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Omkeshwar

Omkeshwar Singh  | Answer  |Ask -

Head, Rank MF - Answered on May 14, 2021

Mutual Fund Expert... more
abhishek Question by abhishek on May 14, 2021Hindi
Money

I have a 12 year old child and want to invest 1 lac per year till 2026 for higher education. What is best MF to buy with this time frame and considering I would need the money in 2026?

Ans:
Fund Name Last price date Last price Total cost Current Value % of Total Total Return Return % pa Remarks
ICICI Pru US Bluechip Eqt Dir-G 2021-02-25 ₹ 42.05 ₹ 321,485.55 ₹ 356,905.85 18.6 ₹ 36,445.70 29.1 Bulk switch over from ICICI Multi asset fund in which I had SIP since 2017 of Rs 1,60,000/- on 28 Aug 20 & Rs 75,000 on 04 Sep 20. SIP @1000 per week from 28 Aug 20. Also switch in from ICICI gold Rs 50,000/- on 04 Dec 20
Motilal Oswal Nasdaq 100 FOF Dir-G 2021-02-25 ₹ 20.35 ₹ 84,346.33 ₹ 95,999.57 5 ₹ 11,653.24 32.3 Started with bulk investment of Rs 50,000/- on 22 Jul 20 & SIP @1250/- weekly since Aug 2020. I am also holding 100 sahres at buying average of 812/- in the ETF of this fund in my demat acct
Kotak Gold Dir-G 2021-02-25 ₹ 19.91 ₹ 75,996.44 ₹ 71,531.64 3.73 -₹ 4,464.81 -11.5 Started with bulk investment of Rs 50,000/- on 10 Jul 20 & SIP @3000 divided into tranches of 1000 on three days a month. Using this as Hedge for a longer period
Axis Bluechip Dir-G 2021-02-25 ₹ 43.60 ₹ 109,087.41 ₹ 143,205.60 7.46 ₹ 41,208.95 40.2 SIP @4000 per month in the fund since 2015 and encashed in 2109 but SIP continuing. SIP divided into three tranches of 1000, 2000 & 1000 on 01st, 10th & 20th of month respectively
SBI Focused Eqt Dir-G 2021-02-25 ₹ 204.70 ₹ 289,178.57 ₹ 377,724.67 19.69 ₹ 95,560.86 54.3 SIP @3000 per month in the fund since 2019 and. SIP revised to 5000 per month since Mar 2020 SIP divided into four tranches of Rs 1250/- on 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd of every month. Done bulk investment by switch from SBI Blue Chip Direct growth of Rs 1,44,844 (accumlated thru SIP of Rs 4000/- per month from Jun 2017 to Jul 2020) on 13 Jul 20 & SBI MAgnum Gilt of Rs 50,000/- on 15 Sep 20
Kotak Emrgng Eqt Dir-G 2021-02-25 ₹ 62.45 ₹ 81,727.75 ₹ 95,071.60 4.96 ₹ 13,343.87 113.5 Started on 07 Dec 2020 by switching in 65000/- from Kotak Gilt. SIP @Rs 1000/- on 04th, 11th, 17th, 24th and 30th of the month
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Dir-G 2021-02-25 ₹ 39.73 ₹ 29,999.50 ₹ 33,768.49 1.76 ₹ 3,768.99 75.8 Started on 29 Oct 2020 with initial investment of Rs 10,000 wef 29 Oct 2020 & SIP of Rs 5000/- divided into four tranches of Rs 1250/- on 10th, 15th, 20th & 25th of every month
DSP Eqt & Bond Dir-G 2021-02-25 ₹ 219.73 ₹ 14,000.00 ₹ 14,849.95 0.77 ₹ 849.95 54 Started in Dec 2020 with a SIP of Rs 4000/- divided into four tranches of Rs 1000/- each on 01st, 07th, 14th & 25th of every month
Mutual Funds     ₹ 1,005,821.55 ₹ 1,189,057.37 61.98 ₹ 198,366.75 40.1  

I have attached my protfolio of MFs. Though I have been investing in MFs since 2005, I have been redeeming the same many times like in 2010 for house and in 2014 & 2017 for personal trips abroad with my family.

The present state of my MFs is given above. My horizon is for long and hence my questions are as follows:

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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Firstly, thanks for patiently answering everyone's questions ????. Can you please suggest a suggest a MF which i wznt to invest in for next 10 years for my kids higher education. I see lot of children related mutual funds but unable to decide on one. I am ok to take high risk since ny inv would be for more than ten years.
Ans: Investing for your child's education is a thoughtful decision that requires careful consideration. I appreciate your dedication to securing their future. Let's delve into selecting the right mutual fund for this purpose.

Understanding Your Investment Horizon and Risk Appetite
Investing for your child's education over a ten-year period is a commendable strategy. Since you're comfortable with high risk, you have the potential for higher returns over the long term.

Evaluating Mutual Fund Options
When considering mutual funds for your child's education, it's essential to focus on funds with a proven track record of long-term growth. Look for funds managed by experienced professionals with a history of delivering consistent returns.

Active vs. Passive Management: Making the Right Choice
While index funds offer low fees and broad market exposure, they may not outperform actively managed funds, especially during volatile market conditions. Actively managed funds, overseen by skilled fund managers, have the flexibility to adapt to market changes and potentially outperform the market indices.

Emphasizing the Benefits of Active Management
Actively managed funds offer the advantage of professional oversight, where fund managers actively research and select investments to maximize returns and mitigate risks. This approach can be particularly beneficial in volatile markets, helping to navigate uncertainties and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds and the Benefits of Regular Funds through a Certified Financial Planner
Direct investing requires significant time and expertise to research, select, and monitor investments effectively. By working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), you gain access to professional guidance and personalized investment strategies tailored to your financial goals and risk tolerance. Through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a CFP credential, you can benefit from ongoing support and portfolio reviews, ensuring your investments remain aligned with your objectives.

Making an Informed Decision
Consider mutual funds with a focus on sectors or themes aligned with your child's educational aspirations. Diversification is key to managing risk, so opt for funds with a well-balanced portfolio across various asset classes.

Conclusion
Investing in mutual funds for your child's higher education requires a thoughtful approach that considers your investment horizon, risk tolerance, and the expertise of fund managers. By leveraging the benefits of active management and seeking guidance from a Certified Financial Planner, you can make informed decisions that lay the foundation for your child's bright future.

Best Regards,

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

..Read more

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 11, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 10, 2025Hindi
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I am 40 years old with net savings of 3k monthly. U haven’t invested in any MF or shares till date. My daughter will turn 6 next month. I want to safeguard her future studies and teenage. I have corpus savings of 1 lakh. Where to invest
Ans: Current Financial Snapshot
Age: 40 years.
Monthly Savings: Rs. 3,000.
Corpus Savings: Rs. 1 lakh.
Daughter’s Age: 6 years next month.
Goal: Secure funds for her studies and teenage needs.
Your current savings habit is commendable. Regular investments can grow into a solid corpus.

Step 1: Define Clear Financial Goals
1. Education Costs

Focus on accumulating funds for her higher education.
Estimate the cost for undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
2. Teenage Needs

Plan for school expenses and extracurricular activities.
Allocate funds separately for these milestones.
3. Emergency Fund

Maintain Rs. 50,000 as an emergency fund.
This ensures liquidity for unexpected situations.
Step 2: Start Investing Systematically
Use a Balanced Investment Approach
1. Equity Mutual Funds

Allocate 50% of your Rs. 1 lakh corpus (Rs. 50,000).
Invest monthly Rs. 2,000 into actively managed diversified funds.
Choose large-cap, multi-cap, and hybrid funds for stability.
Advantages of Actively Managed Funds

Professional fund managers aim for higher returns.
These funds adapt to market conditions.
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner ensures expert guidance.
Avoid Direct Funds

Direct funds lack personalised advice.
Regular funds give better support through a Certified Financial Planner.
2. Debt Mutual Funds

Allocate 30% of your corpus (Rs. 30,000).
Choose short-duration or corporate bond funds.
These funds provide safety and predictable returns.
3. Balanced Funds

Invest Rs. 20,000 from the corpus into balanced or hybrid funds.
These funds combine equity growth with debt stability.
Step 3: Leverage Government Schemes
1. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)

Open an SSY account for your daughter.
Invest Rs. 1,000 monthly for long-term, tax-free returns.
The scheme ensures her financial security.
2. Public Provident Fund (PPF)

Allocate Rs. 1,000 monthly to PPF for steady, risk-free growth.
Use it for your daughter’s education when needed.
Step 4: Build a Long-Term Plan
1. Increase Monthly Savings

Gradually increase savings to Rs. 5,000 or more.
Allocate additional income to investments.
2. Diversify Investment Portfolio

Add gold mutual funds later for diversification.
Gold offers protection against market volatility.
3. Review Investment Progress Regularly

Review portfolio performance every six months.
Adjust funds based on market conditions and goals.
Step 5: Avoid Common Pitfalls
1. Avoid Real Estate Investments

Real estate is illiquid and requires high capital.
It doesn’t align with your immediate goals.
2. Don’t Depend Solely on Fixed Deposits

Fixed deposits have limited returns.
Mutual funds can outperform fixed deposits over the long term.
3. Avoid High-Cost Insurance Policies

Skip ULIPs or endowment plans with low returns and high charges.
Choose term insurance for life coverage and invest the rest.
Step 6: Secure Adequate Health and Life Cover
1. Health Insurance

Ensure health insurance for your family.
Coverage should include yourself, your spouse, and your daughter.
2. Term Life Insurance

Get term insurance with coverage 15-20 times your annual income.
This secures your daughter’s future in case of unforeseen events.
Final Insights
Your steady savings habit is a great start.

Investing Rs. 1 lakh and Rs. 3,000 monthly can meet your daughter’s needs.

Use equity funds for growth and government schemes for safety.

Review progress regularly with a Certified Financial Planner.

This disciplined approach ensures a bright future for your daughter.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 30, 2025

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I am 61 year old man and have two daughters , one daughter is married and have two sons, one is 5 and haf year and 2nd is 2 years old. I want to invest lumpsum amount of Rs. 10 lac each fvg. both the child for 10-15 years. Please suggest best MF investment for my grand sons. Regards
Ans: You have taken a thoughtful and loving step towards your grandsons’ future.
Starting a long-term investment with a clear goal shows great foresight and responsibility.

? Purpose and Time Horizon Assessment
– You are planning for long-term wealth creation.
– Your time frame is between 10 to 15 years.
– This gives enough time for equity funds to work effectively.
– Since the investment is for children, the funds should be growth-oriented.
– Long horizon reduces market volatility risks.
– It allows power of compounding to build meaningful wealth.

? Ideal Investment Vehicle: Mutual Funds
– Mutual Funds are transparent and regulated.
– They offer diversified exposure to equity markets.
– They are managed by professional fund managers.
– Over long term, they tend to outperform traditional instruments.

? Why to Avoid Index Funds for This Goal
– Index funds copy the market.
– They do not try to beat the index.
– There is no active decision-making during market falls.
– They carry risk during downturns without any protection.
– They follow momentum, not value.
– No flexibility for sector shifts or cash holding during volatility.
– Active mutual funds are better for long term child-focused goals.
– Fund managers aim to outperform the market.
– They bring strategy and experience.
– Active funds give better downside protection.

? Fund Type Recommendation for Grandchildren
– Choose growth-oriented diversified equity mutual funds.
– Prefer multi-cap or flexi-cap category.
– These funds invest across large, mid, and small companies.
– They balance risk and return well.
– Also consider large & mid-cap category.
– These funds offer stable base plus aggressive growth.
– Add a small-cap fund if your risk tolerance allows.
– But limit exposure to small-cap to around 20%.

? SIP vs Lumpsum Strategy
– You plan to invest Rs. 10 lakh for each grandchild.
– This is a lumpsum investment.
– Avoid investing the full amount at once.
– Markets may be high or volatile.
– A better way is STP (Systematic Transfer Plan).
– Park the full amount in a low-risk liquid fund.
– Then transfer monthly into equity fund over 12 to 18 months.
– This averages your entry cost.
– It reduces downside risk.
– Helps manage volatility.

? Fund Mode: Regular vs Direct
– Avoid direct plans if you are not market-savvy.
– Direct funds do not give personalised guidance.
– You miss portfolio reviews and switching support.
– Regular funds via Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP help are better.
– You get hand-holding, alerts, annual rebalancing.
– Mistakes in long-term planning can cost more than advisory fee.
– MFD with CFP support provides family-level guidance.
– Peace of mind is more valuable than a few saved basis points.

? Risk Assessment and Safety Check
– These are long-term investments.
– But risk should still be managed well.
– Avoid sectoral or thematic funds.
– They are risky and unpredictable.
– Stick to diversified equity funds.
– Ensure the funds have consistent 5 to 7-year performance.
– Focus on fund house pedigree and manager experience.
– Avoid newly launched or untested schemes.

? Portfolio Structure Suggestion
For each child’s Rs. 10 lakh, you may follow below structure:
– Rs. 4 lakh in a flexi-cap or multi-cap fund
– Rs. 3 lakh in a large & mid-cap fund
– Rs. 2 lakh in a mid-cap fund
– Rs. 1 lakh in a small-cap fund (optional if comfortable with high risk)
– Use STP to move money monthly over 15 months
– Keep regular track of performance every year

? Growth Option and Taxation
– Always choose the Growth Option, not IDCW (dividend).
– It allows wealth to compound uninterrupted.
– New tax rules apply from FY 2024-25 onwards.
– For equity funds:

Long-term capital gains (after 1 year) above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term gains (within 1 year) taxed at 20%.
– For now, holding for 10+ years keeps taxes low.
– You may gift the funds later to grandchildren with minimal tax impact.

? Review and Rebalancing Strategy
– Monitor the funds once every year.
– Check if funds are underperforming peers.
– Exit lagging funds after 2 years of underperformance.
– Shift to better-performing options with similar category.
– If nearing 10th year, reduce small-cap exposure gradually.
– Move corpus to less volatile funds after 12th year.
– By year 14-15, shift majority to balanced or large-cap for safety.

? Other Considerations
– Don’t mix insurance with investment.
– If you were holding any ULIPs or LIC policies for the kids, surrender them.
– Reinvest the proceeds into mutual funds as above.
– Also, nominate your daughter as guardian.
– Keep all folios mapped for tracking.
– Maintain records for future transmission.
– Do not invest in Sukanya or PPF for boys.
– Avoid gold or real estate based options.

? Benefits of Starting Early for Grandchildren
– 10-15 years horizon gives time to grow corpus.
– Compounding works better in early years.
– Even small difference in return rates gives big difference.
– Investing now sets a solid foundation for education or entrepreneurship.
– Also builds financial literacy in the family.

? Risks to Watch and How to Control
– Market ups and downs can be stressful.
– But long-term reduces this risk.
– Don’t check NAV daily.
– Stick to review once a year.
– Choose only reputed AMCs and long-standing funds.
– Avoid NFOs and exotic strategies.
– Keep your emotions out of investments.
– Let time and discipline work.

? Gift Tax and Legal Planning
– There is no tax for gifts to grandchildren.
– However, keep track of documentation.
– Later when they turn 18, you can shift folios in their name.
– Or redeem and gift cash to them when needed.
– Also consider writing a Will.
– Mention these investments clearly in the Will.
– This ensures smooth transmission.

? Finally
– Your vision to support grandchildren is inspiring.
– A Rs. 10 lakh investment today can become substantial in 15 years.
– Equity mutual funds give the right balance of growth and safety.
– Active fund management with certified guidance protects your money better.
– Avoid shortcuts like index funds or direct investing.
– Systematic investing, regular reviews and proper structure matter most.
– This step can build a lasting legacy for your family.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

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Latest Questions
Nayagam P

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Hello, I’m a student who recently joined the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita University. I’m aiming for a strong academic foundation and a clear career path. Could you please guide me on the following: How good is this course for research careers or higher studies (IISc, IITs, abroad)? What are the placement prospects after Integrated M.Sc Physics at Amrita? Does the program help in preparing for alternate options like UPSC, CDS/AFCAT, or technical roles? What skills (coding, research projects, certifications) should I start early to make the most of this degree?
Ans: Sree, Program Overview and Academic Foundation: Congratulations on joining the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita University. This five-year integrated program represents a rigorous pathway designed to equip you with advanced theoretical and experimental physics knowledge combined with cutting-edge scientific computing skills. The curriculum uniquely integrates a minor in Scientific Computing, which adds substantial computational capability to your profile—a critical advantage in today's research and professional landscape. The program incorporates comprehensive coursework spanning classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, statistical physics, advanced laboratory work, and specialized topics in materials physics, optoelectronics, and computational methods, positioning you excellently for both research and professional careers.
Research Career Prospects: IISc, IITs, and Beyond: For research-oriented careers, the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita provides an exceptional foundation. Amrita's curriculum specifically aligns with GATE and UGC-NET examination syllabi, and the institution emphasizes early research engagement. The faculty at Amrita actively publish research in Scopus-indexed journals, with over 60 publications in international venues within the past five years, exposing you to active research environments.
To pursue research at premier institutions like IISc, you would typically follow the PhD pathway. IISc accepts M.Sc graduates through their Integrated PhD programs, and with your Amrita M.Sc, you're eligible to apply. You'll need to qualify the relevant entrance examinations, and your integrated program's emphasis on research fundamentals provides strong preparation. The final year of your Integrated M.Sc is intentionally structured to be nearly free of classroom commitments, enabling engagement with research projects at institutes like IISc, IITs, and National Labs. According to Amrita's data, over 80% of M.Sc Physics students secured internship offers from reputed institutions during academic year 2019-20, directly facilitating research career transitions.
Placement and Direct Employment Opportunities: Amrita University boasts a comprehensive placement ecosystem with strong corporate and government sector connections. According to NIRF placement data for the Amrita Integrated M.Sc program (5-year), the median salary in 2023-24 stood at ?7.2 LPA with approximately 57% placement rate. However, these figures reflect general placement trends; physics graduates often secure higher packages in specialized technical roles. Many graduates join software companies like Infosys (with early offers), Google, and PayPal, where their strong analytical and computational skills command competitive compensation packages ranging from ?8-15 LPA for entry-level positions.
The Department of Corporate and Industrial Relations at Amrita provides intensive three-semester life skills training covering linguistic competence, data interpretation, group discussions, and interview techniques. This structured placement support significantly enhances your employability in both government and private sectors.
Government Sector Opportunities: UPSC, BARC, DRDO, and ISRO: Your M.Sc Physics degree opens multiple avenues for prestigious government employment. UPSC Geophysicist examinations explicitly list M.Sc Physics or Applied Physics as qualifying degrees, enabling you to compete for Group A positions in the Geological Survey of India and Central Ground Water Board. The age limit for geophysicist positions is 32 years (with relaxation for reserved categories), and the exam comprises preliminary, main, and interview stages.
BARC (Bhabha Atomic Research Centre) actively recruits M.Sc Physics graduates as Scientific Officers and Research Fellows. Recruitment occurs through the BARC Online Test or GATE scores, with positions in nuclear science, radiation protection, and atomic research. BARC Summer Internship programs are available, offering ?5,000-?10,000 monthly stipends with opportunity for future scientist recruitment.
DRDO (Defense Research and Development Organization) recruits M.Sc Physics graduates through CEPTAM examinations or GATE scores for roles involving defense technology, weapon systems, and laser physics research. ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) regularly advertises scientist/engineer positions through competitive recruitment for candidates with strong physics backgrounds, offering opportunities in satellite technology and space science applications.
Other significant employers include the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) recruiting as scientific officers, and NPCIL (Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited), offering stable government service with competitive compensation packages exceeding ?8-12 LPA for scientists.
Alternate Career Pathways: UPSC, CDS, and AFCAT: UPSC Civil Services (IFS - Indian Forest Service): M.Sc Physics graduates qualify for UPSC Civil Services examinations, with the forest service offering opportunities for science-based administrative roles with potential to reach senior government positions.
CDS/AFCAT (Armed Forces): While AFCAT meteorology branches specifically require "B.Sc with Maths & Physics with 60% minimum marks," the technical branches (Aeronautical Engineering and Ground Duty Technical roles) require graduation/integrated postgraduation in Engineering/Technology. An M.Sc Physics integrates well with technical qualifications, though you would need engineering background for direct officer entry. However, you remain eligible for specialized technical interviews if applying through alternate defence channels.
UGC-NET Examination: This pathway leads to Assistant Professor positions in central universities and colleges across India. NET-qualified candidates receive scholarships of ?31,000/month for 2-year JRF positions with PhD pursuit, transitioning to Assistant Professor salaries of ?41,000/month in government institutions. This route provides long-term academic career security with research opportunities.
Private Sector Technical Roles
M.Sc Physics graduates are increasingly valued in data science, software engineering, and technical consulting. Companies actively recruit physics graduates for software development, where strong problem-solving and logical reasoning translate to competitive packages of ?10-20 LPA. Specialized domains including quantum computing development, financial modeling, and scientific computing offer premium compensation. Your minor in Scientific Computing makes you particularly attractive to technology companies requiring computational expertise.
International Opportunities and Higher Studies Abroad
An M.Sc from Amrita facilitates admission to PhD programs at international institutions. German universities offer tuition-free or low-fee MSc Physics programs (2 years) with scholarships like DAAD providing €850+ monthly stipends. US universities accept M.Sc graduates directly for PhD positions with full funding (tuition coverage + stipend). These pathways require GRE scores and strong Statement of Purpose articulating research interests. Research collaboration opportunities exist with Max Planck Institute (Germany) and CalTech Summer Research Program (USA), both welcoming Indian M.Sc students.
Essential Skills and Certifications to Develop Immediately: Programming Languages: Start learning Python immediately—it's universally used in research and industry. Dedicate 2-3 hours weekly to data analysis, scientific computing libraries (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas), and machine learning fundamentals. MATLAB is equally critical for physics applications, particularly numerical simulations and data visualization. Aim to complete MATLAB certification courses within your first year.
Research Tools: Learn Git/version control, LaTeX for scientific documentation, and data analysis frameworks. These skills are indispensable for publishing research papers and collaborating on projects.
Certifications Worth Pursuing: (1) MATLAB Certification (DIYguru or MathWorks official courses) (2) Python for Data Science (complete certificate programs from platforms like Coursera) (3) Machine Learning Fundamentals (for expanding technical versatility) & (4) Scientific Communication and Technical Writing (develop through departmental workshops)
Strategic Internship Planning: Leverage Amrita's research connections systematically. In your third year, apply to BARC Summer Internship, IISER Internships, TIFR Summer Fellowships, and IIT Internship programs (like IIT Kanpur SURGE). These expose you to frontier research while establishing connections for future PhD or scientist recruitment. Target 2-3 research internships across different specializations to develop versatility.

TO SUM UP, Your Integrated M.Sc Physics degree from Amrita positions you exceptionally well for competitive research careers at IISc/IITs, prestigious government scientist roles at BARC/DRDO/ISRO, and international PhD opportunities. The program's scientific computing emphasis differentiates you in the job market. Immediate priorities: (1) Master Python and MATLAB within the first two years; (2) Engage in research projects starting year 2-3; (3) Target internships at premiere research institutions; (4) Prepare GATE while completing your degree for maximum flexibility in recruitment; (5) Consider UGC-NET for long-term academic stability. Your career trajectory will ultimately depend on developing strong research fundamentals, demonstrating consistent excellence in specialization areas, and strategically selecting internship and research opportunities. The rigorous Amrita program combined with disciplined skill development positions you for exceptional career success across multiple sectors. Choose the most suitable option for you out of the various options available mentioned above. All the BEST for Your Prosperous Future!

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Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
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Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

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Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

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Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.
Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

...Read more

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