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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8327 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 07, 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 24, 2024Hindi
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I am 20 years old and I have started my sip in parag parikh flexi cap ( 1k), Axis small cap (1k) & UTI Nifty 50 index fund (1k) can you review my portfolio and give me any important financial advice?

Ans: Your investment journey at such a young age reflects commendable financial foresight. Let's review your portfolio and offer some guidance:
1. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap:
• Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund is known for its diversified portfolio and investment across market capitalizations.
• This fund follows a flexible investment approach, allowing exposure to both domestic and international equities.
• With a seasoned fund management team, Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund aims to deliver consistent returns over the long term.
2. Axis Small Cap:
• Axis Small Cap Fund focuses on investing in small-sized companies with high growth potential.
• Small-cap funds like Axis Small Cap can be volatile but offer the potential for significant capital appreciation over the long term.
• As a young investor with a long investment horizon, allocating a portion of your portfolio to small-cap funds can be beneficial, provided you have a high risk tolerance.
3. UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund:
• UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund aims to replicate the performance of the Nifty 50 index, comprising India's top 50 large-cap companies.
• Index funds like UTI Nifty 50 provide diversified exposure to blue-chip stocks and offer stability and consistency in returns over the long term.
• Investing in an index fund like UTI Nifty 50 is a prudent choice for passive investors seeking broad market exposure with low expense ratios.
Financial Advice:
• Stay Invested for the Long Term: Given your young age, continue investing regularly and stay invested for the long term to benefit from the power of compounding.
• Diversify Your Portfolio: Consider diversifying your portfolio further by exploring other asset classes such as debt, gold, or international equities to reduce risk and enhance returns.
• Regularly Review and Rebalance: Periodically review your portfolio's performance and rebalance it if necessary to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
• Focus on Financial Education: Invest time in educating yourself about various investment options, personal finance concepts, and market trends to make informed investment decisions.
• Emergency Fund and Insurance: Build an emergency fund equivalent to 3-6 months of living expenses and consider purchasing health insurance and term insurance coverage to protect yourself and your loved ones from unforeseen events.
Overall, continue with your disciplined approach to investing, and consider seeking advice from a Certified Financial Planner to create a comprehensive financial plan tailored to your goals and aspirations. Your proactive approach towards financial planning at a young age bodes well for your future financial success. 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  |8327 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 08, 2024

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Hello sir I have invested 5000 SIP in quant small cap fund 5000 SIP Nippon small cap fund 10000 SIP HDFC Index fund S and P 10000 SIP UTI Nifty 50 index fund 10000 SIP Parag Parikh flexi cap fund All are for next 5 years as monthly SIPs Please help me to consider this portfolio all okay or have to change so that I could make good profit
Ans: Your portfolio looks diversified with exposure to small-cap, index, and flexi-cap funds. Here's a breakdown:
• Small-Cap Funds: These can offer high growth potential but come with higher risk due to volatility in small-cap stocks.
• Index Funds: They provide broad market exposure and are relatively low-cost but may limit potential returns compared to actively managed funds.
• Flexi-Cap Fund: Offers flexibility to invest across market caps, potentially providing a balanced approach to growth and stability.
Considering your investment horizon of five years, it's essential to review your portfolio periodically:
• Rebalance: Ensure your portfolio aligns with your risk tolerance and investment goals. Periodic rebalancing may be necessary to maintain desired asset allocation.
• Review Performance: Monitor the performance of each fund relative to its benchmark and peer group. Consider replacing underperforming funds with better alternatives.
• Keep an Eye on Fees: Look out for high expense ratios, as they can eat into your returns over time. Opt for funds with competitive fees.
• Stay Informed: Stay updated on market trends and economic indicators that may impact your investments. However, avoid making impulsive decisions based on short-term fluctuations.
Overall, your portfolio seems well-structured, but it's always wise to seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner for personalized guidance tailored to your financial objectives and risk tolerance. Remember, investing is a journey, and staying disciplined and patient is key to achieving long-term success. Keep up the good work!

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8327 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 25, 2024

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Hi, I am 22 years old doing SIP of Rs. 16,000 per month in these following funds:- 1. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund :- 4500 2. Quant Flexi Cap Fund :- 4500 3. Nippon India Large Cap Fund:- 2000 4. Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund:- 1500 5. Quant Mid Cap Fund:- 1500 6. Axis Small Cap Fund:- 1000 7. Bandhan Small Cap Fund:- 1000 Please do a review of my portfolio and give your suggestions. Thank you!
Ans: You have a well-diversified SIP portfolio. Investing Rs. 16,000 monthly at 22 is a commendable step. This shows your commitment to building wealth over time. Let’s review your portfolio and provide suggestions for improvement.

Current Portfolio Analysis
Your current SIP investments include:

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: Rs. 4,500

Quant Flexi Cap Fund: Rs. 4,500

Nippon India Large Cap Fund: Rs. 2,000

Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund: Rs. 1,500

Quant Mid Cap Fund: Rs. 1,500

Axis Small Cap Fund: Rs. 1,000

Bandhan Small Cap Fund: Rs. 1,000

Diversification and Allocation
Flexi Cap Funds
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund and Quant Flexi Cap Fund:

Advantages: Flexi cap funds invest across all market capitalizations. They provide flexibility to capture growth opportunities.

Risk and Return: These funds balance risk and return by diversifying investments across large, mid, and small cap stocks.

Evaluation:

Sufficient Exposure: Investing in two flexi cap funds provides adequate exposure to diverse market segments.

Potential Overlap: Check for overlapping stocks to ensure true diversification.

Large Cap Fund
Nippon India Large Cap Fund:

Advantages: Large cap funds invest in established companies. They offer stability and lower volatility compared to mid and small cap funds.

Risk and Return: Lower risk with moderate returns. Suitable for long-term stability in the portfolio.

Evaluation:

Stability Factor: Including a large cap fund adds stability to your portfolio.

Maintain Allocation: Continue with your current allocation to ensure balance.

Mid Cap Funds
Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund and Quant Mid Cap Fund:

Advantages: Mid cap funds invest in growing companies. They have the potential for higher returns than large caps but with higher risk.

Risk and Return: Higher volatility with the potential for significant returns.

Evaluation:

Growth Potential: Two mid cap funds provide a good balance of growth potential.

Diversification: Ensure there is minimal overlap between the funds to maximize diversification.

Small Cap Funds
Axis Small Cap Fund and Bandhan Small Cap Fund:

Advantages: Small cap funds invest in emerging companies. They offer high growth potential but come with higher risk.

Risk and Return: High volatility with the possibility of substantial returns.

Evaluation:

Aggressive Growth: Small cap funds are suitable for aggressive growth in your portfolio.

Monitor Performance: Regularly monitor these funds due to their high volatility.

Recommendations for Improvement
Review Fund Overlaps
Diversification Check: Ensure there is minimal overlap among stocks in your flexi cap, mid cap, and small cap funds.

Balanced Exposure: Aim for a balanced exposure to different sectors and industries.

Rebalance Portfolio
Current Allocation: Your portfolio is skewed towards flexi cap funds.

Suggested Allocation: Consider increasing the allocation to large cap funds for stability. This ensures a balanced risk-return profile.

Long-Term Strategy
Stay Invested: Continue your SIPs for the long term to benefit from rupee cost averaging and compounding.

Periodic Review: Review your portfolio periodically to ensure it aligns with your financial goals.

Additional Suggestions
Emergency Fund
Liquidity: Maintain an emergency fund equivalent to 6-12 months of your expenses. This ensures liquidity for unforeseen circumstances.
Health and Term Insurance
Health Insurance: Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage. This protects you against medical emergencies.

Term Insurance: Consider term insurance for financial security of your dependents in case of an untimely demise.

Education and Learning
Continuous Learning: Keep learning about personal finance and investments. This helps you make informed decisions.

Seek Advice: Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized advice tailored to your financial goals.

Conclusion
Your current SIP portfolio is well-diversified and on the right track. A balanced approach with adjustments can further optimize it. Investing in mutual funds through SIPs is a commendable strategy for wealth creation. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio. This ensures it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8327 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 28, 2024

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Money
Hi, I am 22 years old doing SIP of Rs. 16,000 in following funds :- 1. Quant Flexi Cap Fund:- Rs. 4000 2. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap:- Rs. 3000 3. Nippon India Large Cap Fund:- 2000 4. HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund:- 2000 5. Quant Mid Cap Fund:- 1500 6. Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund:- 1500 7. Bandhan Small Cap Fund:- 1000 8. Axis Small Cap Fund:- 1000 Please do a review my portfolio as well as these selected funds. Also please give your suggestions. Thank you!
Ans: Your dedication to investing at such a young age is impressive and sets a strong foundation for your financial future. Let’s review your current portfolio and provide suggestions for optimization.

Portfolio Review
Diversification Across Funds
You have diversified across various categories, including flexi cap, large cap, balanced advantage, mid cap, and small cap funds. Diversification helps in spreading risk and capturing growth from different market segments.

Fund Categories and Allocation
Flexi Cap Funds: These funds offer flexibility to invest across market capitalizations. They balance risk and reward effectively.

Large Cap Funds: Large cap funds are stable and less volatile, providing consistent returns over time.

Balanced Advantage Funds: These funds dynamically manage equity and debt, offering a balanced approach to growth and stability.

Mid Cap Funds: Mid cap funds are riskier but can deliver higher returns than large cap funds. They offer growth potential.

Small Cap Funds: Small cap funds are the most volatile but can provide significant growth over the long term.

Recommendations for Portfolio Optimization
Assessing Risk and Returns
Your portfolio is well-diversified but leans towards higher risk with significant exposure to mid and small cap funds. At your age, a higher risk tolerance is understandable, but it’s crucial to maintain a balance.

Adjusting Fund Allocation
Increase Allocation to Large Cap and Balanced Advantage Funds: These funds provide stability and consistent returns. Increasing your investment in these funds can balance the risk from mid and small cap funds.

Review Flexi Cap Funds Allocation: You have a substantial allocation to flexi cap funds. Ensure these funds are performing well and meeting your investment goals.

Monitor Mid and Small Cap Funds: Keep an eye on the performance of mid and small cap funds. Consider reducing exposure if they are too volatile for your risk tolerance.

Regular vs. Direct Funds
Investing through regular funds with the help of a Certified Financial Planner ensures you receive expert guidance. This helps in making informed decisions and optimizing your investment strategy.

Long-Term Investment Strategy
Goals and Time Horizon
Identify your financial goals and time horizon. Long-term goals like retirement or buying a house can tolerate higher risks. Short-term goals require safer investments.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
Continue with your SIPs to benefit from rupee cost averaging. This reduces the impact of market volatility and helps in disciplined investing.

Emergency Fund
Ensure you have an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses. This provides financial security in case of unforeseen events.

Health and Life Insurance
Consider getting adequate health and life insurance coverage. This protects your investments and provides financial security to your family.

Conclusion
Your proactive approach to investing is excellent. By adjusting your fund allocation and maintaining a balanced risk profile, you can achieve your financial goals more effectively. Regular reviews and guidance from a Certified Financial Planner will ensure your investments stay on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8327 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 09, 2025
Money
Dear Sir, I am 55 and I am a stage 4 cancer patient for the past 5 years. Presently working with a salary of Rs.30 LPA. I have Rs.75 L in SB account. Rs.25 L in shares out of which Rs.12 L is loss. Rs.12 L in mutual funds. Rs.3 L in EPF. No commitments or liabilities. I need to know how I can get Rs. 70 K per month in case I lose my job. Kindly advise.
Ans: I truly appreciate your courage and clarity even in the face of health challenges. With your current financial resources and the need to secure a monthly income of Rs. 70,000, a detailed and careful plan is very much possible.

Let me give you a full 360-degree solution below, step-by-step.

Understanding Your Present Financial Picture
You are 55 years old and have been living with stage 4 cancer for 5 years.

You are still employed and drawing a salary of Rs. 30 lakhs per year.

You have Rs. 75 lakhs in your savings bank account.

You hold Rs. 25 lakhs in shares, with Rs. 12 lakhs in losses.

You have Rs. 12 lakhs in mutual funds.

Rs. 3 lakhs is in your EPF account.

You have no loans or financial commitments.

Your main concern is to receive Rs. 70,000 every month if the job stops.

You are not looking to take risks.

You want regular, reliable income without physical involvement.

Step 1: Emergency Medical and Health Fund
Health comes first. Keep money aside just for medical needs.

This fund should cover two years of your full household and medical costs.

Keep Rs. 15 to 20 lakhs aside for this purpose.

This money should be in ultra-safe places.

Prefer a savings bank account and liquid mutual funds.

This should remain untouched unless truly needed.

This emergency buffer gives peace and avoids panic in tough times.

Step 2: Generate Rs. 70,000 Monthly Income
Rs. 70,000 monthly means Rs. 8.4 lakhs needed per year.

Aim for post-tax cash flow from your investments.

Break your funds into income generation buckets.

Use your Rs. 75 lakhs from savings bank as the core capital.

Avoid keeping the full amount idle in SB account.

Allocate funds into low-risk, stable return instruments.

Prefer investment avenues offering quarterly or monthly payouts.

Choose options where you can withdraw in parts if needed.

Step 3: Structured Investment Allocation
Short-Term Bucket: 1 to 2 Years

Set aside Rs. 18 to 20 lakhs for short-term needs.

Put this money into highly liquid options.

Use only those that protect capital and give fixed income.

These funds will generate stable income for the next two years.

Prefer options offering monthly or quarterly payouts.

This will help replace your salary if job stops.

You don’t need to sell any shares or mutual funds right away.

You get time to think clearly, plan calmly.

Medium-Term Bucket: 3 to 5 Years

Keep around Rs. 25 to 30 lakhs here.

Invest in actively managed hybrid mutual funds.

Choose regular plans through a mutual fund distributor with CFP credentials.

Do not go for direct funds.

Direct plans do not come with personalised guidance.

There is no one to help you rebalance, switch or review.

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner offer ongoing support.

With hybrid funds, risk is moderate and returns are better than FDs.

Use SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) to get monthly income.

You can set up SWP of Rs. 40,000 to 50,000 from this bucket.

These funds will last for years while also growing gradually.

Long-Term Bucket: 5+ Years

Keep Rs. 10 to 15 lakhs for the long-term.

This is not for current income, but for inflation beating growth.

Invest in actively managed large cap or balanced advantage funds.

Again, use regular plans with Certified Financial Planner.

These funds will build wealth for later stages.

You can shift gains to the medium bucket after 5 years.

Step 4: Shareholding Review and Action Plan
You have Rs. 25 lakhs in shares.

Out of this, Rs. 12 lakhs are in losses.

Do not sell them in a hurry.

Some may recover if you wait patiently.

First, make a list of all companies and their quality.

Exit poor-quality stocks even at a loss.

Retain good quality stocks with strong future.

If the whole portfolio is confusing, take help from a Certified Financial Planner.

You can harvest the loss now to set off gains later.

Book losses smartly to reduce future capital gains tax.

After cleaning up, move the proceeds to your medium bucket.

Step 5: Mutual Fund Review
You hold Rs. 12 lakhs in mutual funds.

Find out the type of each fund.

If these are equity funds, hold them long-term.

If returns are low or risk is high, shift to hybrid funds.

Avoid investing in index funds.

Index funds cannot protect capital in falling markets.

They simply copy the market blindly.

Actively managed funds are safer.

Professional fund managers take timely actions.

They reduce your risk and improve consistency.

Step 6: EPF Strategy
You have Rs. 3 lakhs in EPF.

EPF earns stable tax-free interest.

Do not withdraw unless it’s urgent.

Keep it as part of your long-term reserve.

Step 7: Monthly Income Setup
Use short-term and medium-term buckets to get income.

Start SWP from mutual funds for Rs. 40,000 monthly.

Use fixed income tools for Rs. 30,000 more.

Review this every year with a Certified Financial Planner.

Adjust amounts if needed based on inflation.

Step 8: Tax Planning and Awareness
Income from mutual funds is taxable.

Long-term capital gains above Rs. 1.25 lakhs taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term gains taxed at 20%.

Debt fund gains taxed as per your slab.

Plan redemptions to avoid tax shocks.

Harvest profits in a planned manner.

Step 9: Avoid These Common Mistakes
Do not invest in real estate.

It is illiquid and needs physical handling.

Do not buy annuities.

They give poor returns and lock your money.

Do not fall for insurance + investment combos.

If you already hold such policies, review them.

Consider surrender if return is poor.

Reinvest the proceeds into mutual funds.

Step 10: Use a Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner gives structured and unbiased advice.

They help you with fund selection, SWP setup, rebalancing.

They guide you with tax-saving and risk control.

Their ongoing service is crucial at your life stage.

Choose someone with experience and clear credentials.

Finally
You are in a better financial position than many.

You have no loans, no dependents, and have built good savings.

With a calm and simple plan, you can replace your income safely.

You do not need to take risky steps now.

You have already shown strength by managing your life and job for 5 years.

Now your money should serve you with peace and stability.

Break your capital into buckets.

Get monthly income through safe withdrawals.

Review regularly with a Certified Financial Planner.

Avoid unnecessary complexity or noise.

You deserve a peaceful financial life.

Your health is precious. Let money be your quiet support.

Invest safe. Withdraw smart. Sleep well.

You are already doing well. Just add clarity and structure.

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

...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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