• Many investors use ETFs and index funds synonymously which is not correct. Though there are few similarities between them, the investors must understand the differences between the two. The most important difference between index fund and ETF is that, index funds are mutual fund schemes to invest in which you do not need demat or share trading account since they are not listed on the exchange. You can buy index funds directly from the AMC or through a MFD like any other mutual fund schemes. But to invest in ETFs you must have demat and share trading account.
• ETFs are cheaper than index funds. If you buy ETFs there is no securities transaction tax (STT), but when you sell then STT is applicable. Also, you have to pay brokerage every time you buy and sell ETFs. In addition to STT and brokerage, investors also have to pay charges for the demat account for holding the ETFs in electronic form. Index funds can be bought just like any other mutual fund scheme but their expense ratio is slightly higher than Exchange traded funds.