We have also reviewed recent mutual fund performance and are encouraged to find thatHDFCAMC has significantly improved its performancewith 64.9% (+1,280bps vs. Oct-18) of rated AUM now outperforming (rated 4 star +). RNAMC has slipped a bit, as only 36.1% (-1,700bps vs. Oct-18) of rated AUM is now outperforming. HDFCAMC has most efficiently passed on the TER cuts to distributors. Commissions now stand at 48bps (-29bps vs. Dec-18). Life insurance and mutual funds: Despite 1Q being a seasonally slow quarter, private life insurers individual NBPs grew a strong 28% YoY to Rs 92bn. On the other hand, equity (ex arbitrage and ETF) flows for 1QFY20 were muted at Rs 83.0bn (72% below FY19 avg). Higher life insurance sales vs. mutual fund sales may owe to changes in distributor commission payouts. While asset managers are not allowed to pay upfront commissions, insurers continue to pay out heavily. Our channel checks indicate this is tempting banks/national distributors to push insurance savings products.