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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2025

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 19, 2025
Money

I am 49 yrs old Govt Employee. My take home salary (after TAX deduction) is Rs 1.5 lakh. I have a home loan of 40 lakh (bal 30 lakh) with EMI 27,000 for 20 yrs. I am getting an rent of 13,000 and am paying rent 25,000 for opting a bigger house near my office. I am planning to buy another house near my office for around 70 lakhs with EMI approx 63,000. In the last 15 yrs I have invested Rs 25 Lakh in MF, cuurent value is over 75 lakh. Currently I am investing 30,000 in MF and 15,000 in PF. Now my question is how to cover EMI for new flat: A) Shall I sell the previous flat and use the money to buy new one to lower the EMI or, B) Shall I STOP monthly investment in MF to cover the difference in EMI (63000 - rent of 25000). I am less worried about my future financial planning, as I will be getting pension and medical facility for family after retirement.

Ans: Based on your inputs and goals, here’s a professionally structured, insight-driven, and detailed response to guide you clearly.

Your Current Financial Profile
Age: 49 years.

Profession: Government employee with pension and family medical cover post-retirement.

Take-home salary: Rs. 1.5 lakh monthly.

Home loan: Outstanding Rs. 30 lakh. EMI: Rs. 27,000.

Existing property rented out for Rs. 13,000 per month.

Current residence rent: Rs. 25,000 per month.

Planning to buy a second house near your office worth Rs. 70 lakh.

EMI on new house expected to be Rs. 63,000.

Mutual fund investment: Rs. 25 lakh invested. Current value over Rs. 75 lakh.

Monthly SIP: Rs. 30,000.

Monthly PF contribution: Rs. 15,000.

Appreciation of Financial Discipline
Holding Rs. 75 lakh in mutual funds from a Rs. 25 lakh investment shows patience.

Regular investing and PF contributions show solid planning habits.

Your awareness about medical and pension benefits is practical and matured.

The fact that you want to optimise EMI without harming long-term wealth is wise.

Decision Point: Covering the New Home EMI
You are weighing two options now:

Option A: Sell current flat and reduce EMI burden for new flat.

Option B: Continue holding both flats and pause SIPs to manage EMI of Rs. 63,000.

Let's examine both with a 360-degree approach.

Option A: Selling the Existing Flat
Selling the old flat will release locked capital from property.

You can use this to make a larger down payment.

That will lower the EMI or reduce the loan period.

Lower EMI improves your monthly cash flow.

You also avoid managing two houses with two EMIs.

You stop earning Rs. 13,000 rent but save Rs. 27,000 EMI.

Owning a bigger house near office solves your need directly.

No rental expense of Rs. 25,000 if you shift to new home.

Key Point: You save Rs. 25,000 rent + reduce loan burden by using proceeds.

Tax Angle: If you sell the flat after 2 years of holding, capital gain is long-term.
LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh in mutual funds is taxed at 12.5%.
LTCG from property is taxed at 20% with indexation.

Selling old flat may attract LTCG, but this can be managed using capital gain bonds.

Option B: Stop SIPs and Continue Both Loans
EMI gap = Rs. 63,000 (new) – Rs. 25,000 (current rent) = Rs. 38,000.

To cover this, you think of stopping Rs. 30,000 SIP.

But stopping SIPs will reduce your wealth-building capacity.

Your mutual fund corpus has done well. Rs. 75 lakh today is no accident.

Cutting SIPs for EMI compromises this growth for short-term comfort.

Managing two home loans increases debt burden.

Emergency or job-related changes will pressure your finances.

You will carry both loans into retirement years, which is risky.

Rental income of Rs. 13,000 does not justify a Rs. 27,000 EMI.

Key Point: Dual loans + no SIPs = weak liquidity + poor wealth creation.

Strategic Assessment
Your pension and medical support post-retirement are great advantages.

But real estate is not an efficient investment tool now.

It lacks liquidity, has low rental yield, and high exit costs.

Mutual funds, on the other hand, offer flexibility and growth.

SIPs keep your wealth compounding with time and inflation-adjusted returns.

Don’t stop SIPs which are the growth engine of your portfolio.

Disadvantages of Overexposure to Real Estate
You already own one flat. Another will double maintenance and property tax.

Real estate is illiquid and hard to exit in emergency.

Rental income is low compared to the capital value.

Prices may not rise as fast as mutual fund NAVs.

Property resale involves brokerage, stamp duty, and tax.

How to Optimally Fund New Home Purchase
Sell your old property to reduce new home loan amount.

Use part of your mutual fund corpus to bridge any shortfall.

Withdraw only up to 10-15% of MF corpus to avoid over-exposure.

Ensure you leave most of your MF investment untouched.

Avoid stopping SIPs; instead, cut some discretionary expenses.

Consider using partial withdrawal from EPF only if strictly needed.

Always keep emergency reserve of 6 months for EMI and expenses.

If You Must Retain Both Homes
Then you must downsize SIPs slightly, not stop them.

Reduce SIP to Rs. 10,000 or Rs. 15,000 monthly for 2-3 years.

Resume full SIPs once salary increases or loan interest reduces.

Don’t remove entire SIP at once; it hurts long-term compounding.

Explore joint ownership with spouse to improve loan eligibility.

Renting out one of the flats is essential for cash flow support.

MF Investment Advice
Avoid direct mutual funds unless you have market expertise.

Regular plans through MFDs with CFP support bring curated advice.

Direct plans don’t come with guidance, especially in volatile markets.

Certified Financial Planners bring goal alignment, review discipline, and fund switching help.

Active Funds Over Index Funds
Index funds follow market blindly; no downside protection.

Actively managed funds offer better risk-adjusted performance.

Fund manager expertise helps you in falling markets.

You already have seen benefit with active mutual fund growth.

Actionable Plan
Sell existing flat to reduce new loan to affordable level.

Shift to new home and save Rs. 25,000 monthly rent expense.

Use part of mutual fund corpus if needed. Limit to 10%-15%.

Avoid stopping SIPs. Reduce only if necessary.

Continue investing to reach Rs. 1.5 crore corpus before retirement.

Maintain health cover and emergency fund as buffer.

Avoid dual home loan exposure at 49, just 9-10 years before retirement.

Don’t expect real estate to give fast returns or high rental income.

Stay focused on liquidity, stability, and capital efficiency.

Keep goal-based mutual fund plans intact with professional help.

Finally
Your discipline in investing is a big asset already.

Avoid halting SIPs which power your future corpus.

Don’t load retirement life with dual EMIs and real estate stress.

Selling one property and owning the right home near office is practical.

Continue MF journey with expert guidance and minimal interruptions.

This keeps you financially strong even in post-retirement years.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
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  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 06, 2025

Money
Hi Mam, I need your prompt advice as i need to take decision on the same. I am 55 years and have 5-6 Years in retirement. Post retirement have planning and secure. Now coming to the point that i am staying a capital of state where i pay house rent Rs.40000/- PM. My take homme monthly salary is approx 6 Lacs. My organization have policy to pay 50% interest subsidy on interest of Housing loan. I am planning to purchase a flat value 1.25 Cr in which 80 Lacs Banks are ready to give for next 12 Years . monthly EMI will be 85-90 K and out of which approx 28K will be subsidy and 40K my rent and 5K saving of IT in Housing loan interest . Ideally it will cost to me approx. 15-20 K Per month additionally . After retirement i will sell the flat and square off my balance home loan. Please suggest is it worth of taking ....or i should continue to pay House rent and add 20 K liability in Mutual Fund contribution . Urgent reply please
Ans: You are evaluating whether to buy a flat worth Rs. 1.25 crore or continue renting. Let us assess this situation considering financial, practical, and retirement planning aspects.

 

Financial Considerations
1. Monthly Cost Comparison

Current rent is Rs. 40,000 per month.
EMI for the home loan is Rs. 85,000-90,000 per month.
Subsidy from your organisation reduces the EMI cost by Rs. 28,000.
Tax savings on housing loan interest further reduce the cost by Rs. 5,000.
Net additional cost to you is Rs. 15,000-20,000 per month.
 

2. Opportunity Cost of Down Payment

Buying the flat requires Rs. 45 lakh as a down payment (including registration).
Investing this amount in mutual funds for 5-6 years can yield higher returns.
Evaluate if your current mutual fund contributions can bridge this gap later.
 

3. Post-Retirement Loan Liability

Your home loan tenure is 12 years.
After retirement, loan repayments will depend on other income sources.
Selling the flat to clear the loan may not always fetch expected value.
 

4. Rent vs. Ownership Costs

Owning a flat involves maintenance, property tax, and repair costs.
Consider if these costs are affordable post-retirement.
Renting offers flexibility and avoids these additional expenses.
 

Lifestyle and Practical Aspects
1. Stability vs. Flexibility

Owning a flat provides stability and security of residence.
Renting offers flexibility to relocate post-retirement if needed.
 

2. Emotional Value of Owning a Home

Buying a home can give emotional satisfaction and a sense of achievement.
Ensure this decision aligns with your long-term financial health.
 

3. Rental Yield Analysis

Flats often have low rental yields compared to their cost.
You may not earn substantial rental income after clearing the loan.
 

Retirement Planning
1. Impact on Retirement Corpus

Redirecting Rs. 20,000 to mutual funds can grow significantly over 6 years.
This additional corpus can support your post-retirement lifestyle.
 

2. Liquidity Needs Post-Retirement

Flats are illiquid assets and may take time to sell when needed.
Liquid investments ensure easy access to funds during emergencies.
 

3. Alternate Strategies

Continuing to rent and investing in mutual funds may create better retirement wealth.
Combine equity and debt funds for an optimal mix of growth and stability.
 

Tax and Subsidy Considerations
1. Housing Loan Subsidy

The 50% interest subsidy reduces your effective EMI significantly.
This benefit reduces the immediate cost of buying the flat.
 

2. Tax Savings on Interest

Tax benefits under Section 24 further reduce the financial burden.
These savings must be factored into your overall cost analysis.
 

Final Insights
Buying a flat offers stability but increases financial obligations. Continuing to rent allows flexibility and creates additional retirement wealth. Evaluate the long-term implications on your retirement corpus before deciding. Align this decision with your financial goals and retirement needs. Engage with a Certified Financial Planner to create a detailed retirement plan and optimise your investments.

 

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 16, 2024

Money
Hi Sir, I need your prompt advice as i need to take decision on the same. I am 55 years and have 5-6 Years in retirement. Post retirement have planning and secure. Now coming to the point that i am staying a capital of state where i pay house rent Rs.40000/- PM. My take homme monthly salary is approx 6 Lacs. My organization have policy to pay 50% interest subsidy on interest of Housing loan. I am planning to purchase a flat value 1.25 Cr in which 80 Lacs Banks are ready to give for next 12 Years . monthly EMI will be 85-90 K and out of which approx 28K will be subsidy and 40K my rent and 5K saving of IT in Housing loan interest . Ideally it will cost to me approx. 15-20 K Per month additionally . After retirement i will sell the flat and square off my balance home loan. Please suggest is it worth of taking ....or i should continue to pay House rent and add 20 K liability in Mutual Fund contribution & avoid Interst subsidy !! Urgent reply please
Ans: Key Financial Factors to Consider
Option 1: Buying the Flat
EMI Costs

EMI: Rs. 85,000-90,000 monthly for 12 years.
Net EMI Cost (Post subsidy and tax saving): Rs. 15,000-20,000 per month.
Rental Saving

Buying eliminates rent, saving Rs. 40,000 monthly.
Subsidy Benefit

50% interest subsidy reduces your EMI burden by Rs. 28,000 per month.
Tax Benefits on Home Loan

You save approximately Rs. 5,000 monthly in taxes on interest payments.
Plan to Sell Post-Retirement

Selling the flat in 5-6 years may or may not yield significant appreciation.
Real estate liquidity can be unpredictable.
Option 2: Continuing to Rent
Current Costs

Rent: Rs. 40,000 per month.
No additional EMI burden.
Investment Opportunity

Allocate Rs. 20,000 monthly (saved from net EMI cost) to mutual funds.
This investment grows significantly in 5-6 years.
Flexibility

Renting offers flexibility in case of post-retirement relocation.
Detailed Analysis
Buying the Flat: Pros and Cons
Pros:

Owning a home offers emotional satisfaction.
Subsidy and tax savings reduce EMI burden.
Rent savings (Rs. 40,000) offsets the EMI.
Cons:

Requires additional Rs. 15,000-20,000 monthly for EMIs.
Real estate appreciation is uncertain over 5-6 years.
Selling post-retirement involves transaction costs and market risks.
Renting and Investing: Pros and Cons
Pros:

Avoids the hassle of a large loan and associated liabilities.
Rs. 20,000 invested in equity mutual funds can grow significantly.
More flexibility to relocate post-retirement.
Cons:

Rent payments continue with no ownership asset.
Miss out on interest subsidy and home loan tax benefits.
Scenario Comparison
Option 1: Buying the Flat
Total Outflow: Rs. 15,000-20,000 monthly (EMI after adjustments).
Asset Created: A flat worth Rs. 1.25 crore, potentially appreciating in value.
Risk: Real estate value may stagnate or decline in the short term.
Option 2: Renting and Investing
Total Outflow: Rs. 40,000 monthly in rent, plus Rs. 20,000 invested in mutual funds.
Investment Growth: Assuming 10% CAGR, Rs. 20,000 per month grows to Rs. 16 lakh in 5 years.
Risk: Market volatility may impact mutual fund returns.
Certified Financial Planner’s Suggestion
Based on your financial profile and goals, here is a balanced recommendation:

Leaning Towards Renting and Investing

Renting gives flexibility and avoids real estate risks.
Invest the additional Rs. 20,000 in equity mutual funds for better returns.
A diversified portfolio may provide more liquidity and growth by retirement.
If Emotional Value of Ownership Matters

Buy the flat only if you are confident about the real estate market in your city.
Ensure the flat is easily sellable in 5-6 years.
Carefully assess the costs and expected returns before committing.
Final Insights
Buying a flat works best if real estate appreciation outpaces mutual fund growth. However, this is uncertain in a short horizon. Renting and investing in mutual funds is a more flexible and potentially rewarding option for retirement planning.

Take a prudent decision considering your priorities and risk tolerance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 29, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 24, 2025Hindi
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Money
I am 36 years old with two kids 3.75 years old and 1.25 year old. I have outstanding home loan of 24 lakh. I have mutual fund holding of 9 lakh and 3 lakh in equity. I don't have other savings. My monthly salary is 1.8 lakh and home loan emi is 55k/month and other expenses are 50k/month. I intent to pay off my home loan entirely by April 2025. And then save and focus on purchasing other real estate property. Request you to advise if I should pay off current home loan and then invest in second ( given opportunity cost of rising real estates ) or should I keep current emi and take additional loan to purchase second property as 24 lakh rupees would not be enough for second property.
Ans: Assessing Your Current Financial Situation
You are 36 years old with two young kids.

Your monthly salary is Rs. 1.8 lakh.

Home loan EMI is Rs. 55,000 per month.

Other monthly expenses are Rs. 50,000.

Your current assets include Rs. 9 lakh in mutual funds and Rs. 3 lakh in equity.

No other savings apart from these investments.

You plan to fully repay your Rs. 24 lakh home loan by April 2025.

You are considering investing in another real estate property.

You are evaluating whether to pay off your current home loan first or take an additional loan.

Evaluating Home Loan Repayment
Paying off your home loan will free up Rs. 55,000 per month.

This can increase your savings and investment capacity.

However, prepaying the loan reduces liquidity, which is important for financial security.

Home loan interest rates are lower than potential investment returns from mutual funds.

Instead of full prepayment, partial repayment with continued investment may be better.

Assessing your loan’s interest rate versus expected returns is essential.

Managing Your Cash Flow and Investments
After EMI and expenses, you have Rs. 75,000 surplus per month.

With no emergency savings, all surplus going into loan repayment is risky.

Maintaining liquidity through an emergency fund is crucial.

Investing part of the surplus in mutual funds can create better long-term returns.

A balanced approach between loan prepayment and investment can be more beneficial.

Risks of Purchasing a Second Property
Real estate is illiquid and requires significant investment.

Rental yields are generally low, offering about 2-3% annually.

Capital appreciation is uncertain and depends on market conditions.

Maintenance, taxes, and potential vacancies add to costs.

If property prices fall, you may face financial stress with a higher loan burden.

Opportunity Cost of Investing in Real Estate
Investing in equity mutual funds offers better long-term returns.

You can achieve financial freedom faster through diversified investments.

Real estate locks in a large amount of money with slow growth.

Liquidity is lower compared to mutual funds or fixed-income instruments.

Recommended Financial Strategy
1. Build an Emergency Fund
Keep at least 6-12 months of expenses in liquid funds.

This ensures financial security and avoids forced withdrawals from investments.

2. Balance Loan Repayment and Investments
Instead of full prepayment, allocate some surplus towards investments.

Partial prepayment can reduce interest burden without affecting liquidity.

Continue investing in mutual funds for long-term wealth creation.

3. Avoid Purchasing Another Property
With limited savings and liquidity, another property will increase financial risk.

A second home loan will add EMI burden and reduce investment potential.

Diversifying into equity and fixed-income investments is a better approach.

Real estate investment limits flexibility in case of financial emergencies.

4. Strengthen Your Investment Portfolio
Increase SIP contributions in mutual funds to build long-term wealth.

Focus on a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds for diversification.

Invest in debt funds or fixed-income instruments for stability.

Ensure a proper asset allocation based on risk tolerance and goals.

5. Secure Your Family’s Future
Ensure you have adequate term life insurance to protect your family.

Health insurance for yourself, spouse, and kids is necessary.

Create a financial plan for your children’s education and future needs.

Finally
Paying off your home loan is beneficial but should not drain liquidity.

Investing in mutual funds offers better flexibility and growth.

A second property will increase financial stress and limit investment potential.

Maintaining a balanced approach ensures financial stability and long-term wealth creation.

Prioritize an emergency fund, investments, and financial security before taking new liabilities.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 21, 2025Hindi
Money
I am 38 years old , I have my own house, plus 2 flats worth Rs.2 crores. I have 15 lacs in stock and mutual funds. I have ongoing loan of 35 lakhs for home loan. Now i am planning to buy one more flats in my society which is bigger then I m living now and want to shift there. I just want to ask should i buy it to take one more home loan or sell off one flat and take this bigger one. I have no issue for emi as I have ongoing rent of rs 60 to 70k. I have some self saving apporox. 40 lakh and the flat is 1 crores so I will be needed approx 60 as home loan. Pls suggest I m little confused
Ans: You are 38 years old.
You own a house plus two flats worth Rs. 2 crores.
You have Rs. 15 lakhs in stocks and mutual funds.
You have Rs. 40 lakhs as self-savings.
You are paying EMI for a Rs. 35 lakh home loan.
You are getting rental income of Rs. 60,000 to Rs. 70,000 monthly.
You are planning to buy a bigger flat worth Rs. 1 crore.
You are confused between taking a new home loan or selling one flat.
Let us now guide you in a detailed 360-degree manner.

First, Understand Your Current Asset Position
You already own 3 properties including your current home.

Their combined value is around Rs. 2 crores.

You have Rs. 15 lakhs in financial investments.

You have Rs. 40 lakhs in self-savings.

You have an ongoing Rs. 35 lakh home loan.

Your monthly rental income is strong.

Your age is just 38, you have time ahead.

This is a solid financial base.
But more real estate may not be a wise decision now.

Do Not Keep Increasing Real Estate Exposure
You already have 3 properties.

Buying one more adds to concentration risk.

Real estate is not a liquid asset.

It gives no monthly income unless rented.

Maintenance cost, tax, and legal issues can also increase.

Selling it in emergencies is difficult and slow.

Better to reduce real estate, and build financial assets.

Why You Want a Bigger Flat – Emotional or Financial?
Bigger house is good if family is growing.

But it should not hurt your future goals.

More house means more expenses.

You need more furniture, interiors, maintenance.

These hidden costs may hurt long-term savings.

You must balance comfort and financial health.

Option 1: Buy Bigger Flat Using Rs. 60L Loan
Pros:

You keep all 3 flats.

Your rental income continues.

You move to a more spacious home.

Cons:

One more loan increases your EMI burden.

Total loan becomes Rs. 95 lakhs (35 + 60).

You already have Rs. 70,000 EMI likely.

Additional Rs. 55,000–60,000 EMI will hurt liquidity.

Two loans will reduce your monthly surplus.

You already have Rs. 40 lakhs with you.

You will have to use it all to fund new flat.

Your emergency savings and financial investments will be zero.

That is not safe in the long term.

No financial cushion will remain for future.

Option 2: Sell One Flat and Upgrade
Pros:

You unlock money from an illiquid asset.

You reduce overall real estate exposure.

You reduce EMI stress by taking a smaller loan.

You may only need Rs. 20–25 lakh loan.

This EMI will be just Rs. 15,000–20,000.

You can keep your Rs. 40 lakhs savings.

You can reinvest Rs. 40 lakhs wisely in mutual funds.

This can build your child’s education and retirement corpus.

You also avoid high EMI stress.

Cons:

You lose one rental income source.

Property appreciation may stop on that unit.

Some emotional attachment to property may exist.

Ideal Recommendation – Sell One Flat, Shift to Bigger Flat
Don’t hold 3 flats just for feeling rich.

Selling one flat reduces EMI and risk.

It also improves cash flow for future investing.

Use your Rs. 40 lakhs partly for new flat.

Take small loan of Rs. 20–25 lakhs only.

This keeps EMI light.

You keep financial freedom and comfort.

Avoid Overexposing Yourself to Home Loans
You are already repaying one loan.

Don't take one more large loan.

It may be okay now, but future is uncertain.

You may face income drop, job change, or medical emergency.

EMI pressure can impact your peace of mind.

Also reduces your ability to invest monthly.

Big loans steal your ability to grow wealth.

Use Surplus to Build Mutual Fund Portfolio
Rs. 40 lakhs is a powerful amount.

Don’t exhaust it in property.

Keep Rs. 10 lakhs as emergency fund.

Invest Rs. 30 lakhs in mutual funds through STP.

Use mix of equity, hybrid, and debt funds.

SIP monthly from STP over 18–24 months.

Use different fund categories for different goals.

Suggested Mutual Fund Strategy
For Retirement Goal:

Invest in Flexi Cap and Aggressive Hybrid Funds.

These give steady compounding over long term.

For Child Education (if applicable):

Use Flexi Cap and Large & Mid Cap Funds.

Also use Balanced Advantage for safer allocation.

For General Wealth Creation:

Use Aggressive Hybrid and Mid Cap Funds.

Keep STP in place from arbitrage or ultra-short funds.

Why Not to Use Direct Mutual Funds
Direct plans look cheaper.

But no one guides you when market falls.

You may stop SIP or withdraw at wrong time.

Regular plans via MFD with CFP offer safety.

They do review, rebalancing, and hand-holding.

Their service helps avoid costly mistakes.

Pay little more, but gain much more over years.

Why Not to Choose Index Funds
Index funds just follow index blindly.

No human decision-making.

No protection during crashes.

No smart exit or stock-level analysis.

Index funds are not meant for goal-based investing.

Active funds with good manager do better in India.

If You Hold LIC, ULIP or Endowment Plans
Check if any of your Rs. 15 lakhs is in such products.

Most of these give only 4%–5% returns.

They lock your money for years.

If no lock-in, surrender them.

Shift to mutual funds with proper guidance.

Take pure term insurance separately if needed.

Medical Cover is Not Enough
You have Rs. 10 lakhs health insurance.

Add top-up plan of Rs. 25–30 lakhs more.

Medical inflation is rising fast.

Hospital costs can cross Rs. 10 lakhs easily.

Better to be prepared now itself.

Keep Long-Term Investing Discipline
Do not stop SIPs during market correction.

Use goal-wise mutual fund tracking.

Increase SIP every year by 10% minimum.

Review your portfolio yearly.

Do not chase latest fund or trend.

Use CFP and MFD for regular help.

Finally
You already have large exposure in real estate.

Don’t increase it more.

Selling one flat and buying bigger one is wise.

Keep loan low and liquidity high.

Use remaining savings for wealth creation.

Don’t invest randomly in stock market.

Mutual funds are better with right guidance.

Don’t go for direct or index mutual funds.

Use regular plans through MFD with CFP support.

Stay on track with financial goals.

Don’t build more property, build more financial freedom.

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 23, 2025

Money
Hi Sir, I started a SIP of 3k from 3months investing in Nipon India Small Cap fund. I started investing via \xis bank mobile app. Please suggest me if thats the safe way to do through bank app. And I am willing to start another SIP of 3k per month. Planning to do it on groww app. Please suggest some good SIP plans and guide me on how good and safe to start via groww app.
Ans: I appreciate your early step into disciplined investing.
Starting SIPs shows long-term thinking.
Beginning small builds confidence and learning.
Your willingness to ask questions is healthy.

» Your Current SIP Action Review
– You started SIP of Rs 3,000 monthly.
– SIP duration is three months.
– Investment is through a bank mobile app.

This shows good initiative.
Early habits shape future wealth.

» Understanding Your Chosen Fund Category
– The fund belongs to small-sized companies category.
– Such funds are high risk.
– Such funds give high volatility.

Returns can be uneven yearly.
Patience is very important here.

» Suitability Of Small Company Funds
– Small companies grow faster sometimes.
– They also fall harder during corrections.
– Not suitable as first-only investment.

Exposure should be limited initially.
Balance is essential.

» Starting Early
– You started without waiting for perfection.
– Many delay investing unnecessarily.
– Action matters more than perfection.

This mindset helps long-term success.

» Risk Awareness Is Necessary
– Small company funds fluctuate sharply.
– Short-term losses are common.
– Emotional control is required.

Three months is too short to judge.
Time horizon should be long.

» Minimum Suggested Time Horizon
– Such funds need at least seven years.
– Shorter periods cause disappointment.
– SIP helps reduce timing risk.

Consistency matters more than returns initially.

» Bank App As Investment Platform
– Bank apps are generally safe.
– Transactions are regulated.
– Holdings are stored with registrars.

Platform safety is not the main risk.
Investment choice matters more.

» Limitations Of Bank Apps
– Limited guidance provided.
– Product pushing is common.
– Advice is not personalised.

Banks focus on convenience.
Planning depth is usually missing.

» Bank Staff Support Limitations
– Staff change frequently.
– Knowledge levels vary.
– Long-term accountability is absent.

This affects continuity of advice.

» Safety Of Investments Versus Platform
– Funds are held in your PAN.
– Platform failure does not erase investments.
– Units remain safe with fund house.

So platform safety fear is minimal.
Decision quality matters more.

» Planning Another SIP Thought
– You want another Rs 3,000 SIP.
– Total SIP becomes Rs 6,000 monthly.

This is positive growth behaviour.
But structure needs correction.

» Platform Comparison Perspective
– You plan using another app.
– Such apps promote self investing.
– Guidance quality is limited.

Ease should not replace planning.

» Direct Platform Reality Check
– Such apps promote direct plans.
– Expense difference looks attractive.
– But hidden costs exist.

Cost is not only expense ratio.
Mistakes cost more.

» Disadvantages Of Direct Plans
– No personalised advice.
– No behaviour guidance during falls.
– No portfolio review support.

Investors act emotionally without guidance.
This hurts returns badly.

» Decision Errors In Direct Investing
– Panic selling during market falls.
– Overconfidence during rallies.
– Frequent fund switching.

These mistakes destroy compounding.
They are very common.

» Lack Of Accountability In Apps
– Apps do not call you.
– Apps do not stop wrong actions.
– Responsibility lies fully on investor.

This is risky for beginners.

» Why Regular Plans Add Value
– Guidance helps discipline.
– Asset allocation stays balanced.
– Behavioural mistakes reduce.

Value is beyond commission.
Support matters during volatility.

» Role Of MFD With CFP Credential
– Certified Financial Planner gives structure.
– Advice aligns with goals.
– Long-term handholding exists.

This improves investment experience.
Returns become smoother.

» Cost Versus Value Perspective
– Direct plans save small percentage.
– Wrong decisions lose big percentages.

Net outcome matters more.
Peace of mind matters too.

» Your Current Portfolio Concentration Risk
– Only one equity category exposure exists.
– Risk is concentrated.
– Diversification is missing.

This increases volatility risk.
Balance is needed urgently.

» Importance Of Diversification
– Different funds behave differently.
– Market cycles impact unevenly.
– Balance reduces shock.

Diversification improves consistency.

» Ideal SIP Structure For Beginners
– One aggressive component.
– One stable growth component.
– One flexible allocation component.

This spreads risk evenly.
Comfort increases automatically.

» Why Avoid Multiple Apps
– Tracking becomes confusing.
– Discipline weakens.
– Reviews become difficult.

One guided platform is better.
Simplicity improves adherence.

» Data Security Perspective
– Apps are regulated.
– Data security standards exist.
– Risk is minimal.

But advice quality remains missing.

» Behaviour During Market Corrections
– Small company funds fall sharply.
– Beginners panic easily.
– SIP stoppage becomes tempting.

Guidance prevents wrong reactions.

» Emotional Support Value
– Markets test patience.
– Fear appears suddenly.
– Someone must guide.

Apps cannot replace humans here.

» Why Starting With Only Small Companies Is Risky
– Volatility is high.
– Returns are uneven.
– Confidence may break early.

Balanced start builds trust.

» Gradual Exposure Approach
– Start with core stability.
– Add aggression slowly.
– Increase risk with experience.

This improves journey comfort.

» SIP Amount Increase Strategy
– Rs 6,000 is fine initially.
– Increase annually with income growth.
– Discipline matters more than amount.

Time creates wealth here.

» Tax Awareness Brief
– Equity funds tax applies on selling.
– Long-term gains have limits.
– Short-term gains are taxed higher.

Holding longer improves efficiency.

» Avoid Frequent Changes
– Switching funds harms compounding.
– Costs increase silently.
– Discipline reduces regret.

Stick to strategy firmly.

» Monitoring Frequency
– Review once a year.
– Avoid monthly checking.
– Noise causes confusion.

Long-term vision matters.

» Avoid Social Media Influence
– Tips are often misleading.
– Past returns are highlighted.
– Risk is hidden.

Structured advice avoids traps.

» Role Of Goal Mapping
– Define why you invest.
– Time horizon matters.
– Risk choice depends on goals.

Without goals, investing feels stressful.

» Emergency Fund Reminder
– Keep emergency money separate.
– Do not mix with SIPs.
– Liquidity is essential.

This prevents SIP stoppage.

» Insurance And Protection Check
– Health cover should be adequate.
– Life cover matters if dependents exist.

Protection supports investment continuity.

» Long-Term Wealth Mindset
– Wealth grows slowly.
– Patience beats intelligence.
– Process beats prediction.

Consistency wins always.

» Common Beginner Mistakes To Avoid
– Chasing last year returns.
– Using too many apps.
– Ignoring allocation balance.

Awareness saves money.

» How A CFP Helps In SIP Planning
– Designs suitable allocation.
– Reviews yearly changes.
– Guides during volatility.

This partnership adds value.

» Confidence Building Perspective
– You already started investing.
– You are learning actively.
– Improvement is natural.

This journey will get smoother.

» Platform Safety Final View
– Bank app is safe.
– App based platforms are safe.
– Investment safety lies with fund house.

Decision quality matters more.

» Final Insights
– Starting SIP is a good step.
– Small company exposure is risky alone.
– Diversification is necessary now.
– Avoid self-direct platforms initially.
– Regular plans with CFP guidance add value.
– Consistency and discipline build wealth.

You are on the right path.
Correct structure will improve outcomes.

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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