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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9417 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 20, 2025

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 - Jun 17, 2025Hindi
Money

15 K Sip Every month for 20 Year long term how can do diversification? here Is My fund 1- motilal oswal mid cap fund 2- parag parikh flexi cap fund 3- bandhan small cap fund 4-Sbi long term equity fund 5-Invesco India Psu equity fund 6- Frankline india opportunity fund plz suggeste how many amount for which fund for long term become more sufficient return

Ans: A 20-year SIP is powerful if it is focused and well-diversified.

You are investing Rs 15,000 per month.
This is a strong commitment. Your future self will thank you.

Now, let’s review the portfolio in a 360-degree manner.

SIP Amount and Investment Tenure Review
Rs 15,000 SIP monthly is a good starting amount

20-year horizon is long enough for compounding to work

Asset allocation must be aligned to goals and volatility

Fund choice should cover various market caps and styles

It must avoid concentration in same segment or style

Fund List Given by You
You are investing across six different schemes. Let’s see the current structure.

Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund

Bandhan Small Cap Fund

SBI Long Term Equity Fund (ELSS)

Invesco India PSU Equity Fund

Franklin India Opportunities Fund

This mix gives exposure to mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, thematic PSU, and ELSS.

But there are major gaps in style balance, risk alignment, and long-term suitability.

Portfolio Strengths
You have exposure to mid cap, small cap, and flexi cap styles

You are investing in equity for long-term wealth creation

Some funds are known for disciplined investment philosophy

Total SIP of Rs 15,000 builds a large corpus over time

ELSS adds tax benefit and long-term lock-in discipline

Key Issues in Current Portfolio
1. Too many sector-specific and opportunistic funds

PSU equity fund and opportunity fund are thematic

They are risky and return may come in short bursts

Not suitable for core long-term SIP for 20 years

2. No pure large cap or balanced exposure

No dedicated fund for large caps in current portfolio

No allocation to dynamic or balanced advantage funds

This makes the portfolio more volatile and unbalanced

3. Overlap and duplication across funds

Flexi cap, mid cap, and opportunity funds may hold same stocks

Overlap leads to poor diversification and low alpha

4. No guidance or exit plan visible

If investing in direct funds, there is no Certified Financial Planner support

Asset allocation, goal linking, and tax planning may be missing

Problems with Direct Plans (If You Are Using Them)
Direct plans have no advisor to restructure portfolio

You may not know when to switch, redeem or rebalance

Coin apps and platforms don't give personalised fund guidance

Long-term strategy cannot be managed with only platforms

Use regular plans through MFD channel with CFP for better results

Why Index or ETF Funds Are Not Recommended
Your question doesn’t include index funds, which is good.

Still, here is why you must avoid index funds:

Index funds follow market passively without adjusting in crashes

Overexposure to few large stocks can damage portfolio in downtrend

No downside protection or active decision-making by fund manager

Cannot beat inflation or create alpha in changing India economy

Recommended SIP Allocation Plan
Let us now structure your Rs 15,000 SIP for 20-year wealth building:

1. Flexi Cap Fund – Rs 4,000/month

Acts as a core holding across all market caps

Offers flexibility to shift allocation with changing market conditions

2. Mid Cap Fund – Rs 3,000/month

Good growth potential over 20 years

Suitable for long horizon investors

3. Small Cap Fund – Rs 2,000/month

Adds high return potential with volatility

Limit exposure to 15% of total SIP

4. Balanced Advantage Fund – Rs 3,000/month

Dynamic asset allocation reduces risk in volatile years

Gives cushion when markets fall sharply

5. ELSS Fund – Rs 3,000/month

Saves tax under 80C and gives market-linked returns

3-year lock-in improves long-term discipline

This structure gives you balance, growth, stability, and tax efficiency.

It reduces risk from over-thematic or over-concentrated positions.

Funds You Should Exit or Reduce
Invesco India PSU Fund

Sector-specific. PSU stocks may perform erratically

Not suitable for long-term SIP unless you track sector

Franklin Opportunities Fund

Highly volatile. May not be suitable for passive SIP

Exit if underperformance continues for 2+ years

Tax Planning and Exit Strategy
Equity SIP gains are taxed as per new capital gain rules

LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh yearly taxed at 12.5%

STCG taxed at 20%

ELSS gives tax benefit on investment up to Rs 1.5 lakh yearly

Use goal-based exit plan after 10th or 15th year

Importance of Goal-Linked Investing
Tag each SIP to a life goal like retirement, child education or freedom fund

Don’t invest blindly or for highest return

Goal-based investing gives purpose and discipline

You stay motivated during market corrections

Emergency Fund and Protection Plan
Keep Rs 2–3 lakhs in liquid fund for emergencies

Ensure you have Rs 10–15 lakh health cover for family

Take term insurance if dependents exist

Don’t mix insurance with investment anymore

What If You Hold LIC or ULIP?
If you hold LIC or investment-cum-insurance plans:

Check surrender value and maturity return

Most LIC and ULIPs give poor return (less than 6%)

Surrender them and shift to mutual fund-based SIP or lump sum

Use regular plan and get proper monitoring from a CFP

Why You Need a Certified Financial Planner
You need full support in fund review, risk planning, and retirement strategy

A Certified Financial Planner helps reduce fund overlap

They suggest when to rebalance based on market cycle

They help avoid panic selling or buying in volatile years

They keep your asset allocation healthy and suitable to your age

Final Insights
Your intention to invest Rs 15,000 monthly for 20 years is excellent.

But your current fund mix needs realignment for long-term suitability.

Avoid sector and thematic funds as core portfolio.

Use flexi cap, mid cap, balanced advantage, and ELSS as base allocation.

Avoid direct plans. Choose regular plans with guidance from Certified Financial Planner.

Rebalance your portfolio once a year. Stay consistent with SIP during all market cycles.

Your 20-year discipline will create strong, inflation-beating wealth.

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

Omkeshwar Singh  | Answer  |Ask -

Head, Rank MF - Answered on Feb 20, 2020

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I am presently doing a monthly SIP of Rs 60,000 in following funds and increase it every year by 10%. Kindly suggest me whether I am on right track or need some changes as my target is to generate at least Rs 12 crore in next 20 years for my retirement & daughter’s marriage. ICICI Bluechip Fund- Rs.3000 ICICI Value Discivery-Rs.3000 ICICI Mid Cap-Rs.2000 ICICI Multicap- Rs.2000 Motilal Oswal Multicap-35 – Rs.7000 Motilal Focussed 25- Rs.2500 Mirae Asset Large Cap-Rs.6000 HDFC Balanced Advantage-Rs.8000 Kotak Standard Multicap-Rs.6000 Franklin Smaller Companies Fund- Rs.6000 Axis Long Term Equity Fund-Rs.15000  Also investing about Rs 4,00,000/annum in NPS, ULIP, LIC & FDs. Name of the Fund Category RankMF Star Rating A. ICICI Bluechip Fund- Rs.3000 Equity - Large Cap Fund: 2 B. ICICI Value Discivery-Rs.3000 Equity - Value Fund: 2 C. ICICI Mid Cap-Rs.2000 Equity - Mid Cap Fund: 2 D. ICICI Multicap- Rs.2000 Equity - Multi Cap Fund: 2 E. MotilalOswal Multicap-35 – Rs.7000 Equity - Multi Cap Fund: 5 F. Motilal Focussed 25- Rs.2500 Equity - Focused Fund 5 G. Mirae Asset Large Cap-Rs.6000 Equity - Large Cap Fund: 4 H. HDFC Balanced Advantage-Rs.8000 Hybrid - Balanced Advantage 4 I. Kotak Standard Multicap-Rs.6000 Equity - Multi Cap Fund: 4 J. Franklin Smaller Companies Fund- Rs.6000 Equity - Small Cap Fund: 1 K. Axis Long Term Equity Fund-Rs.15000 Equity - ELSS 5
Ans: You may continue with 4 and 5 star rated funds; for remaining you may consider from below:

Equity - Value Fund:

  1. Tata Equity Pe Fund - Growth
  2. UTI Value Opportunities Fund - Growth Plan

Equity - Multi Cap Fund:

  1. UTI Equity Fund – Growth
  2. Axis Multicap Fund – Growth

Equity - Large Cap Fund:

  1. UTI Mastershare Unit Scheme - Growth Plan
  2. LIC MF Large Cap Fund-growth

Equity - Mid Cap Fund:

  1. MOSL Midcap 30 Fund – Growth
  2. DSP midcap – growth

Equity - Small Cap Fund:

  1. Kotak Small Cap Fund – Growth
  2. Axis Small cap Fund - Growth

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9417 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 16, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 16, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi sir. I am 38 years old have started SIP from 2024 jan. Following are the fund i am doing SIP. 1. Kotak ELSS 2. Quant ELSS 3.parag parikh flexi cap- regular 4.Nippon infrastructure growth-regular 5. SBI contra- regular 6.franklin india focussed equity fund-regular 7.Bajaj finserv multiasset alocation-regular 8.ICICI prudential silver ETF fund 9.ICICI prudential bharat 22 fof 10. HDFC small cap fund- regular My total monthly SIP amount 23000 INR. Kindy let me know if i have good portfolio diversification. Do i need to stop SIP in any kf above fund and start some other good fund. My motto is to get maximum return for next 10-15 years.
Ans: Assessing Your Investment Portfolio
Your investment portfolio is diversified, and that is commendable. However, let’s delve into the specifics of your funds to see if there’s room for optimization. Portfolio diversification is essential, but too many funds can lead to over-diversification, which might dilute returns.

Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS)
You have two ELSS funds. ELSS is excellent for tax-saving under Section 80C. They also offer the potential for high returns due to their equity exposure. However, investing in multiple ELSS funds can be redundant. Consider consolidating your ELSS investments into one well-performing fund to streamline your portfolio.

Flexi Cap Funds
Flexi cap funds are versatile as they invest across market capitalizations based on the fund manager's outlook. Your flexi cap fund choice is prudent as it offers flexibility and diversification within itself. This type of fund can balance risk and reward effectively, adapting to market conditions.

Sectoral and Thematic Funds
You are investing in an infrastructure growth fund. Sectoral funds can provide high returns but come with higher risk due to their concentrated exposure. Infrastructure is a promising sector but is also susceptible to economic cycles and regulatory changes. It’s wise to limit exposure to such sector-specific funds to avoid significant volatility in your portfolio.

Contra Funds
Contra funds invest in undervalued stocks and follow a contrarian approach. These funds can provide significant returns during market corrections when undervalued stocks rebound. However, they require patience and a long-term horizon, which aligns well with your 10-15 year investment goal.

Focused Equity Funds
Focused equity funds concentrate on a limited number of stocks. This strategy can yield higher returns if the selected stocks perform well but also increases risk due to lower diversification. Ensure that the focused equity fund aligns with your risk tolerance and long-term goals.

Multi-Asset Allocation Funds
Multi-asset allocation funds invest across asset classes like equity, debt, and gold, providing diversification and risk management. This fund type is suitable for balanced growth and risk mitigation. Including such a fund in your portfolio adds stability and reduces dependency on market performance.

Precious Metals Fund
Your investment in a silver ETF fund adds an element of commodity diversification. Precious metals like silver can hedge against inflation and currency fluctuations. However, precious metal funds can be volatile and might not perform consistently over time. Limit exposure to such funds to avoid excessive risk.

Fund of Funds (FoF)
The Bharat 22 FoF invests in a basket of stocks from the Bharat 22 index, providing diversification within a single fund. FoFs can offer easy access to diversified portfolios but come with higher expense ratios due to the layered fee structure. Ensure the FoF aligns with your overall investment strategy and cost considerations.

Small Cap Funds
Small cap funds invest in smaller companies with high growth potential. These funds can offer substantial returns but also come with higher risk due to market volatility. Given your long-term horizon, small cap funds can be a valuable addition for capital growth, but monitor their performance and risk exposure closely.

Regular vs. Direct Funds
You have chosen regular plans through a mutual fund distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential. Regular funds have slightly higher expense ratios due to distributor commissions. However, the guidance and advice from a certified professional can be invaluable in navigating market complexities and making informed decisions. Direct funds, while cheaper, require a deep understanding of market dynamics and continuous monitoring, which might not be feasible for all investors.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Index funds, which you haven't opted for, have the disadvantage of passively following a market index. They cannot outperform the market as they merely replicate index performance. In contrast, actively managed funds, like the ones in your portfolio, have the potential to outperform through strategic stock selection and market timing by experienced fund managers. Active management can add significant value, especially in volatile or bearish markets.

Portfolio Optimization Suggestions
Consolidate ELSS Investments: Streamline your ELSS investments into one well-performing fund to avoid redundancy and simplify tracking.

Review Sectoral Fund Exposure: Limit exposure to sectoral funds like the infrastructure growth fund to manage risk better. Sectoral funds should not form a large portion of your portfolio.

Focus on Core Holdings: Maintain a balanced mix of flexi cap, contra, and focused equity funds as core holdings for stable and diversified growth.

Limit Precious Metals and Sectoral Exposure: Keep your investments in precious metals and sectoral funds minimal to avoid excessive risk from market volatility.

Evaluate Expense Ratios: Regularly review the expense ratios of your funds, especially the FoFs, to ensure they are cost-effective relative to their performance.

Understanding Market Cycles and Patience
Investing for 10-15 years requires understanding market cycles and having patience. Markets will have ups and downs, and staying invested during downturns is crucial for long-term growth. Avoid the temptation to make frequent changes based on short-term market movements. Instead, focus on your long-term goals and stay committed to your investment strategy.

Regular Review and Rebalancing
Regularly reviewing your portfolio and rebalancing it as needed is vital. As market conditions change, the allocation of your investments may drift from your original plan. Rebalancing ensures that your portfolio remains aligned with your risk tolerance and investment objectives. It also helps lock in gains and manage risks effectively.

Importance of Diversification
Diversification reduces risk by spreading investments across various asset classes and sectors. While you have diversified your investments, ensure that no single fund or sector dominates your portfolio. Proper diversification can enhance returns while mitigating risks, helping you achieve a balanced and resilient portfolio.

Role of a Certified Financial Planner
Working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) provides access to professional advice tailored to your financial goals. A CFP can help you make informed decisions, optimize your portfolio, and navigate complex market conditions. Their expertise ensures that your investments are aligned with your risk tolerance and long-term objectives.

Final Insights
Your current portfolio demonstrates a commendable approach towards diversification and long-term growth. However, streamlining your investments and focusing on core holdings can enhance returns and manage risks more effectively. Regular reviews and rebalancing, along with professional guidance from a Certified Financial Planner, will ensure that your investment journey remains on track towards achieving your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9417 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 16, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 14, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 47 years old, I am having 13 Lakhs in MF and investing in Nippon India Small cap 20k, HDFC mid cap opportunity fund (15k) , quant active fund (15k) , quant flexi cap fund (15k), HDFC Top 100 fund (10k) - Total SIP 75k per month. I am looking for 1 Lakh per month post retirement, how should I diversify the current SIP and do I need to add any other debt fund or hybrid fund. Kindly suggest. I am having EPF (20Lakh), PPF(25Lakh), NPS(25Lakh) and currently investing on year on year.
Ans: At 47 years, you are actively building your retirement corpus.

Mutual Fund Portfolio: Rs. 13 lakh invested.
Current SIPs: Rs. 75,000 per month.
EPF: Rs. 20 lakh.
PPF: Rs. 25 lakh.
NPS: Rs. 25 lakh.
Your goal of Rs. 1 lakh per month post-retirement is achievable with disciplined planning and diversification.

Analysis of Current SIP Portfolio
Strengths
You are investing a substantial Rs. 75,000 monthly in equity funds.
Your portfolio covers large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, flexi-cap, and active funds.
High exposure to equity ensures strong potential for long-term growth.
Concerns
Overexposure to mid-cap and small-cap funds increases risk.
Lack of debt or hybrid funds creates volatility closer to retirement.
No systematic diversification for steady cash flow during retirement.
Recommended Diversification for Your SIPs
Equity Portfolio Adjustments
Reduce Mid and Small-Cap Allocation

Shift a portion of small-cap and mid-cap investments to large-cap or flexi-cap funds.
Large-cap funds provide stability and consistent returns.
Focus on Balanced Diversification

Allocate more to diversified flexi-cap funds.
Flexi-cap funds balance risk and reward across market caps.
Optimise Active Fund Selection

Limit the number of funds in your portfolio.
Too many funds can dilute returns and complicate tracking.
Introducing Debt and Hybrid Funds
Adding debt and hybrid funds reduces portfolio risk and improves stability.

Debt Funds

Debt funds provide predictable returns and liquidity.
Invest in short-duration or dynamic bond funds for lower interest rate risk.
Hybrid Funds

Hybrid funds offer a mix of equity and debt exposure.
They cushion equity volatility and ensure smoother returns.
Revised SIP Allocation
Large-Cap Funds: 30%

Focus on funds with consistent performance.
Flexi-Cap Funds: 25%

These provide market-cap diversification.
Debt Funds: 20%

Choose short-duration or high-quality corporate bond funds.
Hybrid Funds: 15%

Balanced Advantage or Aggressive Hybrid Funds work well.
Mid-Cap Funds: 10%

Retain some exposure for higher growth potential.
Additional Recommendations
Increase Your Emergency Corpus
Keep 6-12 months of expenses in liquid or ultra-short-term funds.
This ensures you can meet any unexpected financial needs.
Align NPS and PPF with Retirement Goals
NPS provides an annuity component.
Optimise your PPF by continuing yearly contributions until maturity.
Tax-Efficient Withdrawals
Plan mutual fund withdrawals post-retirement carefully to minimise LTCG tax.
Use the new rules: LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
Regular Portfolio Reviews
Review your portfolio at least once a year with a Certified Financial Planner.
Adjust based on market performance and changing goals.
How This Plan Supports Rs. 1 Lakh Monthly Post-Retirement
Corpus Growth
Assuming continued investments for 10-13 years, your portfolio can grow substantially.
Include EPF, PPF, NPS, and mutual funds to meet your retirement goal.
Withdrawal Strategy
Use a systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) for mutual funds.
Withdraw from debt and hybrid funds first to preserve equity growth.
Steady Retirement Income
EPF, PPF, and NPS offer stable income components.
Mutual fund SWP bridges any income gaps.
Final Insights
You have taken significant steps toward building a secure retirement corpus.

Diversify your SIPs with a mix of equity, debt, and hybrid funds for better stability.

Align your PPF and NPS contributions with long-term retirement needs.

A structured plan ensures you meet your goal of Rs. 1 lakh per month post-retirement.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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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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