Why might an investor choose a mutual fund with a low expense ratio?

An investor might choose a mutual fund with a low expense ratio primarily to maximize overall investment returns. The expense ratio reflects the costs associated with managing the fund, including management fees and operational expenses. A lower expense ratio means that a smaller portion of the investment returns is taken away by fees, allowing the investor to keep more of the returns generated by the fund.

When costs are reduced, the potential for higher net returns increases, especially over a long-term investment horizon. This is crucial because even a small difference in fees can significantly impact the growth of an investment due to the effect of compounding returns. Therefore, by opting for a mutual fund with a low expense ratio, the investor is prioritizing better financial outcomes, aligning with the goal of maximizing their overall investment returns.