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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7363 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 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
Ashish Question by Ashish on Mar 02, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi, I am 36 years old, married & have 1 child (3 year old). Me & wife have combined income from salary of 3.75 lakh post taxes. We are investing in following funds & have investment horizon of more than 15 years. Aditya BSL Pure Value - 2k DSP Value Fund - 4k HDFC Small Cap - 2K Kotak business cycle - 5k Kotak Emerging Equity fund - 2K Motilal Oswal large and Midcap - 10k Bandhan Core Equity - 2k Baroda BNP India Consumption - 3k Franklin India Prima - 4k HDFC Mid Cap Opportunity - 2k HSBC Small Cap - 5k Nippon India Flexi Cap - 7.5 SBI small cap - 4k White Oak capital Large and Mid - 7.5k ICICI prudential India opportunity -10k NPS - 15K Equity Market - 25K SGB - 15K LIC -10K. I'm looking for the same investment till next 15 years. Definitely will increase the MF amount every year. I'm looking for at least 15+ Cr corpus at the age of 55. Please guide me with the existing investment.

Ans: Thank you for providing details about your financial situation and investment goals. It's commendable that you have a long-term investment horizon and are committed to increasing your investment amounts annually. Let's analyze your current portfolio and provide guidance to help you achieve your goal of accumulating a corpus of Rs. 15 crores by the age of 55.

Current Portfolio Analysis
1. Diverse Mutual Fund Investments
You have a well-diversified portfolio across various mutual funds, including large cap, mid cap, small cap, value, and thematic funds. This diversification helps mitigate risk and capture growth across different market segments.

2. Monthly SIP Amount
Your current SIPs in mutual funds amount to Rs. 71,000 per month. This disciplined approach to investing through SIPs ensures regular contributions and benefits from rupee cost averaging.

3. Additional Investments
Besides mutual funds, you also invest in NPS (Rs. 15,000), equity market (Rs. 25,000), Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGB - Rs. 15,000), and LIC (Rs. 10,000). These investments provide further diversification and stability to your portfolio.

Evaluating Your Investment Strategy
1. Investment Horizon
With an investment horizon of over 15 years, you have the advantage of time on your side. Long-term investments in equity mutual funds can help you achieve significant capital appreciation.

2. Portfolio Diversification
Your portfolio includes a mix of large, mid, and small cap funds, as well as value and thematic funds. This diversification is essential to spread risk and capture growth across various sectors and market caps.

3. Regular Increment in SIP Amounts
You plan to increase your SIP amounts every year, which is a wise strategy. This helps in maintaining the purchasing power of your investments and accelerates the growth of your corpus.

Recommendations for Optimization
1. Focus on Quality Funds
While your portfolio is well-diversified, it's essential to focus on quality funds with a consistent track record. Regularly review the performance of your funds and replace underperformers with better alternatives.

2. Reduce Overlapping
Some of your funds may have overlapping investments in similar stocks. Reducing overlapping can enhance the efficiency of your portfolio. For example, having too many small cap funds can lead to redundancy.

3. Maintain Asset Allocation
Regularly rebalance your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation. This ensures that your investment strategy remains aligned with your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Projected Growth and Corpus Calculation
1. Expected Returns
Assuming an average annual return of 12% from your equity mutual funds, you can project the growth of your investments over the next 15 years. Historical data suggests that well-diversified equity portfolios can achieve such returns over the long term.

2. Increasing SIP Contributions
Increasing your SIP contributions by 10% annually can significantly boost your corpus. This strategy takes advantage of compounding and helps in accumulating a larger corpus.

3. Additional Contributions
Your investments in NPS, equity market, SGB, and LIC also contribute to your overall corpus. Ensure these investments are aligned with your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Example Calculation
Let's consider a simplified example to project your corpus:

Initial Monthly SIP: Rs. 71,000
Annual Increase in SIP: 10%
Annual Return on Mutual Funds: 12%
Over 15 years, this strategy can help you accumulate a significant corpus. Please note that actual returns can vary, and it's essential to review and adjust your strategy regularly.

Importance of Consulting a Certified Financial Planner
1. Personalized Advice
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) provides personalized advice based on your financial situation, goals, and risk tolerance. They help you make informed decisions tailored to your needs.

2. Expert Management
A CFP continuously monitors your investments and market conditions. They make necessary adjustments to your portfolio, ensuring it remains on track to achieve your financial objectives.

3. Risk Management
A CFP employs strategies to manage risk and optimize returns. Their expertise helps in navigating market volatility and safeguarding your investments.

Conclusion
Your disciplined investment approach, diversified portfolio, and long-term horizon put you on a strong path toward achieving your goal of accumulating Rs. 15 crores. By focusing on quality funds, reducing overlap, and maintaining a balanced asset allocation, you can optimize your investment strategy.

Regularly consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) will provide you with personalized advice and expert management to keep your investments on track. Your commitment to increasing your SIP contributions annually further enhances your potential to achieve your financial goals.

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 Kalirajan  |7363 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 2024

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Hi, I am 36 years old, married & have 1 child (3 year old). Me & wife have combined income from salary of 3.75 lakh post taxes. We are investing in following funds & have investment horizon of more than 15 years. Aditya BSL Pure Value - 2k DSP Value Fund - 4k HDFC Small Cap - 2K Kotak business cycle - 5k Kotak Emerging Equity fund - 2K Motilal Oswal large and Midcap - 10k Bandhan Core Equity - 2k Baroda BNP India Consumption - 3k Franklin India Prima - 4k HDFC Mid Cap Opportunity - 2k HSBC Small Cap - 5k Nippon India Flexi Cap - 7.5 SBI small cap - 4k White Oak capital Large and Mid - 7.5k ICICI prudential India opportunity -10k NPS - 15K Equity Market - 25K SGB - 15K LIC -10K. I'm looking for the same investment till next 15 years. Definitely will increase the MF amount every year. I'm looking for at least 20+ Cr corpus at the age of 55. Please guide me with the existing investment. Total Liability like Home Loan and Top up loan EMI is 42K. I want to make same EMI for Loan and future surplus amount to be invest in equity market with low risk as I'm moving towards early 40s.
Ans: Based on your investment portfolio and financial goals, let's evaluate your current strategy. You've made a commendable effort in diversifying your investments across various mutual funds and other instruments, aiming for a substantial corpus in the next 15 years. Your commitment to increasing your mutual fund investments annually is a wise move, considering the potential for wealth accumulation over time.

However, let's delve into a few considerations. While your investment horizon is long-term, it's prudent to periodically review your portfolio's performance and adjust it according to changing market conditions and your evolving financial situation. With increasing age and responsibilities, it's natural to prioritize stability and lower risk in your investments.

You've mentioned a desire to maintain your current loan EMIs while directing surplus funds towards equity markets with lower risk. This approach aligns with a conservative yet growth-oriented investment strategy, balancing the need for stability with wealth creation potential. As you move towards your early 40s, this cautious approach can provide a cushion against market volatility while still capturing growth opportunities.

While your current portfolio includes a diverse mix of actively managed mutual funds, it's important to acknowledge the disadvantages of solely relying on actively managed funds. These can include higher expense ratios and the possibility of underperformance compared to benchmark indices. However, the benefits of active management, such as the potential for outperformance and flexibility in portfolio construction, justify their inclusion in your investment strategy.

In conclusion, your commitment to long-term wealth creation is admirable. By maintaining a disciplined approach to investing, periodically reviewing your portfolio, and balancing risk and growth opportunities, you're on track to achieve your financial goals.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7363 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

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Hi, I am 36 years old, married & have 1 child (3 years old). My & wife and I have combined income from a salary of 4 lakh post taxes. We are investing in the following funds & have an investment horizon of more than 15 years. Wife Aditya BSL Pure Value - 2k DSP Value Fund - 4k HDFC Small Cap - 2K JM Financial Mid Cap - 10K Kotak business cycle - 5k Kotak Emerging Equity fund - 2K Motilal Oswal large and Midcap - 10k Motila Oswal Business Cycle Fund - 10k My Self Bandhan Core Equity - 2k Baroda BNP India Consumption - 3k Franklin India Prima - 4k HDFC Mid Cap Opportunity - 2k HSBC Small Cap - 5k Kotak Special Opportunity Fund - 10K Nippon India Flexi Cap - 7.5 SBI small cap - 4k White Oak capital Large and Mid - 7.5k ICICI prudential India opportunity -10k Equity Market - 25K SGB - 10K LIC - 5.2K. I'm looking for the same investment till next 15 years. Definitely will increase the MF amount every year. I'm looking for at least 15+ Cr corpus at the age of 55. Please guide me with the existing investment
Ans: Your portfolio demonstrates impressive discipline and diversification. Your strategy aligns well with your long-term goals. Let’s evaluate your investments from different perspectives to enhance your financial journey.

Income and Savings Allocation
You and your spouse have a combined post-tax income of Rs 4 lakh monthly. This indicates a healthy cash flow for both expenses and investments.

You are currently investing a significant portion of your income. It’s commendable and reflects your commitment to wealth creation.

Ensure you have adequate emergency funds in place. Ideally, maintain 6–12 months of household expenses in liquid assets like bank deposits or liquid funds.

Regularly increase your investments in line with your income growth. This will help mitigate inflation and maintain financial discipline.

Portfolio Diversification
Your portfolio includes large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and thematic funds. Let’s analyse its structure:

Equity Funds: Your portfolio has a good mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. However, there may be an overlap in holdings due to multiple funds in similar categories.

Thematic and Sectoral Funds: These add potential for higher returns but come with higher risk. Maintain their allocation within 10–15% of your portfolio.

Direct Stocks (Equity Market): A Rs 25K monthly allocation here adds direct exposure. This is suitable if you have expertise and time to track individual stocks.

Debt and Gold: Investments in Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) and LIC provide stability. However, LIC policies may have lower returns compared to other instruments.

Steps to Optimise Your Portfolio
1. Reduce Fund Overlap
Multiple funds in similar categories can lead to duplication. Consolidate funds with similar investment styles.

For example, instead of holding several mid-cap funds, select one or two strong performers.

2. Evaluate LIC Policy
LIC is a low-return investment compared to equity funds. If you hold traditional LIC policies, consider surrendering them after a cost-benefit analysis.

Reinvest proceeds into mutual funds for better compounding over 15+ years.

3. Balance Asset Allocation
Equity investments dominate your portfolio, which is suitable for your time horizon.

Continue allocating 10–15% to debt and gold for stability. Use a debt mutual fund for better tax efficiency than LIC policies.

Keep reviewing asset allocation annually based on life events or market conditions.

4. Increase Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) Amount
Increase SIPs by at least 10–15% annually to match income growth.

This disciplined approach ensures consistent wealth accumulation.

5. Review Fund Performance Regularly
Monitor fund performance every 6–12 months. Exit funds underperforming their category for over two years.

Choose funds managed by experienced fund managers with a proven track record.

6. Tax Efficiency
LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%. Keep this in mind while redeeming equity funds.

Use the tax-harvesting strategy by redeeming gains below Rs 1.25 lakh annually to minimise tax liability.

Insurance Coverage
Ensure you and your spouse have adequate term insurance covering at least 10–15 times your annual income.

A health insurance policy for the family is crucial. Consider a super top-up policy for additional coverage.

Avoid investment-linked insurance products. Term insurance is cost-effective, and mutual funds provide better returns.

Child’s Future Planning
Start a dedicated SIP for your child’s education and marriage. Allocate funds in diversified equity schemes.

Goal-based investing helps in disciplined savings and keeps you on track.

Retirement Planning
Your target corpus of Rs 15+ crore by age 55 is realistic.

Focus on equity for growth. Add balanced funds or flexi-cap funds for moderate risk-adjusted returns.

Avoid early withdrawals to benefit from compounding over 15+ years.

Thematic Investments
Funds like business cycle or thematic funds are high-risk. Keep allocation limited to avoid concentration risks.

Evaluate the suitability of these funds every three years.

Risk Management
Your equity allocation indicates a high-risk appetite. Reassess your risk profile every 3–5 years.

Avoid emotional decisions during market volatility. Stay focused on long-term goals.

Final Insights
Your financial discipline and long-term approach are excellent. Optimising your portfolio with fewer funds and higher SIP amounts will improve efficiency. Regular reviews and a clear focus on goals will ensure success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

..Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7363 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 22, 2024Hindi
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I have lost money around 8 lakhs in gambling now i want to restart my life fresh i need to settle my debts and loan with bank and NBFCs is it possible to settle money at 70 percent waived off
Ans: Restarting your life after financial setbacks is possible with a disciplined approach. Settling your debts with banks and NBFCs requires a strategic plan, negotiation, and commitment. Here's a 360-degree approach to help you resolve your situation:

Assess Your Current Financial Position
List All Debts: Create a detailed list of all outstanding loans and debts, including principal, interest, and penalties.

Identify Income Sources: Calculate your monthly income and any other sources of funds.

Evaluate Essential Expenses: Identify non-negotiable expenses such as rent, food, utilities, and transport.

Determine Negotiable Debts: Focus on debts with higher interest rates or legal implications.

Negotiating with Lenders
Possibility of Settling at 70% Waiver
Banks and NBFCs Are Open to Negotiation: They prefer recovering some amount rather than declaring a loan as non-performing.

Settlement Terms Vary: Each lender may have unique policies. Some might agree to 70% waiver, but others may not.

Present Your Case Transparently: Show proof of your financial hardship. Explain your inability to pay in full.

Request a One-Time Settlement (OTS): Offer to pay a lump sum of the waived-off amount to close the debt.

Steps to Negotiate Effectively
Reach Out to the Right Department: Contact the collections or recovery department of your lender.

Seek Professional Help: A certified financial planner or debt resolution expert can negotiate on your behalf.

Prepare a Settlement Plan: Propose a realistic amount you can pay. Mention the sources for this payment.

Ask for Written Confirmation: Ensure the lender provides a formal agreement on the waived-off amount.

Negotiate for Reduced Interest and Penalties: Request removal of penalties and reduction of interest rates.

Managing Your Financial Obligations
Repayment Strategy
Prioritise High-Interest Loans: Focus on clearing loans with higher interest rates first.

Consolidate Debts: Consider consolidating multiple loans into one with a lower interest rate.

Use Liquid Assets Wisely: If you have savings or assets, use them to reduce your debt burden.

Building a Fresh Financial Foundation
Avoid Gambling and High-Risk Activities
Adopt Healthy Habits: Seek professional help if gambling is an addiction. Join support groups like Gamblers Anonymous.

Focus on Financial Literacy: Learn to manage your money effectively through courses or books.

Create a Budget and Emergency Fund
Track Income and Expenses: Use apps or spreadsheets to monitor your financial activity.

Save for Emergencies: Set aside 3–6 months of expenses as a safety net.

Restart Investments Gradually
Start with SIPs: Begin investing small amounts in mutual funds. Avoid direct stock trading initially.

Build a Retirement Corpus: Plan for long-term financial security systematically.

Final Insights
Rebuilding your life after a financial setback takes effort but is achievable. Focus on negotiating your debts transparently and settling them systematically. Learn from past mistakes and adopt disciplined financial habits. Restart your journey with renewed confidence and a commitment to avoid risky behaviours. Seek professional guidance when needed to make informed decisions.

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Chief Financial Planner,

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

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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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