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Nikunj

Nikunj Saraf  |308 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds Expert - Answered on Nov 30, 2022

Nikunj Saraf has more than five years of experience in financial markets and offers advice about mutual funds. He is vice president at Choice Wealth, a financial institution that offers broking, insurance, loans and government advisory services. Saraf, who is a member of the Institute Of Chartered Accountants of India, has a strong base in financial markets and wealth management.... more
Madan Question by Madan on Nov 30, 2022Hindi
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Hi Sir, I am 38 years old and the following are my investment portfolio:

Kotak Mulitcap Fund (G) 1000/-
UTI -nifty 50 index Fund (G) 2000/-
AXIS Midcap Dund (G)3000/-
HDFC Top 100 Fund (G) 3000/-
Kotak Flexi cap fund (G) 2500/-
DSP Equity & Bond Fund (G) 3000/-
SBI Focused Equity Fund (G) 3000/-
AXIS Bluechip Fund (G) 2500/-

Please let me know if I need to change anything in the above list, I am investing in these Mutual funds for longer term and gains. 

Ans: Hello Madan Rao. Looking at your portfolio. I would advice reconsider your schemes of AXIS Bluechip Fund, HDFC Top 100 Fund & Kotak Flexi cap Fund to better alternative peer schemes.

 

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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Omkeshwar

Omkeshwar Singh  | Answer  |Ask -

Head, Rank MF - Answered on Mar 18, 2021

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I am 35 years old and working with a PSB. I have recently started investing in mutual funds. My present portfolio details are as below. Please advise on any change if required in my portfolio with objective of investment for long term. Name of Fund Present Value SIP Amount 1. Axis Long Term Equity 30000 2000 2. Edelweiss Balanced Advantage 10000 2000 3. HDFC Small Cap 11000   4. ICICI Pru Equity & Debt 25000 1000 5. ICICI Pru US Bluechip 10000   6. Kotak Asset Allocator Fund 10000 2000 7. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap 20000 2000 8. SBI Nifty Index 22500 1000
Ans: Please continue with 1, 2, 5, 6, 7 & 8

Axis Small Cap / Kotak Small Cap are better Small Cap options

Axis Equity Hybrid or Canara Robeco Equity hybrid are better aggressive hybrid funds

Tim: My mutual fund schemes are as below. Please advise which funds I should continue / discontinue 

Mutual Fund Scheme Start Date Frequency

1. NIPPON INDIA MULTI CAP FUND - GROWTH PLAN GROWTH OPTION

10-01-2014 Monthly

2. ICICI Prudential Long Term Equity Fund (Tax Saving) - Growth

07-06-2015 Monthly

3. UTI Unit Linked Insurance Plan - 15 Year - Regular Plan

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4. Aditya Birla Sun Life Tax Relief'96 Fund-

07-07-2017 Monthly

5. SBI Blue Chip Fund - Direct Plan - Growth

15-07-2017 Monthly

6. Tata Digital India Fund Direct-Growth

10-07-2018 Monthly

7. ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund - Direct Plan - Growth

07-10-2018 Monthly

8. Tata Small Cap Fund - Direct Plan - Growth

12-11-2018 One time

9. ICICI Prudential India Opportunities Fund Direct Plan Growth

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10. Franklin Build India Fund - Direct-GROWTH Plan

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..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 29, 2024Hindi
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Hello I'm working in private sector and my age is 34. Currently i'm investing in 7 mutual funds for longterm wealth creation. Rs1000 in Quant Small Cap Fund Direct Plan Growth, Rs1000 in Quant Mid Cap Fund Direct Growth, Rs1000 in Quant ELSS Tax Saver Fund Direct Growth, Rs1000 in Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund Direct Growth, Rs1000 in Nippon India Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund Direct Growth, Rs1000 in Motilal Oswal Nifty Midcap 150 Index Fund Direct Growth, Rs1000 in DSP Nifty 50 Equal Weight Index Fund Direct Growth. Please let me know if you see any need for corrections or changes in my portfolio. Thank you.
Ans: Evaluating and Optimising Your Mutual Fund Portfolio
Commendation on Your Investment Strategy
First, congratulations on your commitment to long-term wealth creation. At 34, you have ample time to grow your investments, and your diversified approach is commendable. Investing in mutual funds is a smart way to build wealth over time.

Analysis of Your Current Portfolio
Understanding Your Choices:

You are currently investing Rs. 1,000 each in seven mutual funds. Your portfolio includes small-cap, mid-cap, ELSS tax saver, flexi-cap, and index funds. This diversification helps spread risk across different market segments.

Pros:

Diversification: Your investments cover various market capitalisations and sectors, reducing risk.
Growth Potential: Small-cap and mid-cap funds can offer high growth potential over time.
Tax Savings: ELSS funds provide tax benefits under Section 80C.
Cons:

Overlapping Investments: Multiple funds in similar categories can lead to overlapping, reducing overall diversification.
Management Effort: Managing many funds can be time-consuming and may require frequent monitoring.
Assessing Direct Funds vs. Regular Funds
Direct Funds:

Lower Expense Ratios: Direct funds have lower expense ratios, meaning more of your money is invested.
Requires Expertise: Direct investing requires a good understanding of the market and funds.
Regular Funds:

Professional Guidance: Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) provides expert advice.
Active Management: Professional fund managers actively manage your investments, aiming to outperform the market.
Evaluating Actively Managed Funds vs. Index Funds
Actively Managed Funds:

Potential for Higher Returns: Fund managers actively select stocks to beat the market, potentially offering higher returns.
Personalised Management: These funds can be tailored to market conditions and investment goals.
Index Funds:

Market Performance: Index funds aim to replicate the market, which may limit returns.
Lower Fees: They generally have lower fees but lack the flexibility of active management.
Suggested Portfolio Adjustments
To optimise your portfolio, consider the following adjustments:

Reduce Overlap:

Consolidate Funds: Streamline your investments by consolidating funds with similar objectives. This reduces overlap and simplifies management.
Increase Active Management:

Professional Management: Shift some investments from index funds to actively managed funds. This leverages the expertise of professional managers.
Balance Risk and Return:

Diversify Wisely: Ensure a good mix of high-growth potential funds and stable investments. This balances risk and return effectively.
Empathy and Understanding Your Financial Goals
Your dedication to investing and building wealth is admirable. It’s essential to align your investments with your long-term goals. By reviewing and adjusting your portfolio, you can enhance its performance and achieve financial success.

Conclusion
Your current investment strategy is on the right track. With some adjustments and professional guidance, you can optimise your portfolio for better returns. Diversification, professional management, and balancing risk will help you achieve your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
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  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 12, 2025
Money
I am 38 years old and self-employed, earning an average of 1.8 to 2 lakhs per month. I have a home loan of 44 lakhs (EMI is 46,000, tenure 15 years). There is no other liabilities. My investments include 11 lakhs in mutual funds, 3 lakhs in fixed deposits, and 1.5 lakh in gold. Should I focus on prepaying the home loan given my irregular income, or keep my investments intact and continue with EMIs?
Ans: You are doing quite well, especially with your investments and controlled liabilities. Your financial discipline is truly appreciable.

You are 38, self-employed, with Rs.1.8 to 2 lakhs monthly income.
Your current home loan is Rs.44 lakhs with EMI of Rs.46,000 for 15 years.
You have Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds, Rs.3 lakhs in FDs, and Rs.1.5 lakhs in gold.
Your income is irregular, but you have no other liabilities.

Let us now do a 360-degree evaluation of whether to prepay the loan or stay invested.

 

Step-by-Step Financial Assessment
1. Evaluate the Stability of Your Income First
You earn between Rs.1.8 to Rs.2 lakhs per month.

 

But income is irregular. That needs caution.

 

Loan EMI is Rs.46,000 — about 25% of your average income.

 

If income drops in any month, EMI pressure will increase.

 

So we must first ensure EMI is always affordable, without stress.

 

Hence, liquidity is more important for you right now than aggressive loan prepayment.

 

2. Evaluate Your Emergency Reserve
You have Rs.3 lakhs in FD and Rs.1.5 lakhs in gold.

 

That makes it Rs.4.5 lakhs total liquid safety.

 

Your EMI is Rs.46,000, and personal expenses will also be there.

 

Ideal emergency fund for you = 6 to 9 months of expenses + EMI.

 

That is around Rs.6 to Rs.8 lakhs minimum.

 

So current emergency fund is slightly lower than ideal.

 

Please don’t use this for loan prepayment now.

 

3. Assess the Role of Mutual Funds
You have Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds. That’s a solid step.

Now let’s assess whether to redeem this and prepay loan.

 

Should You Redeem Mutual Funds to Prepay?
Mutual funds, over long term, give better post-tax return than loan savings.

 

Loan interest is 8% to 9%, whereas mutual funds can give 11–13% in long term.

 

Especially if funds are equity-oriented and held for 5+ years.

 

You will also get capital gains tax exemption on Rs.1.25 lakhs LTCG annually.

 

If you redeem funds, you lose growth potential and compounding.

 

That hurts long-term wealth building.

 

So, do not redeem the entire Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds.

 

4. Disadvantage of Early Loan Prepayment in Your Case
Prepaying early will reduce interest over time, yes.

 

But you may run into cash flow stress in slow months.

 

Once money is used to prepay, it cannot be taken back easily.

 

Liquidity once lost = flexibility lost.

 

Also, income tax benefit under Section 24(b) gets reduced if loan balance drops.

 

So it’s better to maintain balance between repayment and investment.

 

5. Best Strategy for You – A Balanced Approach
Let’s now craft the best plan for you.

 

Maintain Strong Liquidity First
Keep FD and gold untouched.

 

Increase emergency fund to at least Rs.6–Rs.7 lakhs.

 

For that, set aside extra Rs.2.5–Rs.3 lakhs from savings over time.

 

This makes your EMI safe even in low-income months.

 

Continue Your Mutual Fund SIPs Without Stopping
SIPs give long-term growth and beat loan interest in most cases.

 

Don’t stop mutual fund investments to prepay loan.

 

Stay invested. Let wealth compound.

 

Start Small and Periodic Prepayments
Don’t do bulk prepayment now. Do systematic small prepayments.

 

For example, Rs.25,000 to Rs.50,000 extra every 3–4 months.

 

When income is higher, use that surplus to prepay in parts.

 

Target 1–2 bulk part-payments per year.

 

This reduces tenure and interest slowly, without affecting liquidity.

 

Track Your Loan Amortisation Every 6 Months
Use netbanking or get a fresh loan statement every 6 months.

 

Check how each prepayment is reducing principal.

 

Adjust your strategy accordingly.

 

Avoid One-Time Full Prepayment
That would kill your long-term investment compounding.

 

Also removes your income tax benefit under Section 24(b).

 

Stay flexible. You are self-employed.

 

You need cash buffers more than salaried people.

 

Final Insights
Do not do bulk home loan prepayment from mutual funds now.

 

Keep SIPs going and maintain your compounding.

 

Grow your emergency fund to Rs.6–7 lakhs minimum.

 

Use surplus months to make small part-payments towards home loan.

 

This protects your peace and builds wealth at the same time.

 

Reassess in 2–3 years. You may be able to prepay more later.

 

You are already in a good financial position. Your thoughtful approach is praiseworthy.

 

Best Regards,
 
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
 
Chief Financial Planner,
 
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Money
i wish to purchase new car i10, should i purchase the same through own money or should i take a vehicle loan from bank and the money own by my to be kept as FDR or liquid mutual fund
Ans: It’s a good sign that you’re thinking before buying a car. You’re not rushing into it. That shows maturity and smart thinking.

We will now evaluate own money vs vehicle loan — from every angle.

 

Understanding the Nature of a Car Purchase
A car is not an investment.

 

It is a consumption asset, not a growth asset.

 

It depreciates every year. Its value goes down, not up.

 

So the cheaper the total cost, the better for your wealth.

 

Option 1: Use Own Money Fully
Pros

No interest cost. You save on total expenses.

 

You are free from monthly EMI pressure.

 

Car becomes fully yours from day one.

 

No need to deal with bank, forms, hypothecation etc.

 

Cons

Your liquid money reduces.

 

You may not have enough cash for emergencies.

 

Opportunity loss if you had invested that money.

 

Option 2: Take Vehicle Loan & Keep Own Money in FDR or Liquid Mutual Fund
Let’s evaluate this with care.

Vehicle Loan Pros

You can preserve your savings for emergencies.

 

EMI can be budgeted monthly, if income is stable.

 

Some banks offer competitive interest rates.

 

Vehicle Loan Cons

You will pay interest on a depreciating item.

 

Loan adds to your monthly obligations.

 

You must pay insurance, EMI, fuel, and service together.

 

FDR and Liquid Mutual Funds give lower returns than loan cost.

 

So you will likely lose more in interest than you gain.

 

Let's Compare: Interest Rate vs Investment Return
Vehicle loan interest is usually 9% to 11% per year.

 

FDR gives around 6% to 7% before tax.

 

Liquid mutual funds give 6% to 7.5% on average.

 

So you pay more to the bank than you earn from investment.

 

Tax on interest or gains reduces actual return further.

 

This means taking a car loan and investing your own money leads to net loss.

 

Best Option for You: Smart Compromise Approach
Let me share a wise solution.

 

Don’t use full own money. Don’t take full loan either.

 

Instead, pay 70–80% from own funds.

 

Take a small car loan for the remaining 20–30% only.

 

This keeps EMI low and retains some liquidity.

 

You reduce interest cost and also keep Rs.50,000–Rs.1 lakh aside.

 

Park that in liquid fund for any urgent need.

 

Repay this small loan fast in 1–2 years.

 

Only Take a Car Loan If:
Your job income is stable.

 

You already have 3–6 months emergency fund ready.

 

You don’t have big loans running now.

 

You can pay EMI without affecting savings.

 

You commit to close the loan early.

 

Avoid This Mistake:
Never buy a more expensive car because loan makes it “feel affordable.”

 

Loan should not expand your car budget.

 

Whether you buy with loan or cash, pick a simple car within limits.

 

i10 is a wise, middle-ground choice. Good thought.

 

Tax Angle (If Business Use)
If you are using the car for business, vehicle loan interest may be tax-deductible.

 

But for personal use, there is no tax benefit.

 

So do not take loan just for imagined tax saving.

 

Final Insights
A car is a need, not an investment.

 

Using your own money fully keeps things simple and cheap.

 

Taking a full car loan and investing the money gives net negative return.

 

Best option is a split approach — pay major part from own funds.

 

Take small loan only if needed and close it early.

 

Always keep emergency money aside before buying.

 

Avoid emotional buying or overbudget cars.

 

Your financially balanced approach is very appreciable.

 

Best Regards,
 
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
 
Chief Financial Planner,
 
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...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.

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