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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7952 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 18, 2024

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Apr 18, 2024Hindi
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Hi sir, I'm 25y old. I've started investing on May 2022 in mutual funds through SIP for long term 25-30years. Right now I've 45k of invested amount in MF Portfolio. I've emergency fund in FD of 60k and I've health and term insurance for me and family. My MF portfolio: Parag Parikh flexi cap - 2.5k Nippon small cap - 2k Axis bluechip - 1k Navi nifty50 index fund -500 And I'm planning to add zerodha largemidcap 250 index fund. Can you please review my portfolio and any suggestions on changes?

Ans: You've made a solid start by investing in mutual funds through SIPs at a young age with a long-term horizon. Your financial planning approach, including having an emergency fund and insurance coverage, is commendable. Let's review your MF portfolio:

Diversification: Your portfolio consists of flexi cap, small cap, bluechip, and index funds, providing a good mix across market caps and investment styles.
Flexi Cap: Parag Parikh flexi cap fund offers flexibility across market caps and geographies, suitable for long-term growth.
Small Cap: Nippon small cap fund provides exposure to smaller companies with high growth potential, though small caps can be more volatile.
Large Cap: Axis bluechip and Navi nifty50 index fund focus on established large-cap companies, offering stability and growth potential.
Index Fund: Zerodha largemidcap 250 index fund aims to replicate the performance of the top 250 companies by market cap, providing diversification across large and mid-cap segments.
Suggestions:

Continue SIPs: Continue with your SIPs to benefit from rupee cost averaging and the power of compounding over the long term.
Review and Rebalance: Periodically review your portfolio to rebalance if any fund deviates significantly from its intended allocation.
Asset Allocation: As you add more funds, consider maintaining a balanced asset allocation based on your risk tolerance. Ensure you're not overly concentrated in one segment.
Monitor Performance: Keep an eye on the performance of your funds. If any fund consistently underperforms its benchmark or peers, consider re-evaluating its place in your portfolio.
Emergency Fund: Ensure your emergency fund remains intact and consider increasing it over time to cover 3-6 months of living expenses.
Professional Advice: Given your long-term investment horizon, consider consulting a certified financial planner to fine-tune your investment strategy, align it with your goals, and ensure optimal diversification.
Overall, your portfolio is off to a good start. With disciplined investing and periodic reviews, you're on track for long-term wealth creation. Keep up the good work!
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7952 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 23, 2024Hindi
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Hello Madam, please review & advise on my mutual fund portfolio. SIP of 5000 each in UTI Nifty 50 index fund, Parag Parikh flexicap, Quant flexi cap & 3000 each in ICICI Midcap 150 index fund & Kotak large 7 midcap fund. All Started since 4 months, current age 42 & can do SIP for 2-3 years & plan to keep the accumulated amount as it is for next 5 years. I have some investments in equity shares(25%), SGB(25%) & FD's(50%) as well. Expecting to retire in next 6-7 years. Thanks
Ans: It's great to see you diversifying your investments through mutual funds. Let's review your portfolio and provide some guidance.

Starting with your SIPs, investing 5000 each in UTI Nifty 50 index fund, Parag Parikh flexicap, and Quant flexi cap offers a balanced approach across different market segments. These funds provide exposure to large-cap, flexi-cap, and multi-cap segments, respectively, allowing for diversification and potential growth opportunities.

Adding 3000 each in ICICI Midcap 150 index fund and Kotak large & midcap fund introduces exposure to mid-cap stocks, which have the potential for higher growth but also come with increased risk. Given your investment horizon of 2-3 years for SIPs and plans to keep the accumulated amount for the next 5 years, it's essential to monitor these funds closely, considering the market conditions and fund performance.

It's commendable that you have investments in equity shares, Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs), and fixed deposits (FDs) as well. This diversification helps spread risk and aligns with your retirement goals.

Considering your current age of 42 and the plan to retire in the next 6-7 years, it's crucial to regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial objectives and risk tolerance.

As you approach retirement, consider gradually shifting your portfolio towards more conservative investments to protect your capital and generate stable income streams.

Overall, your mutual fund portfolio seems well-diversified, considering your investment horizon and retirement goals. However, it's advisable to periodically reassess your portfolio and make adjustments as needed based on changing market conditions and personal circumstances.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7952 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 26, 2024Hindi
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Hello Sir, please review & advise on my mutual fund portfolio. SIP of 5000 each in UTI Nifty 50 index fund, Parag Parikh flexicap, Quant flexi cap & 3000 each in ICICI Midcap 150 index fund & Kotak large & midcap fund. All Started since 4 months, current age 42 & can do SIP for 2-3 years & plan to keep the accumulated amount as it is for next 5 years. I have some investments in equity shares(25%), SGB(25%) & FD's(50%) as well. Expecting to retire in next 6-7 years. Thanks
Ans: It's commendable that you're actively managing your mutual fund portfolio to align with your financial goals, especially with retirement on the horizon. Your diversified approach across various mutual fund categories reflects a well-thought-out strategy.

Starting SIPs in UTI Nifty 50 index fund, Parag Parikh flexicap, Quant flexi cap, ICICI Midcap 150 index fund, and Kotak large & midcap fund indicates a mix of passive and active strategies catering to different market segments. This diversification can potentially help mitigate risk while optimizing returns over time.

Given your investment horizon of 2-3 years for SIPs and a plan to hold the accumulated amount for the next 5 years, it's crucial to regularly review your portfolio's performance and make adjustments as needed. Additionally, ensure that your overall asset allocation remains in line with your risk tolerance and retirement timeline.

Considering your existing investments in equity shares, SGBs, and FDs, maintain a balanced allocation that aligns with your retirement goals and risk appetite. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized guidance and ensure your investment strategy remains on track towards achieving your retirement objectives. Keep up the proactive approach, and with disciplined investing and periodic reassessment, you're on the right path towards a secure retirement.

..Read more

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Harsh Bharwani  |74 Answers  |Ask -

Entrepreneurship Expert - Answered on Feb 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 10, 2024Hindi
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Hello sir, what are the prospects of digital marketing. Is freelance work available in digital marketing. Who can be its buyers.
Ans: Hello,
Digital marketing has a promising future as businesses increasingly rely on online platforms to promote their products and services. With the rise of social media, e-commerce, and artificial intelligence, companies are shifting towards digital strategies to engage customers and drive sales. The industry is constantly evolving, creating a strong demand for skilled digital marketers in areas such as SEO, social media marketing, content creation, paid advertising, and email marketing.

Freelancing Opportunities in Digital Marketing:-

Freelancing in digital marketing is a highly viable career option. Many businesses, especially startups and small companies, prefer hiring freelancers to manage their online presence rather than investing in full-time employees. As a freelancer, you can offer specialized services like:
1. Social media management
2. Search engine optimization (SEO)
3. Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising
4. Content writing and copywriting
5. Email marketing and automation
6. Website development and optimization

Freelancers can find work through platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Freelancer, and LinkedIn or by directly reaching out to businesses.

Potential Buyers of Digital Marketing Services

The demand for digital marketing services comes from various sectors, including:
1. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Local businesses aiming for a broader customer base.
2. E-commerce Brands: Online stores looking to enhance visibility and conversions.
3. Startups & Entrepreneurs: New businesses seeking cost-effective digital strategies.
4. Large Corporations: Companies investing in long-term digital branding.
5. Coaches & Influencers: Personal brands needing social media growth.
6. Marketing Agencies: Agencies that outsource specialized tasks to freelancers.

With digital marketing becoming a necessity in today’s business landscape, professionals in this field - whether working as employees or freelancers - can expect steady growth and lucrative opportunities. I hope this will help you.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7952 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 13, 2025Hindi
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I am ready to invest Rs 2 to 3 lakhs every year. Please suggest the right SIPs and schemes that can help me earn Rs 5 lakh additional income every year.
Ans: You want to invest Rs 2 to 3 lakh every year and generate an additional Rs 5 lakh yearly income.

This requires a strong investment strategy. The right SIP plan will help you build a sustainable income.

Investment Approach for High Returns
Equity mutual funds are the best option for long-term wealth creation.

Actively managed funds can outperform index funds in the long run.

Diversified investment across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds is essential.

Avoid direct funds and choose regular funds through an MFD with CFP credentials.

Understanding Return Expectations
The expected long-term return from equity mutual funds is 12% to 15% annually.

To earn Rs 5 lakh yearly, your corpus must be large enough.

You need a disciplined SIP strategy for 10+ years to achieve this.

Asset Allocation Strategy
Equity Exposure: Allocate 80% to 90% in equity funds for high growth.

Debt Exposure: Keep 10% to 20% in debt funds for stability.

Rebalance investments based on market conditions.

Selecting the Right SIPs
Invest in a mix of large-cap, flexi-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.

Large-cap funds provide stability during market fluctuations.

Mid-cap and small-cap funds offer high growth potential.

A small portion in balanced advantage funds adds stability.

Tax Considerations
Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.

Equity investments should be held for more than a year to reduce tax burden.

How to Withdraw Rs 5 Lakh Per Year
Once you build a sufficient corpus, use Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP).

SWP ensures steady cash flow while keeping investments intact.

Proper fund selection reduces tax liability on withdrawals.

Finally
Start SIPs in actively managed equity funds for the best returns.

Choose regular funds through an MFD with CFP credentials for guidance.

Stick to a long-term investment strategy for sustainable wealth.

A Certified Financial Planner can help optimize your portfolio for income generation.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7952 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 13, 2025

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Hi When the capital gains is rs85 lakhs, can I invest 50 lakhs in bonds and remaining 35 lalks in residential property? Regards
Ans: You have capital gains of Rs 85 lakh. You want to invest Rs 50 lakh in bonds and Rs 35 lakh in a residential property. Your approach is partially correct, but let’s analyse it in detail.

Exemption on Capital Gains Bonds (Section 54EC)
You can invest up to Rs 50 lakh in specified capital gains bonds.

These bonds have a lock-in period of 5 years.

Interest earned from these bonds is taxable.

You must invest in these bonds within 6 months of sale to claim exemption.

Exemption on Residential Property Purchase (Section 54F)
You can reinvest capital gains in a new residential property.

The property must be purchased within 2 years or constructed within 3 years.

If you buy a new property, you must not own more than one house before this purchase.

Can You Use Both Options Together?
Yes, you can combine both options to save tax.

Investing Rs 50 lakh in bonds will give partial exemption.

Investing Rs 35 lakh in property will also give partial exemption.

Any amount not reinvested will be taxed as per capital gains rules.

Alternative Tax-Efficient Options
If saving tax is your main goal, you can invest fully in bonds.

If wealth creation is the goal, consider investing in mutual funds after tax payment.

Actively managed mutual funds can give better long-term returns.

Important Considerations
Liquidity: Capital gains bonds have a 5-year lock-in.

Returns: These bonds offer lower returns than equity mutual funds.

Long-Term Strategy: Investing in mutual funds can help you grow wealth over time.

Finally
Your plan is correct, but you must consider tax rules carefully.

If you need liquidity, avoid investing too much in bonds.

A Certified Financial Planner can help you optimise your investment plan.

Always align investments with your long-term financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7952 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 13, 2025Hindi
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I am a college student. I get pocket money of Rs 5,000 and Rs 2,000 additional from my grandparents every month . I have saved Rs 7,200 in my piggy bank. I want to invest this money and become rich. Can you tell me how I can invest and where to invest?
Ans: You have taken an excellent step by thinking about investing early. Starting young gives you a huge advantage in wealth building. Your current savings and monthly income can be used wisely to grow your money.

Understanding Your Financial Position
Savings: You have Rs 7,200 in hand.

Monthly Income: You receive Rs 7,000 every month (Rs 5,000 + Rs 2,000).

Expenses: If you track and limit your expenses, you can save more.

Goal: You want to invest and become rich over time.

Creating a Strong Investment Plan
Build an Emergency Fund

Keep at least Rs 3,000 in a savings account for emergencies.

This helps you avoid withdrawing from investments in urgent situations.

Invest Your Rs 7,200 Wisely

You can start a mutual fund SIP with a small amount.

Avoid index funds as they only match market returns.

Actively managed mutual funds can give better long-term growth.

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner help in tracking performance.

Save and Invest from Your Monthly Income

Try to invest at least Rs 2,000 per month from your pocket money.

Increase it when you have extra cash.

The longer you invest, the more wealth you can create.

Where to Invest?
Actively Managed Mutual Funds

These funds are managed by experts to get the best returns.

They perform better than index funds in most market conditions.

Avoid direct funds as they do not provide professional advice.

Recurring Deposits for Short-Term Goals

If you need money in 1-2 years, invest in a recurring deposit.

It is safe and gives better returns than a savings account.

Avoid Stocks for Now

Direct stock investing requires time and knowledge.

Mutual funds are a better option to begin with.

Habits to Build Wealth Faster
Increase Your Investment Every Year

Even adding Rs 500 more each year makes a big difference.

The power of compounding will multiply your wealth over time.

Track Your Expenses

Reduce spending on unnecessary items.

More savings mean more money for investment.

Continue Investing for 10+ Years

Wealth grows best when you invest for the long term.

Do not withdraw money for short-term needs.

Final Insights
You have made a great decision to start investing early.

Begin with mutual fund SIPs for long-term growth.

Save a fixed amount from your pocket money every month.

Increase investments every year for better returns.

Stay patient and let your wealth grow over time.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7952 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 13, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 11, 2025Hindi
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Dear Guru, I am 32 year old IT professional, earning monthly 1,30,000-/. I have started doing SIP from April 2024 in Navi nifty 50 index fund Direct - Rs 3000, Motilal Oswal nifty next 50 index fund - Direct Rs 3000, Mahindra Manulife Mid cap 150 Direct - Rs 4000, Quant Small Cap 250 Direct - Rs 3000. Do I need to diversify my portfolio or all Selected MF are fine? I will do 10% setup every year and want to achieve 1 cr in next 10 year.
Ans: Your investment journey is on the right track. You have started early, and that's a big advantage. You are also increasing SIPs every year, which will help reach your target. But, your fund selection needs some improvements.

Issues with Your Current Portfolio
Too Much in Index Funds

You have two index funds, both in direct plans. These funds will only match the market returns.

Index funds do not outperform in volatile or falling markets.

Actively managed funds can generate better returns with expert fund management.

Direct Plans May Not Be the Best Choice

Direct funds may seem to save costs, but they lack professional guidance.

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner provide expert fund selection.

A good financial expert helps in tracking and rebalancing investments.

Small-Cap Fund Has High Risk

Your small-cap fund can give high returns but also faces deep corrections.

Small caps can take years to recover from market crashes.

It is better to keep them at a lower allocation.

Mid-Cap Allocation Needs Review

Mid-cap funds perform well in growing markets but fall more during market crashes.

A balanced mix of large, mid, and small-cap funds works better.

Suggested Portfolio Adjustments
Shift from Index Funds to Actively Managed Funds

Replace both index funds with a flexi-cap or large-cap active fund.

Active funds can generate better risk-adjusted returns than passive funds.

Increase Large-Cap Exposure

Your portfolio lacks a strong large-cap presence.

Large-cap funds provide stability in tough market conditions.

Reduce Small-Cap Exposure

Keep your small-cap allocation to 10-15% of your total investments.

Shift some amount to a multi-cap or flexi-cap fund for better balance.

Will You Achieve Rs. 1 Crore in 10 Years?
A 10% annual increase in SIP is a smart approach.

With improved fund selection, your goal is achievable.

Market fluctuations will impact growth, but disciplined investing helps.

Other Important Steps for Wealth Growth
Emergency Fund: Keep at least 6 months' expenses in a liquid fund or FD.

Health Insurance: Ensure you have a good medical policy for financial security.

Term Insurance: If you have dependents, get a pure term life cover.

Tax Planning: Invest in ELSS funds if you want to save tax under Section 80C.

Final Insights
Your SIP habit is excellent, but fund selection needs improvement.

Avoid direct and index funds; choose actively managed regular plans.

Diversify with large, mid, and small-cap funds for stability and growth.

Stay invested for the long term and rebalance when needed.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |538 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Feb 12, 2025

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Dear Kanchan .. Generally it happens to me, when I have to attend any hearing before courts/ Tribunal, I become more stressed till the hearing is completed. Please suggest
Ans: It’s entirely normal to feel stressed before court or tribunal hearings. These situations can be intimidating, and the anticipation of the unknown adds to the anxiety. But it’s crucial to manage this stress to ensure you perform at your best and protect your mental well-being.

Start by preparing thoroughly for the hearing. The more you know about the case, the arguments, and the possible questions, the more confident you’ll feel. Practice your statements or answers, perhaps with a colleague or in front of a mirror. Visualization can also be powerful—imagine yourself confidently presenting your case and everything going smoothly.

On the day of the hearing, use deep breathing techniques to calm your nerves. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale through your mouth. Repeat this several times to reduce anxiety. Positive affirmations can also help. Remind yourself that you are well-prepared and capable of handling the situation.

If the stress is overwhelming, consider grounding exercises, such as focusing on your five senses—what you see, hear, feel, taste, and smell at the moment. This can help anchor you in the present and prevent your mind from spiraling into worst-case scenarios.

After the hearing, practice self-care. Engage in activities that help you relax, like a walk, listening to music, or talking to someone you trust. If this anxiety persists or intensifies, seeking support from a mental health professional can help you develop more personalized coping strategies.

I

...Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |538 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Feb 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 08, 2025Hindi
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Relationship
My boyfriend is of a complete different religion and caste as mine. We met at work. In my past i have had only one relationship in which i got cheated on....so was skeptical on dating again. Now its been 8 months in this new relationship where he convinced me to give a try. He's a gem of a person but now he is telling melive in the present i dont know about the future. I love you n want to date you but idk about the future if my family wants me with someone i may have to end this. What do i do i am so attached for he has given me all the love n care. Please help
Ans: Right now, you need to be honest with yourself about what you want. If you’re looking for a committed future and he’s unsure, it’s essential to recognize that this uncertainty may continue to cause you pain. If you choose to stay, prepare yourself for the possibility that his family might influence his decision, and it could end in heartbreak. On the other hand, if you feel that the love and care he’s giving you right now are worth the risk, then decide to cherish the present moment while being mentally prepared for whatever may come.

Have an open and heartfelt conversation with him. Let him know how his uncertainty makes you feel, without pressuring him for a commitment. This isn’t about forcing him to decide but about understanding each other’s emotional needs and boundaries. If he truly values the relationship, this conversation might give him a deeper perspective on how his indecision affects you.

It’s important to protect your emotional well-being. If his stance remains the same and you find yourself growing more anxious and hurt by the uncertainty, then you might have to consider whether staying is good for your mental and emotional health. Sometimes letting go, even when it hurts, is the most loving thing you can do for yourself.

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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