23-year-old earning 108k, is my investment strategy good?

Ans: t’s fantastic to see someone as young as you already planning for the future and investing wisely. Your SIPs and contributions towards EPF are commendable. Let's dive into your portfolio and see how it aligns with your long-term goals.

Understanding Your Current Investments
Monthly SIPs
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: Rs 4,000
Quant Flexi Cap Fund: Rs 4,000
Nippon India Large Cap Fund: Rs 3,000
Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund: Rs 3,500
Bandhan Small Cap Fund: Rs 2,500
Axis Small Cap Fund: Rs 2,000
EPF Contributions
Combined contribution (employee + employer): Rs 12,800 per month
Portfolio Review
Diversification
You have a good mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds, which is great for diversification. This approach balances risk and return, leveraging the growth potential of different market segments.

Flexi Cap Funds
Flexi Cap Funds are versatile, investing across market capitalizations. Your allocation in Parag Parikh and Quant Flexi Cap Funds is a smart move, providing flexibility to capitalize on market opportunities.

Large Cap Funds
Large Cap Funds like Nippon India Large Cap Fund offer stability with moderate returns. These funds invest in well-established companies with a proven track record.

Mid Cap Funds
Mid Cap Funds, such as Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund, strike a balance between risk and return. They invest in companies with high growth potential but are relatively riskier than large caps.

Small Cap Funds
Small Cap Funds, including Bandhan and Axis Small Cap Funds, are high-risk, high-reward investments. They invest in smaller companies with significant growth potential but also higher volatility.

EPF Contributions
Your EPF contributions are excellent for long-term savings and tax benefits. EPF offers a stable, risk-free return, complementing your more aggressive mutual fund investments.

Evaluating Your Portfolio
Advantages
Diversification: Your portfolio is well-diversified across market capitalizations, reducing risk.
Long-Term Horizon: Investing for the long term allows you to ride out market volatility and benefit from compounding.
Regular Investment: SIPs ensure disciplined investing, averaging out market highs and lows.
Areas of Improvement
Overlapping Investments: Flexi Cap Funds may have overlapping stocks with your other funds. Review fund portfolios to avoid redundancy.
Risk Management: High allocation to small and mid-cap funds increases portfolio risk. Ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance.
Certified Financial Planner's Recommendation
Review Fund Performance: Regularly review the performance of your funds. Replace consistently underperforming funds with better options.
Monitor Overlap: Use tools to check for overlapping holdings in your funds. Diversify to reduce concentration risk.
Rebalance Portfolio: Periodically rebalance your portfolio to maintain your desired asset allocation.
Steps to Enhance Your Portfolio
Increase SIPs with Salary Hike
As your salary increases, step up your SIP contributions. This leverages the power of compounding and accelerates wealth creation.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses. This provides financial security during unforeseen circumstances.

Tax Planning
Invest in tax-efficient instruments to maximize your returns. Utilize sections like 80C, 80D for tax deductions.

Health and Life Insurance
Ensure adequate health and life insurance coverage. This protects your family and financial goals in case of emergencies.

Avoid Over-Reliance on One Category
Avoid over-relying on one fund category. Maintain a balanced approach with a mix of equity, debt, and other instruments.

Power of Compounding
How Compounding Works
Compounding is earning returns on your returns. The longer you stay invested, the more your investments grow exponentially.

Example
If you invest Rs 10,000 monthly at an annual return of 12%, in 20 years, it could grow to approximately Rs 1 crore. Starting early and staying invested is key.

Benefits of Early Investing
Starting early gives your investments more time to grow. Even small amounts can accumulate significantly over time.

Actively Managed Funds vs. Index Funds
Actively Managed Funds
Professional Management: Actively managed funds are managed by experts who make investment decisions based on market research.
Potential for Outperformance: These funds can outperform the market by selecting high-potential stocks.
Disadvantages of Index Funds
Lack of Flexibility: Index funds simply track a market index, offering no flexibility to capitalize on market opportunities.
Average Returns: Index funds provide market-average returns, which may not meet your financial goals.
Why Choose Actively Managed Funds?
Actively managed funds offer potential for higher returns through expert stock selection and market timing. They provide a dynamic approach to investing.

Regular vs. Direct Funds
Regular Funds
Advisor Support: Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) provides guidance and expertise.
Convenience: Regular funds offer ease of investment, portfolio reviews, and rebalancing.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
No Advisory Support: Direct funds require you to make investment decisions without professional guidance.
Time-Consuming: Managing direct funds can be time-consuming, requiring regular monitoring and analysis.
Benefits of Investing Through CFP
A CFP helps you create a personalized investment plan, ensuring your portfolio aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. They provide valuable insights and adjustments as needed.

Final Insights
Stay Disciplined
Stick to your investment plan, regardless of market fluctuations. Regular investments and patience are crucial for long-term success.

Educate Yourself
Keep learning about different investment options and market trends. This helps you make informed decisions and optimize your portfolio.

Review Regularly
Regularly review and adjust your portfolio based on performance and changing financial goals. This ensures your investments remain aligned with your objectives.

Seek Professional Advice
Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice. They provide valuable guidance to optimize your investment strategy and achieve your goals.

By following these steps and staying committed to your financial plan, you’re well on your way to securing a prosperous future. Keep investing, stay informed, and watch your wealth grow!

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in