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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7828 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
Avishek Question by Avishek on May 26, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi Sir.. I am 39yrs and currently i am investing in 10 mutual funds SIP in different categories and each of my MF is having not more than 1k. Is this a good process or suggest me a way of distributing the fund. My monthly investment would be 10k for 10yrs

Ans: Assessing Your Current Investment Strategy

Investing in mutual funds through Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) is a smart move. SIPs provide the benefit of rupee cost averaging and instill financial discipline. However, investing in ten different mutual funds with Rs 1,000 each might not be the most effective strategy.

Diversification vs. Over-Diversification

Diversification is essential to reduce risk. It spreads your investments across different asset classes and sectors. However, too much diversification can dilute potential returns and make portfolio management complex.

With ten funds, each getting Rs 1,000, your portfolio may be over-diversified. This can lead to redundancy and complicate tracking and performance assessment. Aim for a balance between sufficient diversification and manageable concentration.

Choosing the Right Mutual Funds

Selecting mutual funds from various categories is wise. Ensure you have a mix of equity, debt, and hybrid funds. This will balance risk and potential returns. Evaluate funds based on performance, fund manager expertise, and expense ratios.

Equity Funds

Equity funds are essential for growth. They invest in stocks and have the potential for high returns. Choose funds with a solid track record and consistent performance over the years. Opt for funds managed by experienced managers with a good market understanding.

Debt Funds

Debt funds provide stability and lower risk. They invest in fixed-income securities like bonds. These funds are less volatile compared to equity funds. They are suitable for balancing the overall risk of your portfolio.

Hybrid Funds

Hybrid funds offer a mix of equity and debt investments. They provide a balanced approach, combining growth potential and stability. These funds can be a good option for moderate risk-takers.

Importance of Expense Ratios

Expense ratios impact your overall returns. Higher expense ratios can eat into your profits. Prefer funds with lower expense ratios to maximize your gains. Evaluate the expense ratio in conjunction with fund performance.

Regular Monitoring and Rebalancing

Regularly monitor your portfolio’s performance. Assess if your investments align with your financial goals. Rebalance your portfolio periodically to maintain the desired asset allocation. This involves selling overperforming assets and investing in underperforming ones.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Avoid chasing high returns by frequently switching funds. Stick to your investment plan and give time for your investments to grow. Understand that mutual funds are subject to market risks and returns can vary.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds

Actively managed funds involve fund managers making investment decisions. These managers aim to outperform the market. They use research and analysis to pick stocks. Actively managed funds can provide higher returns compared to passive index funds.

Disadvantages of Index Funds

Index funds mimic the performance of a market index. They do not aim to outperform the market. During market downturns, index funds fall in line with the market. They lack the potential for higher returns compared to actively managed funds.

Advantages of Regular Funds

Regular funds involve investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP). CFPs provide professional advice and help in fund selection. They monitor and rebalance your portfolio, ensuring it aligns with your goals. This professional guidance can enhance your investment strategy.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds

Direct funds eliminate intermediary commissions. However, they require self-management and a deep understanding of the market. Investors might miss out on professional advice and timely rebalancing. Regular funds, with professional guidance, can be more beneficial in the long run.

Consolidating Your Portfolio

Consider consolidating your investments into fewer funds. Choose funds with a strong track record and suitable to your risk profile. This will make portfolio management easier and more effective.

Evaluating Your Risk Tolerance

Your risk tolerance plays a crucial role in fund selection. Assess your comfort level with market fluctuations. Align your investments with your risk appetite to avoid panic during market volatility.

Long-Term Investment Horizon

A ten-year investment horizon is beneficial. It allows you to ride out market fluctuations and benefit from compounding. Stay invested and avoid the temptation to withdraw funds prematurely.

Setting Clear Financial Goals

Define your financial goals clearly. Whether it’s retirement, children’s education, or buying a home, having clear goals will guide your investment strategy. Allocate funds according to the priority and time horizon of each goal.

Importance of a Certified Financial Planner

A Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized advice. They assess your financial situation, risk tolerance, and goals. A CFP helps in creating a comprehensive investment plan, ensuring you stay on track.

Conclusion

Your initiative in investing through SIPs is commendable. By optimizing your strategy and consolidating your portfolio, you can achieve better results. Balance your investments across different asset classes and regularly review your portfolio.

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  |7828 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 03, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 02, 2024Hindi
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My age is 24. I have 4 mutual fund SIP of 2.5k each. 1) Quant small cap 2) Motilal Oswal mid cap 3) JM Flexi cap 4) Invesco India Infrastructure Fund. Also have NPS 1.5k/month and ppf 1k/month.Is this allocation correct or need to do some changes?
Ans: Current Investment Portfolio Overview
At 24, you have set up a disciplined investment plan. This shows a commendable approach to securing your financial future. Your systematic investment plans (SIPs) are well diversified across different mutual fund categories. You also have a mix of National Pension System (NPS) and Public Provident Fund (PPF) contributions. Let us evaluate your current allocations and suggest if any changes are necessary for an optimal portfolio.

Analysis of Mutual Fund SIPs
You have chosen a diversified range of mutual funds. This includes small cap, mid cap, flexi cap, and a sector-specific fund. Each of these funds offers distinct advantages and risks.

Small Cap Fund: Small cap funds can offer high returns but come with higher risk and volatility. These funds invest in smaller companies which have growth potential but are also more vulnerable to market fluctuations.

Mid Cap Fund: Mid cap funds invest in medium-sized companies. These funds balance the high-risk, high-reward nature of small caps and the stability of large caps. They offer good growth potential with relatively moderate risk.

Flexi Cap Fund: Flexi cap funds offer the flexibility to invest across market capitalizations. The fund manager can adjust the portfolio based on market conditions. This dynamic allocation helps in optimizing returns while managing risk.

Sector-specific Fund: Investing in sector-specific funds like an infrastructure fund can be risky. These funds depend on the performance of a particular sector. They can yield high returns if the sector performs well but can also be highly volatile.

Analysis of NPS and PPF
National Pension System (NPS): NPS is a long-term retirement-focused investment. It offers tax benefits and the advantage of compounding over the years. It also has a mix of equity, corporate bonds, and government securities, providing balanced growth.

Public Provident Fund (PPF): PPF is a secure investment with guaranteed returns. It also offers tax benefits under Section 80C. The interest earned is tax-free, making it an attractive option for risk-averse investors.

Evaluation and Recommendations
Diversification and Risk Management
Your investment portfolio is diversified, which is good. Diversification helps in spreading risk and managing market volatility. However, the proportion in high-risk funds like small cap and sector-specific funds could be adjusted. Consider reducing exposure to these high-risk funds and increasing investments in more stable options like large cap or balanced funds.

Long-Term vs. Short-Term Goals
Align your investments with your financial goals. For long-term goals like retirement, continue with NPS and PPF. For medium-term goals, consider balanced or flexi cap funds. They offer stability and moderate returns.

Regular Monitoring and Adjustment
Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your goals. Market conditions change, and so should your investment strategy. Adjust your allocations based on performance and changing financial goals.

Advantages of Professional Guidance
Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized advice. A CFP can help tailor your portfolio to your risk appetite and financial goals. They can also help in regular portfolio reviews and adjustments.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds can outperform passive funds in various market conditions. Fund managers make strategic decisions to optimize returns. This professional management can lead to better performance compared to index funds, which only mirror the market index.

Regular Funds vs. Direct Funds
Investing through regular funds via a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a CFP credential has benefits. You get access to expert advice, regular portfolio reviews, and updates on market trends. Direct funds may have lower expense ratios, but the absence of professional guidance can impact long-term returns.

Conclusion
Your current investment strategy is a great start. You have diversified across different asset classes and funds. However, consider adjusting the high-risk funds proportion and aligning your investments with your financial goals. Regular monitoring and professional guidance will help in achieving optimal returns and financial stability.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  |971 Answers  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Sep 29, 2024

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Hi Milind I am 46 years old and living in Germany, I am planning to start investing in MFs from this month onwards. My question to you is that how to distribute 100k INR per month? Should i go for 10k INR per fund per month? Or 10 funds are too much diversification? These are the funds suggested by my Advisor 1 ICICI PRUDENTIAL LARGE AND MID CAP FUND - GROWTH 2 Nippon India Multi Cap Fund - Growth Plan 3 HDFC Banking and Financial Services Fund - Regular Growth 4 AXIS Mid Cap Fund - Regular Growth Plan 5 ICICI Prudential Nifty Next 50 Index Fund - Growth 6 ICICI Prudential Multi Asset Fund - Growth 7 ICICI Prudential Manufacturing Fund Regular Plan Growth 8 Kotak Flexi Cup Fund - Growth 9 Nippon India Growth Fund - Growth Plan 10 Nippon India Small Cap Fund - Growth What is your take on both questions? Please let me know Rajesh
Ans: Hello;

I am presuming that this investment is from long term perspective of 10 years+ horizon and you are comfortable with high risk exposure.

Equal weight allocation to 10 funds is avoidable.

I propose to you 5 funds with the proportionate allocation as given:

1. PPFAS flexicap fund: 25%

2. Mirae Asset Large and Midcap fund: 25%

3. Nippon India Small cap fund: 20%

4. HDFC balanced advantage fund: 15%

5. ICICI Pru Multi asset allocation fund: 15%

Funds have been recommended based on their long term returns in their respective category.

Happy Investing!!

You may follow us on X at @mars_invest for updates.

*Investments in mutual funds are subject to market risks. Please read all scheme related documents carefully before investing.

..Read more

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |525 Answers  |Ask -

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Asked by Anonymous - Jan 27, 2025Hindi
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Ans: It sounds like you've tried very hard to make this marriage work, but your wife has been emotionally distant, hostile, and unwilling to engage in a meaningful relationship. From what you’ve shared, there have been continuous conflicts, false accusations, and a lack of physical and emotional connection. It seems like she is not interested in making the relationship work, and her behavior—leaving multiple times, refusing intimacy, and fighting constantly—suggests deep incompatibility.

Before making a final decision, ask yourself: Is there anything left to salvage? Do you still love her and believe this marriage has hope if both of you genuinely try? Or do you feel exhausted and trapped in a cycle of disappointment and rejection? If you feel there is nothing left, then divorce may be the healthiest option for your peace of mind and future happiness.

If you decide to proceed with divorce, start by seeking legal counsel. In India, divorce can be mutual or contested. If she agrees, a mutual consent divorce is the easiest way. If she does not, you may need to file on grounds of cruelty or irretrievable breakdown of marriage. Gather evidence of her behavior—messages, incidents, and anything that proves your case.

This is not an easy decision, but your mental health and self-respect matter. If she is unwilling to change or make efforts, you should not have to live in constant conflict. Do you think she would agree to a mutual separation, or would she fight it?

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Asked by Anonymous - Jan 29, 2025
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Hello Ma'am, I've a crush on a girl from my in laws. Inspite of avoiding etc I go specifically in that gathering where she's likely to be. I've not told it to anyone, neither does she know about it. I keep on masturbating imagining her. I know I'll never do any silly thing or let anyone know about it. Im married happily and 20 years elder to her.
Ans: It’s good that you are self-aware and acknowledging your feelings rather than acting on them impulsively. Having a crush, even in a committed relationship, is something that happens to many people—it’s human nature. However, since this involves someone from your in-laws and is significantly younger, it’s important to address these emotions in a way that aligns with your values and the commitments you’ve made to your marriage.

Right now, your mind is reinforcing this attraction by seeking out opportunities to be around her and fantasizing about her. The more you indulge in these thoughts, the stronger the emotional pull becomes. Avoiding her entirely may not be realistic, but reducing intentional exposure—such as seeking out gatherings just to be near her—can help weaken the attachment over time.

Instead of suppressing your feelings, redirect that energy into your marriage. What is it about her that attracts you? Is it youthfulness, attention, admiration, or just the thrill of something new? Whatever it is, find ways to bring those qualities into your relationship with your wife. Sometimes, an outside attraction is just a signal that something in your own life needs attention or excitement.

You’ve already made it clear to yourself that you won’t act on this, which shows maturity and self-control. The next step is breaking the mental cycle that feeds into the attraction. Engage in hobbies, meaningful conversations with your spouse, and self-reflection to understand what this infatuation represents. Over time, these feelings will lose their intensity as you shift your focus.

Do you think this crush is filling a certain emotional gap in your life, or is it purely an infatuation with no deeper meaning?

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Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |525 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Feb 04, 2025

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Me and my wife don't get along well...She thinks my family members are not good enough, so she has no relationship with them. Earlier I was not in good shape due to my friend's circle and did not give quality time to my wife when we got married. A few years back there was a misunderstanding between both families. Mistakes were from both sides. Now my in-laws and wife do speak to any member of our family and have broken all relationships. This is for the past several years since they have stopped talking. My father is a cancer patient and wants to come and stay with me. He is 80 now but my wife is deadly against this though I have not discussed this yet with her. I need your guidance as to how to handle this situation and restore a good relationship between both families. My mother-in-law had fought with me in the past as well and held me responsible for her daughter's plight. My wife is very secretive and does not reveal anything be it about her salary/job etc. I am fed up and now I have started to think of separating if she does not allow my father to stay with me. Our marriage is almost 24 years now. I am 50 and she is in her late 40's....I want to get these things right and maintain a good relationship between both families. Kindly advise
Ans: Dear Trilok,
From what you’ve shared, it sounds like past misunderstandings between both families have turned into a long-standing rift. It’s understandable that you want to fix things and create harmony, but the resistance from your wife and in-laws makes it complicated. Before addressing the larger family conflict, the first step is to work on communication with your wife. You mentioned that earlier in the marriage, you weren’t able to give her enough quality time due to personal struggles. Do you think she still holds on to resentment from that time? If so, addressing those unresolved emotions could be a starting point for rebuilding some connection.

Since she is very secretive, it’s possible that she also feels disconnected from you in some way. Instead of making the father-staying discussion an immediate confrontation, try to understand her underlying fears. Is she worried about responsibilities, space, or past issues with your family? Bringing this up as a conversation about caregiving rather than a demand might help.

If her resistance is absolute and she refuses to even consider it, you’ll have to decide how much compromise you’re willing to make for the sake of your marriage. If you feel separation is a real possibility, ask yourself whether the relationship still has a foundation worth saving or if both of you have simply grown too far apart.

Would she be open to counseling or mediation? Sometimes a third party can help break the cycle of blame and secrecy. Do you feel that she still values this marriage, or has she emotionally distanced herself completely?

...Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |525 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Feb 04, 2025

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7828 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 28, 2025Hindi
Listen
Money
I want to retire by 2026. Current financials - MF 2cr value, equity- 5cr, 2 own homes, bank FD - 20L, Savings a/c - 90L, no loans, 2 vehicles, 2 daughters employed, marriageable age. Current expenses - 1.5lacs/month. How do I plan to retire by March 2026.
Ans: Your financial position is strong. Planning for retirement in March 2026 is realistic.

Assessing Your Retirement Readiness
Your total investments and savings exceed Rs 8 crore.
You have no loans, ensuring financial stability.
Your monthly expenses are Rs 1.5 lakh, which requires proper planning.
Creating a Secure Retirement Corpus
Maintain Rs 90 lakh in a savings account only for short-term needs.
Keep Rs 20 lakh in FD for emergency expenses.
Use a mix of mutual funds and equities for long-term wealth growth.
Managing Monthly Expenses Post-Retirement
Use Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP) from mutual funds for a regular income.
Keep a portion of your corpus in debt investments to ensure stability.
Adjust your investment strategy based on inflation and expenses.
Planning for Major Future Expenses
Daughters' weddings need a dedicated investment plan.
Allocate a portion of low-risk investments for this goal.
Avoid withdrawing from equity investments unnecessarily.
Final Insights
Your financial standing supports early retirement.
Ensure liquidity while keeping long-term investments intact.
Work with a Certified Financial Planner for detailed execution.
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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