What is a back-end load in mutual funds?

A back-end load is a specific type of fee associated with mutual funds that is charged when an investor sells their shares in the fund. This fee is designed to discourage short-term trading and can vary in amount depending on how long the shares were held. Typically, the back-end load decreases over time, so investors who stay in the fund for a longer period may find they either incur a lower fee or none at all when selling their shares.

This structure incentivizes long-term investment strategies and is particularly common in funds aiming to promote a buy-and-hold approach. Investors should be aware of these fees as they can significantly impact overall returns, especially if shares are sold shortly after purchase. Understanding back-end loads is crucial for making informed decisions about mutual fund investments.