Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 22, 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
vipin Question by vipin on May 14, 2024
Money

I need to get 5 crore in 15 years. How much should I invest in small cap to achieve the target

Ans: Achieving a financial goal of Rs. 5 crore in 15 years is ambitious but attainable with a disciplined investment approach. While small-cap funds can offer high returns, they also come with significant risks. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how to balance potential gains with risk management and provide a clear investment strategy.

Understanding Small-Cap Funds
What Are Small-Cap Funds?

Small-cap funds invest in companies with small market capitalization. These companies are usually in the early stages of growth, offering substantial growth potential.

High Returns with High Risk

Small-cap funds can yield high returns, often outperforming large-cap and mid-cap funds during bull markets. However, they are highly volatile and can suffer significant losses during market downturns.

Risk Assessment in Small-Cap Investments
Market Volatility

Small-cap stocks are more volatile than their large-cap counterparts. They are sensitive to market fluctuations, which can lead to significant price swings.

Liquidity Issues

Small-cap stocks tend to have lower trading volumes. This can lead to liquidity problems, making it difficult to buy or sell shares without affecting the stock price.

Business Risks

Smaller companies may face greater business risks, such as limited resources, less established market presence, and higher susceptibility to economic changes.

Calculating Investment Needs
Target Corpus Calculation

To achieve Rs. 5 crore in 15 years, you need to understand the required annual return. Assuming a high annual return of 15%, the amount you need to invest can be calculated using compound interest formulas.

Investment Strategy for Achieving Rs. 5 Crore
Diversification

While small-cap funds can be part of your portfolio, diversification is crucial. Consider a mix of small-cap, mid-cap, and large-cap funds to balance risk and return.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)

Investing through SIPs helps in averaging the purchase cost and mitigating market volatility. Consistent monthly investments ensure disciplined investing.

How Much to Invest in Small-Cap Funds?
Example Calculation

To estimate the monthly SIP amount needed to reach Rs. 5 crore in 15 years, assuming a 15% annual return:
Future Value (FV)
=
????
????
.
5
,
00
,
00
,
000
Future Value (FV)=Rs.5,00,00,000
Annual Return (r)
=
15
%
Annual Return (r)=15%
Using a SIP calculator, you can determine the required monthly investment.

Consideration of Risk

Given the high risk associated with small-cap funds, it's advisable to allocate only a portion of your investment to them. A balanced approach would involve investing in other fund categories as well.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Expert Management

Actively managed funds are overseen by professional fund managers who can navigate market volatility and make informed investment decisions.

Potential for Outperformance

These funds aim to outperform market indices, providing opportunities for higher returns compared to passive index funds.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Lack of Professional Guidance

Direct funds have lower expense ratios but require investors to make all decisions independently. This can be challenging without professional expertise.

Time-Consuming

Managing investments without guidance can be time-consuming and stressful. Regular funds, through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), offer the benefit of expert advice.

Recommended Investment Allocation
Balanced Portfolio

Small-Cap Funds: 20-30% of your portfolio, given their high risk and potential high returns.
Mid-Cap and Large-Cap Funds: 40-50%, providing stability and moderate growth.
Debt Funds: 20-30%, to balance risk and ensure liquidity.
Regular Review and Rebalancing

Regularly review your portfolio and rebalance it to maintain your desired asset allocation. This helps in managing risk and optimizing returns.

Conclusion
Investing in small-cap funds can significantly contribute to achieving your goal of Rs. 5 crore in 15 years. However, it's essential to understand and manage the associated risks. A diversified investment strategy, combining small-cap, mid-cap, and large-cap funds, along with debt funds, will provide a balanced approach.

Seek Professional Guidance

Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to tailor an investment strategy suited to your risk appetite and financial goals. This ensures that you make informed decisions and stay on track to achieve your objectives.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 21, 2024

Listen
Money
I need to get 5 crore in 15 years for my children higher study.. Marriage and my early retire... How much should I invest in mutual fund to achieve the target.... My current income is 2 lakh per month and monthly expenses of 1.7 lakh per month
Ans: Firstly, let me commend you on your foresight in planning for your children's higher education, marriage, and your early retirement. It's crucial to start early and set clear financial goals to ensure a secure future for yourself and your loved ones.

Understanding Your Financial Goal

Your goal of accumulating ?5 crore in 15 years for various life events requires careful financial planning and disciplined savings. It's essential to assess your current financial situation and determine the required investment amount to achieve this target.

Analyzing Income and Expenses

Your monthly income of ?2 lakh and expenses of ?1.7 lakh indicate a healthy surplus that can be utilized for investments. It's commendable that you have a comfortable margin between your income and expenses, which provides room for savings and investments.

Estimating Required Investment Amount

To estimate the required investment amount to accumulate ?5 crore in 15 years, we need to consider factors such as:

Time Horizon: With a 15-year investment horizon, you have a reasonable timeframe to achieve your goal, allowing you to benefit from the power of compounding.

Rate of Return: The expected rate of return on your investments plays a crucial role in determining the required investment amount. While past performance is not indicative of future results, historical data can provide insights into potential returns.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): Investing through SIPs allows you to regularly invest fixed amounts over time, leveraging the benefits of rupee cost averaging and compounding.

Calculating Required Monthly Investment

Based on the estimated rate of return and investment horizon, we can calculate the required monthly investment amount to achieve your target corpus of ?5 crore in 15 years. By factoring in the power of compounding, we can determine the optimal investment strategy to reach your financial goal.

Assuming a conservative rate of return on your investments, we can use financial planning tools to calculate the monthly SIP amount needed to accumulate ?5 crore in 15 years. By inputting variables such as the expected rate of return, investment duration, and target corpus, we can arrive at the required monthly investment amount.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds

Actively managed mutual funds offer several advantages over passive index funds or ETFs:

Professional Management: Skilled fund managers actively monitor market trends and adjust portfolio allocations to capitalize on growth opportunities, potentially leading to higher returns.

Customized Strategies: Actively managed funds employ dynamic investment strategies tailored to market conditions and investment objectives, providing investors with a personalized approach to wealth accumulation.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds

Direct funds require investors to research and select funds independently, which can be time-consuming and challenging for those with limited financial knowledge. Additionally, the absence of professional advice may result in suboptimal investment decisions and higher risks.

Benefits of Regular Funds Investing through MFD with CFP Credential

Investing in regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credentialled Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) offers several benefits:

Professional Guidance: A CFP-certified MFD provides personalized investment advice tailored to your financial goals and risk profile, helping you make informed decisions.

Access to a Wide Range of Funds: MFDs offer access to a diverse range of mutual funds, including both actively managed and index funds, enabling you to build a well-rounded investment portfolio.

Final Words

Achieving a target corpus of ?5 crore in 15 years requires a disciplined savings approach and strategic investment planning. By investing regularly in mutual funds through SIPs and leveraging the benefits of compounding, you can work towards realizing your financial aspirations.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 28, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello Sir, From last 1 year I have been investing 20K every month and from last 3 months I increased to 60K/month. I want to achieve 1 Crore goal in 5 years. Please advise how much should I invest every month and which MF should I select? Thank you.
Ans: Reaching Rs. 1 crore in 5 years is ambitious yet achievable. Your disciplined investment approach of Rs. 20,000 monthly for a year and increasing to Rs. 60,000 monthly is commendable. Let’s assess how much you need to invest and the ideal mutual fund categories to consider for your goal.

Factors Impacting Your Goal Achievement
1. Time Horizon of 5 Years
Five years is a short time for aggressive equity investments.
Your portfolio should balance growth with safety to reduce risk.
2. Expected Returns
Historical data suggests equity mutual funds may offer 10-12% returns annually.
Debt mutual funds typically provide 6-8% annual returns.
A blended portfolio with equity dominance can maximise growth.
3. Inflation Impact
Rs. 1 crore today will have lesser purchasing power in five years.
Your investment plan should account for inflation-adjusted growth.
Estimating Monthly Investments
Current SIP of Rs. 60,000
With consistent contributions and moderate returns, you can approach your goal.
Additional monthly investments may be required for a higher margin of safety.
Recommended Monthly Investment
Based on target returns, increase SIP by 10-15% annually.
You may need Rs. 70,000 to Rs. 80,000 monthly to confidently reach Rs. 1 crore.
Suggested Mutual Fund Allocation
A balanced and diversified portfolio is crucial for your goal.

1. Large-Cap Equity Mutual Funds
Suitable for stable growth with lower volatility.
Invest around 30-35% of your portfolio here.
2. Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Mutual Funds
Offer higher growth potential but come with increased risks.
Allocate 40-45% of your portfolio in this segment.
3. Hybrid Mutual Funds
Combine equity and debt for a balanced risk-return approach.
Invest 10-15% in hybrid funds for stability.
4. Debt Mutual Funds
Suitable for preserving capital and reducing volatility.
Allocate 10% to safeguard your portfolio against market fluctuations.
Avoid Index Funds for Your Goal
Disadvantages of Index Funds
They mirror the market and lack active management to mitigate risks.
Returns depend entirely on market performance, which may not suit short-term goals.
Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Skilled fund managers adjust portfolios based on market conditions.
They aim for higher returns by selecting the best-performing stocks.
Regular vs Direct Mutual Funds
Disadvantages of Direct Plans
Lack of guidance can lead to poor fund selection and portfolio mismanagement.
Navigating market volatility requires expertise, which direct plans don’t provide.
Benefits of Investing Through Certified Financial Planners
Certified planners offer personalised advice based on your goals and risk profile.
They monitor and rebalance portfolios to optimise returns.
Tax Implications of Mutual Fund Investments
Equity Mutual Funds
Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.
Debt Mutual Funds
Gains are taxed as per your income tax slab.
Plan withdrawals carefully to minimise tax liability.
Investment Strategy and Best Practices
1. Increase SIP Contributions Annually
A 10-15% increase in SIP ensures inflation-adjusted growth.
2. Diversify Across Fund Categories
Spread investments across equity, hybrid, and debt funds for balance.
3. Review Portfolio Regularly
Monitor fund performance and make necessary adjustments annually.
4. Reallocate Funds Closer to Goal
Shift investments to debt funds 12-18 months before withdrawal.
This reduces exposure to market risks near your goal’s end.
Final Insights
Your disciplined investment habit is an excellent foundation. Increase your SIP amount moderately and diversify wisely to reach your Rs. 1 crore target in five years. Actively managed funds, guided by a certified financial planner, will ensure an optimal risk-return balance. Regular reviews and adjustments 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  |10924 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 11, 2025

Money
I am having 15 lakhs best way to invest for five years
Ans: You have done well to save Rs.15 lakh. Having such a lump sum gives many options. Five years is not a very long time. But still, you can design a safe and growth-oriented plan. Liquidity, safety, and returns must all balance together.

» Assessing the Time Horizon

– Five years is a medium-term horizon.
– Too much risk is not suitable.
– Too much safety will reduce returns.
– The plan should mix stability and growth.
– Funds must be accessible if needed.

» Safety First Approach

– Keep some money aside for emergencies.
– At least 6 to 8 months expenses should be liquid.
– Use liquid options or short-term debt instruments for this.
– This part is not for growth, but for peace of mind.
– It ensures you don’t disturb other investments.

» Debt Allocation for Stability

– A large part should go to secure debt investments.
– Choose high-quality instruments with low risk.
– Options include fixed income products and debt mutual funds.
– Debt allocation gives predictable income and protects capital.
– Returns will be modest but steady.

» Equity Allocation for Growth

– A smaller part should be in equity mutual funds.
– This will protect you from inflation.
– Over five years, equity has potential to grow better.
– But keep equity allocation limited, maybe 25–30%.
– Too much equity risk is not good for this horizon.

» Why Not Index Funds

– Index funds only copy market.
– They give average performance.
– No protection in down markets.
– Actively managed funds can control risk better.
– Fund managers can adjust holdings in tough conditions.
– Over five years, active management gives better safety.

» Why Not Direct Funds

– Direct funds look cheaper with lower expense ratio.
– But without proper advice, mistakes can happen.
– Timing, fund selection, and discipline matter a lot.
– Wrong choices may cost more than small savings.
– Regular funds through Certified Financial Planner guided MFD are safer.
– Professional advice is valuable for medium-term goals.

» Tax Planning Angle

– Equity funds held over one year get long-term treatment.
– Gains above Rs.1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
– Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.
– Debt funds are taxed as per your income slab.
– Mix both to balance tax and returns.
– Plan redemption smartly to reduce overall tax.

» Liquidity Management

– Ensure part of the money is easily available.
– Avoid locking the entire Rs.15 lakh.
– In case of job change, medical need, or family requirement, funds must be handy.
– A staggered investment approach also reduces timing risk.
– Invest in parts instead of lump sum if markets are volatile.

» Goal Based Planning

– Think why you need the money after five years.
– Is it for child’s education?
– Is it for house renovation?
– Is it for retirement support?
– Based on the purpose, you can decide risk level.
– Higher importance goals need safer allocation.

» Role of Insurance

– Do not mix insurance and investment.
– Avoid ULIPs or endowment policies for this horizon.
– If you already hold LIC investment policies, you may surrender.
– Reinvest the amount in mutual funds for better growth.
– Keep term insurance separate for protection.

» Rebalancing Strategy

– Review portfolio every year.
– Shift more money to debt as you near five years.
– This reduces risk of equity fall at the wrong time.
– By final year, keep most money in safe debt.
– This protects your goal and gives peace of mind.

» Inflation Protection

– Even in five years, inflation eats value.
– Rs.15 lakh today may not equal Rs.15 lakh in 2030.
– Equity portion protects from this erosion.
– Without some growth assets, your money may lose real value.

» Psychological Discipline

– Do not chase quick returns.
– Do not panic if equity falls in some months.
– Stay invested with discipline.
– Avoid withdrawing early unless emergency.
– Trust the process and yearly reviews.

» Finally

Your Rs.15 lakh can be wisely managed for five years. Divide it into emergency, debt, and equity. Stay away from index funds and direct funds. Use actively managed funds with Certified Financial Planner guidance. Keep reviewing and slowly move to safer options near maturity. With this plan, you will have safety, growth, and liquidity all together.

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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x