Equity mutual fund inflows declined 9% month-on-month to ₹30,422 crore in September, down from ₹33,470 crore in August, as investors grew cautious amid global volatility and rising U.S. yields. SIP contributions remained robust at ₹21,400 crore, reflecting continued retail participation. Large-cap and diversified funds held steady, while small-cap inflows moderated after aggressive buying. Analysts noted that profit booking and valuation concerns drove the slowdown, though long-term equity sentiment remains positive.