Portfolio Turnover Ratio – What it Tells You

The Portfolio Turnover Ratio tells you how actively a fund manager is buying and selling stocks. Learn how this metric affects costs, returns, and your investing style.

08/06/2025

Introduction

" When you invest in a mutual fund, the fund manager isn’t just sitting idle — they’re actively buying and selling securities. But how often they do that can make a big difference. That’s where the Portfolio Turnover Ratio (PTR) comes in. 

 In this blog, we explain what PTR is, why it matters, and how to judge whether high or low turnover suits your investing style — with a relatable example.

What Is Portfolio Turnover Ratio (PTR)? PTR measures how frequently assets in a fund are replaced in a year.

  Formula: 

  PTR (%) = Lesser of Total Buy/Sell Transactions ÷ Avg. AUM × 100 A 100% PTR means the fund’s entire portfolio has been replaced once during the year. ✅ High vs. Low Turnover

  • High PTR (100% or more): Active strategy, possibly higher expenses
  • Low PTR (<30%): Long-term, buy-and-hold strategy
Real-Life Example: Karan vs. Neha
  • Karan invests in a small-cap fund with a 120% turnover ratio.
  • Neha chooses a flexi-cap fund with just 25% turnover.
In a volatile year, Karan’s fund generates better short-term gains but incurs higher transaction costs (also seen in a slightly higher expense ratio). Neha’s fund grows slower but is more tax-efficient and aligned with long-term wealth creation.

Conclusion 

 PTR is like the fund manager’s activity report card. High turnover may mean more agility, but it can also mean higher costs. Know your style — do you prefer an active trader or a patient investor

 Check the PTR in the fund factsheet. Match the manager’s style with your goals — and invest accordingly. 

  Summary Table: Portfolio Turnover Insights

Fund Category Typical PTR (%) Style Impact on Cost
Index Funds 5% – 15% Passive Very Low
Large Cap Funds 20% – 50% Moderate Active Low to Moderate
Small Cap Funds 80% – 150% Aggressive/Active High
Tax-Saving (ELSS) 20% – 40% Long-Term Focused Low

Dr. Satish Vadapalli
Research Analyst