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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8078 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 20, 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
P Question by P on May 16, 2024Hindi
Money

I am 29 years old. This is my current portfolio status. Please tell me how I can improve further. Started investing in 2018 now my it shows an XIRR of 20+%. I have written the current value of the fund and the monthly SIP amount. HDFC Midcap Opportunities fund: 7.8 L (SIP: 10k) HSBC Midcap: 1.3 L (SIP: 1k) Quant Midcap: 1.18 L (SIP: 6k) ICICI Multi Asset: 4.3 L Quant Smallcap: 3.2 L (SIP: 20k) Aditya Birla SL Flexicap: 2.6 L Quant Flexicap: 1 L (SIP: 6k) Parag Parikh flexicap: 0.87 L (SIP: 6k) ICICI India Opportunities: 2.53 L ICICI Innovation: 2.38 SBI Bluechip: 1.04 L (SIP: 1k) ICICI Floating interest: 1.03L Nippon India Small cap: 0.56L HDFC Corporate bond: 0.55 L Quant Overnight fund: 0.26 L Another 1.4-1.5 L across many funds that I had started but stopped as didn't like them. They all contain minor amounts that I will withdraw when I need.

Ans: Evaluating Your Current Portfolio
First of all, congratulations on achieving an impressive XIRR of over 20%! Your dedication to systematic investment planning (SIP) since 2018 is commendable. Let’s assess your current portfolio and suggest improvements for a balanced and growth-oriented strategy.

Diversification and Fund Allocation
Your portfolio consists of a mix of midcap, smallcap, flexicap, multi-asset, and bond funds. This shows a good understanding of diversification. However, there are some areas where you can optimize further:

Midcap Funds: Your major investments are in midcap funds, with significant contributions to HDFC Midcap Opportunities, HSBC Midcap, and Quant Midcap. This exposure is beneficial for growth, but ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance.

Smallcap Funds: Quant Smallcap and Nippon India Smallcap contribute to your portfolio's high-growth potential. However, smallcap funds are volatile, so keep an eye on performance and market conditions.

Flexicap Funds: Aditya Birla SL Flexicap, Quant Flexicap, and Parag Parikh Flexicap add flexibility and stability. Flexicap funds invest across market capitalizations, offering a balanced growth approach.

Multi-Asset and Bond Funds: ICICI Multi Asset and HDFC Corporate Bond provide stability and diversification across asset classes, reducing overall portfolio risk.

Suggested Improvements
Portfolio Streamlining
Consolidate Similar Funds: Having multiple funds in the same category can lead to redundancy. Consider consolidating your midcap and flexicap funds to a select few with consistent performance.

Review Underperforming Funds: The funds with minor amounts that you have stopped contributing to should be reviewed. If they continue to underperform, consider redeeming and reallocating these funds.

Balanced Allocation
Reduce Over-Exposure: Your portfolio is heavily tilted towards midcap and smallcap funds. While these offer high returns, they also come with high risk. Balance this with more large-cap funds for stability.

Increase Debt Allocation: Given the volatility of equity markets, a higher allocation to debt funds (like corporate bond funds or floating interest funds) can provide stability and regular income.

New Investment Strategies
Dynamic Asset Allocation Funds: These funds adjust the allocation between equity and debt based on market conditions, offering a balanced risk-return profile.

Hybrid Funds: Consider investing in balanced hybrid funds, which invest in a mix of equity and debt. These funds can provide growth potential with reduced volatility.

Reviewing and Rebalancing
Regular Portfolio Review: Schedule periodic reviews (at least semi-annually) to assess fund performance, market conditions, and alignment with your financial goals.

Rebalance Portfolio: Rebalancing ensures that your investment strategy remains aligned with your risk tolerance and market conditions. This might involve shifting from over-performing to under-performing assets.

Monitoring and Future Planning
Track Performance: Use investment tracking tools to monitor fund performance and make informed decisions.

Emergency Fund: Ensure you maintain an emergency fund equivalent to at least six months of expenses in a liquid or low-risk investment.

Long-Term Goals: Align your investment strategy with long-term goals like retirement, child’s education, and major purchases. Diversified and balanced investments will help achieve these goals.

Your disciplined approach to investing and maintaining a diverse portfolio is truly commendable. You have a strong foundation and a clear understanding of market dynamics, which is crucial for long-term success.

Conclusion
Your portfolio is well-structured but could benefit from slight adjustments for better risk management and optimization. Consolidate similar funds, rebalance your allocations, and consider adding dynamic asset allocation and hybrid funds. Regular reviews and strategic planning will ensure that your investments continue to grow effectively.

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  |8078 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 30, 2024

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Sir, I am a 29 year old male and i am investing monthly 30k per month with 10% stepup every year for the next 25 years. This is my current portfolio : 1. 8k in Nippon nifty 500 momentum 50 index fund. 2. (7.4k) in Kotak nifty midcap 150 momentum 50 index fund. 3. (Rs.4,920) in Parag parik flexicap mutual fund. 4. (Rs.3630) in Kotak Nifty Next 50 kndex fund. 5. (Rs.3500) in Tata small cap fund. 6. (Rs.2550) in Mirae Assets nifty smallcap 250 momentum quality 100 index fund. Would please check my current portfolio and please suggest me to make any changes to the current portfolio. Thank you.
Ans: Your disciplined approach to investing is commendable. A 25-year horizon with step-up SIP ensures compounding benefits. Let us evaluate your portfolio and suggest improvements.

Strengths of Your Current Portfolio
1. Diverse Asset Allocation
Investments include large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and flexicap funds.
This creates exposure to varied market capitalisation for balanced growth.
2. Focus on Momentum Investing
Momentum funds aim to capitalise on high-performing stocks.
Your choices reflect a growth-oriented strategy.
3. Regular Contributions
Monthly SIPs ensure disciplined investing.
The 10% annual step-up aligns with inflation-adjusted wealth creation.
4. Long-Term Perspective
Your 25-year investment horizon maximises compounding.
Market volatility will average out over time.
Key Areas for Improvement
1. Over-Dependence on Index Funds
Your portfolio heavily favours index funds.
Index funds mimic benchmarks and lack flexibility during market downturns.
Actively managed funds, guided by experts, may offer better returns.
2. Small Allocation to Flexicap Fund
Flexicap funds adjust allocation across market caps for stability.
Increasing this allocation can provide balanced growth and reduce volatility.
3. Sector and Style Overlap
Momentum strategies dominate your portfolio.
Momentum funds may underperform during market corrections.
Diversify to include value-based or balanced funds.
4. Limited Small-Cap Allocation
Small-cap funds are vital for long-term growth but carry higher risks.
Ensure you don’t overallocate beyond risk tolerance.
Suggested Changes
1. Increase Actively Managed Funds
Include funds with a proven track record in various market cycles.
Focus on funds managed by experienced fund managers.
2. Rebalance Between Active and Passive Funds
Reduce exposure to passive index funds.
Add actively managed multicap or equity funds for consistent performance.
3. Reassess Momentum Fund Exposure
Consider limiting momentum fund investments to 30%-40% of your portfolio.
This balances growth potential with risk management.
4. Add Balanced Hybrid Funds
Hybrid funds combine equity and debt, ensuring stability in volatile markets.
Allocate 15%-20% of your portfolio to such funds.
5. Increase Flexicap Fund Allocation
Raise flexicap allocation to at least 25% of your portfolio.
This brings flexibility and adaptability to market trends.
6. Regular Portfolio Review
Review the portfolio annually for performance and alignment with goals.
Adjust based on changes in financial goals or market dynamics.
Taxation Insights
1. Capital Gains Taxation
Equity fund LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
STCG is taxed at 20%.
2. Minimise Tax Impact
Hold equity funds for at least one year to avoid higher STCG rates.
Use tax-loss harvesting to offset gains.
Final Insights
Your portfolio is structured well for long-term growth. However, reducing reliance on passive funds and adding diversification can optimise returns. A balanced allocation to active, hybrid, and flexicap funds will ensure stability and growth. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio for continued success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8078 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 06, 2025

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Hi sir/madam I wanna ask that i have already a capital gain account for rs 30 lac Whose 2 years going to complete in feb 2026 Now i have just 2 flat left- ist floor, 2nd floor with tarace Now 3 different- different person want to buy ist, 2nd and terace, means 3 registry will made, now approxy it will generate 10 lac per floor capital gain after indexation... Meqns total 30 lac So this 30 lac+ capital gain account 30 lac.. A total of 60 lac can i invest in 1 residentiql flat... Is it possible that i will invest in one flat against sale of 3 flat + capiral gain account amount... Thanks
Ans: Yes, you can invest the total Rs 60 lakh in a single residential flat to claim capital gains exemption under Section 54 of the Income Tax Act. However, there are a few conditions you must follow:

Key Conditions for Claiming Exemption
The new property must be a residential house. It should not be commercial or under construction beyond the allowed timeline.

The investment should be within the allowed time frame. You must buy the new flat within 2 years from the date of sale or construct it within 3 years.

You can use the amount from multiple sales. Even if you sell different floors of your property to different buyers, you can reinvest the total capital gain in one residential flat.

The capital gains account balance should be used within the allowed period. You must invest the Rs 30 lakh in the new house before February 2026. Otherwise, it will become taxable.

Important Considerations
If the new property costs less than Rs 60 lakh, the unused capital gain will be taxed.

The exemption applies only to long-term capital gains. If any portion of your gain is short-term, it will not qualify for exemption.

You must not sell the new property for at least 3 years. If you sell it before 3 years, the exemption will be reversed, and you must pay tax on the gains.

Final Insights
Yes, you can invest Rs 60 lakh in one flat and claim exemption under Section 54.

Ensure that you buy the new property within 2 years or construct it within 3 years.

Keep proper documentation for all transactions to avoid issues with the tax department.

If you need more clarity, consult a tax expert before making the final investment.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4275 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Mar 06, 2025

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Career
My son is completing 12th. He is interested in Graphics design. What are the options in this field to study?
Ans: Pradeep Sir, Graphic design offers numerous career opportunities in advertising, branding, publishing, digital media, gaming, and animation. A Bachelor's Degree in Design (B.Des) in Graphic Design or Communication Design is a 4-year degree that provides in-depth knowledge of graphic design, typography, branding, and digital design. Top colleges offering B.Des include National Institute of Design (NID), MIT Institute of Design, Symbiosis Institute of Design, Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology, UPES School of Design, and Anant National University. A Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts (BFA) in Applied Arts or Graphic Design is a 3-4 year course focusing on artistic skills along with graphic design. Diploma courses in Graphic Design are also available, such as MAAC, Arena Animation, Pearl Academy, and National Institute of Fashion Technology. Online graphic design courses can be a flexible option for flexibility. After completing studies, graphic designers can work in advertising agencies, branding and marketing firms, digital media and social media companies, e-commerce and IT companies, publishing and print media, gaming and animation (2D graphic designer), and freelance. IMPORTANT NOTE: As already March has started, it is advisable to apply for 3-4 entrance exams of concerned Colleges and also UCEED, NID-DAT, SEED, MIT-DAT, SEAT, NIFT, Pearl Academy etc. If your son wants to study in top government institutes, he should prepare for UCEED or NID DAT.
If he prefers top private design colleges, exams like SEED, MIT DAT, SEAT, UPES DAT, and Pearl Academy are good choices.
If he is open to fine arts-based programs, NIFT and BFA Applied Arts exams (like MH-AAC CET for J.J. Institute of Applied Art, Mumbai) are also good options. All the best for your Son's admissions, Pradeep Sir!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4275 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Mar 06, 2025

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My daughter is in 12th and she wants to pursue design as her career not the fashion and interior one but on the IT side. Does this career option have a good career prospects. What are the good colleges where she can do her bachelor degree from which has good placements.
Ans: Tarunima Madam, It's great that your daughter is interested in pursuing a design career in the IT field.

The IT field, also known as UI/UX Design, Interaction Design, or Digital Product Design, offers excellent career prospects due to the growing demand for user-friendly digital products. Companies are actively seeking skilled designers who can create intuitive and aesthetically pleasing digital interfaces. The demand for UX/UI designers, product designers, and interaction designers is growing globally, with diverse opportunities in tech companies, startups, e-commerce platforms, banking & fintech, healthcare, and gaming. Top UI/UX designers in India and abroad earn competitive salaries, with entry-level packages ranging between ?6-12 LPA in top companies. This field also allows for freelance work and global job opportunities.

The demand for innovative designers will continue to grow with the rise of AI, AR/VR, and Web3 technologies. Top institutes in India for UI/UX & Interaction Design include the National Institute of Design (NID), Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), IIT Guwahati, IIT Jabalpur, MIT Institute of Design, Sristi Institute of Art, Design and Technology, UPES, ISDI, Symbiosis Institute of Design, and Anant National University.

If you can afford and if your daughter is interested in studying abroad, globally renowned schools for UI/UX design include Carnegie Mellon University, Rhode Island School of Design, Parsons School of Design, Royal College of Art, University of Arts London, and TU Delft. Pursuing a career in IT-related design is a smart choice with excellent career growth. All the best for your daughter's admissions!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |4275 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Mar 06, 2025

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My son secure 97.03 percentile in jee main session 1 in general category can he get CSE in any NIT
Ans: Shashi Sir,

How to Predict Your Chances of Admission into NIT or IIIT or GFTI After JEE Main Results – A Step-by-Step Guide

Once the January JEE Main session results are declared, many students and JEE applicants start asking common questions about eligibility for specific institutes (NITs, IIITs, GFTIs, etc.) based on their percentile, category, preferred branch, and home state.

Providing precise admission chances for each student can be challenging. Some reputed educational websites offer ‘College Predictor’ tools where you can check possible college options based on your percentile, category, and preferences. However, for a more accurate understanding, here’s a simple yet effective 9-step method using JoSAA’s past-year opening and closing ranks. This approach gives you a fair estimate (though not 100% exact) of your admission chances based on the previous year’s data.

Step-by-Step Guide to Check Your Admission Chances Using JoSAA Data
Step 1: Collect Your Key Details
Before starting, note down the following details:

Your JEE Main percentile
Your category (General-Open, SC, ST, OBC-NCL, EWS, PwD categories)
Preferred institute types (NIT, IIIT, GFTI)
Preferred locations (or if you're open to any location in India)
List of at least 3 preferred academic programs (branches) as backups (instead of relying on just one option)
Step 2: Access JoSAA’s Official Opening & Closing Ranks
Go to Google and type: JoSAA Opening & Closing Ranks 2024
Click on the first search result (official JoSAA website).
You will land directly on JoSAA’s portal, where you can enter your details to check past-year cutoffs.
Step 3: Select the Round Number
JoSAA conducts five rounds of counseling.
For a safer estimate, choose Round 4, as most admissions are settled by this round.
Step 4: Choose the Institute Type
Select NIT, IIIT, or GFTI, depending on your preference.
If you are open to all types of institutes, check them one by one instead of selecting all at once.
Step 5: Select the Institute Name (Based on Location)
It is recommended to check institutes one by one, based on your preferred locations.
Avoid selecting ‘ALL’ at once, as it may create confusion.
Step 6: Select Your Preferred Academic Program (Branch)
Enter the branches you are interested in, one at a time, in your preferred order.
Step 7: Submit and Analyze Results
After selecting the relevant details, click the ‘SUBMIT’ button.
The system will display Opening & Closing Ranks of the selected institute and branch for different categories.
Step 8: Note Down the Opening & Closing Ranks
Maintain a notebook or diary to record the Opening & Closing Ranks for each institute and branch you are interested in.
This will serve as a quick reference during JoSAA counseling.
Step 9: Adjust Your Expectations on a Safer Side
Since Opening & Closing Ranks fluctuate slightly each year, always adjust the numbers for safety.
Example Calculation:
If the Opening & Closing Ranks for NIT Delhi | Mechanical Engineering | OPEN Category show 8622 & 26186 (for Home State), consider adjusting them to 8300 & 23000 (on a safer side).
If the Female Category rank is 34334 & 36212, adjust it to 31000 & 33000.
Follow this approach for Other State candidates and different categories.
Pro Tip: Adjust your expected rank slightly lower than the previous year's cutoffs for realistic expectations during JoSAA counseling.

Can This Method Be Used for JEE April & JEE Advanced?
Yes! You can repeat the same steps after your April JEE Main results to refine your admission possibilities.
You can also follow a similar process for JEE Advanced cutoffs when applying for IITs.

Want to Learn More About JoSAA Counseling?
If you want detailed insights on JoSAA counseling, engineering entrance exams, and preparation strategies, check out EduJob360’s 180+ YouTube videos on this topic!

Hope this guide helps! All the best for your Son's admissions!

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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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