14/1992
• Ticker Symbol: FJPNX
• CUSIP: 315910885
• Beta (3yr): 0.60
• Rank in category (YTD): 37%
• Category: Japan Stock
• Distribution: 1.68%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.80%
• Net Assets: $ 400.29 million
• Number of Years Up: 9 years
• Number of Years Down: 10 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 134.00%

Updated on 12/22/2012

Top Performer Municipal Bond ETFs December 2012

The 10 top performer municipal bond ETFs December 2012 are Market Vectors High-Yield Muni ETF, SPDR Nuveen S&P High Yield Municipal Bond, etc.

Best Performing Muni Bond ETFs

Exchange Traded Funds or ETFs have gaining popularity among investors. Unlike mutual fund, they provide opportunity to invest and trade like stocks. You can buy ETFs from your brokerage. One of the popular ETF categories is municipal bond ETF.

The municipal bond ETF invests mainly in municipal bond either investment grade muni or high yield municipal. This fund provide tax free yield for investors. Typically it also has lower risk than other bond or stock ETF.

These top performer muni bond ETFs are sorted based on its YTD return. You may find other information such as expense ratio fee, portfolio turnover rate, management or index approach, performance, etc. You can find the fund review and comparison below.

The 10 top performer municipal bond ETFs up to December 2012 are:

1. Market Vectors High-Yield Muni ETF (HYD)
2. SPDR Nuveen S&P High Yield Municipal Bond (HYMB)
3. Market Vectors CEF Municipal Income ETF (XMPT)
4. Market Vectors Long Municipal Index ETF (MLN)
5. PowerShares Insured National Muni Bond (PZA)
6. SPDR Nuveen Barclays Capital CA Muni Bond (CXA)
7. PowerShares Insured California Muni Bond (PWZ)
8. PowerShares Insured New York Muni Bond (PZT)
9. iShares S&P CA AMT-Free Municipal Bond (CMF)
10. SPDR Nuveen Barclays Capital NY Muni Bond (INY)

Updated on 12/21/2012

Vanguard Long-Term Treasury Fund (VUSTX) Investor Shares

The Vanguard Long-Term Treasury Fund (Ticker: VUSTX) is part of taxable bond mutual fund. This investor shares fund invests in long duration government bonds.

Vanguard Long-Term Treasury Investor (VUSTX)

The investment objective of Vanguard Long-Term Treasury fund is to achieve a high and sustainable level of current income. This mutual fund utilizes its assets to purchase U.S. Treasury securities. These securities may include bills, bonds, and notes issued by the U.S. Treasury. It is expected to maintain a dollar-weighted average maturity of 15 to 30 years. The current fund’s NAV is $13.59 (11/27/2012).

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: May 18, 1986
• Ticker Symbol: VUSTX
• CUSIP: 922031505
• Beta (3yr): 3.16
• Rank in category (YTD): 65%
• Category: Long Government
• Distribution: 2.53%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.20%
• Net Assets: $ 3.93 billion
• Number of Years Up: 20 years
• Number of Years Down: 5 years
• Average Maturity: 23.2 years
• Average duration: 15.6 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 229%

Updated on 12/20/2012

Best Performing Emerging Markets Stock Closed End Funds December 2012

Best performing emerging markets CEFs 2012 include Turkish Investment Fund, Mexico Fund, Morgan Stanley India, etc. These closed end funds invest in equities of companies in emerging markets region.

Top Performer Closed End Funds

Investor can invest in emerging markets sector through several channels. They can invest in ETF (exchange traded fund), mutual fund, stock, bond, and CEF (closed end fund). This article will look into the emerging markets closed end fund investment especially the best performing funds.

The emerging markets CEFs focus its investment in companies located in emerging markets region. These countries are Brazil, India, China, Turkey, South Africa, etc. Typically, the funds have higher growth rate than the developed countries fund such as US or European.

The top performing list is sorted based on its performance in 2012 (up to 12/13/2012). You can find the fund review, performance, expense ratio, dividend yield, fund’s NAV, management, leverage, fund’s sponsor, premium/discount info, etc.

The 10 best performing emerging markets CEFs 2012 are:

1. Turkish Investment Fund (TKF)
2. Mexico Equity & Income (MXE)
3. Mexico Fund (MXF)
4. Morgan Stanley India Investor (IIF)
5. First Trust/Aberdeen Emerging Opportunity (FEO)
6. India Fund (IFN)
7. Morgan Stanley East Europe (RNE)
8. Aberdeen Emerging Markets Telecommunications & Infrastructure (ETF)
9. Aberdeen Latin America (LAQ)
10. Herzfeld Caribbean Basin (CUBA)

Updated on 12/18/2012

Third Avenue International Value Fund (TVIVX)

Third Avenue International Value Fund (TVIVX) is an international stock mutual fund. This equity mutual fund invests in undervalued non-U.S. companies with small- and/or mid-capitalization.

Third Avenue International Value Fund (Ticker: TVIVX)

The investment objective of Third Avenue International Value fund is to seek long-term capital growth. The mutual fund utilizes its assets to purchase a portfolio of common stocks and convertible securities, of well-financed companies (high quality assets and low levels of liabilities) located outside of the United States. It invests primarily in developed countries. It is non-diversified.

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: 12/30/2009
• Ticker Symbol: TVIVX
• CUSIP: 884116864
• Beta (3yr): 0.84
• Rank in category (YTD): 42%
• Category: Foreign Small/ Mid Value
• Distribution: 1.34%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.65%
• Net Assets: $ 1.19 billion
• Number of Years Up: 1 year
• Number of Years Down: 1 year
• Annual Turnover Rate: 24%

Updated on 12/17/2012

Top Performer Small Value Stock Mutual Funds 2012 (December Edition)

The top performer small value stock mutual funds 2012 (up to December 2012) are Schneider Small Cap Value, Chou Opportunity, Walthausen Small Cap Value, etc.

Best Performing Small Value Funds

Small value mutual fund is part of domestic stock mutual fund or U.S. stock mutual fund. This small value fund focuses its assets in undervalued small U.S. companies. The market capitalization is typically lower than $300 million. This equity fund usually provide higher dividend yield than growth fund. The companies usually have low price ratios and slow growth in term of earning growth, book value, & cash flow.

These top performing funds are sorted based on their performance up until December 10, 2012. You can find the fund review, expense ratio, objective, risk, how to buy, yield, year to date performance, etc.

Top performer small value stock mutual funds 2012 are:

1. Schneider Small Cap Value (SCMVX)
2. Chou Opportunity (CHOEX)
3. Walthausen Small Cap Value (WSCVX)
4. Huber Capital Small Cap Value Investor (HUSIX)
5. CSC Small Cap Value Investor (CSCSX)
6. Hodges Pure Contrarian Retail (HDPCX)
7. Bridgeway Ultra-Small Company (BRUSX)
8. Robeco Small Cap Value II Investor (BPSCX)
9. Hotchkis and Wiley Small Cap Value A (HWSAX)
10. Undiscovered Managers Behavioral Value A (UBVAX)

Updated on 12/12/2012

Columbia Acorn International Fund (LAIAX)

Columbia Acorn International Fund (Ticker: LAIAX) is an international stock mutual fund. The mutual fund invests in non-US companies with small and mid-size market capitalization.

Columbia Acorn International A (Ticker: LAIAX)

The Columbia Acorn International fund aim is to provide long-term capital appreciation. The fund utilizes its total assets to purchase equities of foreign companies in developed markets. It invests in developed countries such as Japan, Canada and the United Kingdom and in emerging markets such as China, India and Brazil. It mostly focuses in the common stock of small- and mid-sized companies with market capitalizations under $5 billion at the time of investment.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: 10/12/2000
• Ticker Symbol: LAIAX
• CUSIP: 197199847
• Beta (3yr): 0.88
• Rank in category (YTD): 43%
• Category: Foreign Small/ Mid Growth
• Distribution: 0.15%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.30%
• Net Assets: $ 6.47 billion
• Number of Years Up: 7 years
• Number of Years Down: 4 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 32%

Updated on 12/13/2012

Best Performing Inflation Protected Bond Mutual Funds in December 2012

The 10 best performing inflation protected bond mutual funds are PIMCO Real Return Asset fund, Lord Abbett Inflation Focused, Harbor Real Return fund, etc.

Top Performer Inflation Protected Bond Funds

Another popular taxable bond mutual fund category is inflation protected bond fund. This inflation protected bond mutual fund invests mainly in debt securities that adjust their principal with the rate of inflation. These bonds are issued by U.S. Treasury typically, corporations, and other non-U.S. government entities. The fund also provides regular income for investors.

You will find each individual fund review from this top performer funds. Other fund information such as fund performance, expense ratio, and yield or dividend can be found below. The list is sorted based on its year to date performance in 2012 (up to December 10, 2012).

Best performing inflation protected bond mutual funds 2012 (up to December 10th, 2012) are:

1. PIMCO Real Return Asset P (PRTPX)
2. GMO Inflation Indexed Plus Bond III (GMITX)
3. Lord Abbett Inflation Focused A (LIFAX)
4. PIMCO Real Return A (PRTNX)
5. JHFunds2 Real Return Bond 1 (JIRRX)
6. Harbor Real Return Institutional (HARRX)
7. DFA Inflation-Protected Securities I (DIPSX)
8. VALIC Company I Inflation Protected (VCTPX)
9. Columbia Inflation Protected Securities A (APSAX)
10. Vanguard Inflation-Protected Securities Investor (VIPSX) 

Updated on 12/13/2012

PIMCO Short-Term Fund (PSHAX) Class A

PIMCO Short-Term Fund (Ticker: PSHAX) is a taxable bond mutual fund. It focuses its assets in high quality bond with short term maturity. It provides higher yield than regular saving account.

PIMCO Short-Term A (Ticker: PSHAX)

The investment objective of PIMCO Short-Term fund is to seek maximum current income, consistent with capital preservation and daily liquidity. The fund utilizes its total assets to purchase a diversified portfolio of Fixed Income Instruments of varying maturities. It may use forwards or derivatives such as options, futures contracts or swap agreements. It invests mainly in investment grade debt securities, but may invest up to 10% of its total assets in high yield securities (“junk bonds”) rated B or higher. The credit rating are rated by Moody’s, or equivalently rated by S&P or Fitch.

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: 01/20/1997
• Ticker Symbol: PSHAX
• CUSIP: 693391211
• Beta (3yr): 0.03
• Rank in category (YTD): 19%
• Category: Ultra short Bond
• Yield: 0.89%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.71%
• Net Assets: $ 11.63 billion
• Number of Years Up: 13 years
• Number of Years Down: 1 year
• Effective duration: 0.95 years
• Effective maturity: 1.16 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 307%

Updated on 12/12/2012

Best Performing Diversified Emerging Markets Mutual Funds 2012

Best Performing Diversified Emerging Markets Mutual Funds 2012 are Nile Pan Africa fund, Fidelity Emerging Markets Discovery, etc. These funds invest in companies located in emerging markets region.

Top Performer Emerging Markets Funds

Diversified emerging markets funds are part of international stock mutual funds. These funds utilize their assets in the financial markets of developing countries. These countries are located in Eastern Europe, Africa, Middle East, Latin America, Far East, and Asia. Some of popular emerging market countries are China, Brazil, India, Russia, South Africa, Indonesia, etc.

From this best performing funds list, you may find each individual fund review. You can find the fund performance, expense ratio, and yield or dividend from the table below. The list is sorted based on its year to date performance in 2012 (up to December 5, 2012).

The 12 Best Performing Diversified Emerging Markets Mutual Funds 2012 are:

1. Nile Pan Africa A (NAFAX)
2. Fidelity Emerging Markets Discovery (FEDDX)
3. William Blair Emerging Markets Small Cap Growth Fund (WESNX)
4. Columbia Acorn Emerging Markets A (CAGAX)
5. Van Eck Emerging Markets A (GBFAX)
6. Rochdale Emerging Markets (RIMIX)
7. Driehaus Emerging Markets Small Cap Gr (DRESX)
8. Mirae Asset Emerging Markets Great Consumer A (MECGX)
9. Forward Select EM Dividend Investor (FSLRX)
10. Wasatch Emerging Markets Small Cap (WAEMX)
11. Templeton Emerging Markets Small Cap A (TEMMX)
12. PIMCO Emerging Markets Fundamental IndexPLUS TR ST P (PEFPX)

Updated on 12/11/2012

Vanguard Short-Term Treasury Fund (VFISX) Investor Shares

Vanguard Short-Term Treasury Fund (VFISX) is another popular taxable bond mutual fund. This investor shares fund focuses its assets in short term maturity government bonds.

Vanguard Short-Term Treasury Fund (Ticker: VFISX)

The Vanguard Short-Term Treasury fund objective is to seek current income while maintaining limited price volatility. The mutual fund invests majority assets (>80%) in U.S. Treasury securities. It may invest in bills, bonds, and notes issued by the U.S. Treasury. It will maintain a dollar-weighted average maturity of 1 to 4 years.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: 10/27/1991
• Ticker Symbol: VFISX
• CUSIP: 922031703
• Beta (3yr): 0.45
• Rank in category (YTD): 68%
• Category: Short Government
• Distribution: 0.54%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.20%
• Net Assets: $ 6.50 billion
• Number of Years Up: 19 years
• Number of Years Down: 1 year
• Annual Turnover Rate: 302%

Updated on 12/7/2012

Fidelity Series Investment Grade Bond Fund (FSIGX)

Fidelity Series Investment Grade Bond Fund (Ticker: FSIGX) is a taxable bond mutual fund. This fixed income fund invests in high quality bonds.

Fidelity Series Investment Grade Bond Fund (FSIGX)

The investment aim of Fidelity Series Investment Grade Bond fund is to achieve high current income level. It uses its assets to purchase investment-grade debt securities. It uses overall interest rate risk to the Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index. This fixed income fund may invest in domestic and foreign issuers. It may invest in lower-quality debt securities or high yield bonds.

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: Oct 8, 2008
• Ticker Symbol: FSIGX
• CUSIP: 316146729
• Beta (3yr): 0.96
• Rank in category (YTD): 65%
• Category: Intermediate-Term Bond
• Distribution: 2.81%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.45%
• Net Assets: $ 24.05 billion
• Number of Years Up: 3 years
• Number of Years Down: 0 years
• Average Duration: 4.9 years
• Average Maturity: 6.9 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 213%

Updated on 12/05/2012

Best Performer High Yield Bond Closed End Funds 2012

The best performer high yield bond closed end funds 2012 are First Trust High Income Long/Short Fund, BlackRock Strategic Bond Fund, Credit Suisse High Yield Bond Fund, etc. These CEFs provide high yield.

YTD Top Performer CEFs

High yield bond closed end funds invest most of its assets in lower rated corporate bonds. These bond funds provide high yield regular income. These bond funds also provide capital appreciation for investors. The fund’s average duration is about 3 to 6 years.

From this best performing funds list, you may find each individual fund review. You can find the fund performance, expense ratio, and yield or dividend from the table below. The list is sorted based on its year to date performance in 2012 (up to December 2, 2012).

Best performer high yield bond closed end funds 2012 are:

1. First Trust High Income Long/Short Fund (FSD)
2. Invesco Van Kampen High Income II Fund (VLT)
3. Helios Strategic Income Fund (HSA)
4. Helios Advantage Income Fund (HAV)
5. BlackRock Strategic Bond Fund (BHD)
6. Credit Suisse High Yield Bond Fund (DHY)
7. First Trust Strategic High Income 2 Fund (FHY)
8. Western Asset High Yield Defined Opportunity Fund (HYI)
9. Helios Multi-Sector High Income Fund (HMH)
10. BlackRock Senior High Income Portfolio Fund (ARK)

Updated on 12/3/2012

Vanguard Target Retirement 2035 Fund (VTTHX)

Vanguard Target Retirement 2035 Fund (VTTHX) is a target date 2031-2035 mutual fund. This balanced fund invests in stocks, bonds, and cash.

Vanguard Target Retirement 2035 Inv (VTTHX)

The Vanguard Target Retirement 2035 fund objective is to provide capital appreciation and current income according to its current asset allocation. The mutual fund mainly invests in other Vanguard mutual funds. It uses an asset allocation strategy designed for investors planning to retire and leave the work force in or within a few years of 2035 (the target year). Its asset allocation will become more conservative over time. This means that the assets allocated to stocks will decrease while the assets allocated to bonds and other fixed income investments will increase.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: Oct 26, 2003
• Ticker Symbol: VTTHX
• CUSIP: 92202E508
• Beta (3yr): 1.48
• Rank in category (YTD): 32%
• Category: Target Date 2031-2035
• Yield: 2.03%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.00%
• Net Assets: $ 13.76 billion
• Number of Years Up: 6 years
• Number of Years Down: 2 years
• Average Duration:  5.11 years (bond portion)
• Average Maturity:  7.10 years (bond portion)
• Annual Turnover Rate: 18%

Updated on 12/5/2012

Top Performer Small Growth Stock Mutual Funds 2012

The top performer small growth stock mutual funds 2012 are Buffalo Micro Cap fund, ASTON Small Cap Growth fund, PNC Small Cap etc.

Best Performer Small Growth Mutual Funds

Small growth mutual fund invests mainly in fast growing small company in United States. The market capitalization is usually lower than $300 million. The fund favors companies in up and coming fields or young corporates on their early growth stages. These small cap stock mutual funds are typically very volatile than large cap stock mutual funds. They do provide higher chances for capital growth as well.

These top performer small growth mutual funds are sorted based on its performance in 2012. You can find the fund review information such as expense ratio, turnover rate, yield, performance, management, etc.

The 10 Top performer small growth mutual funds 2012 are:

1. Buffalo Micro Cap (BUFOX)
2. ASTON Small Cap Growth N (ACWDX)
3. Federated Kaufmann Small Cap A (FKASX)
4. PNC Small Cap A (PPCAX)
5. Wasatch Micro Cap Value (WAMVX)
6. MFS New Discovery A (MNDAX)
7. PNC Multi Factor Small Cap Core A (PLOAX)
8. Invesco Small Cap Growth Investor (GTSIX)
9. Oppenheimer Discovery A (OPOCX)
10. Wanger USA (WUSAX)

Updated on 12/2/2012

MainStay Convertible Fund (MCINX)

MainStay Convertible Fund (Ticker: MCINX) is a balanced mutual fund. This fund focuses on convertible securities including bonds, corporate notes, and preferred stocks.

MainStay Convertible Investor (MCINX)

The investment objective of MainStay Convertible fund is to provide capital appreciation and current income. The fund utilizes its assets to purchase convertible securities such as bonds, debentures, corporate notes, and preferred stocks or other securities. It may also invest in non-convertible debt, dividend equity stocks, U.S. government securities, and cash.

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: February 28, 2008
• Ticker Symbol: MCINX
• CUSIP: 56062X526
• Beta (3yr): 1.32
• Rank in category (YTD): 70%
• Category: Convertibles
• Distribution: 1.85%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.19%
• Net Assets: $ 710.07 million
• Number of Years Up: 2 years
• Number of Years Down: 1 year
• Effective Duration: 4.2 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 80%

Updated on 12/2/2012

Vanguard Small Cap Value Index Fund (VISVX) Investor Shares

Vanguard Small Cap Value Index Fund (VISVX) is a US stock mutual fund. It focuses its assets mainly in undervalued small U.S. companies.

Vanguard Small Cap Value Index Fund (Ticker: VISVX)

The Vanguard Small Cap Value Index Fund objective is to track the performance of a benchmark index that measures the investment return of small-capitalization value stocks. The mutual fund is tracking its benchmark, the MSCI US Small Cap Value Index. This index is a broadly diversified index of value stocks of smaller U.S. companies.

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: 05/20/1998
• Ticker Symbol: VISVX
• CUSIP: 922908793
• Beta (3yr): 1.22
• Rank in category (YTD): 23%
• Category: Small Value
• Distribution: 1.85%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.24%
• Net Assets: $ 7.24 billion
• Number of Years Up: 9 years
• Number of Years Down: 4 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 30%

Updated on 11/29/2012

Thornburg International Value Fund (TGVAX)

Thornburg International Value Fund (TGVAX) is a foreign large growth mutual fund. It invests in non-U.S. companies.

Thornburg International Value A (TGVAX)

The investment aim of Thornburg International Value fund is to seek long-term capital appreciation and current income. The mutual fund utilizes its assets to invest in foreign stocks or depository receipts of foreign securities. It invests in promising companies, and may invest in stocks that reflect unfavorable market perceptions of the company or industry fundamentals. The stock mutual fund typically invests in publicly traded large and middle capitalization companies, but it may invest in any company size.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: May 28, 1998
• Ticker Symbol: TGVAX
• CUSIP: 885-215-657
• Beta (3yr): 0.89
• Rank in category (YTD): 80%
• Category: Foreign Large Growth
• Yield: 1.16%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.25%
• Net Assets: $ 26.48 billion
• Number of Years Up: 8 years
• Number of Years Down: 5 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 20.78%

Updated on 11/28/2012

Perkins Mid Cap Value Fund (JDPAX)

Perkins Mid Cap Value fund (JDPAX) is a domestic stock mutual fund. This popular equity fund invests in middle sized companies. The fund review can be found in this article.

Perkins Mid Cap Value A (Ticker: JDPAX)

The investment objective of Perkins Mid Cap Value fund is to provide capital growth. The mutual fund mainly invests in the common stocks of undervalued mid-sized companies. It invests its net assets in equity securities of companies whose market capitalization falls, at the time of purchase, within the 12-month average of the capitalization range of the Russell Midcap Value Index. It may also invest in foreign equity and debt securities, including investments in emerging markets.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: July 5, 2009
• Ticker Symbol: JDPAX
• CUSIP: 47103C266
• Beta (3yr): 0.92
• Rank in category (YTD): 90%
• Category: Mid-Cap Value
• Distribution: 0.54%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.02%
• Net Assets: $ 12.52 billion
• Number of Years Up: 1 year
• Number of Years Down: 1 year
• Annual Turnover Rate: 54%

Updated on 11/25/2012

T. Rowe Price Equity Index 500 Fund (PREIX)

T. Rowe Price Equity Index 500 Fund (PREIX) is a large blend mutual fund. This fund is tracking the performance of Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index.

T. Rowe Price Equity Index 500 (Ticker: PREIX)

The T. Rowe Price Equity Index 500 fund objective is seeking to match the performance of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index. It utilizes its assets to purchase all of the stocks in the S&P 500 Index. It attempts to maintain holdings of each stock in proportion to its weight in the index. Under normal conditions, the mutual fund will invest >80% of its net assets in stocks that are held in its benchmark index.

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: March 29, 1990
• Ticker Symbol: PREIX
• CUSIP: 779552108
• Beta (3yr): 1.00
• Rank in category (YTD): 27%
• Category: Large Blend
• Distribution: 1.76%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.30%
• Net Assets: $ 14.66 billion
• Number of Years Up: 17 years
• Number of Years Down: 4 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 5.50%

Updated on 11/24/2012

Putnam Convertible Securities Fund (PCONX)

Putnam Convertible Securities Fund (ticker: PCONX) is a balanced mutual fund. The mutual fund invests in convertible securities: bonds, preferred stocks, etc.

Putnam Convertible Securities A (PCONX)

The investment aim of Putnam Convertible Securities fund is to provide current income and capital appreciation. It also has a secondary objective which is capital conservation. This mutual fund invests majority of assets in convertible securities of U.S. companies. Convertible securities mix the investment characteristics of bonds and common stocks.

Convertible securities may include bonds, preferred stocks and other instruments that can be converted into or exchanged for common stock. Many convertible securities are below-investment-grade. The convertible bonds typically have average maturities about three years or longer.

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: June 28, 1972
• Ticker Symbol: PCONX
• CUSIP: 746476100
• Beta (3yr): 1.13
• Rank in category (YTD): 7%
• Category: Convertibles
• Distribution: 2.87%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.12%
• Net Assets: $ 611.75 million
• Number of Years Up: 29 years
• Number of Years Down: 10 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 79%

Updated on 11/22/2012

Fidelity Freedom 2030 Fund (FFFEX)

Fidelity Freedom 2030 Fund (Ticker: FFFEX) is a target date 2026-2030 mutual fund. This balanced fund invests in stocks and bonds. It is suitable for people seek to retire around year 2030.

Fidelity Freedom 2030 Fund (Ticker: FFFEX)

The investment aim of Fidelity Freedom 2030 Fund is to provide high total return until its target retirement date. The mutual fund invests in a mix of Fidelity domestic equity funds, international equity funds, bond funds, and short-term funds. It is using a moderate asset allocation strategy designed for investors expecting to retire around the year 2030. This balanced fund utilizes an asset allocation strategy that converts gradually conservative until it reaches about 15% in domestic equity funds, 5% in international equity funds, 40% in bond funds, and 40% in short-term funds.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: October 17, 1996
• Ticker Symbol: FFFEX
• CUSIP: 31617R704
• Beta (3yr): 1.34
• Rank in category (YTD): 19%
• Category: Target Date 2026-2030
• Distribution: 1.85 %
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.00%
• Net Assets: $ 10.94 billion
• Number of Years Up: 10 years
• Number of Years Down: 5 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 26%

Updated on 11/20/2012

Best Consumer Defensive Mutual Funds 2013

The 4 best consumer defensive mutual funds 2013 are Fidelity Select Consumer Staples fund, Vanguard Consumer Staples Index fund, etc.

Top Consumer Defensive Mutual Funds

The consumer defensive mutual fund is part of domestic stock mutual fund. This sector stock fund utilizes its assets to purchase stocks of companies that are engaged in manufacturing, sales or distribution of customer staples. The consumer staples company products are food, beverages, tobacco, and household items. It may invest in U.S. companies or non-U.S. companies. This stock fund is considered as non-cyclical stock fund.

These top consumer defensive mutual funds are selected based on its expense ratio fee, turnover rate, management, fund performance, etc. You can find the fund review and fund performance or return below.

The 4 best consumer defensive mutual funds 2013 are:

1. Fidelity Select Consumer Staples (FDFAX)
2. Vanguard Consumer Staples Index Adm (VCSAX)
3. Rydex Consumer Products Investor (RYCIX)
4. ICON Consumer Staples A (ICRAX)

Updated on 11/18/2012

Vanguard Convertible Securities Fund (VCVSX)

Vanguard Convertible Securities Fund (Ticker: VCVSX) is another popular low cost balanced fund. It invests in U.S. and non-U.S. convertibles.

Vanguard Convertible Securities Investor (VCVSX)

The Vanguard Convertible Securities fund aim is to achieve current income and long-term capital appreciation. It utilizes its assets to purchase U.S. and foreign convertible securities. These convertibles are hybrid securities that have characteristics of bonds and common stocks. It may include corporate bonds and preferred stocks that are convertible into common stock, and debt securities with warrants or common stock attached.

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: June 16, 1986
• Ticker Symbol: VCVSX
• CUSIP: 922023106
• Beta (3yr): 1.16
• Rank in category (YTD): 3%
• Category: Convertibles
• Distribution: 3.84%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.59%
• Net Assets: $ 1.66 billion
• Number of Years Up: 18 years
• Number of Years Down: 7 years
• Average Duration: 4.3 years
• Average Maturity: 4.9 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 90.00%

Updated on 11/16/2012

Best Performing Moderate Allocation Mutual Funds November 2012

The 10 best performing moderate allocation mutual funds 2012 are Putnam Capital Spectrum fund, Fairholme Allocation, Dodge & Cox Balanced, etc.

Top Performer Moderate Allocation Balanced Funds

Moderate allocation mutual fund is suitable for investors who have balanced investment approach. This moderate allocation fund invests in stocks (equities), bonds (fixed incomes), money market or cash. It may have slightly higher stock portion (60%-80%) than bond portion (20%-40%). It may provide regular dividend or income through capital gain and yield.

Best Mutual Funds for 2013

From this best performing funds list, you may find each individual fund review. You can find the fund performance, expense ratio, management, fund’s NAV or share price, and yield or dividend from the table below. The list is sorted based on its year to date performance in 2012 (up to October 1, 2012).

The 10 best performing moderate allocation mutual funds 2012 are:

1. Putnam Capital Spectrum A (PVSAX)
2. Fairholme Allocation (FAAFX)
3. Dodge & Cox Balanced (DODBX)
4. Mairs & Power Balanced Investor (MAPOX)
5. Villere Balanced Investor (VILLX)
6. Camelot Premium Return A (CPRFX)
7. AllianceBern Balanced Shares A (CABNX)
8. JHancock Balanced A (SVBAX)
9. Hotchkis and Wiley Capital Income A (HWIAX)
10. Disciplined Growth Investors (DGIFX)

Updated on 11/14/2012

Waddell & Reed International Grade Fund (UNCGX)

Waddell & Reed International Grade Fund (UNCGX) is one of the best foreign large growth mutual funds. It invests in companies’ stocks of developed countries.

Waddell & Reed International Grade A (UNCGX)

The investment aim of Waddell & Reed International Grade fund is to provide capital growth. The mutual fund invests mainly in common stocks of foreign companies that are competitively well-positioned, gaining market share, have the potential for sustained and attractive long-term growth characteristics. It typically invests in issuers of developed countries, especially companies located in Continental Europe, the United Kingdom and Japan. It may also invest in emerging markets.

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: June 2, 1970
• Ticker Symbol: UNCGX
• CUSIP: 930057799
• Beta (3yr): 0.94
• Rank in category (YTD): 34%
• Category: Foreign Large Growth
• Distribution: 1.56%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.50%
• Net Assets: $ 487.75 million
• Number of Years Up: 30 years
• Number of Years Down: 11 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 30%

Updated on 11/12/2012

Best Japan Stock Mutual Funds 2013

The 9 best Japan mutual funds 2013 are DFA Japanese Small Company fund, Matthews Japan Investor, Henderson Japan Focus fund, etc.

Top Japan Stock Mutual Funds 2013

Japan stock mutual fund invests mainly in Japanese companies. As one of the largest market in the world, the Japanese stock fund has varied portfolios' holdings. Some stock mutual funds concentrate on Japan's larger companies, while others concentrate on the small capitalization companies. These portfolios invest >70% of total assets in equities and invest at least 75% of stock assets in Japan.

These top Japanese stock mutual funds are selected based on its expense ratio fee, turnover rate, management, fund performance, shares price or net asset value (NAV), etc. You can find the fund review and fund performance or return below.

The 9 best Japan stock mutual funds 2013 are:

1. DFA Japanese Small Company I (DFJSX)
2. Hennessy Select SPARX Japan Fund Original (SPXJX)
3. Matthews Japan Investor (MJFOX)
4. Henderson Japan Focus A (HFJAX)
5. Nomura Partners The Japan A (NPJAX)
6. Fidelity Japan Smaller Companies (FJSCX)
7. Fidelity Japan Fund (FJPNX)
8. T. Rowe Price Japan Fund (PRJPX)
9. Commonwealth Japan Fund (CNJFX)

Updated on 11/10/2012

American Funds American Mutual Fund (AMRMX)

American Funds American Mutual Fund (Ticker: AMRMX) is a large value mutual fund. It invests in stock of U.S. companies which provide sustainable dividend.

American Funds American Mutual Fund (AMRMX)

The American Funds American Mutual Fund objective is to seek current income, capital growth and principal conservation. It utilizes its assets to purchase common stocks of United States and Canada companies with growth and sustainable dividends. It may invest in bonds and other debt securities. The fund’s NAV is $28.38‎.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: February 21, 1950
• Ticker Symbol: AMRMX
• CUSIP: 027681
• Beta (3yr): 0.78
• Rank in category (YTD): 67%
• Category: Large Value
• Distribution: 2.36%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.62%
• Net Assets: $ 22.00 billion
• Number of Years Up: 51 years
• Number of Years Down: 10 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 23%

Updated on 11/06/2012

Best Performing Retirement Income Mutual Funds October 2012

The best performing retirement income mutual funds October 2012 are Fidelity Income Replacement 2042, Vanguard Managed Payout Growth Focus fund, etc.

Top Performer Retirement Income Mutual Funds

Retirement income mutual funds can provide great income for retiree or near retirement investors. Typically, they are actively managed by fund manager(s) to be able to pay regular income. The funds offer more flexibility than annuities, however they are less guarantees. The funds may consist of bonds, stocks, short term investment, and cash or money market. It typically has higher bond or cash portion than stock portion.

You can buy these funds from various fund companies. Each fund companies may provide different fund objective. Some of the family funds are Fidelity, Vanguard, John Hancock, Charles Schwab, etc.
From this best performing funds list, you may find each individual fund review. You can find the fund performance, expense ratio, and yield or dividend from the table below. The list is sorted based on its year to date performance in 2012 (up to October 1, 2012).

The 12 best performing retirement income mutual funds 2012 are:

1. Fidelity Income Replacement 2042
2. Fidelity Income Replacement 2040
3. Vanguard Managed Payout Growth Focus Inv
4. Fidelity Income Replacement 2038
5. Fidelity Income Replacement 2036
6. Fidelity Income Replacement 2034
7. Fidelity Income Replacement 2032
8. Fidelity Income Replacement 2030
9. Fidelity Income Replacement 2028
10. Fidelity Income Replacement 2026
11. Vanguard Managed Payout Gr & Dis Inv
12. ING Global Target Payment A

Updated on 11/4/2012

Strategic Advisers International Fund (FILFX)

Strategic Advisers International Fund (FILFX) is a foreign large blend mutual fund. This international stock focuses on non-U.S. companies.

Strategic Advisers International Fund (MUTF: FILFX)

The investment aim of Strategic Advisers International Fund is to seek capital growth. It invests mainly in non-U.S. common stocks. It may invest in emerging markets equities. Wilfred Chilangwa, Jr is the fund manager since its inception in March 23, 2006. It has total net assets of $11.60 billion. The annual expense ratio is 0.14%. This fee is relative lower than the average in Foreign Large Blend category (1.29%).

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: March 23, 2006
• Ticker Symbol: FILFX
• CUSIP: 31635R868
• Beta (3yr): 0.95
• Rank in category (YTD): 24%
• Category: Foreign Large Blend
• Distribution: 1.55%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.14%
• Net Assets: $ 11.60 billion
• Number of Years Up: 3 years
• Number of Years Down: 2 years
• Average Duration:  years
• Average Maturity:  years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 18.00%

Updated on 11/02/2012

Best Performing Real Estate Mutual Funds 2012

The best performing real estate mutual funds 2012 are Baron Real Estate fund, PIMCO Real Estate Real Return Strategy fund, etc.

Top Performer REIT Mutual Funds

Real estate mutual fund has been the top performing equity sector funds for the past 3 years. This real estate fund invests in companies which involve real estate. It may invest in real estate investment trusts (REITs). This equity mutual fund may invest companies which operate office buildings, shopping malls, hotels and even self-storage facilities. This mutual fund has also higher yield than typical mutual fund.

From this best performing funds list, you may find each individual fund review. You can find the fund performance, expense ratio, and yield or dividend from the table below. The list is sorted based on its year to date performance in 2012 (up to October 1, 2012).

The 10 best performing real estate mutual funds 2012 are:

1. Baron Real Estate Fund
2. PIMCO Real Estate Real Return Strategy Fund
3. Lazard U.S. Realty Income Fund
4. Lazard U.S. Realty Equity Fund
5. TIAA-CREF Real Estate Securities fund
6. Rydex Real Estate Fund
7. REMS Real Estate Income 50/50 Fund
8. Dunham Real Estate Stock Fund
9. Stratton Real Estate Fund
10. Fidelity Real Estate Income Fund

Updated on 10/26/2012

Invesco Convertible Securities Fund CNSAX

Invesco Convertible Securities Fund (CNSAX) is a balanced mutual fund. It focuses its investment on convertible securities and high yield bonds.

Invesco Convertible Securities A (Ticker: CNSAX)

The investment objective of Invesco Convertible Securities Fund is to seek a high level of total return on its assets. It invests >80% of its net assets in convertible securities. It may invest in high yield bonds or junk bonds, common stocks, non-convertible preferred stock, and/or foreign securities. This balanced fund was first introduced to public market in July 1997. The fund’s manager is Ellen Gold.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: Jul 27, 1997
• Ticker Symbol: CNSAX
• CUSIP: 00888W403
• Beta (3yr): 1.06
• Rank in category (YTD): 4%
• Category: Convertibles
• Distribution: 2.05%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.97%
• Net Assets: $ 875.90 million
• Number of Years Up: 9 years
• Number of Years Down: 5 years
• Average Duration: 1.03 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 38.00%

updated on 10/29/2012

Best Industrials Mutual Funds 2012

Best industrials mutual funds 2012 are Fidelity Select Industrials fund, Fidelity Select Defense & Aerospace, ICON Industrials, etc.

Top Industrials Mutual Funds 2012

As part of domestic stock mutual fund, industrials mutual fund invests mainly in stocks of companies that provide services related to cyclical industries. The industrial companies may include aerospace and defense, automotive, chemicals, construction, environmental services, machinery, paper and transportation.

These top industrials mutual funds are selected based on its expense ratio fee, turnover rate, management, fund performance, etc. You can find the fund review and fund performance or return below.

The 5 best industrials mutual funds 2012 are:

1. Fidelity Select Industrials (FCYIX)
2. Fidelity Select Industrial Equipment (FSCGX)
3. Fidelity Select Defense & Aerospace (FSDAX)
4. Fidelity Select Transportation (FSRFX)
5. ICON Industrials A (ICIAX)

Updated on 10/1/2012

PACE High Yield Fund (PHIAX) Class A

PACE High Yield fund is one of best high yield corporate bond mutual funds. This taxable fixed income fund also has a yield of 7.11%. You can find the fund review below.

PACE High Yield A (Ticker: PHIAX)

The PACE High Yield fund objective is to achieve total return by investing in a diversified portfolio of fixed income securities rated below investment grade or high yield bonds. It also may invest in US and/or non-US senior secured bank loans. It invests in different countries around the world, including the U.S.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: May 2, 2006
• Ticker Symbol: PHIAX
• CUSIP: 69373W780
• Beta (3yr): -0.09
• Rank in category (YTD): 11%
• Category: High Yield Bond
• Yield: 7.11%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.33%
• Net Assets: $ 286.62 million
• Number of Years Up: 3 years
• Number of Years Down: 2 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 36%

updated on 10/25/2012

Best Consumer Cyclical Mutual Funds 2012

Best consumer cyclical mutual funds 2012 are Fidelity Select Leisure fund, Fidelity Select Retailing, Rydex Retailing, etc.

Top Consumer Cyclical Mutual Funds 2012

The consumer cyclical mutual fund is also part of domestic stock mutual fund. This sector fund invests primarily in stocks of companies that involve on the business cycle and economic conditions. The consumer cyclical companies may include automotive industry, housing, entertainment, and retail. It can be classified into 2 main categories: durable goods and non-durable goods. Durable sections are hardware and vehicle or auto. The non-durables are movie or hotel services.

These top consumer cyclical mutual funds are selected based on its expense ratio fee, turnover rate, management, fund performance, etc. You can find the fund review and fund performance or return below.

The 5 best consumer cyclical mutual funds 2012 are:

1. Fidelity Select Leisure Fund (FDLSX)
2. Fidelity Select Retailing Fund (FSRPX)
3. Fidelity Select Consumer Discretionary Fund (FSCPX)
4. Rydex Retailing Fund (RYRIX)
5. ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund (ICCAX)

Updated on 10/23/2012

T. Rowe Price Value Fund (TRVLX)

T. Rowe Price Value Fund (Ticker: TRVLX) is a large value stock mutual fund. It focuses its investment in undervalued U.S companies’ equities.

T. Rowe Price Value Fund (Ticker: TRVLX)

The investment aim of T. Rowe Price Value Fund is to provide long-term capital appreciation and income. This fund utilizes its assets to buy portfolio of undervalued common stocks. It invests mainly in large-cap stocks, but may consist of mid-cap and small-cap companies.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: September 29, 1994
• Ticker Symbol: TRVLX
• CUSIP: 779578103
• Beta (3yr): 1.12
• Rank in category (YTD): 15%
• Category: Large Value
• Distribution/ Yield: 1.56%
• Capital Gains: check fund details
• Expense Ratio: 0.82%
• Net Assets: $ 25.00 billion
• Number of Years Up: 14 years
• Number of Years Down: 3 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 106%

updated on May 2017

Best Ultrashort Bond Mutual Funds 2012

The best ultrashort bond mutual funds 2012 are Calvert Ultra-Short Income Fund, PIMCO Short-Term Fund, TCW Short Term Bond Fund, etc.

Best Ultrashort Bond Mutual Funds 2012

This ultrashort bond fund is an investment fund which invests only in fixed income securities with very short term maturities (less than 1 year). This ultra-short bond fund provides higher yield than typical money market fund. It has lower risk than other bond fund.

Mutual funds in this article are being selected based on its long term performance, load, management, expense rate, etc. You will also find the full fund review below including turnover rate, fund performance, table comparison, ticker, initial investment information, etc.

The 6 best ultrashort bonds mutual funds 2012 are:

1. Calvert Ultra-Short Income Fund (CULAX)
2. Wells Fargo Advantage Adjusted Rate Government Fund (ESAAX)
3. PIMCO Short-Term Fund (PSHAX)
4. TCW Short Term Bond Fund (TGSMX)
5. DFA One-Year Fixed-Income Fund (DFIHX)
6. Managers Short Duration Government Fund (MGSDX)

Updated on 10/19/2012

Janus Triton Fund (JGMAX)

Janus Triton Fund (JGMAX) is a small growth mutual fund. This equity fund invests mainly in small and mid-cap companies.

Janus Triton A (Ticker: JGMAX)

The investment aim of Janus Triton fund is to achieve long-term capital growth. It utilizes its assets to purchase portfolio of common stocks with growth potential. It invests in equity securities of small- and medium-sized companies. The companies typically have a market capitalization of less than $10 billion. The fund may invest in foreign equity and debt securities, and in emerging markets.

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: July 6, 2009
• Ticker Symbol: JGMAX
• CUSIP: 47103C373
• Beta (3yr): 0.99
• Rank in category (YTD): 54%
• Category: Small Growth
• Distribution: 0.00%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.01%
• Net Assets: $ 3.16 billion
• Number of Years Up: 2 years
• Number of Years Down: 0 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 42%

Updated on 10/17/2012

Franklin Gold and Precious Metals Fund FKRCX

Franklin Gold and Precious Metals Fund is one of the top performing gold mutual funds. It invests in precious metals companies.

Franklin Gold and Precious Metals Fund (FKRCX)

The investment aim of Franklin Gold and Precious Metals Fund is to seek capital appreciation; current income is a secondary objective. This investment fund utilizes its net assets to buy stocks of gold and precious metals operation companies. It may invest around the world.

Fund Details

• Fund Inception Date: May 19, 1969
• Ticker Symbol: FKRCX
• CUSIP: 353 535 107
• Beta (3yr): 1.10
• Rank in category (YTD): 75%
• Category: Equity Precious Metals
• Distribution: 2.47%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.91%
• Net Assets: $ 2.72 billion
• Number of Years Up: 24 years
• Number of Years Down: 18 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 8.06%

Updated on 10/15/2012

Best Communications Mutual Funds 2012

The best communications mutual funds 2012 are T. Rowe Price Media & Telecommunications Fund, Fidelity Select Multimedia, etc.

Top Communications Stock Mutual Funds 2012

The communications mutual fund is part of domestic stock mutual fund. This sector fund invests primarily in stocks of telecommunications and media companies. The companies may include cable television, wireless-communications, communications-equipment corporations, traditional phone companies. It may also include entertainment firms, broadcasters, film studios, publishers, and on-line service providers.

These top communications mutual funds are selected based on its expense ratio fee, turnover rate, management, fund performance, etc. You can find the fund review and fund performance or return below.

The 5 best communications mutual funds 2012 are:

1. T. Rowe Price Media & Telecommunications Fund (PRMTX)
2. Fidelity Select Multimedia Fund (FBMPX)
3. Fidelity Select Wireless Fund (FWRLX)
4. Fidelity Select Communications Equipment Fund (FSDCX)
5. Wireless Fund (WIREX)

Updated on 10/13/2012

Janus International Equity Fund (JAIEX)

Janus International Equity Fund (Ticker: JAIEX) is a foreign large blend stock mutual fund. This international stock fund invests in non-U.S. companies.

Janus International Equity Fund (Ticker: JAIEX)

The Janus International Equity Fund seeks long-term capital growth. It invests >80% of net assets in equity securities. It typically invests in 60 to 100 stocks from different countries located throughout the world, excluding the United States. It may invest in emerging markets and in foreign debt securities.

Fund Profile

• Fund Inception Date: November 28, 2006
• Ticker Symbol: JAIEX
• CUSIP: 47103A559
• Beta (3yr): 1.00
• Rank in category (YTD): 19%
• Category: Foreign Large Blend
• Yield: 1.11%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 1.22%
• Net Assets: $ 225.74 million
• Number of Years Up: 3 years
• Number of Years Down: 2 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 77.00%

Updated on 10/11/2012

Fidelity Convertible Securities Fund FCVSX

This Fidelity Convertible Securities fund (Ticker: FCVSX) is a no load balanced mutual fund. It focuses its investment in convertible securities. The fund review is described in this post.

Fidelity Convertible Securities (FCVSX)

The investment aim of Fidelity Convertible Securities fund is to achieve a high level of total return through a mixture of current income and capital appreciation. It typically invests >80% of assets in convertible securities, which are often lower-quality debt securities. This convertible securities act like a stock when the share price is high and more like a bond when the share price is low. It may invest in common stocks, domestic, and foreign issuers.

Fund Profile

Fidelity Convertible Securities

• Fund Inception Date: January 4, 1987
• Ticker Symbol: FCVSX
• CUSIP: 316145200
• Beta (3yr): 1.54
• Rank in category (YTD): 1%
• Category: Convertibles
• Distribution: 3.22%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.61%
• Net Assets: $ 2.06 billion
• Number of Years Up: 19 years
• Number of Years Down: 5 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 0.61%

updated on 10/9/2012

Best Performing High Yield Mutual Funds 2012

The best performing high yield mutual funds 2012 are JHancock High-Yield funds, Loomis Sayles High Income, Federated High-Yield, etc.

High Yield Bond Funds

High yield mutual funds invest most of its assets in lower rated corporate bonds or junk bonds. It may invest in U.S. corporate or foreign corporate debts. These bond funds provide high yield income for investors. It also paid the distribution yield either monthly or quarterly. They have higher risk than investment grade bond funds.

From this best performing funds list, you may find each individual fund review. You can find the fund performance, expense ratio, and yield or dividend from the table below. The list is sorted based on its year to date performance in 2012 (up to September 29, 2012).

Best Performing Mutual Funds

The 10 best performing high yield mutual funds 2012 are:

1. JHancock High-Yield A (JHHBX)
2. Loomis Sayles High Income A (NEFHX)
3. Federated High-Yield Service (FHYTX)
4. Waddell & Reed High-Income A (UNHIX)
5. American Beacon SiM High Yield Opportunities Inv (SHYPX)
6. Invesco High-Yield Securities A (HYLAX)
7. MainStay High Yield Opportunities A (MYHAX)
8. Fidelity Advisor High Income Advantage A (FAHDX)
9. Western Asset Global High Yield Bond A (SAHYX)

Franklin CA Tax-Free Income Fund (FKTFX) Class A

Franklin CA Tax-Free Income A Fund (FKTFX) is one of the best municipal bond mutual funds. This California Muni bond fund provides tax free income for investors. The fund review can be found below.

Franklin CA Tax-Free Income A (Ticker: FKTFX)

The investment aim of Franklin CA Tax-Free Income fund is to provide investors with as high a level of income exempt from federal and California personal income taxes. The fund invests >80% of its total assets in investment grade municipal securities whose interest is free from federal income taxes (including alternative minimum tax) and from California personal income taxes.

Fund Details

Franklin CA Tax-Free Income

• Fund Inception Date: January 31, 1977
• Ticker Symbol: FKTFX
• CUSIP: 352518104
• Beta (3yr): 1.42
• Rank in category (YTD): 40%
• Category: Muni California Long
• Distribution: 4.56%
• Capital Gains: 0%
• Expense Ratio: 0.57%
• Net Assets: $ 14.27 billion
• Number of Years Up: 27 years
• Number of Years Down: 7 years
• Average Duration: 5.9 years
• Average Maturity: 19.7 years
• Annual Turnover Rate: 7.41%

Updated on 10/4/2012