26 August 2026
mins read
Mutual funds are considered one of the most popular investment options for long-term wealth creation. However, like any financial product, they are not completely free from fraud risks. Mutual funds investment frauds usually happen when investors are misled, misinformed, or pressured into taking decisions that benefit someone else.
Many mutual fund frauds do not look like scams at first. They often appear as professional advice, attractive investment plans, or “safe” opportunities. Knowing the types of frauds, warning signs, and prevention steps can help investors protect their savings.
Mutual funds investment frauds refer to dishonest practices where investors are misled or cheated in the name of mutual fund investment. These frauds may involve false promises, hidden charges, unauthorised actions, or complete scams disguised as genuine investment opportunities.
Such frauds can occur during:
Investment selection
Portfolio management
Advisory services
Fund switching or redemptions
In some cases, mutual fund frauds are also linked to larger scams such as Ponzi scheme structures or pump and dump activities.
Mutual fund investment frauds often show clear warning signs if investors pay attention. These signs usually appear before serious financial damage happens.
Churning happens when an advisor frequently buys and sells mutual funds in your account without valid reasons. This is done mainly to earn higher commissions.
Signs of churning include:
Frequent switching of mutual fund schemes
No clear explanation for changes
Increased costs and reduced returns
Churning benefits the advisor, not the investor.
Breakpoint fraud happens when investors are advised to invest amounts that do not qualify for lower expense ratios or benefits, even though higher investment could reduce costs.
This results in:
Higher charges
Lower returns over time
Misleading advice focused on commissions
Investors often remain unaware of such losses.
Some advisors downplay risks to make investments look safer than they really are. They may focus only on returns and avoid discussing volatility or market risks.
This can lead to:
Wrong expectations
Panic during market downturns
Poor investment decisions
All mutual fund investments carry some level of risk.
Unauthorized trades happen when changes are made in your mutual fund portfolio without your consent.
Warning signs include:
Unexpected fund switches
Losses you were not informed about
Transactions you do not remember approving
This is a serious form of mutual funds fraud.
Some fraudsters present fake schemes as mutual fund–like investments. They promise regular returns and use money from new investors to pay old ones.
Such Ponzi scheme setups:
Promise guaranteed or fixed returns
Collapse when new money stops coming
Cause major losses to investors
Genuine mutual funds never guarantee returns.
In pump and dump cases, fraudsters inflate values or performance figures to show fake gains. Investors are encouraged to invest more, after which losses appear.
These frauds rely on:
False performance data
Misleading account statements
Market excitement and fear of missing out
You can protect yourself from mutual funds investment frauds by:
Understanding the product before investing
Avoiding guaranteed return claims
Monitoring your account regularly
Asking questions about fees and risks
Keeping records of all communications
Awareness is your strongest protection.
Selecting the right investment resources is very important. Investors should rely on trusted platforms, official disclosures, and transparent communication.
Avoid:
Pressure-based selling
Advice without proper explanation
Unknown or unverified sources
Informed choices lead to safer investing.
Mutual funds investment frauds often succeed because investors trust without verifying. While mutual funds are powerful investment tools, they require awareness and regular monitoring.
By understanding fraud types, recognising red flags like Ponzi scheme promises or pump and dump tactics, and following basic safety measures, investors can protect their money and build wealth with confidence. Remember, genuine investments focus on long-term goals, not quick profits.
Common types include churning, breakpoint frauds, misrepresentation of risks, unauthorized trades, Ponzi schemes, and pump and dump practices.
Red flags include guaranteed returns, frequent fund switching, lack of risk explanation, pressure to invest quickly, and unclear fee structures.
Understand the product, verify advice, monitor statements regularly, and avoid offers that sound too good to be true.
You should report suspected fraud to the concerned financial platform and use official grievance redressal mechanisms for escalation.
Mutual funds in India are overseen by regulatory authorities that ensure transparency, investor protection, and fair market practices.
Disclaimer :
Investments in securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing. This content is for educational purposes only. Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.
The information on this website is provided on "AS IS" basis. Bajaj Broking (BFSL) does not warrant the accuracy of the information given herein, either expressly or impliedly, for any particular purpose and expressly disclaims any warranties of merchantability or suitability for any particular purpose. While BFSL strives to ensure accuracy, it does not guarantee the completeness, reliability, or timeliness of the information. Users are advised to independently verify details and stay updated with any changes. The securities are quoted as an example and not as a recommendation. Past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance.
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is subject to change without prior notice. BFSL shall not be responsible for any consequences arising from reliance on the information provided herein and shall not be held responsible for all or any actions that may subsequently result in any loss, damage and/or liability. Interest rates, fees, and charges etc., are revised from time to time, for the latest details please refer to our Pricing page.
Neither the information, nor any opinion contained in this website constitutes a solicitation or offer by BFSL or its affiliates to buy or sell any securities, futures, options or other financial instruments or provide any investment advice or service.
BFSL is acting as distributor for non-broking products/ services such as IPO, Mutual Fund, Insurance, PMS, and NPS. These are not Exchange Traded Products. For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions please read the sales brochure carefully before investing.
Content Partner - Dalal Street Investment Journal Wealth Advisory Private Limited
This article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice. Market investments are subject to risks. DSIJ Wealth Advisory Private Limited is a SEBI-registered Research Analyst (Reg. No: INH000006396) and Investment Adviser (Reg. No: INA000001142). Please consult your financial adviser before investing.
For more disclaimer, check here : https://www.bajajbroking.in/disclaimer
Level up your stock market experience: Scan the QR to download the Bajaj Broking App for effortless investing and trading
Access Research Backed Stock Recommendations
|
Open Your Free Demat Account
Access Research Backed Stock Recommendations
|
"Investments in securities market are subject to market risk, read all the scheme related documents carefully before investing."
"Prevent Unauthorized transactions in your Trading/Demat Account. Update your mobile numbers/email IDs with your stock brokers/Depository Participant. Receive alerts/information of your transaction/all debit and other important transactions in your Trading/ Demat Account directly from Exchange/CDSL/NSDL at the end of the day. Issued in the interest of investors."
" We collect, retain, and use your contact information for legitimate business purposes only, to contact you and to provide you information & latest updates regarding our products & services."
"KYC is one time exercise while dealing in securities markets - once KYC is done through a SEBI registered intermediary (broker, DP, Mutual Fund etc.), you need not undergo the same process again when you approach another intermediary."
"We understand that certain investment advisors may be approaching members of the public including our clients, representing that they are our partners, or representing that their investment advice is based on our research. Please note that we have not engaged any third parties to render any investment advisory services on our behalf nor are we providing any stock recommendations/tips/research report/advisory. Persons making investments on the basis of such advice may lose all or a part of their investments along with the fee paid to such unscrupulous persons. Please be cautious about any phone call that you may receive from persons representing to be such investment advisors, or a part of research firm offering advice on securities. Do not make payments through e-mail links, WhatsApp or SMS. Please do not share your personal or financial information with any person without proper verification. Always trade through a registered broker."
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited is a subsidiary of Bajaj Finance Limited and is a corporate trading and clearing member of BSE Ltd. and National Stock Exchange of India Ltd. (NSEIL), and also a Depository participant with National Securities Depository Ltd (“NSDL”) and Central Depository Services Ltd. (“CDSL”).
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited is engaged in the business of Stock Broking and as a Depository Participant.Bajaj Financial Securities Limited does not provide any advisory services to its clients. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited may share updates from time to time (through various electronic communication modes) which are sourced from public domain and the same are NOT to be construed as any advice or recommendation from Bajaj Financial Securities Limited. Client is requested to independently evaluate and/or consult their professional advisors before arriving at any conclusion to make any investment. The decision to invest shall be the sole responsibility of the Client and shall not hold Bajaj Financial Securities Limited, its employees and associates responsible for any losses, damages of any type whatsoever.
BSE Ltd. is not in any manner answerable, responsible or liable to any person or persons for any acts of omission or commission, errors, mistakes and/or violation, actual or perceived, by us or our partners, agents, associates etc., of any of the Rules, Regulations, Bye-laws of the Stock Exchange, Mumbai, SEBI Act or any other laws in force from time to time.
BSE Ltd. is not answerable, responsible or liable for any information on this Website or for any services rendered by our employees, our servants, and us.
Personal Loan, Fixed Deposit, EMI Card are provided by Bajaj Finance Limited. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited is only a distributor. These are not exchange traded products and all disputes with respect to the distribution activity, would not have access to exchange investor redressal forum or Arbitration mechanism.
No need to issue cheques by investors while subscribing to IPO. Just write the bank account number and sign in the application form to authorise your bank to make payment in case of allotment. No worries for refund as the money remains in investor's account.
Client Registration Documents (Rights & Obligations, Risk Disclosure Document, Do's & Don'ts) in Vernacular Language: BSE | NSE
If the client wishes to revoke /cancel the EDIS mandate placed by them, they can write on email us or call on the toll free number.
Advisory for Investors : NSE | BSE
We also do pro-account trading in Equity & Derivatives Segment.
Filling complaints on SCORES/SMARTODR - Easy & Quick
A. Register on SCORES/SMARTODR portal B. Mandatory details for filling complaints on SCORES/SMARTODR (i) Name, PAN, Address, Mobile Number, E-mail ID C. Benefits: (i) Effective Communication (ii) Speedy redressal of the grievances.
SEBI Registration No.: INZ000218931 | BSE Cash/CDS/F&O (Member ID: 6706) | NSE Cash/F&O/CDS (Member ID: 90177) | MCX Member ID: 57680 | DP registration No : IN-DP-418-2019 | CDSL DP No.: 12088600 | NSDL DP No. IN304300 | AMFI Registration No.: ARN – 163403 Research Analyst SEBI Registration No. INH000010043
Compliance officer:
Mr. Harinatha Reddy Muthumula
TEL: 020-48574486
Email for any investor grievances or write to us for DP related matters.
DISCLAIMER
STANDARD DISCLAIMER
Investments in the securities market are subject to market risk, read all related documents carefully before investing.
Reg Office: Bajaj Auto Limited Complex, Mumbai –Pune Road Akurdi Pune 411035. Corporate Office: Bajaj Financial Securities Limited, 1st Floor, Mantri IT Park, Tower B, Unit No 9 & 10, Viman Nagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411014. SEBI Registration No.: INZ000218931 | BSE Cash/F&O/CDS (Member ID:6706) | NSE Cash/F&O/CDS (Member ID: 90177) | MCX Member ID: 57680 | DP registration No: IN-DP-418-2019 | CDSL DP No.: 12088600 | NSDL DP No. IN304300 | AMFI Registration No.: ARN –163403.
Website: Bajaj Broking
RESEARCH DISCLAIMER
Broking services offered by Bajaj Financial Securities Limited | Registered Office: Bajaj Auto Limited Complex , Mumbai –Pune Road Akurdi Pune 411035 | Corporate Office: Bajaj Financial Securities Limited, 1st Floor, Mantri IT Park, Tower B, Unit No 9 & 10, Viman Nagar, Pune, Maharashtra 411014 | CIN: U67120PN2010PLC136026 | Research Analyst SEB I Registration No: INH000010043.
Details of Compliance Officer:
Mr. Harinatha Reddy Muthumula (For Broking/DP/Research)
Email | Contact No.: 020-4857 4486
Investment in the securities involves risks, investor should consult his own advisors/consultant to determine the merits and risks of investment.
DISCLOSURES
Disclosures under the provisions of SEBI (Research Analysts) Regulations 2014 (Regulations)
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited ("Bajaj Broking" or "Research Entity") is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India ("SEBI") and is licensed to carry on the business of broking, depository services and related activities. There were no instances of non-compliance by Bajaj Financial Securities Limited on any matter related to the capital markets, resulting in significant and material disciplinary action during the last three years. This research report has been prepared and distributed byBajaj Financial Securities Limited in the capacity of a Research Analyst as per Regulation 22(1) of SEBI (Research Analysts) Regulations 2014 having SEBI Registration No. INH000010043.
DISCLAIMER
This e-mail/ short message service (SMS) may contain confidential, proprietary or legally privileged information. It should not be used by anyone who is not the original intended recipient. If you have erroneously received this message, please delete it immediately and notify the sender. The recipient acknowledges thatBajaj Financial Securities Limited or its holding and/or associated companies, as the case may be, are unable to exercise control or ensure or guarantee the integrity of/over the contents of the information contained in e-mail /SMS transmissions and further acknowledges that any views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender and no binding nature of the message shall be implied or assumed unless the sender does so expressly with due authority of Bajaj Financial Securities Limited. This message is not intended as an offer or publication or solicitation for distribution for subscription of or purchase or sale of any securities or financial instrument(s) to anyone in whose jurisdiction such subscription etc. requires prior local regulatory clearance or is contrary to the local laws of the land in any manner or as an official confirmation of any transaction. Before opening any attachments, please check them for viruses and defects.
This service / information is strictly confidential and is being furnished to you solely for your information. This information should not be reproduced or redistributed or passed on directly or indirectly in any form to any other person or published, copied, in whole or in part, for any purpose unless otherwise expressly authorised. This service / information is not directed or intended for distribution to, or use by, any person or entity who is a citizen or resident of or located in any locality, state, country or other jurisdiction, where such distribution, publication, availability or use would be contrary to law, regulation or which would subjectBajaj Financial Securities Limited and affiliates/ group/holding companies to any registration or licensing requirements within such jurisdiction. The distribution of this document in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law, and persons in whose possession this document comes, should inform themselves about and observe any such restrictions.
The data would be provided to the clients on an "as is" and "where-is" basis, without any warranty. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited or its subsidiaries and associated companies shall not be liable for any delay or any other interruption which may occur in providing the data due to any reason including network (Internet) reasons or snags in the system, breakdown of the system or any other equipment, server breakdown, maintenance shutdown, breakdown of communication services or inability of the Bajaj Financial Securities Limited or its subsidiaries and associated companies to provide the data. In no event shall the Bajaj Financial Securities Limited or its holding and associated companies be liable for any damages, including without limitation direct or indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages, losses or expenses arising in connection with the data provided by the Bajaj Financial Securities Limited or its holding and associated companies.
ADDITIONAL DISCLAIMER FOR U.S. PERSONS
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited is not a registered broker-dealer under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the"1934 act") and under applicable state laws in the United States. In addition, Bajaj Financial Securities Limited is not a registered investment adviser under the U.S. Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the "Advisers Act" and together with the 1934 Act, the "Acts), and under applicable state laws in the United States. Accordingly, in the absence of specific exemption under the Acts, any brokerage and investment services provided by Bajaj Financial Securities Limited, including the products and services described herein are not available to or intended for U.S. persons. This email message does not constitute an offer or invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities or solicitation of any investments or investment services and/or shall not be considered as an advertisement tool. "U.S. Persons" are generally defined as a natural person, residing in the United States or any entity organized or incorporated under the laws of the United States. US Citizens living abroad may also be deemed "US Persons" under certain rules.
ADDITIONAL DISCLAIMER FOR CANADIAN PERSONS
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited is not a registered adviser or dealer under applicable Canadian securities laws nor has it obtained an exemption from the adviser and/or dealer registration requirements under such law. Accordingly, any brokerage and investment services provided by Bajaj Financial Securities Limited, including the products and services described herein are not available to or intended for Canadian persons.
This mailer and its respective contents do not constitute an offer or invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities or solicitation of any investments or investment services.
DISCLAIMER FOR REPORT DISCLOSURES UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF SEBI (RESEARCH ANALYSTS) REGULATIONS 2014 (REGULATIONS)
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited ("Bajaj Broking" or "Research Entity") is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India ("SEBI") and is licensed to carry on the business of broking, depository services and related activities.
This Report has been prepared by Bajaj Financial Securities Limited in the capacity of a Research Analyst having SEBI Registration No. INH000010043 and distributed as per SEBI (Research Analysts) Regulations 2014. This report does not constitute an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument or as an official confirmation of any transaction. The information contained herein is from publicly available data or other sources believed to be reliable. This report is provided for assistance only and is not intended to be and must not alone be taken as the basis for an investment decision. The user assumes the entire risk of any use made of this information. Each recipient of this report should make such investigation as it deems necessary to arrive at an independent evaluation of an investment in the securities of companies referred to in this document (including the merits and risks involved), and should consult his own advisors to determine the merits and risks of such investment. The investment discussed or views expressed may not be suitable for all investors.
This information is strictly confidential and is being furnished to you solely for your information. This information should not be reproduced or redistributed or passed on directly or indirectly in any form to any other person or published, copied, in whole or in part, for any purpose. This report is not directed or intended for distribution to, or use by, any person or entity who is a citizen or resident of or located in any locality, state, country or other jurisdiction, where such distribution, publication, availability or use would be contrary to law, regulation or which would subject Bajaj Financial Securities Limited and associates / group companies to any registration or licensing requirements within such jurisdiction. The distribution of this report in certain jurisdictions may be restricted by law, and persons in whose possession this report comes, should observe, any such restrictions. The information given in this report is as of the date of this report and there can be no assurance that future results or events will be consistent with this information. This information is subject to change without any prior notice. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited reserves the right to make modifications and alterations to this statement as may be required from time to time. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited or any of its associates / group companies shall not be in any way responsible for any loss or damage that may arise to any person from any inadvertent error in the information contained in this report. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited is committed to providing independent and transparent recommendation to its clients. Neither Bajaj Financial Securities Limited nor any of its associates, group companies, directors, employees, agents or representatives shall be liable for any damages whether direct, indirect, special or consequential including loss of revenue or lost profits that may arise from or in connection with the use of the information. Our proprietary trading and investment businesses may make investment decisions that are inconsistent with the recommendations expressed herein. Past performance is not necessarily a guide to future performance .The disclosures of interest statements incorporated in this report are provided solely to enhance the transparency and should not be treated as endorsement of the views expressed in the report. The information provided in these reports remains, unless otherwise stated, the copyright of Bajaj Financial Securities Limited. All layout, design, original artwork, concepts and other Intellectual Properties, remains the property and copyright of Bajaj Financial Securities Limited and may not be used in any form or for any purpose whatsoever by any party without the express written permission of the copyright holders.
We offer our research services to clients as well as our prospects. Though this report is disseminated to all the customers simultaneously, not all customers may receive this report at the same time. We will not treat recipients as customers by virtue of their receiving this report.
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited and its associates, officer, directors, and employees, research analyst (including relatives) worldwide may: (a) from time to time, have long or short positions in, and buy or sell the securities thereof, of company(ies), mentioned herein or (b) be engaged in any other transaction involving such securities and earn brokerage or other compensation or act as a market maker in the financial instruments of the subject company/company(ies) discussed herein or act as advisor or lender/borrower to such company(ies) or have other potential/material conflict of interest with respect to any recommendation and related information and opinions at the time of publication of research report or at the time of public appearance. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited may have proprietary long/short position in the above-mentioned scrip(s) and therefore should be considered as interested. The views provided herein are general in nature and do not consider risk appetite or investment objective of any particular investor; readers are requested to take independent professional advice before investing. This should not be construed as invitation or solicitation to do business with Bajaj Financial Securities Limited.
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited or its associates may have received compensation from the subject company in the past 12 months. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited or its associates may have managed or co-managed public offering of securities for the subject company in the past 12 months. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited or its associates may have received compensation for investment banking or merchant banking or brokerage services from the subject company in the past 12 months. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited or its associates may have received any compensation for products or services other than investment banking or merchant banking or brokerage services from the subject company in the past 12 months. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited or its associates have not received any compensation or other benefits from the Subject Company or third party in connection with the research report. Research analyst or his/her relative or Bajaj Financial Securities Limited’s associates may have financial interest in the subject company. Bajaj Financial Securities Limited, its associates, research analyst and his/her relative may have other potential/material conflict of interest with respect to any recommendation and related information and opinions at the time of publication of research report or at the time of public appearance.
Research analyst has served as an officer, director or employee of subject Company: No
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited has financial interest in the subject companies: No
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited’s Associates may have actual/beneficial ownership of 1% or more securities of the subject company at the end of the month immediately preceding the date of publication of research report.
Research analyst or his/her relative has actual/beneficial ownership of 1% or more securities of the subject company at the end of the month immediately preceding the date of publication of research report: No
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited has actual/beneficial ownership of 1% or more securities of the subject company at the end of the month immediately preceding the date of publication of research report: No
Subject company may have been client during twelve months preceding the date of distribution of the research report.
There were no instances of non-compliance by Bajaj Financial Securities Limited on any matter related to the capital markets, resulting in significant and material disciplinary action during the last three years. A graph of daily closing prices of the securities is also available at NSE
ANALYST CERTIFICATION
The analyst for this report certifies that all of the views expressed in this report accurately reflect his or her personal views about the subject company or companies and its or their securities, and no part of his or her compensation was, is or will be, directly or indirectly related to specific recommendations or views expressed in this report.
RISK DISCLOSURE ON DERIVATIVES
SEBI study dated January 25, 2023 on “Analysis of Profit and Loss of Individual Traders dealing in equity Futures and Options (F&O) Segment”, wherein Aggregate Level findings are based on annual Profit/Loss incurred by individual traders in equity F&O during FY 2021-22.
BROKERAGE DISCLAIMER
All leveraged intraday positions will be squared off on the same day. There is no restriction on the withdrawal of the unutilised margin amount. Brokerage will not exceed the SEBI prescribed limit. Visit : Pricing
MTF
As subject to the provisions of SEBI Circular CIR/MRD/DP/54/2017 dated June 13, 2017, and the terms and conditions mentioned in the lights and obligations statement issued by the TM (if applicable).
US INVESTING
International investment is not supervised by any regulatory body in India. Thus, any claim or dispute relating to such investment or enforcement of any agreement/contract /claim will not be under laws and regulations of the recognized stock exchanges and investor protection under Indian Securities Law. The account opening process will be carried out on Vested platform and Bajaj Financial Securities Limited will not have any role in it.
IPO
This should not be construed as soliciting investment. Investors’ discretion is required. Kindly consult your financial expert before investing. No need to issue cheques by investors while subscribing to IPO. Investments in securities markets are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.
SCREENERS
Screeners is not Exchange-approved products and any disputes related to the same will not be dealt on the Exchange platform.
SECURITIES
Securities quoted are exemplary and not recommendatory.
IPV
Account would be open after all procedure relating to IPV and client due diligence is completed.
IMAGES
The images used are only for representation purpose. Proper due diligence has been done for the images and the image is not of any artist. The same is captured from royalty free sites.
THIRD PARTY PRODUCT DISCLAIMER
Bajaj Financial Securities Limited is a distributor for Non-Broking Products/Services such as Mutual Funds, Mutual Funds SIP, IPO, Bonds, Insurance, PMS, Global Investing, any other third-party products/services. These are not Exchange Traded Products, and we are only acting as distributors. All disputes with respect to the distribution activity, would not have access to SCORES/ODR, Exchange investor redressal forum or Arbitration mechanism. Please refer to the detailed disclaimer for Third-Party Products.
As per SEBI circular no. SEBI/HO/MIRSD/MIRSD-PoD-1/P/CIR/2023/84 dated June 08, 2023, Stockbrokers are required to upstream the entire client funds lying with them to the Clearing Corporation. Based on client’s request the funds’ release request must be placed with the Clearing Corporation. Based on the internal process and cut-off timelines of the Clearing Corporation the funds will be released to the Stock Broker. In view of this new process, as specified by the regulatory and the cut-off time of Clearing Corporation/Banks processing the funds, Bajaj Financial Securities Limited cannot commit the exact time for releasing funds payout to its client. Clients are requested to note that, Bajaj Financial Securities Limited will not be responsible for any inconvenience caused to clients due to delay in release of funds payout, including fines, delayed charges, defaults, etc.
