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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10375 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 24, 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 - May 23, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi Sir/Mam i am 24 i earn around 70000 per month with 10% increment every year i am looking to build a 5 crore investment amount in either 15 or in between 15 to 20 years what should be my investment strategy for step up sip i am open to any suggestions and i want to know how much i need to invest now and where to invest exact mutual fund name and you can suggest the exact details please

Ans: Building a Rs. 5 Crore Corpus: Your Investment Strategy
Your goal of accumulating Rs. 5 crore in 15 to 20 years is ambitious but achievable with a disciplined approach. Let’s outline an effective investment strategy for you.

Understanding Your Financial Goals
You earn Rs. 70,000 per month with a 10% annual increment.

You aim to build a corpus of Rs. 5 crore over 15 to 20 years.

Your willingness to invest and increase contributions regularly is key to success.

Importance of a Step-Up SIP Strategy
Step-up SIPs allow you to increase your investment amount periodically.

This aligns with your salary increments and inflation adjustments.

Regularly increasing your SIP amount accelerates wealth accumulation.

Assessing Your Risk Appetite and Time Horizon
You are young, so you can take higher risks for potentially higher returns.

A mix of equity and debt funds can balance risk and reward.

Your long-term horizon allows for market fluctuations to even out.

Investment Allocation Strategy
Equity Mutual Funds
Equity funds should form a significant part of your portfolio.

They offer higher returns over the long term compared to other asset classes.

Invest in a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds for diversification.

Debt Mutual Funds
Debt funds provide stability and lower risk.

They are less volatile than equity funds and ensure capital preservation.

Allocate a smaller portion to debt funds for balanced growth.

Balanced or Hybrid Funds
Balanced funds invest in both equity and debt.

They offer a balanced approach with moderate risk and return.

These funds are suitable for steady and consistent growth.

Implementing the Step-Up SIP
Starting with an Initial SIP Amount
Determine your initial SIP amount based on your monthly income.

A good starting point is investing 20-30% of your income.

You can start with an initial SIP of Rs. 14,000 to Rs. 21,000.

Annual Increase in SIP Amount
Increase your SIP amount by 10-15% annually, aligning with your salary hike.

This helps in compounding your returns effectively.

Reviewing and Adjusting
Review your investments annually to assess performance.

Adjust your SIP amounts and fund allocations as needed.

Fund Selection and Diversification
Large-Cap Funds
Large-cap funds invest in well-established companies.

They offer stability and moderate returns.

Choose funds with a strong track record and consistent performance.

Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Funds
Mid-cap and small-cap funds invest in emerging companies with high growth potential.

They are riskier but offer higher returns over time.

Diversify across a few mid-cap and small-cap funds to spread risk.

Multi-Cap or Flexi-Cap Funds
Multi-cap funds invest across market capitalizations.

They offer flexibility and diversification.

These funds adjust their portfolios based on market conditions.

Debt Funds
Invest in short-term and long-term debt funds for stability.

Choose funds with good credit ratings and consistent returns.

Hybrid Funds
Hybrid funds offer a balanced approach by investing in both equity and debt.

They are suitable for moderate risk-takers.

Calculating the Required Investment
Target Corpus
Your target corpus is Rs. 5 crore.

Investment Horizon
Your investment horizon is 15 to 20 years.

Expected Returns
Assume an average annual return of 12-15% from your investments.

SIP Calculation
Use SIP calculators to estimate the required monthly investment.

Adjust the SIP amount annually to match your increment.

Example of SIP Calculation
For a corpus of Rs. 5 crore in 20 years at 12% annual return:

You need to start with a SIP of approximately Rs. 21,000 per month.
For a corpus of Rs. 5 crore in 15 years at 12% annual return:

You need to start with a SIP of approximately Rs. 35,000 per month.
These amounts should be adjusted annually with a step-up SIP strategy.

Monitoring and Rebalancing
Regular Monitoring
Monitor your portfolio regularly to track performance.

Ensure your investments align with your financial goals.

Rebalancing
Rebalance your portfolio periodically to maintain the desired asset allocation.

This involves shifting funds between equity and debt based on performance and market conditions.

Professional Guidance
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Consult a CFP for personalized advice and strategies.

They can help you create a comprehensive financial plan.

Financial Education
Stay informed about market trends and investment strategies.

Knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions.

Conclusion
Your goal of building a Rs. 5 crore corpus is achievable with disciplined investing.

Implement a step-up SIP strategy, diversify your portfolio, and regularly review your investments.

Stay committed to your financial goals and make adjustments as needed.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
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  |10375 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 14, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 05, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi Im 36 years old. Started SIP recently from last month. 5k each in parag Parikh growth and quant small cap. Looking for 3-4 crore corpus by end of 60 years. Looking for another sip or lumpsum investment. Preferrimg to stepup sip in coming years. I need advice how to build my portfolio. Annual income around 40L. Looking to start NPS this year. I realised importance of investment quite late
Ans: It's great that you've started your investment journey and are proactive about building wealth for your future. Let's craft a strategy to optimize your portfolio and work towards your goal of accumulating 3-4 crore by the age of 60.

Diversified Portfolio Approach
Current SIP Investments: Your current SIP investments in Parag Parikh Growth and Quant Small Cap funds demonstrate a balanced approach with exposure to both growth and small-cap segments. These funds offer diversification and growth potential in different market environments.

Additional SIP or Lumpsum Investment: Considering your goal and income level, you can further diversify your portfolio by adding SIPs or lumpsum investments in other categories such as large-cap, mid-cap, and balanced funds.

Step-up SIP Strategy: Implement a step-up SIP strategy to align with your increasing income over time. This approach allows you to gradually increase your SIP contributions annually, harnessing the power of compounding for accelerated wealth accumulation.

Portfolio Recommendations
Large-Cap Fund: Start a SIP in a reputable large-cap fund such as Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund or Axis Bluechip Fund. These funds provide stability and consistent returns by investing in established companies with strong fundamentals.

Mid-Cap Fund: Consider adding a mid-cap fund like Kotak Emerging Equity Fund or HDFC Mid-Cap Opportunities Fund to your portfolio. Mid-cap funds offer high growth potential by investing in emerging companies poised for expansion.

Balanced Fund: Include a balanced fund like ICICI Prudential Equity & Debt Fund or HDFC Hybrid Equity Fund for added diversification. These funds invest in a mix of equities and debt instruments, providing stability while capitalizing on growth opportunities.

NPS Investment
Starting NPS this year is a prudent decision, as it offers tax benefits and retirement savings accumulation. Allocate a portion of your annual income towards NPS contributions, considering your risk tolerance and retirement goals. Opt for the Active Choice option to have control over asset allocation and fund selection based on your risk profile.

Regular Review and Adjustment
Periodically review your portfolio's performance and make necessary adjustments based on market conditions, financial goals, and risk tolerance. Rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation and ensure alignment with your long-term objectives.



It's never too late to start investing, and your proactive approach towards financial planning is commendable. By building a diversified portfolio, adopting a step-up SIP strategy, and incorporating NPS for retirement planning, you're laying a strong foundation for future financial security. Stay disciplined, stay informed, and keep moving forward towards your goals.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10375 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 02, 2024

Money
I want to invest 6 lakh per month in SIP. I have selected these funds and weightage. JM Flexicap - 30%, Motilal Oswal Midcap - 40%, Tata Small Cap - 15% and Quant Small Cap - 15%. Investing for 10 years. Goal is 20 crores in 10 years or bit longer is also fine.
Ans: Structured Analysis of Your SIP Investment Plan

Investing Rs 6 lakhs per month is a commendable goal. Your chosen allocation reflects a growth-oriented approach, focusing on flexicap, midcap, and small-cap funds. This strategy can offer strong growth potential, but balancing returns with risk is essential. Let’s assess each aspect to help you reach your target of Rs 20 crores over 10 years or slightly longer.

1. Evaluation of Chosen Fund Allocation
The fund allocation you've chosen comprises flexicap, midcap, and small-cap funds. Here’s how this breakdown aligns with a 10-year goal.

Flexicap (30%): Flexicap funds offer a balanced exposure across large, mid, and small caps. This flexibility allows fund managers to shift between sectors based on market conditions, offering both stability and growth.

Midcap (40%): Midcap funds bring higher growth potential compared to large caps. However, they also come with higher volatility. A 40% allocation to midcap is aggressive but can perform well over the long term.

Small-Cap Funds (30%): Small-cap funds have high growth potential, especially over a 10-year horizon. However, they are also the most volatile, especially in short-term market downturns.

Assessment: Your allocation is weighted towards mid- and small-cap funds, which are growth-oriented. It’s important to remember that while these categories can offer high returns, they can also be volatile, especially during economic downturns. Flexicap funds bring some balance, but if you seek reduced risk, consider adjusting these weights slightly.

2. Risk vs. Return Potential
For a Rs 20 crore target, you need an average annual growth rate that is achievable with your allocation. However, balancing the risk of such high-growth funds is crucial.

High Risk, High Return: Mid- and small-cap funds are known for delivering high returns, but they also have periods of underperformance. The flexicap component will moderate some of this risk but may not completely stabilize the portfolio.

Market Volatility Consideration: Mid- and small-cap funds are more sensitive to market changes, making them subject to higher volatility. Over 10 years, the probability of achieving your goal is high, but there will be years with dips, so be prepared for market fluctuations.

Insight: Your goal is feasible with the selected allocation. However, if you prefer to limit volatility, consider reducing the small-cap allocation and adding a slightly higher proportion in flexicap or even large-cap funds.

3. Tax Implications and Strategy
When building a large corpus, tax efficiency is critical, as it impacts your net returns significantly.

Equity Mutual Funds: Your investments are subject to long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax if held for over one year. Under current rules, LTCG on equity funds above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%. Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20% if you sell before one year.

Tax Optimization Strategy: Since your investments will be over a decade, the LTCG tax will apply. Ensuring that withdrawals are planned can help minimize the tax impact, especially if you spread the withdrawal period to fall within lower tax years.

Assessment: Your SIPs should be held with a long-term focus. Plan withdrawals carefully to optimize tax liability and reduce any immediate tax burden.

4. Reviewing Direct vs Regular Plan Investment
If you’re considering direct funds, note the potential drawbacks, particularly for high-stakes goals like Rs 20 crores.

Direct Funds: Although direct funds offer a lower expense ratio, they require active management and monitoring. They lack the guidance that can be crucial for long-term investors, especially if market conditions change.

Regular Plans Through CFP: Investing in regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offers professional guidance. A CFP can help you adjust your allocation, monitor fund performance, and make timely rebalancing decisions.

Recommendation: For high-value goals, regular plans with CFP guidance provide greater support. This approach ensures your investment plan remains aligned with your objectives and risk tolerance.

5. Potential for Rebalancing and Adjustments
Over a decade, regular rebalancing can improve returns and reduce risk. Here’s why rebalancing matters:

Managing Risk Levels: Rebalancing adjusts your portfolio based on market conditions and can help manage risk levels as you get closer to the goal. For example, shifting from small-cap to more stable funds can lock in gains.

Aligning with Financial Goals: Periodic adjustments keep your portfolio aligned with changing financial goals or market conditions. This also allows you to take advantage of high-performing sectors.

Action Plan: Set up a rebalancing schedule, preferably annual, to maintain your desired risk level and optimise returns. A CFP can assist with this.

6. Planning for Liquidity Needs
In high-growth portfolios, it’s wise to plan liquidity carefully.

Liquidity for Emergencies: While your portfolio is growth-oriented, consider setting aside a small portion in liquid or ultra-short-term debt funds. This ensures quick access to funds without impacting your equity portfolio.

Exit Strategy: For achieving Rs 20 crores, consider an exit strategy closer to your target year. You can gradually move funds into more stable, low-volatility investments like large-cap funds or conservative debt funds to preserve accumulated wealth.

Action Plan: Consider a systematic transfer strategy to safer funds in the last 2-3 years before your target. This reduces exposure to market risks as you approach your goal.

7. Monitoring Performance Over Time
Ongoing monitoring is essential for achieving long-term financial goals.

Evaluating Fund Performance: Assess fund performance at least annually. Ensure that each fund meets your expected return and risk parameters. If a fund underperforms consistently, consider replacing it with a better-performing option.

Using a Benchmark: Compare each fund’s performance against a relevant benchmark, such as Nifty Midcap for mid-cap funds. This provides insight into whether the fund is adding value or merely following the index.

Action Plan: Use regular reviews to stay informed about your funds’ performance. Consult a CFP for guidance on underperforming funds or market changes.

8. Final Insights
Your investment plan aligns well with your goal of Rs 20 crores. With a growth-oriented approach, the selected funds provide an excellent opportunity to achieve your financial target over 10 years. Balancing returns and risk, however, is essential. Here’s a recap:

Flexicap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds are well-suited for long-term growth but carry market risk.

Rebalancing and liquidity planning can further protect your portfolio, especially as you near your target.

Monitor performance annually and make adjustments if needed. Working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) will help ensure that your investments remain aligned with your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

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Ans: Why are you thinking about the past, doing so you are messing up your now.
If you trust the person then do so 100% - let it not be half-baked.
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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10720 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Sep 02, 2025

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Hello sir.... I wanted to pursue ba/bsc psychology from a rci approved college but I don't have any clearity that what should be right. Since I have passed 12th in this year only I have given my cuet but my marks where not that good to get into any college I have filled the form of Calcutta University where I can get addmission through my 12th marks that is 72% overall but I didn't get into any as I'm from general category and cut offs are high.. mop up rounds are still yet to happen. But I talked there.. there are barely some colleges which are serious about teaching psychology and I don't think I can get into some good college that's why I'm thinking to take a drop I don't want to still and abhi bhi looking for some colleges which maybe have seat vacant so that I can try to get into that.. i don't have any clarity regarding which is good govt college because I can't afford private colleges whose fees is that high for pursuing psycology if I'm taking a gap year
Ans: Ayushi, With 72% in Class XII, you meet eligibility for most RCI-approved undergraduate psychology programs, which typically require 50–55% in PCM/Science or Humanities and English proficiency. The Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) mandates that psychology graduates from approved institutions can register as professionals, so ensure the college holds RCI recognition or operates under a parent university with RCI-approved syllabi.

In West Bengal, government options are limited. The closely watched University of Calcutta offers a three-year BA Psychology through its morning shift at Ashutosh College and evening shift at Surendranath College with cutoffs often around 80% in general category. Vacancy rounds sometimes dip to 70–72%, so mop-up rounds could open seats. Rabindra Bharati University provides BA Psychology via merit; its cutoff hovers near 75%. Vidyasagar University in Midnapore and North Bengal University at Jalpaiguri offer BSc Psychology with lower cutoffs (65–70%), making them accessible.

Government colleges in Northern India include University of Delhi’s Cluster Innovation Centre and Gargi College, both offering BA Psychology admissions purely on Class XII marks. Their cutoffs range from 85–90%, so direct admission is unlikely at 72%, though invitation to waitlists in niche sections (e.g., evening courses) can occur. Banaras Hindu University’s BSc Psychology has a 70–75% cutoff in mop-up rounds. Panjab University (Chandigarh) and Punjab University (Patiala) allow 65–70% entries in BSc Psychology programs. University of Lucknow and Aligarh Muslim University also admit on board marks, often requiring 70–75%.

Affordable private institutions in West Bengal with RCI-approved curricula include St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata, which conducts its own merit list and lowers cutoffs to 72% in later rounds. Presidency University also admits psychology undergraduates through its merit list. In North India, Christ University (Bengaluru campus) and Amity University offer scholarships to board-mark entrants drops seats for those without CUET scores, but fees remain higher. DAV College, Chandigarh, and Maitreyi College, Delhi, provide BA Psychology at moderate fees (?30,000–40,000 per year) based on 12th marks.

Practical Roadmap and Solutions
Track Mop-Up Rounds and Merit Lists: Immediately monitor UC, Rabindra Bharati, Presidency, and St. Xavier’s websites daily for vacancies. Prepare scanned documents for swift online submission.

Apply to Multiple Institutes: Simultaneously apply to Vidyasagar University, North Bengal University, BHU, Panjab University, and Lucknow University in their ongoing merit-based admission windows. Their lower cutoffs increase chances.

Secure Waiting-List Positions: For high-demand colleges like Calcutta University and Delhi University, join all available waitlists, including evening programmes, which often have softer cutoffs.

Explore Evening/Shift Courses: Many reputed institutions offer evening or self-financed sections with relaxed cutoffs. Investigate Ashutosh College evening shift, DU evening courses, and PU self-financed sections.

Financial Planning for Private Colleges: Shortlist affordable options Inquire about scholarships or fee-installment plans at DAV College Chandigarh and Maitreyi College to help mitigate costs.

Bridge Courses and Summer Programs: As you finalize admissions, consider enrolling in online certificate courses in introductory psychology, research methods, and statistics from platforms like NPTEL or Coursera to enhance your portfolio.

Consider Gap-Year Strategy: If no suitable seat materializes by mid-October, plan a structured gap year focused on significantly improving CUET scores. Engage in disciplined self-study with coaching for CUET’s aptitude, English, and psychology modules.

CUET Preparation: Develop a timetable allocating two hours daily for CUET Psychology syllabus (foundations, developmental, abnormal, social, and research methods) and one hour for General English and Logical Reasoning. Use previous years’ CUET papers and take weekly mocks to track progress.

Alternate Entrance Exams: Some private universities conduct their own entrance tests (Christ University’s CUCET, Amity’s AUEET). Register for these supplementary exams to widen your admission avenues.

Mentorship and Counseling: Seek guidance from academic mentors or a career counselor to evaluate admission offers, financial implications, and long-term career trajectories in clinical, counseling, or research psychology.

By following this multipronged approach—pursuing merit-based vacancies, evening/self-financed programs, affordable private colleges, and preparing for CUET retake if required—you can maximize your chances of enrolling in an RCI-approved psychology UG programme without forfeiting a year.

Exhaust mop-up and merit-based admission options in government and reputed private colleges by mid-October, while preparing a robust CUET retake plan during a potential gap year to secure admission into top-tier psychology programs. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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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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