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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8882 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 12, 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
Mir Question by Mir on Dec 17, 2023Hindi
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Hi , I am 40 years old want to accumulate 3.5 crore in next 15 years . I have started investing in mutual funds from last one year and my monthly sip is 40 thousand rupees. But I started investing without any guidance now I am worried is my portfolio balanced . I want increase my monthly Sip to 60 thousand .my present portfolio 1.Nippon India small cap 5 thousand monthly sip. 2.Nippon India flexi cap 5 thousand monthly. 3.PGIM India midcap opp fund 5 thousand month. 4.SBI retirement benefit fund 5 thousand . 5. UTI midcap fund 5 thousand monthly. 6.Quant active fund 2 lakh lump sum and 5 thousand monthly. 7.HDFC balanced advantage fund 2 lakh lump sum and 5 thousand monthly 8.ICICI pru multi asset fund 2lakh lump sum and 5thousand monthly

Ans: Given your goal of accumulating 3.5 crores in the next 15 years and your plan to increase your monthly SIP to 60,000 rupees, it's crucial to ensure your portfolio is well-balanced and aligned with your objectives. While your current portfolio includes a mix of small-cap, flexi-cap, mid-cap, retirement, multi-asset, and balanced advantage funds, it's important to regularly review its performance and diversification. Consider consulting a financial advisor to ensure your portfolio is optimized for achieving your long-term goals.
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  |8882 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 17, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 12, 2024Hindi
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I'm 30 years old, my monthly SIP amount is Rs.10000/Month (Nifty50 - 5000/-, Quant Infra MF - 3000/- & Nippon Small cap MF - 2000/-). I'm planning to increase my SIP from next year from 10k to 15K/ month in below funds: ICICI Nifty50 MF - 5000/- Paragh Parikh Flexi Cab Fund- 3000/- Quant infrastructure MF - 4000/- Nippon India Small cap MF - 3000/- Please review & kindly give me some suggestions on my current portfolio & future portfolio if anything needs to be modified or not. ????
Ans: Your current SIP allocation shows a well-diversified portfolio across different market segments, including large-cap, flexi cap, infrastructure, and small-cap funds. Here's a review of your current portfolio and suggestions for your future portfolio:

Review of Current Portfolio
Nifty50 Fund (Rs. 5000/month): This fund provides exposure to the top 50 companies listed on the NSE, offering stability and growth potential. It serves as a core holding in your portfolio, providing diversification across large-cap stocks.

Quant Infra MF (Rs. 3000/month): Infrastructure funds invest in companies involved in infrastructure development, such as construction, energy, and transportation. This sectoral allocation adds diversification but can be volatile due to sector-specific risks.

Nippon Small Cap MF (Rs. 2000/month): Small-cap funds focus on small-sized companies with high growth potential. They offer the opportunity for significant returns but come with higher risk due to the volatility associated with small-cap stocks.

Suggestions for Current Portfolio
1. Diversification: Your current portfolio is well-diversified across different market segments, which is commendable. However, ensure that you regularly review your portfolio to maintain the desired asset allocation and risk profile.

2. Risk Management: Small-cap and infrastructure funds can be more volatile than large-cap or flexi cap funds. Consider your risk tolerance and investment horizon when allocating funds to these sectors.

3. Performance Monitoring: Keep track of the performance of each fund in your portfolio. Regularly review their performance against relevant benchmarks and peer group funds to ensure they are meeting your investment objectives.

Future Portfolio Suggestions
ICICI Nifty50 MF (Rs. 5000/month): Continuing your investment in a Nifty50 fund is a prudent choice, providing exposure to large-cap stocks and stability to your portfolio.

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund (Rs. 3000/month): Flexi cap funds offer flexibility to invest across market capitalizations based on market conditions. This fund adds diversification and growth potential to your portfolio.

Quant Infrastructure MF (Rs. 4000/month): Consider whether you want to maintain the same allocation to infrastructure or if you prefer reallocating some funds to other sectors based on your risk-return preferences.

Nippon India Small Cap MF (Rs. 3000/month): Small-cap funds can offer high growth potential, but they come with higher risk. Evaluate your risk tolerance and consider whether you want to maintain exposure to small-cap stocks or reallocate funds to other sectors.

Conclusion
Your current portfolio shows a thoughtful allocation across different market segments, balancing growth potential with risk management. As you plan to increase your SIP amount from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,000 per month, consider reviewing your asset allocation and risk tolerance to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and investment horizon.

Regularly monitor the performance of your funds and make adjustments to your portfolio as needed. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide personalized guidance and help you make informed decisions about your investments.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8882 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 25, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 25, 2024Hindi
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I am 45 years old and zero debt. I plan to invest in mutual funds. I am thinking of allocating my funds as follows in SIP. Can you please advice if the portfolio is balanced or recommend some other funds to balance it. I wont need access to this money and my investment horizon is 20 years. Kotak Equity Opportunity Fund (10%); Parag Parikh Flexi Fund (30%); Nippon India multi cap (20%); Nippon India Power & Infra (10%); ICICI Pru Bharat 22 FOF (15%) and SBI PSU Regular Growth (15%). Thanks for your advice.
Ans: Your decision to invest with a long-term horizon of 20 years is excellent. With no debt and a clear focus on growth, you have a solid foundation. Your portfolio reflects an intent to diversify, but there are areas where balance can be improved. Let us evaluate and suggest adjustments.

Observations on Your Proposed Portfolio
Equity-Oriented Funds (60%)

These include allocations to flexi-cap, multi-cap, and equity opportunity funds.
This segment provides diversification and captures growth across market caps.
Sectoral and Thematic Funds (35%)

Power, infrastructure, and PSU-focused funds dominate this portion.
While thematic funds can deliver high returns, they come with sector-specific risks.
Lack of International Exposure

There is no allocation to global equities. International diversification can hedge against domestic risks.
Over-Concentration on Specific Sectors

High allocation to infrastructure and PSU-focused funds may increase volatility.
This could lead to underperformance during economic downturns.
Recommendations for a Balanced Portfolio
Your portfolio requires more diversification. Focus on aligning funds with broader market exposure.

Suggested Allocations
Large-Cap Funds (25%)

Large-cap funds ensure stability and steady returns.
These funds invest in established companies with predictable growth.
Flexi-Cap or Multi-Cap Funds (30%)

Continue investing in these funds. They provide dynamic allocation across market caps.
Actively managed flexi-cap funds adapt well to changing market conditions.
Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Funds (20%)

Reduce reliance on thematic funds. Allocate to mid and small-cap funds.
These funds offer higher growth potential while maintaining diversification.
Balanced Advantage or Hybrid Funds (15%)

Hybrid funds can balance equity and debt. They offer stability during market corrections.
This allocation reduces overall portfolio risk.
Global Equity Funds (10%)

Add exposure to international markets for geographical diversification.
These funds provide growth opportunities outside the Indian economy.
Concerns with Thematic and Sectoral Funds
Thematic funds like power and PSU-focused funds lack diversification.
Performance depends on specific sectors, making them volatile.
They may underperform if the sector does not grow as expected.
Instead, actively managed diversified funds provide consistent returns with lower risk.

Advantages of Actively Managed Funds
Fund managers actively select stocks to outperform benchmarks.
They adapt strategies based on market trends.
Actively managed funds reduce the risk of underperformance seen in passive index funds.
Tax Implications for Equity Investments
Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG): Above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG): Taxed at 20%.
Optimise your withdrawals and align investments with tax-efficient strategies.

360-Degree Financial Planning
Emergency Fund

Maintain six months of expenses in liquid or short-term debt funds.
This ensures liquidity during unexpected situations.
Insurance Coverage

Ensure adequate life and health insurance coverage.
Avoid mixing insurance with investments.
Periodic Review

Monitor your portfolio every six months.
Replace underperforming funds with better-performing ones.
Work with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

A CFP can guide you in fund selection and portfolio management.
Investing through an MFD ensures personalised support.
Final Insights
Your plan reflects strong intent and focus on growth. Balancing your portfolio with large-cap, hybrid, and international funds will reduce risk. Diversify further to achieve consistent returns over 20 years. A disciplined approach with regular reviews will keep you on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP
Chief Financial Planner

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8882 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 25, 2025

Money
Please review my MF portfolio. My monthly SIP is 18000/- per month. Current portfolio value is 1.5 Lakh. 1. ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund - 4000 2. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund - 4000 3. Nippon India small cap - 4000 4. HDFC balanced advantage fund- 2000 5. Motilal oswal Midcap fund - 2000 6. JM Aggressive Hybrid Fund - 1000 7. Bandhan Nifty Alpha Low Volatility 30 Index - 1000 (NFO) Traditional investments are as follows, and the current value is 15 Lakh. 1. EPF - 44000/- per month 2. NPS - 22000/- per month 3. RD - 20000/- Per month to build an emergency fund. I am planning to increase my SIP from 18000 to 60000 every month. Please let me know if I need any changes in my portfolio. I am planning to build a portfolio of 5 crore in the next 15 years. Currently, I am 35 years and planning to retire by the age of 50 years.
Ans: Your financial plan is well-structured, and your investment discipline is strong. You have a clear retirement goal and an aggressive investment approach. However, there are areas where you can optimize your portfolio for better returns and lower risk.

Let’s analyze your portfolio from a 360-degree perspective.

1. Strengths of Your Current Portfolio
Your investment approach is well-planned. Here’s what you are doing right:

Disciplined SIP investment – You have a regular SIP plan in equity mutual funds.

Diversified portfolio – You have exposure to large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, flexi-cap, and hybrid funds.

Strong traditional investments – EPF and NPS provide stability in retirement.

Emergency fund planning – Your recurring deposit ensures liquidity for unexpected expenses.

Increasing SIPs – Scaling up SIPs from Rs 18,000 to Rs 60,000 will help wealth creation.

Your financial discipline will help you reach your Rs 5 crore target.

2. Issues in Your Mutual Fund Portfolio
While your portfolio is diversified, some adjustments can improve performance.

Over-Diversification
You have too many funds across categories.

Too many funds dilute returns and make tracking difficult.

Having 4-5 well-chosen funds is better than 7-8 average funds.

Index Fund Exposure
One of your funds is an index fund.

Index funds cannot beat the market, while actively managed funds can.

A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) helps select the best actively managed funds.

Hybrid Funds and Overlapping Categories
You hold two hybrid funds, which can limit aggressive growth.

These funds are not necessary when you have EPF and NPS.

Adjusting these issues will enhance your returns.

3. Optimizing Your Mutual Fund Portfolio
Here’s how you can make your portfolio more efficient:

Reduce the Number of Funds
Keep 4-5 funds for focused wealth creation.

Large-cap, flexi-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds provide balanced exposure.

Avoid hybrid funds as EPF and NPS already offer stability.

Exit Index Fund
Actively managed funds provide better long-term returns.

Fund managers adjust portfolios based on market conditions.

An index fund will not protect during market corrections.

Adjust Your Portfolio Allocation
Large-cap fund – 30% allocation for stability.

Flexi-cap fund – 30% allocation for fund manager flexibility.

Mid-cap fund – 20% allocation for higher growth potential.

Small-cap fund – 20% allocation for aggressive wealth creation.

This will balance risk and return effectively.

4. Optimizing Traditional Investments
Your traditional investments are strong, but they can be more efficient.

EPF Contribution
EPF is a safe investment with tax benefits.

However, it provides lower returns compared to equity.

Consider redirecting a small portion towards equity SIPs for higher growth.

NPS Contribution
NPS is a good tax-saving tool but has withdrawal restrictions.

You can keep investing but ensure a higher allocation in equity within NPS.

Recurring Deposit for Emergency Fund
RDs are good for liquidity but offer low returns.

Instead, keep emergency funds in a liquid mutual fund for better returns.

A balanced approach between safety and growth is necessary.

5. Increasing SIPs from Rs 18,000 to Rs 60,000
Your plan to increase SIPs is excellent. However, proper allocation is required.

Large-cap fund – Increase SIP from Rs 4,000 to Rs 15,000.

Flexi-cap fund – Increase SIP from Rs 4,000 to Rs 15,000.

Mid-cap fund – Increase SIP from Rs 2,000 to Rs 10,000.

Small-cap fund – Increase SIP from Rs 4,000 to Rs 10,000.

Liquid fund – Allocate Rs 10,000 for short-term needs.

This ensures strong wealth creation while maintaining liquidity.

6. Expected Growth and Retirement Planning
With disciplined investing, you can achieve your Rs 5 crore goal.

Equity SIPs – Higher allocation ensures compounding benefits.

Traditional investments – EPF and NPS provide stability.

Emergency fund – Ensures liquidity for unexpected needs.

Your current path is excellent. Minor adjustments will enhance your wealth creation journey.

Finally
You are on the right track towards financial freedom. Your disciplined investment approach is commendable. However, some refinements will optimize your returns.

Reduce over-diversification and exit underperforming funds.

Replace index funds with actively managed funds for better returns.

Allocate SIPs strategically for better risk-reward balance.

Re-evaluate traditional investments to maximize efficiency.

Ensure liquidity through a liquid fund instead of an RD.

With these adjustments, you can achieve your Rs 5 crore target confidently.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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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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