Indore: A recent downturn in the Indian equity markets has significantly impacted investor wealth in Madhya Pradesh, one of the country's fastest-emerging retail investment hubs. The state's 56 lakh registered investors have seen an average erosion of 25-40% in their small-cap investments due to heightened volatility.
According to the National Stock Exchange's July 2025 report, female investor participation in MP has risen from 18.6% in FY23 to 21.8% in FY25, indicating growing financial inclusion. Market participants have reported an average erosion of 12-15% in large-cap holdings and 15% in mid-cap holdings.
Naresh Vijayvergiya, a financial expert and securities firm owner, attributed the correction to global uncertainties: "Investors are rushing towards safe-haven assets amid economic and geopolitical tensions. Indian equities have come under heavy pressure in recent sessions, and asset allocation becomes crucial in such phases."
Kumar Rathore, a SEBI-registered financial expert, said: "Recent corrections have eroded lakhs from investor portfolios. However, the seasoned participants are using the downturn strategically to accumulate quality businesses at more reasonable valuations."
With nearly 70% exposure to small- and mid-cap segments coming from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, volatility has been sharper in these portfolios. Many active investors are accumulating quality stocks at lower valuations.
Amid the equity downturn, investors are increasingly reallocating funds to safe-haven assets such as gold and silver, with bullion prices witnessing an uptick as risk appetite weakens.
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