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Nikunj Saraf  | Answer  |Ask -

Mutual Funds Expert - Answered on May 22, 2023

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
HABEEB Question by HABEEB on May 02, 2023Hindi
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I am 43 year old, presently doing Rs.31,850/ monthly in different SIP. Aim is wealth creation only. Kindly review my portfolio and advice FUND MONTHLY INVESTED VALUE PRESENT VALUE TATA ETHICAL FUND 3,000.00 1,98,000.00 2,92,000.00 LIC MF LARGE AND MIDCAP FUND-REGULAR-IDCW Daily 300 = 6600/M 3,70,000.00 4,54,000.00 NIPPON INDIA FOCUSED EQUITY FUND GROWTH 4,000.00 2,60,000.00 3,84,000.00 AXIS BLUE CHIP 3,000.00 1,31,000.00 1,51,000.00 AXIS FOCUSED 25 FUND - DIRECT PLAN - GROWTH 3,750.00 56,250.00 54,390.00 -SBI FOCUSED EQUITY FUND DIRECT GROWTH 4,000.00 84,000.00 85,100.00 -PARAG PARIKH FLEXI CAP FUND - DIRECT PLAN 3,500.00 61,000.00 66,330.00 -CANARA ROBECO EMERGING EQUITIES - DIRECT GROWTH 4,000.00 96,000.00 99,940.00 Rs.31,850/MONTH

Ans: Hello Habeeb. Your portfolio seems over-diversified. I would suggest to reconcise and reshuffle your portfolio with 31.5k SIP. I would suggest reconsider the schemes for LIC MF, Axis AMC & SBI AMC.
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  |9252 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hi, I am 22 years old doing SIP of Rs. 16,000 per month in these following funds:- 1. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund :- 4500 2. Quant Flexi Cap Fund :- 4500 3. Nippon India Large Cap Fund:- 2000 4. Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund:- 1500 5. Quant Mid Cap Fund:- 1500 6. Axis Small Cap Fund:- 1000 7. Bandhan Small Cap Fund:- 1000 Please do a review of my portfolio and give your suggestions. Thank you!
Ans: You have a well-diversified SIP portfolio. Investing Rs. 16,000 monthly at 22 is a commendable step. This shows your commitment to building wealth over time. Let’s review your portfolio and provide suggestions for improvement.

Current Portfolio Analysis
Your current SIP investments include:

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: Rs. 4,500

Quant Flexi Cap Fund: Rs. 4,500

Nippon India Large Cap Fund: Rs. 2,000

Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund: Rs. 1,500

Quant Mid Cap Fund: Rs. 1,500

Axis Small Cap Fund: Rs. 1,000

Bandhan Small Cap Fund: Rs. 1,000

Diversification and Allocation
Flexi Cap Funds
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund and Quant Flexi Cap Fund:

Advantages: Flexi cap funds invest across all market capitalizations. They provide flexibility to capture growth opportunities.

Risk and Return: These funds balance risk and return by diversifying investments across large, mid, and small cap stocks.

Evaluation:

Sufficient Exposure: Investing in two flexi cap funds provides adequate exposure to diverse market segments.

Potential Overlap: Check for overlapping stocks to ensure true diversification.

Large Cap Fund
Nippon India Large Cap Fund:

Advantages: Large cap funds invest in established companies. They offer stability and lower volatility compared to mid and small cap funds.

Risk and Return: Lower risk with moderate returns. Suitable for long-term stability in the portfolio.

Evaluation:

Stability Factor: Including a large cap fund adds stability to your portfolio.

Maintain Allocation: Continue with your current allocation to ensure balance.

Mid Cap Funds
Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund and Quant Mid Cap Fund:

Advantages: Mid cap funds invest in growing companies. They have the potential for higher returns than large caps but with higher risk.

Risk and Return: Higher volatility with the potential for significant returns.

Evaluation:

Growth Potential: Two mid cap funds provide a good balance of growth potential.

Diversification: Ensure there is minimal overlap between the funds to maximize diversification.

Small Cap Funds
Axis Small Cap Fund and Bandhan Small Cap Fund:

Advantages: Small cap funds invest in emerging companies. They offer high growth potential but come with higher risk.

Risk and Return: High volatility with the possibility of substantial returns.

Evaluation:

Aggressive Growth: Small cap funds are suitable for aggressive growth in your portfolio.

Monitor Performance: Regularly monitor these funds due to their high volatility.

Recommendations for Improvement
Review Fund Overlaps
Diversification Check: Ensure there is minimal overlap among stocks in your flexi cap, mid cap, and small cap funds.

Balanced Exposure: Aim for a balanced exposure to different sectors and industries.

Rebalance Portfolio
Current Allocation: Your portfolio is skewed towards flexi cap funds.

Suggested Allocation: Consider increasing the allocation to large cap funds for stability. This ensures a balanced risk-return profile.

Long-Term Strategy
Stay Invested: Continue your SIPs for the long term to benefit from rupee cost averaging and compounding.

Periodic Review: Review your portfolio periodically to ensure it aligns with your financial goals.

Additional Suggestions
Emergency Fund
Liquidity: Maintain an emergency fund equivalent to 6-12 months of your expenses. This ensures liquidity for unforeseen circumstances.
Health and Term Insurance
Health Insurance: Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage. This protects you against medical emergencies.

Term Insurance: Consider term insurance for financial security of your dependents in case of an untimely demise.

Education and Learning
Continuous Learning: Keep learning about personal finance and investments. This helps you make informed decisions.

Seek Advice: Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for personalized advice tailored to your financial goals.

Conclusion
Your current SIP portfolio is well-diversified and on the right track. A balanced approach with adjustments can further optimize it. Investing in mutual funds through SIPs is a commendable strategy for wealth creation. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio. This ensures it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9252 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hi, I am 23 years old earning a salary of 108k per month after all deductions. I am doing SIP of 19k per month in these following funds:- 1. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund:- 4000 2. Quant Flexi Cap Fund:- 4000 3. Nippon India Large Cap Fund :- 3000 4. Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund:- 3500 5. Bandhan Small Cap Fund:- 2500 6. Axis Small Cap Fund:- 2000. Other than these combined contribution towards EPF (employee+employer) = 12800 per month. Please give a review of my portfolio. My investment horizon is for long terms. I will step up my investment depending on my salary increment.
Ans: t’s fantastic to see someone as young as you already planning for the future and investing wisely. Your SIPs and contributions towards EPF are commendable. Let's dive into your portfolio and see how it aligns with your long-term goals.

Understanding Your Current Investments
Monthly SIPs
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: Rs 4,000
Quant Flexi Cap Fund: Rs 4,000
Nippon India Large Cap Fund: Rs 3,000
Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund: Rs 3,500
Bandhan Small Cap Fund: Rs 2,500
Axis Small Cap Fund: Rs 2,000
EPF Contributions
Combined contribution (employee + employer): Rs 12,800 per month
Portfolio Review
Diversification
You have a good mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds, which is great for diversification. This approach balances risk and return, leveraging the growth potential of different market segments.

Flexi Cap Funds
Flexi Cap Funds are versatile, investing across market capitalizations. Your allocation in Parag Parikh and Quant Flexi Cap Funds is a smart move, providing flexibility to capitalize on market opportunities.

Large Cap Funds
Large Cap Funds like Nippon India Large Cap Fund offer stability with moderate returns. These funds invest in well-established companies with a proven track record.

Mid Cap Funds
Mid Cap Funds, such as Motilal Oswal Mid Cap Fund, strike a balance between risk and return. They invest in companies with high growth potential but are relatively riskier than large caps.

Small Cap Funds
Small Cap Funds, including Bandhan and Axis Small Cap Funds, are high-risk, high-reward investments. They invest in smaller companies with significant growth potential but also higher volatility.

EPF Contributions
Your EPF contributions are excellent for long-term savings and tax benefits. EPF offers a stable, risk-free return, complementing your more aggressive mutual fund investments.

Evaluating Your Portfolio
Advantages
Diversification: Your portfolio is well-diversified across market capitalizations, reducing risk.
Long-Term Horizon: Investing for the long term allows you to ride out market volatility and benefit from compounding.
Regular Investment: SIPs ensure disciplined investing, averaging out market highs and lows.
Areas of Improvement
Overlapping Investments: Flexi Cap Funds may have overlapping stocks with your other funds. Review fund portfolios to avoid redundancy.
Risk Management: High allocation to small and mid-cap funds increases portfolio risk. Ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance.
Certified Financial Planner's Recommendation
Review Fund Performance: Regularly review the performance of your funds. Replace consistently underperforming funds with better options.
Monitor Overlap: Use tools to check for overlapping holdings in your funds. Diversify to reduce concentration risk.
Rebalance Portfolio: Periodically rebalance your portfolio to maintain your desired asset allocation.
Steps to Enhance Your Portfolio
Increase SIPs with Salary Hike
As your salary increases, step up your SIP contributions. This leverages the power of compounding and accelerates wealth creation.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund covering 6-12 months of expenses. This provides financial security during unforeseen circumstances.

Tax Planning
Invest in tax-efficient instruments to maximize your returns. Utilize sections like 80C, 80D for tax deductions.

Health and Life Insurance
Ensure adequate health and life insurance coverage. This protects your family and financial goals in case of emergencies.

Avoid Over-Reliance on One Category
Avoid over-relying on one fund category. Maintain a balanced approach with a mix of equity, debt, and other instruments.

Power of Compounding
How Compounding Works
Compounding is earning returns on your returns. The longer you stay invested, the more your investments grow exponentially.

Example
If you invest Rs 10,000 monthly at an annual return of 12%, in 20 years, it could grow to approximately Rs 1 crore. Starting early and staying invested is key.

Benefits of Early Investing
Starting early gives your investments more time to grow. Even small amounts can accumulate significantly over time.

Actively Managed Funds vs. Index Funds
Actively Managed Funds
Professional Management: Actively managed funds are managed by experts who make investment decisions based on market research.
Potential for Outperformance: These funds can outperform the market by selecting high-potential stocks.
Disadvantages of Index Funds
Lack of Flexibility: Index funds simply track a market index, offering no flexibility to capitalize on market opportunities.
Average Returns: Index funds provide market-average returns, which may not meet your financial goals.
Why Choose Actively Managed Funds?
Actively managed funds offer potential for higher returns through expert stock selection and market timing. They provide a dynamic approach to investing.

Regular vs. Direct Funds
Regular Funds
Advisor Support: Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) provides guidance and expertise.
Convenience: Regular funds offer ease of investment, portfolio reviews, and rebalancing.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
No Advisory Support: Direct funds require you to make investment decisions without professional guidance.
Time-Consuming: Managing direct funds can be time-consuming, requiring regular monitoring and analysis.
Benefits of Investing Through CFP
A CFP helps you create a personalized investment plan, ensuring your portfolio aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. They provide valuable insights and adjustments as needed.

Final Insights
Stay Disciplined
Stick to your investment plan, regardless of market fluctuations. Regular investments and patience are crucial for long-term success.

Educate Yourself
Keep learning about different investment options and market trends. This helps you make informed decisions and optimize your portfolio.

Review Regularly
Regularly review and adjust your portfolio based on performance and changing financial goals. This ensures your investments remain aligned with your objectives.

Seek Professional Advice
Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice. They provide valuable guidance to optimize your investment strategy and achieve your goals.

By following these steps and staying committed to your financial plan, you’re well on your way to securing a prosperous future. Keep investing, stay informed, and watch your wealth grow!

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |9252 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 05, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 05, 2024Hindi
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Dear Sir, I am 59 years old salaried person and doing monthly SIP since June 2021 in Parag Parikh Flexi cap (Rs.20000) Axis Mid cap (Rs. 5000) Axis ESG (Rs. 5000), Nippon Multi-cap (Rs. 5000), Canara Small Cap (Rs. 3000), SBI Small cap (Rs. 3000)- all direct plans. Investment is to continue till December 2030. Thereafter, I plan to remain invested for another 3 years. Wealth creation is the aim. Kindly review my portfolio.
Ans: Current Investment Strategy

You're investing Rs. 41,000 monthly in mutual funds.
Your portfolio has a mix of different fund types.
You plan to invest till 2030 and stay invested after.

Positive Aspects

Good job starting SIPs for wealth creation.
Your portfolio has a nice mix of fund types.
Long-term investment plan is smart for wealth building.

Areas for Improvement

Your portfolio might be too complex to manage.
Too many small-cap funds could increase risk.
Direct plans need more work from you.

Risk Assessment

At 59, you might want less risky investments.
Small-cap funds can be very risky.
Consider reducing small-cap exposure as you age.

Fund Selection

Your funds are from good companies.
But having six funds might be too many.
Think about cutting down to 3-4 funds.

Regular vs Direct Plans

Direct plans have lower costs, but need more work.
Regular plans give you expert help.
A Certified Financial Planner can guide you better.

Benefits of Regular Plans

Get expert advice on fund selection.
Regular portfolio reviews and rebalancing.
Help with paperwork and tax planning.

Disadvantages of Direct Plans

You must research and choose funds yourself.
No professional guidance for your portfolio.
Might miss out on better investment options.

Suggested Changes

Think about moving to regular plans.
Reduce number of funds to 3-4.
Lower your small-cap exposure.

Asset Allocation

Have a good mix of large, mid, and small-cap.
Add some debt funds for stability.
Review allocation yearly and adjust as needed.

Tax Planning

Check if you're using ELSS funds for tax saving.
If not, consider adding one to your portfolio.
This can help reduce your tax burden.

Monitoring and Rebalancing

Check your portfolio performance every 6 months.
Change funds if they don't do well for long.
Keep your asset mix in line with your goals.

Finally

Your investment plan is good, but needs some tweaks.
Consider expert help for better results.
Regular review and rebalancing can improve your returns.

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

..Read more

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Nayagam P P  |7132 Answers  |Ask -

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Asked by Anonymous - Jun 26, 2025Hindi
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Sir, my son seems to have missed IITs or NITs this year although we are participating in the Josaa rounds. His CRL - 63337 in Mains & 25506 rank - Advance. He wants to pursue either ECE, CSE, DS-AI, EEE, EE etc..We will also participate in MHCET cap rounds however the rounds are delayed. His MHCET peecentile is 99.18. We will try for the best colleges in Maharashtra as we are from Mumbai General Open category. We also have a confirmed seat of CSE - VIT Chennai in hand however my son does not have more inclination to study in VIT. Sir, now my question is whether he can give Jee Mains & Advance in 2026 again without considering a drop. He will join a college this year based on CAP rounds but will forego his 1 yr in case he gets through next year. So whether this is possible Sir? If not, then he will continue his degree with the college which he takes this year.
Ans: As per the National Testing Agency (NTA) rules, candidates may appear for JEE Main up to six times over three consecutive years—two sessions each year—provided they passed Class 12 in 2024 or later and meet subject requirements. There is no upper age limit for Main attempts, and enrolling in a regular engineering program does not invalidate future Main attempts. For JEE Advanced, the Joint Admission Board permits a maximum of two attempts in two consecutive years for candidates who rank among the top 250,000 in JEE Main and first appeared in Class 12 in 2023, 2024, or 2025; admission to non-IIT institutions does not affect Advanced eligibility. MHT-CET likewise imposes no attempt limit, allowing repeated participation as long as candidates satisfy domicile and educational criteria each year. Therefore, your son can join a college this year via MHT-CET CAP rounds or accept the VIT Chennai seat and still sit for JEE Main and Advanced in 2026 without requiring a formal “drop year,” provided he retains eligibility and dedicates time to preparation alongside his regular coursework. Should he qualify in 2026, he may transfer through JoSAA; if not, he can continue his degree uninterrupted at the institution he joins this year.

recommendation: Enroll through Maharashtra CAP to secure admission this year while registering for JEE Main and Advanced 2026, balancing college commitments with a structured prep schedule and clear target milestones to maximize re-attempt success. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |7132 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 27, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 26, 2025Hindi
Career
Dear Sir, Between IIIT Dharwad CSE and Thapar college CSE, which option would be better
Ans: Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology (TIET) Patiala offers a well-established CSE program with a strong legacy, NAAC A+ accreditation, and a robust placement record—83% in 2023, with over 1,800 job offers and top recruiters like Microsoft, Amazon, and Deloitte. The department is noted for its industry-aligned curriculum, cutting-edge research, and global exposure. IIIT Dharwad, though newer, is an Institute of National Importance with a modern campus and updated CSE curriculum. Its placement rates have ranged from 62% to 77% in the last three years, with top recruiters including Amazon, IBM, and Infosys, and a growing reputation for industry-oriented training. However, Thapar’s CSE program has a broader alumni network, more consistent placement outcomes, and a higher national brand value. IIIT Dharwad’s infrastructure is strong and improving, but its placement rates and industry connections are still catching up to older, established institutes like Thapar.

recommendation: Prefer Thapar Patiala CSE for its proven placement record, established reputation, comprehensive campus experience, and strong industry connections, especially if you value stability, alumni support, and long-term career prospects. Consider IIIT Dharwad only if you specifically seek a newer IIT-like environment and are comfortable with a developing placement ecosystem. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |7132 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 27, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 26, 2025Hindi
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Hello sir, chemical engineering in NIT allahabad or ECE in igdtuw delhi. Which one is better? Please suggest.
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recommendation: Choose Chemical Engineering at NIT Allahabad if you prefer a nationally reputed institute with a strong legacy, diverse opportunities, and excellent placements in core and interdisciplinary sectors. Opt for ECE at IGDTUW if you value a women-centric, urban campus with a tech-focused curriculum and strong placement outcomes in electronics, IT, and allied industries. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Nayagam P P  |7132 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Jun 27, 2025

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Sir my daughter got seat in BTech Computer Engineering in Thaper Patiala and Scaler school of technology. Which would we prefer.
Ans: Ajay Sir, Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala, is a well-established institution with a strong reputation, A+ NAAC accreditation, and a legacy since 1956. Its Computer Engineering department boasts modern infrastructure, a research-driven curriculum aligned with ACM/IEEE standards, and strong industry connections, reflected in an 83% placement rate and over 1,800 job offers in 2023, with top recruiters from global tech companies. Scaler School of Technology, though new, has quickly emerged as an industry-focused program with a 96.3% internship placement rate for its first batch, a modern curriculum designed with tech leaders, intensive project-based learning, and mentorship from top professionals, aiming to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry needs. While Thapar offers the stability, alumni network, and holistic campus life of a traditional university, Scaler provides cutting-edge, hands-on training and strong early industry alignment but lacks the long-term track record of established institutions.

recommendation: Prefer Thapar Patiala for its proven placement record, established reputation, and comprehensive campus experience, especially if you value stability and a strong alumni network. Consider Scaler School of Technology only if you prioritize a start-up-like, industry-immersive approach and are comfortable with the risks and opportunities of a new institution. All the BEST for the Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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