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What are the best mutual funds for a 35-year-old investing Rs. 7,500 monthly?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8365 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 15, 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
Akshay Question by Akshay on Oct 14, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi I am 35 years old , I want invest 7500 monthly SIP in mutual funds pls suggest me the right mutual funds for long term investment.

Ans: At 35 years old, it’s essential to plan investments with a long-term focus. Investing Rs. 7,500 per month in mutual funds through SIP for the long term can help you build significant wealth over time. Your goal should determine how you allocate these funds among different categories of mutual funds.

Key points to consider:

How long do you want to invest?
What is your risk tolerance?
What are your future financial needs, such as retirement, children’s education, or any other goals?
Since you’re considering long-term investment, a mix of equity mutual funds with good growth potential would be the ideal choice. Equity funds have shown the ability to outperform other asset classes over a longer duration.

Let’s explore how you can achieve this with mutual funds.

Understanding the Importance of Diversification

Diversification is the key to a well-rounded investment strategy. For your Rs. 7,500 SIP, dividing your investments across different types of mutual funds is essential to minimize risk while maximizing returns.

Here’s how diversification can help:

Equity funds provide higher returns over the long term but come with higher risk.

Debt funds offer stability and lower risk but might give comparatively lower returns.

For a long-term SIP, focusing on equity funds can offer you the growth needed, but you can also add some debt funds for stability.

Opting for Actively Managed Funds

Actively managed mutual funds allow a professional fund manager to pick stocks and assets that can outperform the market. The goal of actively managed funds is to earn higher returns than an index. Unlike index funds that follow a specific benchmark, actively managed funds can adjust the portfolio depending on market conditions. This makes them better suited for long-term growth when compared to index funds.

Why should you prefer actively managed funds over index funds?

Higher potential returns: Fund managers can pick promising stocks.
Flexibility: They can adjust to market changes faster.
Active risk management: Professional fund managers manage risks actively.
Investing in regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures you get personalized advice. You also benefit from professional expertise, and regular funds give you access to this expertise, which is essential for long-term success.

Allocation Strategy Based on Your Risk Appetite

When investing for the long term, balancing risk and reward is critical. Here’s a strategy to allocate your Rs. 7,500 monthly SIP:

Large-Cap Funds: These invest in well-established companies with a strong market presence. They provide stability and consistent growth over time. A large portion of your SIP, say Rs. 3,000, can go into these funds for a solid foundation.

Mid-Cap Funds: These funds invest in medium-sized companies that have growth potential. These companies are riskier than large-cap companies, but the returns can be higher. You can allocate Rs. 2,000 to mid-cap funds to add growth potential.

Small-Cap Funds: Small-cap companies can offer very high returns but are volatile and come with higher risk. Allocating Rs. 1,000 to small-cap funds can provide a high-growth kicker.

Flexi-Cap Funds: These funds invest in companies of all sizes based on market conditions, making them more versatile. You can allocate Rs. 1,500 to flexi-cap funds for flexibility and a diversified approach.

This approach ensures your investment is spread across various sectors and sizes of companies. It balances risk and reward while aiming for long-term growth.

Why You Should Avoid Index Funds

Index funds may seem appealing because of their low cost, but they come with limitations. Index funds passively track a benchmark like the Nifty 50 or Sensex. As a result, they do not aim to beat the market, only match its performance.

Disadvantages of index funds:

Lack of flexibility: They can’t adjust to market changes.
Lower potential returns: Over the long term, actively managed funds have the potential to outperform index funds.
No risk management: Index funds don’t adjust to market downturns, so during market corrections, they might underperform.
Given your long-term horizon, actively managed funds are better suited because they provide more opportunities for superior returns.

Benefits of Regular Funds over Direct Funds

Some investors prefer direct funds for lower expense ratios. However, investing through a regular plan with the help of a CFP offers significant benefits. A CFP ensures that your investments align with your long-term financial goals and risk profile.

Benefits of regular funds:

Expert guidance: Investing through a CFP ensures you have professional advice.
Timely rebalancing: A CFP can help with portfolio rebalancing as market conditions change.
Regular monitoring: You get periodic reviews of your portfolio.
Personalized advice: Investments are chosen based on your specific needs.
While direct funds may have lower costs, the added value you receive from professional management far outweighs this small expense.

Why Avoid ULIPs and Investment-Linked Insurance

While you may hear about market-linked insurance products such as ULIPs, they are not ideal for long-term wealth creation. The costs involved are much higher compared to mutual funds. ULIPs combine insurance with investment, which means you pay for both, often leading to lower returns. Mutual funds are a better vehicle for wealth creation over 25 years.

Disadvantages of ULIPs:

High charges: ULIPs have higher fees, reducing overall returns.
Lock-in period: You are locked into the policy for at least 5 years.
Lower flexibility: You don’t have the freedom to switch easily between investment options.
Taxation on Mutual Funds

It's essential to understand the tax implications of mutual funds.

For equity mutual funds, long-term capital gains (LTCG) are taxed at 12.5% if your gains exceed Rs. 1.25 lakh in a financial year. Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20% if you sell within one year.

For debt mutual funds, both LTCG and STCG are taxed according to your income tax slab. This makes debt funds slightly less tax-efficient compared to equity mutual funds.

Knowing these tax rules helps you plan your withdrawals effectively, especially when you have built up a significant corpus over time.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) for Discipline

SIP is an excellent way to build wealth over time. By investing Rs. 7,500 every month, you are using the power of compounding to grow your wealth. SIPs help in:

Averaging market volatility: You buy more units when prices are low and fewer when prices are high.

Creating discipline: SIPs ensure regular investment without needing to time the market.

Long-term growth: Compounding over time can turn small monthly investments into a significant corpus.

Regular Review of Investments

Reviewing your investments regularly ensures they align with your changing financial goals. Every 6 months to a year, sit with your CFP to assess your portfolio's performance. Based on market conditions and your evolving needs, adjustments can be made to enhance returns or manage risks.

Key points for a review:

Rebalancing: Ensure that the asset allocation matches your original plan.

Performance tracking: Evaluate if any fund underperforms and needs replacement.

Future needs: Align your portfolio with upcoming financial goals, such as buying a home or retirement planning.

Finally

At 35, you have the advantage of a long investment horizon, which can significantly increase your wealth through mutual funds. By sticking to a disciplined approach and using SIPs, you can maximize your returns. Focus on actively managed funds for their higher potential and flexibility. Avoid ULIPs, annuities, and index funds for your long-term goals.

Also, remember the importance of reviewing your portfolio regularly and maintaining diversification. This will give you the best chance of achieving a substantial corpus.

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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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8365 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 01, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
I’m 42 years old and want to invest and start SIP of Rs 30000 for next 10 to 15 years.please suggest me best mutual funds.
Ans: Your decision to start a SIP of Rs. 30,000 for 10–15 years is commendable. A disciplined approach like this can build significant wealth over time. Let us explore a structured plan for mutual fund investments.

Benefits of Investing Through SIP
1. Systematic Wealth Accumulation
SIP enables regular and disciplined investments.

It avoids the need to time the market.

2. Rupee Cost Averaging
It averages out the purchase cost during market volatility.

This leads to better returns over the long term.

3. Power of Compounding
Regular investments for 10–15 years magnify compounding benefits.

Compounding multiplies wealth, especially with consistent contributions.

Diversifying Across Mutual Fund Categories
1. Equity Mutual Funds
Suitable for long-term wealth creation.

Ideal for your 10–15 years horizon.

Actively managed equity funds offer better performance than index funds.

2. Hybrid Mutual Funds
Balance between equity and debt components.

Provides stability in volatile markets.

Suitable for moderate-risk investors seeking steady returns.

3. Small-Cap and Mid-Cap Funds
Potential for high growth over the long term.

Best suited for investors with high-risk tolerance.

Avoid overexposure to reduce portfolio risks.

4. Large-Cap Funds
Invest in well-established companies with stable performance.

Lower risk compared to mid- or small-cap funds.

Ideal for consistent growth and reduced portfolio volatility.

Avoiding Index and Direct Funds
1. Disadvantages of Index Funds
Lack of flexibility as they mimic the market index.

Cannot adapt to sudden market changes.

Actively managed funds aim to outperform the market.

2. Disadvantages of Direct Funds
No personalised guidance for portfolio review and rebalancing.

Regular funds through an MFD with a CFP ensure professional advice.

Assistance in aligning your investments with changing goals and markets.

Recommended Investment Allocation
1. High-Growth Allocation
Invest 50% in equity mutual funds with diversified exposure.

Focus on large-cap and multi-cap funds for long-term stability.

2. Moderate-Risk Allocation
Allocate 30% to hybrid mutual funds for balance and stability.

These funds manage risk better during volatile phases.

3. Selective High-Risk Allocation
Allocate 20% to mid- and small-cap funds for aggressive growth.

Review performance regularly and rebalance when needed.

Tax Implications for Mutual Fund Investments
1. Equity Mutual Funds
Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG) above Rs 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.

Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG) taxed at 20%.

2. Hybrid and Debt Mutual Funds
LTCG and STCG taxed as per your income tax slab.

Choose debt funds only if aligned with specific short-term goals.

Strategies to Maximise SIP Benefits
1. Regular Portfolio Review
Review fund performance every 6–12 months.

Align portfolio with market conditions and personal goals.

2. Increase SIP Gradually
Use the step-up SIP method to increase investment over time.

This enhances returns as income grows.

3. Reinvest Returns
Reinvest dividends and returns for compounding benefits.

Avoid withdrawing prematurely to achieve goals.

Managing Your Risk and Expectations
1. Diversify Investments
Avoid putting all funds into one category or type.

Balance between growth, stability, and risk management.

2. Stay Patient
SIP works best when given time to grow.

Avoid reacting to short-term market fluctuations.

Finally
Your goal of investing Rs. 30,000 in SIP is achievable with the right strategy. Focus on equity and hybrid funds for optimal returns. Work with a Certified Financial Planner to ensure your investments stay aligned with your goals. Review periodically and stay disciplined for the best outcomes.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

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My daughter was born in Andhra Pradesh in 2007 and studied in Hyderabad up to 2nd class. She studied from 3rd class to 6th class in the US and moved back to India and continued from 7th to 10th in Hyderabad again. She passed out of 10th in March 2022. After finishing her 10th, she moved back to the US in September 2022 and studied 10th again due to age constraints in the US before moving back to India in 2023. She finished her 11th and 12th class in Hyderabad and attempted NEET 2025. She has continuous education certificates in Hyderabad from 7th to 12th class but has a year gap between her 10th and 11th class. My questions are does she qualify as a local for the Telangana state for the 85% state quota. As she studied 10th class in the US again but that certification isn't of use anywhere, what is the best option for her to considered under the state quota. Does she require any gap certificate or any official authorization between her 10th and 11th and if so what is the best procedure to get it?
Ans: BE TRANSPARENT AND GUNUINE. DONT TRY TO TAKE SHORTCUTS TO OBTAIN A DOMICILLE CERTIFICATE. THIS CONCERNS YOUR YOUR DAUGHTER'S FUTURE.

Regarding your query about the domicile certificate, she needs to prove that she has been residing in that particular location for the last seven years. However, in your case, she has only been present for six years, as she went to the U.S. in between. If this was on a tourist visa, that might be acceptable, but if you obtained a green card or another type of visa during that time, you should have supporting evidence.

Based on this information, it appears that you may not be eligible for the domicile certificate. It might be better for her to seek admission through the NRI quota. However, never resort to shortcuts. Remember, in today's India, traceability is very easy.
If you are still not convinced by my answer, please consider consulting a notary public for assistance with this issue.

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Hi,my son has got 96% in his icse class 10 exams this year.he is not inclined towards a career in sciences (b.tech/med).he has thus opted for commerce and maths.with an initial inclination towards finance and mathematics we have shortlisted ipm and law and enrolled him for a coaching for ipm.would he be able to prepare for clat as well along with ipm.and with 96 % how are his chances to clear both ?
Ans: Yes, your son can prepare for both CLAT and IPM exams simultaneously, especially given his ICSE score. With a 96% score, he has a strong chance of success in both exams. CLAT and IPM share some common ground, which could make preparation more manageable.
Preparation for both CLAT and IPM:
CLAT:
CLAT requires a strong foundation in English comprehension, logical reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and legal reasoning. IPM exams also test similar skills.
IPM:
IPM exams focus on quantitative ability, analytical reasoning, and verbal reasoning. CLAT also assesses these skills.
Overlap:
The core skills tested in both exams, such as quantitative reasoning, verbal reasoning, and logical reasoning, provide common ground for preparation. Your son's coaching for IPM can help him develop a solid foundation in these areas.
Legal Reasoning:
CLAT specifically requires legal reasoning, which is not part of IPM. Your son can focus on preparing for this section separately.
Scheduling:
Balancing preparation for both exams requires careful planning. He can allocate specific time slots for each exam's preparation.
Chances of Clearing Both:
IPM:
With a 96% ICSE score, your son has a strong chance of clearing IPM exams. His high marks indicate a strong aptitude for quantitative reasoning and problem-solving.
CLAT:
CLAT is a highly competitive exam, but with his current scores, your son has a very good chance of clearing CLAT.
Factors affecting success:
Preparation efforts, effective time management, and consistency in studying will play a crucial role in determining success in both exams.
Tips for Preparation:
Structured Approach:
A structured study plan that includes regular practice, mock tests, and detailed analysis of mistakes will be beneficial.
Mock Tests:
Regular mock tests for both CLAT and IPM will help him assess his progress and identify areas for improvement.
Time Management:
Developing effective time management skills is crucial for balancing preparation for both exams.
Focus on Fundamentals:
Ensure he has a strong foundation in the core subjects of both exams.
Practice:
He should solve a variety of questions and practice problems to build confidence and improve his speed and accuracy.
Best of luck. Professor

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Career Counsellor - Answered on May 15, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 14, 2025
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Hello sir, I'm a DASA student applying to IIITH for the 2025-26 batch. My current curriculum is the NSW HSC from Australia, which includes Mathematics and Physics but not Chemistry. IIITH requires Maths, Physics, and Chemistry for DASA eligibility, and I need to figure out how to add Chemistry.I've been looking into taking Chemistry through NIOS (National Institute of Open Schooling), AP or IB board but I'm concerned because IIITH's brochure specifies that the subjects must be completed "outside India". I've emailed IIITH for clarification, but I'm still waiting for a response. Is this acceptable for DASA?
Ans: It is unlikely that IIIT Hyderabad would accept NIOS Chemistry for DASA eligibility because the DASA brochure states that the subjects must be completed outside India. Since NIOS is an Indian board, it does not meet this requirement. However, you could consider taking AP or IB Chemistry to meet the requirements, as these are often recognized as international qualifications. It's best to wait for IIITH's response to your email for official clarification.
Elaboration:
DASA Requirements:
DASA (Direct Admissions for Students Abroad) at IIIT Hyderabad requires applicants to have completed 11th and 12th grades or equivalent outside India, with a minimum of 60% marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
NIOS and IIITH:
While NIOS is a recognized board in India, it's unlikely to be accepted for DASA at IIITH because the DASA brochure specifies that the subjects must be completed outside India.
AP or IB Chemistry:
You could consider taking AP or IB Chemistry through a foreign board to fulfill the requirement for Chemistry. These are often recognized as international qualifications.
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Career Counsellor - Answered on May 15, 2025

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Dear Sir, My age is 33 year now. I was working in financial sector for 5year as a recovery agent. I have done intermediate in Arts and Diploma in mechanical engineering. Passed out in 2012. Now i want to change my job sector to technical line. I have no experience before in technical line. Please guide me which technical job will be best suitable for me And What Salary Range Should i expect?.
Ans: For you AMIE ( Mechanical) will be the best option. You will be equivalent to B.E./B.Tech Mechanical. The details are given below.
The AMIE (Associate Member of the Institution of Engineers) exam is a professional qualification in engineering, equivalent to a B.E./B.Tech. degree. It's conducted by the Institution of Engineers (India) (IEI) and is offered as a distance learning program. The exam is held twice a year, in June and December.
Exam Structure:
Stage I (Section A): Focuses on fundamental engineering subjects.
Stage II (Section B): Covers a specific branch of engineering like Civil, Electrical, or Mechanical.
Eligibility:
Educational Qualification:
Candidates must have completed a recognized course of study in engineering or technology.
Age:
No upper age limit, but candidates must be at least 18 years old on the first day of the examination.
Other:
Indian citizens or foreign nationals with at least two years of residence in India.
Exam Pattern:
The exam is based on multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
It can be taken online (CBT) or offline (PBT).
Benefits:
Becoming a graduate engineer with the same qualification as a B.E./B.Tech. degree.
Recognized by government and private sectors.
Least expensive compared to traditional degree programs.
Application Process:
Download the application form from the IEI website.
Fill out the form and attach the required documents.
Pay the application fee.
Submit the application form along with the fee.

But since you did the recovery work in Finance sector you are totally detached from Mechanical Engineering. So it is not possible to say what kind of job you will get and what will be your salary.

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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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