UK-based Prudential Plc sold a 4.5% stake in ICICI Prudential Asset Management for about $545 million ahead of the company’s ₹10,600 crore IPO opening on December 12. The transaction reduces Prudential’s holding while ICICI Prudential AMC prepares for listing amid strong domestic mutual fund inflows and assets under management exceeding ₹7.5 lakh crore.

Sectoral and thematic mutual funds witnessed a 37% month on month surge in inflows during November, driven by investors chasing recent outperformance and responding to several new fund launches. Market participants point to increased allocation toward high conviction themes such as manufacturing, PSU linked sectors, and technology. Experts caution that the trend appears tactical and FOMOdriven rather than a structural shift away from diversified equity funds, highlighting the higher volatility and timing risks associated with sector-focused strategies.