Kashmiris Embrace Halal Mutual Funds Amid Gold and Real Estate Challenges

As gold and real estate investments become increasingly unaffordable, Kashmiris are turning to Shariah-compliant mutual funds to grow their wealth while adhering to Islamic principles.

Halal Mutual FundsIslamic FinanceShariahcompliantGold InvestmentReal EstateReal EstateJul 30, 2025

Kashmiris Embrace Halal Mutual Funds Amid Gold and Real Estate Challenges
Real Estate:Srinagar, July 29: On a cloudy afternoon in Srinagar’s Soura locality, Muheet, 29, sat in a small café, flipping through a financial brochure on Halal funds with quiet determination. A former gold investor and aspiring homeowner, Muheet never imagined he would one day consider mutual funds. But times have changed — and so have investment choices in Kashmir. “Gold is beyond my reach now. A single tola costs more than a month’s salary. As for buying land or a flat? That’s a dream slipping further away every day,” he said.

Aamir, like a growing number of Kashmiris, is now looking toward Shariah-compliant investments — specifically Halal mutual funds that align with Islamic principles. These funds avoid businesses involving alcohol, gambling, interest-based banking, and other activities considered haram in Islam. “I want to grow my money, but not at the cost of compromising my faith,” he said.

Irshad Mushtaq, a noted financial expert, noted that gradually, people, especially the youth, are getting inclined towards investment in funds while following Shariah. “Earlier, it was alien to our society. Now people come and show their interest in the Shariah-compliant mutual funds. The reasons could be that gold and real estate are going through a bad phase. On top of it, mutual funds require a smaller investment with good returns,” he said.

Irshad noted that nearly 40 percent of mutual funds available in India are Shariah-compliant, and these funds are not only gaining traction in Kashmir but are already well-established across the globe. “Jains in India have followed ethical investing for decades,” he said. “In Europe, too, Shariah-compliant or socially responsible investing is a growing trend. It’s time people in Kashmir understood the value of investing the Halal way.”

He, however, said knowledge gaps remain a barrier in Kashmir. “We need more financial literacy. Many people still don’t know that investing doesn’t have to mean engaging in haram practices. Some options protect both your faith and your future,” Mushtaq emphasized.

Pertinently, Islamic finance offers a range of Shariah-compliant products. These include Mudarabah – a profit-sharing arrangement where one party provides the capital and the other contributes expertise, Musharakah – a joint venture in which both parties share profits, losses, and responsibilities equally, Murabaha – a cost-plus-profit model often used in asset financing, and Ijarah – leasing of assets for a fixed rental payment, Takaful – a cooperative form of Islamic insurance based on mutual assistance, Sukuk – Islamic bonds structured to generate returns without infringing on Shariah principles.

Globally, over 300 banks and 250 mutual funds operate under Islamic ethical and financial principles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Halal mutual funds?

Halal mutual funds are investment vehicles that adhere to Islamic principles, avoiding businesses involved in alcohol, gambling, interest-based banking, and other haram activities.

Why are Kashmiris turning to Halal mutual funds?

Kashmiris are turning to Halal mutual funds because gold and real estate investments have become increasingly unaffordable, and these funds offer a smaller initial investment with good returns.

What are some Shariah-compliant financial products?

Some Shariah-compliant financial products include Mudarabah (profit-sharing), Musharakah (joint venture), Murabaha (cost-plus-profit), Ijarah (leasing), Takaful (Islamic insurance), and Sukuk (Islamic bonds).

How prevalent are Shariah-compliant mutual funds in India?

Nearly 40 percent of mutual funds available in India are Shariah-compliant, and they are gaining traction among investors.

What are the main barriers to adopting Halal mutual funds in Kashmir?

The main barriers to adopting Halal mutual funds in Kashmir include knowledge gaps and a lack of financial literacy among the population.

Related News Articles

Attack on Real Estate Employee: Minor Dispute Turns Violent, Leaves Victim in Critical Condition
real estate news

Attack on Real Estate Employee: Minor Dispute Turns Violent, Leaves Victim in Critical Condition

A brutal attack on a real estate employee in Lucknow's Vibhutikhand area has left the victim fighting for his life. The incident occurred over a minor dispute, which escalated into a violent confrontation.

June 22, 2024
Read Article
Mumbai Real Estate Fraud: Co-Owner Arrested for ₹67.5 Crore Scam
Real Estate Mumbai

Mumbai Real Estate Fraud: Co-Owner Arrested for ₹67.5 Crore Scam

The owner of Amikrupa Land Developers, a Mumbai-based real estate company, has been arrested for defrauding a businessman of ₹67.5 crore. Stay updated on this real estate fraud case in Mumbai!

July 9, 2024
Read Article
Gujarat Government Seeks Public Input on Revised Real Estate Jantri Rates
real estate news

Gujarat Government Seeks Public Input on Revised Real Estate Jantri Rates

The Gujarat government is adopting a more transparent approach by soliciting public feedback on revised jantri rates to align with current market conditions, addressing previous discrepancies and fostering optimism in the real estate sector.

October 21, 2024
Read Article
Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan Acquire Luxurious Properties in Mumbai’s Mulund West
Real Estate

Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan Acquire Luxurious Properties in Mumbai’s Mulund West

In a significant real estate move, the renowned Bollywood actors Amitabh and Abhishek Bachchan have recently purchased properties worth nearly ₹25 crore in Mumbai’s Mulund West. Discover the details of these high-value acquisitions and the Bachchan family

October 24, 2024
Read Article
3 Lucrative Ways to Invest in Real Estate for the New Year
Real Estate Pune

3 Lucrative Ways to Invest in Real Estate for the New Year

Explore the latest trends in real estate investment, including fractional ownership, REITs, and mutual funds, in high-growth areas like Pune, Goa, and Hyderabad.

November 18, 2024
Read Article
Mumbai: Mall of Homes 2025 Expo Sees Over 14,000 Visitors on Day One, Rethinking Real Estate
Real Estate Maharashtra

Mumbai: Mall of Homes 2025 Expo Sees Over 14,000 Visitors on Day One, Rethinking Real Estate

The three-day event is set to revolutionize the real estate buying experience with cutting-edge schemes and technology-driven solutions, attracting a massive crowd on its opening day.

January 17, 2025
Read Article