What characterizes a mutual fund?

A mutual fund is characterized by its ability to pool money from multiple investors to create a diversified investment portfolio. This structure allows individual investors to benefit from a range of different securities, such as stocks, bonds, or other assets, without needing to buy each investment separately. The pooling of resources not only increases the purchasing power of individual investors but also promotes diversification, which can help manage risk by spreading investments across various financial instruments.

The professional management of the fund ensures that investment decisions are made based on research and analysis, striving to achieve the best possible returns for the investors. This characteristic is particularly appealing to those who may not have the time or expertise to manage their own investment portfolios effectively.

In contrast, the other options describe financial products or functions that do not align with the structure and purpose of mutual funds. Loans for personal use typically involve borrowing money to be paid back with interest, and savings accounts focus on saving rather than investing for growth or income. Moreover, mutual funds do not guarantee fixed incomes; rather, their returns can fluctuate based on market conditions and the performance of the portfolio's investments.