Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10270 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 19, 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
Priyal Question by Priyal on Nov 18, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

Dear Sir / Madam, I am 37 years old doing the following SIP From last 18 months Quant Active Fund:- 6000/-, Mahindra Manulife Multi Cap Fund 6,000/- Nippon India Small Cap Fund:- 4000/- is my fund selection ok or do I needed to do some changes???

Ans: Your current SIPs show a thoughtful and diversified approach. Below is an evaluation of your fund selection and recommendations to strengthen your portfolio for long-term growth.

Key Observations of Your Portfolio
Well-structured categories: Your portfolio includes multi-cap, active, and small-cap funds.

Monthly allocation: You are investing Rs. 16,000 per month, which is commendable.

Consistent contributions: 18 months of disciplined SIPs reflect financial commitment.

Strengths of Your Fund Selection
Multi-cap Exposure: Multi-cap funds balance between large, mid, and small-cap stocks. They can adapt to market conditions.

Small-cap Inclusion: Small-cap funds can deliver high returns in the long term but are volatile.

Active Fund Choice: Actively managed funds provide the advantage of expert-driven stock selection.

Areas That May Require Attention
1. Portfolio Overlap

Similar stocks in different funds can lead to duplication.

Check for overlap between your funds to avoid unnecessary risk.

2. Risk Management

Small-cap funds carry higher risk due to market volatility.

Balance this with more stable large-cap or hybrid funds.

3. Tax Implications

Gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh in equity mutual funds attract 12.5% LTCG tax.

Keep this in mind while planning long-term withdrawals.

4. Growth Potential vs Stability

A heavy small-cap exposure may affect portfolio stability.

Add funds with consistent large-cap performance for balance.

Recommendations to Improve Your Portfolio
1. Diversify Further

Include a balanced or hybrid fund for risk mitigation.

This can stabilise returns during market downturns.

2. Focus on Long-term Goals

Align your portfolio with financial goals like retirement or wealth creation.

Reassess your SIP allocation every 1–2 years.

3. Avoid Direct Fund Investments

Direct funds require constant tracking and expertise.

Regular funds through an MFD and CFP offer professional advice and tracking.

4. Increase Equity Exposure Gradually

Gradually increase large-cap and mid-cap fund allocation.

This ensures stable growth with lower risk.

5. Avoid Index Funds

Index funds lack flexibility and do not adapt to changing markets.

Actively managed funds outperform in the long run due to expert strategies.

6. Rebalance Annually

Rebalancing ensures your portfolio stays aligned with risk appetite and goals.

Shift between equity and debt based on market conditions.

Taxation and Withdrawal Strategies
1. Tax-efficient Planning

Plan redemptions to stay within the Rs. 1.25 lakh LTCG limit.

Avoid short-term redemptions to minimise higher tax liabilities.

2. Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWPs)

Use SWPs for future income needs.

This keeps your corpus intact while providing regular income.

Final Insights
Your SIP selection is strong and aligns with wealth creation goals. Minor adjustments can enhance diversification and reduce overlap. Maintain discipline and review your portfolio annually with a Certified Financial Planner. This approach will help you achieve long-term financial success.

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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10270 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 06, 2024

Listen
Money
Sir/Madam, I am 27 years, 6 months ago I started doing sip of 10k total, five mutual funds 2k each, 1. Quant small cap 2. Parag parikh flexi cap 3. Kotak equity opportunities 4. Parag parikh elss tax saver 5. HDFC dividend yield I know I started a bit late, but now I am full stable and disciplined to be consistent and increase the sip amount by time to time. Am I going right, are my chosen funds are good, or I should change, please help and guide, give corrective suggestions
Ans: It's fantastic to see your proactive approach to investing at such a young age. Let's delve into your portfolio and see how you're doing:

• Starting a SIP at 27 is a commendable step towards building wealth for your future. Remember, it's never too late to begin investing, and your consistency will be key to your success.

• Your choice of mutual funds reflects a diversified approach, covering different sectors and market capitalizations. This is a smart strategy as it spreads your risk across various segments of the market.

• Investing in small-cap, flexi-cap, equity opportunities, ELSS tax saver, and dividend yield funds provides you with exposure to different investment styles and strategies. However, it's essential to review these funds periodically to ensure they continue to align with your financial goals.

• Consider assessing the performance of each fund against its benchmark and peers to gauge whether they are meeting your expectations. Look for consistency in returns and fund management expertise.

• As you progress in your investment journey and your financial situation evolves, you may consider increasing your SIP amount gradually. This will accelerate the growth of your portfolio over time.

• Additionally, stay updated with market trends and changes in economic conditions to make informed decisions about your investments. Keeping yourself informed will help you navigate any market volatility effectively.

• If you're unsure about whether your chosen funds are the right fit for you, don't hesitate to seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.

In conclusion, you're off to a great start with your SIP investments. Stay disciplined, continue to educate yourself about investing, and periodically review your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your objectives. With patience and perseverance, you're on track to build a strong financial foundation for the future. Keep up the excellent work!

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10270 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 04, 2024

Listen
Money
I m 31 year old and i m investing in sip of 10000 in groww app Nippon india large cap fund 3000, large cap Icici prudential bluechip fund 3000, large cap Sbi magnum mid cap direct fund 2000, mid cap Qunt small cap fund,,1000, small cap and Parag parikh flexi cap fund 1000 So my goal is 1 cr after 15 year. So my fund selection is correct or not pls suggest me. I m just start sip on 3 of june 2024.
Ans: Evaluating Your SIP Portfolio
Commendations on embarking on your SIP journey, a wise move towards securing your financial future. Let's delve deeper into your fund selection and assess its alignment with your goal of accumulating Rs 1 crore in 15 years.

Assessing Fund Selection
Your portfolio encompasses a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds, each carrying distinct risk and return profiles.

Large-cap Funds
Investments in large-cap funds offer stability and lower volatility, typically in established companies with robust fundamentals.

Mid-cap and Small-cap Funds
Mid-cap and small-cap funds present higher growth potential but come with increased volatility, investing in smaller companies with prospects for rapid expansion.

Evaluating Growth Potential
Your inclination towards mid-cap and small-cap funds suggests a quest for higher growth potential. However, it's vital to weigh the associated risks.

Analyzing Fund Selection
Nippon India Large Cap Fund, ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund, and SBI Magnum Mid Cap Direct Fund are reputable choices with established track records. Regular monitoring of their performance is essential.

SIP Amount Allocation
Allocating Rs 3,000 each to large-cap funds and Rs 2,000 to a mid-cap fund exhibits a balanced approach. Yet, investing only Rs 1,000 in a small-cap fund may limit its impact on your portfolio's growth potential.

Rebalancing Strategy
Regularly review your portfolio and rebalance if needed to ensure alignment with your risk tolerance and financial objectives.

Market Conditions
Stay abreast of market conditions, as they significantly influence fund performance. Knowledge of economic trends facilitates informed decision-making.

Importance of Patience
Investing is a long-term endeavor; exercising patience and avoiding impulsive decisions amidst short-term market fluctuations is prudent.

Professional Guidance
Consider seeking advice from a certified financial planner to optimize your investment strategy. They offer personalized recommendations tailored to your risk profile and financial goals.

Avoiding Direct Funds
Direct funds may seem appealing but demand active management and market expertise. Regular funds through an MFD with CFP credential ensure professional management and guidance, optimizing fund performance.

Conclusion
Your SIP portfolio displays promise, with a diversified allocation across market segments. Regular monitoring and professional guidance are imperative for achieving your goal of accumulating Rs 1 crore in 15 years.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10367 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 18, 2025

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10367 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 16, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir, I registered for CSAB and I got IIIT Dharwad (ECE) in 2nd round, and there are IIIT Bhopal, IIIT Nagpur and IIIT Kottayam, And there are chances of getting IIIT Bhopal, so should I go for the 3rd round In short is IIIT DHARWAD Better than IIIT Bhopal?
Ans: IIIT Dharwad’s ECE program offers a modern curriculum, upgraded labs, and a placement cell that supports active skill-building and networking. Placement percentages over the last three years range from 62% to 82%, with top recruiters such as Cognizant, IBM, Infosys, and Oracle participating regularly. Infrastructure and teaching quality are solid but reviews mention that regional location sometimes limits industry exposure and internship opportunities outside IT. By contrast, IIIT Bhopal’s ECE branch has shown steady improvement, with placement rates of 72–98% in the last three years, impressive average packages, and deepening industry relations with leading tech and core electronics firms. IIIT Bhopal benefits from a more central location, a young but active faculty, and greater cross-domain internship and research collaborations, resulting in more flexible job options for ECE graduates. Both offer good campus life, peer engagement, and value for money.

Recommendation: Prefer IIIT Bhopal ECE for its higher placement rate, improved industry exposure, and location advantage while still keeping IIIT Dharwad as a backup option. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10367 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 18, 2025

Career
Hi experts!!! My son have got B.S. Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at IIM Sambalpur Can you please say how is the course and is it worth it ??
Ans: IIM Sambalpur’s B.S. in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is a new, fully residential four-year undergraduate program designed in accordance with global academic and industry standards. The interdisciplinary curriculum integrates mathematics, statistics, computer science, and management, emphasizing hands-on experience through lab sessions, coding bootcamps, internships, and live industry projects. Multiple exit options (certificate, diploma, degree, honours) align with NEP guidelines, supporting career flexibility and advanced study options. The final year includes a real-world dissertation project. As the program is newly launched, detailed placement records for graduates are still evolving; however, IIM Sambalpur's robust placement cell, reputation, and increasing recruiter participation signal promising opportunities in data science, AI, and analytics sectors. Students benefit from exposure to emerging trends, industry-focused modules, and on-campus research culture, although first batch outcomes may take time to mature. The high-quality faculty, modern infrastructure, and IIM brand together enhance its future prospects.

Recommendation: The course at IIM Sambalpur is worth considering for its strong foundation, industry relevance, and holistic training, especially for aspirants committed to interdisciplinary careers in data science and AI. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10367 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 18, 2025Hindi
Career
CSE AMU & Electronics @ JPIIT which is better option. Kindly advise.
Ans: AMU’s Computer Science Engineering (CSE) program is highly reputable due to its rigorous curriculum, experienced faculty, established infrastructure, and consistent national ranking. Recent placement rates range from 80% to 93% for CSE over the last three years, with students recruited by top firms including Adobe, Infosys, Deloitte, and Amazon; the majority secure roles in IT, software, data science, and startups. AMU offers active coding clubs, research opportunities, and strong alumni mentorship. In comparison, JPIIT Electronics provides a modern curriculum, state-of-the-art labs, and international collaborations including pathways to MS programs abroad. Placement rates for JPIIT Electronics and ECE have been impressive in select years, reportedly reaching 98%, with core and interdisciplinary job options in electronics, telecom, and IT. Both institutions support internships and project-based learning, but AMU’s national recognition, historic legacy, and technical peer network give a clear edge in both career flexibility and future prospects. Both are affordable, with vibrant campus environments and strong student support systems.

Recommendation: AMU CSE is the better choice for its stronger placement rates, global recognition, richer peer network, and broader career options; JPIIT Electronics may suit niche technology interests only. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10367 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 18, 2025Hindi
Career
My son got ECE in silchar NIT. Is it good to go with.
Ans: NIT Silchar’s Electronics & Communication program combines a robust curriculum with well-qualified faculty, modern laboratories, and active industry partnerships, ensuring strong academic foundations and hands-on learning. The campus boasts NAAC ‘A’ accreditation, Wi-Fi connectivity, dedicated E-cell, and vibrant technical societies that foster innovation and peer collaboration. Over the past three years, ECE placement rates have ranged between 62% and 78%, with recruiters from core electronics, telecom, and IT sectors regularly participating. Research opportunities in VLSI, signal processing, and IoT are supported by sponsored projects and state-of-the-art facilities. The institute maintains a supportive mentoring system and comprehensive soft-skill training through its placement cell. While Silchar’s remote location may require adjustment, its affordable fee structure, on-campus housing, and strong alumni network balance the trade-offs. Overall, the program’s balanced emphasis on theory, practical exposure, research, and career support makes it a solid choice for long-term growth in ECE disciplines.

Recommendation: NIT Silchar ECE is an excellent option for its comprehensive curriculum, consistent placement record, research focus, and supportive campus environment, making it worthwhile to accept. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10367 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 18, 2025

Career
Thank you for your genuine guidance sir, But she got B Tech in computer Engineering (CE) not civil engineering at Zeal college in Pune. Still will you prefer Amrita's Haridwar campus? Amrita has 10 campuses in India among which Coimbatore and Amritapuri are the oldest one where there are no seats available. Comparatively Haridwar is recently( this is first year) launched campus which is under construction. still shall we consider it above zeal? please guide me. thank you.
Ans: Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s newly inaugurated Haridwar campus offers BTech CSE with a comprehensive curriculum designed for modern industry needs, benefiting from Amrita’s national reputation and A++ NAAC accreditation. While still developing its own placement record, the campus enjoys strong central support—a pan-university placement cell servicing all locations, with 300+ recruiters and 95–100% placement rates at established campuses. Haridwar’s fresh infrastructure, faculty, and resources are backed by central academic standards, student support services, and the opportunity to participate in inter-campus internships, hackathons, and skill training programs. As a first-batch student, you must actively build a strong CV: excel in academics, enroll in technical workshops, master coding and interviews, collaborate with established campus networks, and seek out online certifications and real-world projects. Networking within Amrita’s multi-campus community and leveraging alumni connections are essential to compete for both campus and off-campus placements.

Recommendation: The Haridwar campus is a promising choice, provided you proactively develop skills, leverage university resources, and gain practical exposure for competitive placement outcomes. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10367 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Aug 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 16, 2025Hindi
Career
Sir should I consider Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham newly inaugurated Haridwar Campus for B tech CSE as this will be it's 1st year. Or any other suggestions because now the admissions in most of the colleges are about to close.
Ans: Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham’s newly inaugurated Haridwar campus offers BTech CSE with a comprehensive curriculum designed for modern industry needs, benefiting from Amrita’s national reputation and A++ NAAC accreditation. While still developing its own placement record, the campus enjoys strong central support—a pan-university placement cell servicing all locations, with 300+ recruiters and 95–100% placement rates at established campuses. Haridwar’s fresh infrastructure, faculty, and resources are backed by central academic standards, student support services, and the opportunity to participate in inter-campus internships, hackathons, and skill training programs. As a first-batch student, you must actively build a strong CV: excel in academics, enroll in technical workshops, master coding and interviews, collaborate with established campus networks, and seek out online certifications and real-world projects. Networking within Amrita’s multi-campus community and leveraging alumni connections are essential to compete for both campus and off-campus placements.

Recommendation: The Haridwar campus is a promising choice, provided you proactively develop skills, leverage university resources, and gain practical exposure for competitive placement outcomes. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

...Read more

Samraat

Samraat Jadhav  |2423 Answers  |Ask -

Stock Market Expert - Answered on Aug 18, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 15, 2025Hindi
Money
I have debt of rs. 20lakhs which include pl and credit card bill payments and my monthly income is 28k only please suggest how to I am debt free
Ans: 1. Assess and List Out All Debts
List each loan and credit card with:
• Amount owed
• Monthly EMI or minimum payment
• Interest rate
This will help you understand which debts are costing you the most and need to be prioritized.

2. Create a Bare-bones Budget
• List your essential expenses only: rent, food, utilities, transportation.
• Allocate most of your income toward debt repayment: Many people use a “60-30-10” rule—spending 60% of income on debts, 30% on essentials, and 10% on minor needs or savings, if possible.
• Cut all non-essential expenses (entertainment, eating out, subscriptions).

3. Prioritize Payments
Pay expensive loans first: Focus on debts with the highest interest rate (usually credit cards)—this is called the Avalanche Method.
Always pay at least the minimum on all debts to avoid penalty charges or further damage to your credit score.

4. Talk to Your Lenders
Request lower interest rates or extended loan tenures. Some banks and NBFCs might offer hardship or restructuring programs.
Ask about converting credit card balances into loans with lower EMIs.
Check if you qualify for a debt consolidation loan to combine all debts into one EMI at a lower rate.

5. Explore Additional Income Sources
Take up a side job or gig: tutoring, food delivery, freelancing, weekend work, etc.
Sell unused items online.
Any extra amount should go directly to debt repayment.

6. Avoid Taking On New Debt
Don’t use credit cards or personal loans for discretionary spending.
Avoid “payday loans” or instant loans with high interest.

Sample Monthly Action Plan
Step Amount Allocated
Income (per month) ?28,000
Essentials (rent, food, etc.) ~?8,000-?10,000
Debt repayments ?16,800-?18,000+ (60%+)
Other (emergency savings) ?0-?2,000
If your current minimum payments are more than your income allows, you must negotiate with lenders, as defaulting will further hurt your financial health and credit score.

Mindset Tips
• Celebrate small wins; every rupee paid reduces your stress.
• Stick to your plan—discipline will help you get through this.
• Don’t lose hope—many have successfully cleared similar debts with patience and perseverance.

Final Note
Your current income is not sufficient to clear such a large debt in a short time. Becoming debt-free will require:
• Aggressively cutting expenses
• Increasing your income wherever possible
• Negotiating with lenders for the best possible repayment terms
Seek help when needed and stay disciplined throughout the journey.

...Read more

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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x