Jeremy Beswick, CEO Birla Sunlife AMC, on Birla Advantage Fund.

Launched in the year 1995, Birla Advantage just managed to guard its capital as the NAV was below par levels, but the fund edged up smart gains in 1999 backed by the troika of IT, pharmaceuticals and FMCG stocks. An average 65% technology exposure in 2000 washed away the earlier gains. However, beginning 2001, the fund has downsized its technology with higher exposure in pharma, FMCG and old economy sectors and has posted an annualised return of 18.75% till May 31, 2001. Q.What is investment strategy of Birla Advantage? JB: The investment strategy of Birla Advantage Fund (BAF) is to invest for the long-term in fundamentally strong growth companies. We do not try to do a top down allocation of capital. Q.Does the fund follow any specific stock selection criteria before investing? JB: Stock selection is guided by factors such as lo