ET Money is one of India’s best money apps. ET Money assists individuals in investing in mutual funds, starting SIPs, saving for objectives, purchasing insurance, and more. Numerous individuals prefer ET Money because it simplifies complex finance and is easy to access on a mobile phone.
The History and Growth of ET Money
ET Money started as a modest product and evolved to become a leading Indian fintech app. It was initially started in 2015 and subsequently rebranded from a previous product, Smart Spends. Along the way, it added mutual funds, fixed deposits, NPS, insurance, and stock-based services. ET Money was acquired by 360 ONE (360 One Wealth & Asset Management) in 2024, an action that consolidated its position in wealth-tech.
How ET Money Works
- Download the app and sign up.
- Complete KYC inside the app (paperless e-sign is usually supported).
- Choose a product — mutual fund, SIP, fixed deposit, NPS, insurance, or a curated stock portfolio.
- Pay and start — for mutual funds you can start a SIP (small monthly amount) or a lump sum. For stocks/ETFs you often connect a broker’s demat account.
- Track & rebalance — the app shows your portfolio, returns, and suggestions to improve your plan.
Key Features of ET Money
- Direct Mutual Funds (zero commission): You can invest in direct mutual fund plans via the app. This reduces costs compared with regular plans.
- SIP and Lumpsum options: Start small with SIPs or invest bigger lumpsum amounts.
- Genius (investment intelligence): A paid service that gives portfolio recommendations and model portfolios based on your risk profile. (More on this in Fees.)
- Earn / SmartDeposit: Short-term saving options that try to give better returns than a normal bank savings balance.
- Stock portfolios (via partner brokers): ET Money lets you invest in curated stock portfolios but you need an active demat account with one of the supported brokers.
- Tools & Learn: SIP calculators, mutual fund comparisons, tax info and educational articles all inside the app.
Pros and Cons of Using ET Money
Pros
- Easy paperless onboarding and neat app design.
- Direct mutual funds (zero commission) can improve long-term returns.
- Useful tools and learning resources for new investors.
- Integrates with many brokers for stock investing—flexible for users who already have demat accounts.
Cons
- Some premium services (like Genius) are paid — not everything is free. Prices and membership terms can change, so check the app.
- For stock trading, brokerage and demat charges apply through the partner broker (ET Money itself does not control those broker fees).
- User experiences vary — a few users have reported issues with recent policy or pricing changes on forums. Always read the latest terms.
Charges and Fees Structure
- Mutual funds (direct plans): ET Money promotes zero commission on direct mutual funds. That means the platform does not charge commission on these investments.
- Genius membership: This is a paid membership that gives access to curated portfolios and recommendations. Genius is billed as a membership (quarterly or similar) — check the app for current price and trial offers. Brokerage/demat charges still apply for stock portfolios.
- Stock & broker fees: If you use ET Money to invest in stocks or ETFs, you must link a broker’s demat account. That broker’s brokerage, DP (depository) charges, GST and other fees will apply as per the broker’s policy. ET Money does not control those charges.
- Other fees: Products like insurance, loans, or third-party products may have their own fees. ET Money’s help pages say many of its products (like Earn) are free of platform fees, but always check the specific product page.
Security and Safety Measures
- ET Money says it uses bank-level security, strong encryption, and secure data centers. The app also mentions independent security audits and standard best practices for financial apps.
- Do not share your login passwords or OTPs. ET Money’s help pages remind users that the app will never ask for full card PINs or sensitive credentials. Follow safe practices: keep your phone secure, enable screen lock, and beware of phishing.
How to Start Investing on ET Money — Step-by-Step Guide
- Download the ET Money app from Google Play or Apple App Store.
- Sign up with your mobile number and create a password.
- Complete KYC: Submit PAN and do e-KYC (Aadhaar eSign or scanned documents). This is required to invest in mutual funds and many other products.
- Add bank details for payments and redemptions.
- Choose what you want to invest in: mutual funds (SIP/lumpsum), Earn, NPS, or curated portfolios. For stocks, link your existing demat/broker or open one with a supported broker.
- Start small: beginners can start SIPs as low as ₹100–₹500 (check the product page for minimums). Monitor returns and set goals.
Customer Support and User Experience
- ET Money offers in-app help pages, a support/FAQ section, and contact options inside the app or website. Many users find the UX clean and helpful for tracking money and setting reminders.
- Like any big app, user reviews vary. Some users praise the convenience and free direct funds; others raise concerns when specific paid features were introduced. If you plan to use a premium feature, try any trial and read the cancellation terms first.
Conclusion
ET Money is a good app for individuals who desire a straightforward method of investing in direct mutual funds, managing money, and leveraging ready-made investment tools. It is particularly beneficial for beginners since it makes KYC easy, provides calculators, and encourages direct plans (which reduce cost).
For stock trading and active trading, keep in mind ET Money has partner brokers — those broker charges and guidelines will be applicable. As always, check the latest terms and prices inside the app before you commit, and consider starting with small amounts until you are comfortable.
Learn More:
- How to Start Investing in Mutual Funds in India – Step-by-Step Process for Beginners
- Difference Between Mutual Funds and Stocks – Which is Better for Beginners?
- Understanding NAV (Net Asset Value) in Mutual Funds – What It Means and Why It Matters
- Risks Involved in Mutual Fund Investments – Common Risks and How to Manage Them
FAQs: ET Money
Q: Is ET Money safe to use?
A: ET Money uses bank-level security and follows industry practices, but you should protect your own device and login to stay safe.
Q: Does ET Money charge for mutual funds?
A: ET Money promotes zero commission on direct mutual fund plans. Check the app for the latest details.
Q: Can I buy stocks on ET Money?
A: Yes — you can invest in stock portfolios, but you must link an active demat account from a supported broker. Broker fees still apply.
Q: What is ET Money Genius and is it free?
A: Genius is a paid membership that gives portfolio suggestions and automation. It usually has a subscription fee (billed periodically). Look in the app for current pricing and trial offers.
Q: How much should I start with?
A: Many SIPs can start with small amounts (often ₹100–₹500). For other products, minimums vary — check each product page.
