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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8092 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 16, 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
Asked by Anonymous - May 05, 2024Hindi
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I am 47 years old and investing in multiple mutual funds via Sips, few of my funds are Quant mid cap, bank of India manufacturing and infrastructure, quant value, Invesco India infrastructure, Edelweiss flexi cap, union small cap, Helios flexi cap, quant small cap, kotak infrastructure and economic, Nippon India small cap, kotak small cap, kotak blue chip, axis nifty 50 index, hdfc flexi cap, icici prudential technology and few more, are all these funds good to give good returns, shall I stay invested in this or change, please advise soon

Ans: Investing in multiple mutual funds demonstrates your commitment to diversification and wealth creation. Let's assess your current portfolio and determine if any adjustments are needed to optimize returns and mitigate risks.

Reviewing Your Mutual Fund Portfolio
Your portfolio comprises a diverse range of funds across various categories and sectors, reflecting a well-rounded investment strategy. However, it's crucial to evaluate each fund's performance and suitability for your financial goals.

Analyzing Fund Selection
Active vs. Index Funds: Active funds like the ones you've invested in have the potential to outperform the market by leveraging fund managers' expertise and research. However, index funds offer lower costs and may be more suitable for passive investors.

Sector Funds vs. Diversified Funds: Sector funds, such as technology or infrastructure funds, focus on specific industries, offering potential for higher returns but also carrying higher sector-specific risks compared to diversified funds.

Identifying Potential Challenges
Overlapping Holdings: Review your portfolio for overlapping holdings across multiple funds, which can lead to concentration risk and compromise diversification benefits.

Expense Ratio: Assess the expense ratio of each fund, as higher expenses can erode returns over time, especially in actively managed funds.

Evaluating Performance
Fund Performance: Evaluate the historical performance of each fund relative to its benchmark and peers. Look for consistency in returns and fund manager track record.

Risk Management: Consider the risk profile of each fund and ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance and investment horizon.

Recommendations for Portfolio Optimization
Consolidation: Consider consolidating your portfolio by pruning underperforming or overlapping funds to streamline your investments and enhance portfolio efficiency.

Focus on Quality: Prioritize funds with strong fundamentals, experienced fund managers, and consistent performance over the long term.

Diversification: Maintain a balanced asset allocation across different fund categories to mitigate risk and capture opportunities in various market conditions.

Addressing Sector Exposure
Diversification Strategy: While sector funds offer potential for high returns, they also carry concentrated sector-specific risks. Consider reallocating some investments from sector funds to diversified funds to enhance portfolio diversification.
Conclusion
While your current mutual fund portfolio demonstrates diversification and investment discipline, it's essential to periodically review and adjust your investments to align with your financial goals and market conditions. Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice tailored to your needs and objectives.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.i
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  |8092 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 22, 2024

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Hello Sir, I'm a 47 years old man with home take salary 1.3 lacks. As only 11 years remaining for retirement, I have started sip in 5 mutual funds Rs 3000 each. All 5 mutual funds are Sbi contra fund, Aditya Birla sun life PSU equity fund, Hdfc index fund sensex plan, Parag Parikh flex cap fund & Nippon India small cap fund. Are these mutual funds right to invest for me or need any changes? Pls suggest.
Ans: Current Investment Analysis

You are investing in five mutual funds through SIPs of Rs 3,000 each. Your chosen funds are diverse, covering contra, PSU equity, index, flex cap, and small cap. Let’s evaluate and suggest improvements for better alignment with your retirement goals.

SBI Contra Fund

A contra fund invests in undervalued stocks. It can offer good returns but carries higher risk. It is suitable for long-term investors who can tolerate market fluctuations.

Aditya Birla Sun Life PSU Equity Fund

This fund invests in public sector companies. PSU funds can be volatile and depend heavily on government policies. It is good to have some exposure, but consider diversifying further.

HDFC Index Fund Sensex Plan

Index funds track market indices. They offer low-cost diversification but are less flexible in volatile markets. Actively managed funds might provide better returns with professional management.

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund

Flexi cap funds invest across various market capitalizations. They offer flexibility and diversification. This is a good choice for long-term growth and stability.

Nippon India Small Cap Fund

Small cap funds invest in smaller companies with high growth potential. They are risky but can offer high returns. Balance this with more stable investments.

Investment Strategy Recommendations

Diversification

Your current portfolio is well-diversified across different types of funds. However, you may need more stability as you approach retirement. Consider adding large cap or balanced funds for reduced risk.

Increase Equity Exposure

Equity funds can offer higher returns over the long term. Increase your SIP amounts in equity mutual funds. Consider allocating more to large cap and multi-cap funds for stability and growth.

Balanced Funds

Balanced funds invest in both equity and debt. They offer moderate returns with controlled risk. Allocate around 20-30% of your portfolio to balanced funds. This provides a good mix of growth and stability.

Debt Funds

Debt funds provide stable returns with lower risk. Allocate around 10-15% of your portfolio to debt funds. This ensures some stability in your investments.

Review and Rebalance

Review your portfolio every six months. Rebalance your investments to align with your goals. Adjust your allocations based on market conditions and performance.

Tax Efficiency

Investing in equity mutual funds provides tax efficiency. Long-term capital gains up to Rs 1 lakh per year are tax-free. Gains above Rs 1 lakh are taxed at 10%. Plan your withdrawals to minimize tax hits. Consider spreading withdrawals over multiple years.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)

Use SWP for regular withdrawals during retirement. SWP helps in managing cash flow and tax efficiency.

Insurance Review

Ensure you have adequate life and health insurance. Consider term insurance for life cover and a good health insurance plan. This safeguards your family’s financial future.

Final Insights

To achieve your retirement goals, diversify wisely. Continue with a mix of large cap, mid cap, and multi-cap funds. Add debt and balanced funds for stability. Review and rebalance your portfolio regularly. Use SIPs for consistent investments and SWPs for efficient withdrawals. Work with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for professional guidance. Ensure you have adequate insurance coverage.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Asked by Anonymous - Mar 08, 2025Hindi
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I will be retiring from my present pvt company job in April' 25. I have corpus about 40 L. Please advise, where to invest securely to get better monthly income from May' 2025 alongwith growth of capital amount to combat the market inflation in every year. My monthly requirement of fund is about 30 K.
Ans: You will retire in April 2025 with a corpus of Rs 40 lakh. Your goal is to get a steady monthly income of Rs 30,000 while ensuring your capital grows.

A secure investment strategy is essential. It should balance income, safety, and growth.

 

Key Challenges in Your Retirement Plan
Generating a stable monthly income without depleting capital.

Beating inflation so that income remains sufficient.

Minimising risk while getting reasonable returns.

Ensuring liquidity for unexpected expenses.

 

Dividing Your Corpus for Stability and Growth
Your corpus should be divided into different categories. Each category serves a purpose.

 

1. Emergency Fund – Rs 5 Lakh
Keep Rs 3 lakh in a high-interest savings account.

Keep Rs 2 lakh in a liquid fund for better returns.

This fund helps handle unexpected expenses without touching investments.

 

2. Monthly Income Fund – Rs 25 Lakh
Invest in a mix of debt mutual funds and conservative hybrid funds.

These funds offer better returns than bank FDs.

Withdraw Rs 30,000 per month using a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP).

This ensures stable income while keeping the capital growing.

 

3. Growth-Oriented Fund – Rs 10 Lakh
Invest in a balanced mix of equity mutual funds.

This helps to beat inflation and grow wealth over time.

Do not withdraw from this fund for at least 7-10 years.

This will help in long-term capital appreciation.

 

Why Not Rely Entirely on Fixed Deposits?
Bank FDs give lower returns than inflation.

Tax on FD interest reduces post-tax returns.

Debt mutual funds offer better tax efficiency and higher returns.

 

Why Avoid Index Funds?
Index funds only follow the market and cannot adjust to downturns.

Actively managed funds are handled by professional fund managers.

These funds can reduce losses in a falling market.

They offer better long-term returns than index funds.

 

Why Not Invest in Direct Mutual Funds?
Direct funds require constant tracking and decision-making.

Investing through an MFD with CFP credentials ensures better fund selection.

A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) helps in portfolio rebalancing.

This reduces investment mistakes and improves long-term returns.

 

How to Manage Inflation Every Year?
Increase your withdrawal amount by 5-6% per year.

Keep a portion in equity funds for growth.

Do not withdraw from growth-oriented funds in the first 7-10 years.

This ensures your capital lasts longer and grows.

 

Rebalancing Your Portfolio Regularly
Check investments every year.

Move money from growth funds to income funds when needed.

Adjust withdrawal amounts based on expenses and market conditions.

 

Finally
Your plan should ensure financial security and peace of mind. A well-diversified portfolio will help you get a stable income while growing your wealth. A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can help you optimise this strategy.

 

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8092 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 10, 2025

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I am new to this mutual fund since last 6 month.i have been doing a sip of 18k per month.. parag parikh flexicap 5k uti nifty 50 5k motilal oswal midcap 2.2k nippon small cap 1.5k quant small cap 1.5k jm flexicap 1k icici prudential fund 2k is these good.i have a plan of 15 yr investment with 10 percent step up each year..kindly opine
Ans: You have started SIP investing six months ago. Your monthly SIP is Rs 18,000 across different mutual funds. You also plan to increase investments by 10% each year. A long-term plan of 15 years is a good approach.

 

Strengths of Your Portfolio
You have chosen a mix of flexi-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds.

A 15-year investment horizon allows compounding benefits.

The 10% annual step-up increases the final corpus.

You are investing consistently, which is important for long-term success.

 

Areas That Need Attention
1. Too Many Funds in the Portfolio
You have seven different funds.

Some categories are overlapping, reducing diversification benefits.

A leaner portfolio can be easier to manage.

 

2. High Exposure to Small-Cap and Mid-Cap Funds
You have three funds in small-cap and mid-cap segments.

Small caps are high-risk, high-return investments.

Too much exposure can increase volatility.

 

3. Index Fund is Not the Best Choice
Index funds do not beat the market in all conditions.

Actively managed funds adjust to changing markets.

A professional fund manager can reduce downside risks.

 

Suggested Portfolio Improvements
1. Reduce the Number of Funds
Keep 3 to 4 well-managed funds instead of seven.

Choose one flexi-cap fund, one large-cap or multi-cap fund, and one mid/small-cap fund.

 

2. Balance Between Risk and Stability
Reduce exposure to too many small-cap funds.

Add a large-cap or multi-cap fund for stability.

 

3. Invest Through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Direct funds require constant tracking.

A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can guide investment decisions.

Investing through an MFD with CFP credentials ensures professional fund selection.

 

Reviewing Your Plan Regularly
Check your portfolio every year.

Rebalance if some funds underperform.

Maintain discipline and avoid emotional decisions.

 

Finally
Your investment strategy is good, but reducing the number of funds can improve returns. Focus on diversification, balancing risk, and expert guidance. A 15-year SIP with step-up can create wealth, but regular reviews are essential.

 

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8092 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 10, 2025

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Hello...I am planning to construct a home in next 5 years. My monthly salary is only 35000. I dont have any idea how to make my dream into a success. Please give me an idea how I can save my money to make a home with a budget of 30 lakhs.
Ans: Building a home is a big financial goal. You want to construct a house worth Rs 30 lakh in 5 years. Your monthly salary is Rs 35,000. With the right savings and investment plan, you can make this dream a reality.

 

Step 1: Understanding the Total Budget Requirement
The house construction cost is Rs 30 lakh.

You will need to save or arrange this amount in 5 years.

Costs may increase due to inflation.

Having a buffer amount is important for unexpected expenses.

 

Step 2: Evaluating Your Savings Capacity
Your monthly income is Rs 35,000. The goal is to save a portion consistently.

 

First, identify your essential monthly expenses.

Reduce unnecessary spending to increase savings.

The more you save, the less you need to borrow.

 

Step 3: Creating a Dedicated Home Fund
Open a separate investment account for home savings.

Invest in growth-oriented mutual funds.

Avoid keeping all money in fixed deposits due to lower returns.

 

Step 4: Choosing the Right Investment Strategy
A 5-year investment plan should have a balance of growth and safety.

 

1. Avoid Index Funds and ETFs
Index funds cannot adjust to market risks.

Actively managed funds perform better in volatile markets.

 

2. Avoid Direct Mutual Funds
Direct funds need market tracking and knowledge.

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures proper management.

 

3. Maintain Liquidity for Construction Costs
Keep some funds in liquid investments for easy access.

Avoid locking money in long-term illiquid assets.

 

Step 5: Considering a Home Loan as an Option
If saving Rs 30 lakh is difficult, a home loan can help.

 

Banks may provide up to 80% of the home cost.

Your EMI should not exceed 40% of your income.

Higher down payment reduces loan burden.

A shorter loan tenure saves interest costs.

 

Step 6: Cutting Expenses to Boost Savings
Reduce unnecessary spending like eating out and entertainment.

Avoid impulse purchases.

Use discounts and cashback options to save more.

A simple lifestyle today helps in building your dream home sooner.

 

Step 7: Reviewing Your Plan Every Year
Track savings and investments regularly.

Adjust plans if income increases or expenses change.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for guidance.

 

Finally
A Rs 30 lakh home in 5 years is possible with proper planning. Focus on consistent savings, smart investments, and controlled spending. If needed, a home loan can bridge the gap. With discipline and patience, your dream home can become a reality.

 

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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