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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 08, 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 - Sep 03, 2025Hindi
Money

I am 50 yrs old. I have SIP for the followings, Bandhan Bank Small Cap Growth fund - 10K, DSP Opportunities Fund - 10K, HDFC Midcap Opportunities Fund - 10K, HSBC Small Cap Fund - 10K, ICICI Prudentila Mid cap Fund - 13K, ICICI Prudential Multicap Fund - 10K, ICICI prudential nifty next 50 index fund - 5K, Kotak emerging equity fund - 10K, Motilal oswal nifty midcap 150 index fund - 5K, Motilal oswal midcap fund - 10K, SBI bluechip fund - 5K. My current portfolio is 18 Lac. Pls suggest for any modification of funds required how much corpus i can expect after 8yrs.

Ans: – You have a well-built portfolio already.
– You have diversified across market segments.
– You have shown discipline in SIPs, which is the most powerful habit.
– You have already reached Rs. 18 lakh.
– You are in the right age to tighten the plan.

This is a strong foundation to grow a secure future.

» Assessing your mutual funds

– You hold multiple midcap and small-cap funds.
– You hold some large-cap funds.
– You hold two index funds.
– You hold multicap exposure.

The good part: You have growth-oriented allocation.

The concerning part: You have too many overlapping funds.

Overlapping means many funds may hold similar stocks. It does not increase safety. It increases complexity.

Too many small-cap and mid-cap funds also increase volatility. At 50 years, high volatility must be balanced.

» Disadvantages of index funds in your case

– You hold Nifty Next 50 and Nifty Midcap 150 index funds.
– Index funds copy the index without active decisions.
– When market crashes, index funds fall without protection.
– Actively managed funds can control downside better.
– Index funds miss opportunities where active managers can outperform.
– They have no dynamic rebalancing.
– For someone near retirement, stability is key. Index funds do not provide that.

Hence, reducing index fund exposure is advisable.

» Required portfolio modification

– Reduce the number of funds.
– Keep one large-cap or large & midcap fund for stability.
– Keep one multicap fund for flexible growth.
– Keep one midcap fund for growth push.
– Keep one small-cap fund for limited aggressive growth.

This way, only 4 diversified funds can serve the same purpose.

The current portfolio of 11 funds is too scattered.

Selling some funds may trigger capital gains tax. For equity mutual funds:
– Long-term capital gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
– Short-term capital gains taxed at 20%.

Plan redemption carefully. Consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) for a tax-efficient switch.

» Asset allocation balancing

– At 50, safety and growth must both exist.
– Keep 60% in equity mutual funds.
– Keep 40% in debt or fixed income.
– This ensures growth and capital protection together.

Debt options can include:
– Short-duration mutual funds.
– Corporate bond funds.
– Banking & PSU funds.
– Ultra-short or liquid funds.

Avoid direct funds. Use regular plans through an MFD with CFP credential.

Disadvantages of direct funds:
– You lose personalised advice.
– You lose behavioural correction during market stress.
– You take emotional decisions alone.
– You may chase returns without understanding risk.

Regular plans with expert guidance optimise return with peace of mind.

» SIP continuity and time horizon

– You plan for 8 more years.
– SIPs should continue during this period.
– Growth compounds best in the last phase.
– Equity should be slowly reduced 2-3 years before your goal.
– Gradually shift some corpus to debt to lock gains.

» Expected corpus after 8 years

You have: Rs. 18 lakh now.
Your monthly SIP total is:
– Bandhan Bank Small Cap: 10K
– DSP Opportunities: 10K
– HDFC Midcap: 10K
– HSBC Small Cap: 10K
– ICICI Prudential Midcap: 13K
– ICICI Multicap: 10K
– ICICI Nifty Next 50 Index: 5K
– Kotak Emerging Equity: 10K
– Motilal Oswal Nifty Midcap 150 Index: 5K
– Motilal Oswal Midcap: 10K
– SBI Bluechip: 5K

Total monthly SIP = Rs. 108,000.

Now, without calculation details:
– If equity delivers average growth, your corpus can grow well.
– Over 8 years, disciplined SIPs may grow your Rs. 18 lakh + SIPs to a strong figure.
– You can expect a range of Rs. 1.6 crore to Rs. 2.1 crore (approximate).
– The exact amount depends on market behaviour, SIP continuity, and proper rebalancing.

This range is realistic and achievable.

» Other key actions

– Review insurance cover.
– At 50, life cover may be less needed if dependents are financially secure.
– Ensure health insurance is adequate.
– Create a will to secure family.
– Build an emergency fund of 6-9 months of expenses in liquid form.
– Keep big-ticket expenses (children’s education, marriage, etc.) in separate buckets.
– Do not disturb retirement corpus for such goals.

» Risk management

– Avoid chasing highest returns.
– Focus on risk-adjusted stable growth.
– Reduce exposure to small caps gradually.
– Use systematic transfer plans (STPs) when moving from equity to debt.
– Keep tax impact in mind before making big portfolio changes.

» Behavioural discipline

– Do not stop SIPs in market corrections.
– Do not withdraw early unless for goal achievement.
– Do not switch funds frequently.
– Review only once in six months with a Certified Financial Planner.

» Preparing for retirement income

– In 8 years, you will be 58.
– Plan for regular income then.
– Create a retirement bucket strategy:

Immediate 5 years’ income in safe debt instruments.

Next 5–10 years’ corpus in moderate hybrid funds.

Long-term growth bucket in equity funds for inflation beating.

This method keeps money safe and growing simultaneously.

» Finally

Your discipline today is your biggest strength.
You have built the right foundation for the future.
Some streamlining in funds and allocation will reduce risk and increase efficiency.
With the right asset balance, controlled risk, and regular guidance, your retirement corpus goal is fully achievable.
Stay consistent. Stay patient. Your financial freedom is within reach.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
Asked on - Sep 08, 2025 | Answered on Sep 08, 2025
Thanks for detailed response.
Ans: You're welcome! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Best wishes on your financial journey!

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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 01, 2024

Listen
Money
Hi Sir Sangayya hear from Karnataka my age is 43 from last 3 years I started my SIP details r as below 1 ELSS - 5 sips each 1k 2. Large & mid cap fund - 3 sips 1k each 3. Thematic fund - Franklin India opp - 5k 4. Multi asset allocator - Tata 5k 5.Flexi cap fund - 2 Sips 1k each 6. Dynamic Asset - Edelweiss balanced Adv fund 1k 7. Small cap - Nippon India 1k Total monthly 22k is my investment kindly suggest I want to build my corpus 1cr in another 10 year & how much I have to invest more to achieve Target
Ans: Hello Sangayya, it's great to see your commitment to building your financial future through SIP investments. Let's break down your goal of reaching a corpus of 1 crore in 10 years and assess your current investment approach:

Review Current Investments: Evaluate the performance of your existing SIPs relative to their benchmarks and peers. This will help you understand if adjustments are needed to optimize your portfolio for growth.
Assess Required Monthly Investment: To reach a corpus of 1 crore in 10 years, you'll need to calculate the required monthly investment based on your expected rate of return. This depends on factors like the type of funds you're investing in and prevailing market conditions.
Consider Increasing SIP Amount: If your current monthly investment of 22k isn't sufficient to reach your goal, you may need to increase your SIP amounts or explore additional investment avenues. A Certified Financial Planner can help you determine the optimal investment strategy based on your risk tolerance and financial goals.
Stay Consistent and Patient: Building a substantial corpus takes time and discipline. Stay committed to your investment plan, continue SIPs regularly, and avoid making emotional decisions based on short-term market fluctuations.
Regular Portfolio Review: Periodically review your portfolio's performance and make adjustments as needed. Rebalancing your investments and exploring new opportunities can help you stay on track towards achieving your financial goals.
Remember, while setting ambitious targets is commendable, it's essential to ensure that your investment strategy is realistic and aligned with your risk tolerance and financial capacity. With careful planning and perseverance, you can work towards building a significant corpus over the next decade.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 19, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello Sir, I have started investing in sip from last month's and investing around 65k per month in 7 mutual funds which includes Nippon small cap,quant small cap, quant mid cap, Edelweiss balanced fund, canara robeco bluechip ,HDFC nifty 50 and Parag parikh flexi cap. As I want to make a Corpus of 1 crore in next 7-10 years is it good to continue with these funds or I need to do some changes. Please advise
Ans: Your initiative to start SIPs and invest ?65,000 monthly is commendable. At 7-10 years, achieving a corpus of ?1 crore is a realistic goal. Let's review your current funds and see if any adjustments are needed.

Current Fund Analysis

Nippon Small Cap and Quant Small Cap

Small cap funds offer high growth potential but are volatile. Holding two small cap funds increases risk. Diversifying to other categories can balance this risk.

Quant Mid Cap

Mid cap funds balance growth and stability. They are less volatile than small cap funds. This fund adds valuable diversity to your portfolio.

Edelweiss Balanced Fund

Balanced funds, also known as hybrid funds, invest in equity and debt. They provide stability and moderate growth. This is a good choice for risk management.

Canara Robeco Bluechip Fund

Large cap funds invest in well-established companies. They offer stability and steady returns. This fund adds a layer of safety to your portfolio.

HDFC Nifty 50

Nifty 50 index funds track the performance of the Nifty 50 index. However, actively managed funds often outperform index funds. Consider switching to an actively managed large cap fund.

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund

Flexi cap funds invest across market capitalizations. They provide flexibility and diversification. This is a strong choice for a long-term portfolio.

Diversification and Risk Management

Diversification is crucial to managing risk. Your portfolio should balance growth and stability. Small cap funds should not dominate your portfolio. Consider reducing exposure to small caps.

Advantages of Actively Managed Funds

Actively managed funds adjust to market conditions. Fund managers seek opportunities for higher returns. This can outperform passive index funds like HDFC Nifty 50.

Regular Review and Adjustment

Regular reviews ensure your investments align with goals. Adjustments may be necessary as market conditions change. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized advice.

Investment Strategy for Corpus Growth

Reduce Small Cap Exposure

Keep only one small cap fund.
Diversify remaining investment into other categories.
Increase Large Cap and Balanced Fund Allocation

Allocate more to large cap and balanced funds.
These funds provide stability and steady growth.
Consider Multi Cap Funds

Multi cap funds invest in large, mid, and small caps.
They offer balanced growth and risk management.
Switch from Index Fund to Actively Managed Fund

Consider an actively managed large cap fund.
These funds aim to outperform the market index.
Empathy and Understanding

Your dedication to securing your financial future is admirable. Balancing growth and stability in your portfolio shows wisdom. Your goal of ?1 crore is achievable with the right strategy.

Conclusion

Your current mutual fund investments are strong. However, reducing small cap exposure and adding more large cap and balanced funds can enhance stability and growth. Regularly review and adjust your portfolio. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner can provide tailored advice. Your commitment to investing wisely will ensure you achieve your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 24, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 24, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Greetings Sir, I'm 29 yrs old and have started my investment journey with the purpose of wealth generation for furthering my prospective business interests in future. Please review my portfolio -- all are direct-growth funds-- SIP's per month 1. Hdfc balanced advantage 10000 2. Quant multi asset 9000 3. JM flexicap fund 7500 4. Invesco india midcap. 1000 5. Quant midcap 1500 6. Kotak emerging equity fund 1000 7. Axis small cap 1000 8. Tata small cap 2500 Above total Sip is 30% of my monthly income in hand . And I wish to increase the sip annually with increase in my savings and salary. Please give your expert guidance on time horizon, change in sip amounts and/or funds for creating a corpus of 1 cr. Thank you... :-)
Ans: Comprehensive Review and Guidance for Your Investment Portfolio
Greetings! Your proactive approach towards investing for future business interests is commendable. Let's dive into your portfolio and strategies for achieving your goal of creating a corpus of Rs. 1 crore.

Portfolio Overview and Analysis
Your current SIP investments are well-diversified. Here's a breakdown:

HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund: Rs. 10,000
Quant Multi Asset Fund: Rs. 9,000
JM Flexicap Fund: Rs. 7,500
Invesco India Midcap Fund: Rs. 1,000
Quant Midcap Fund: Rs. 1,500
Kotak Emerging Equity Fund: Rs. 1,000
Axis Small Cap Fund: Rs. 1,000
Tata Small Cap Fund: Rs. 2,500
Total monthly SIP: Rs. 33,500 (30% of your monthly income).

Commendable Aspects
Your commitment to investing 30% of your income is admirable.

Diversification across various fund categories shows strategic thinking.

Investing in growth funds aligns with your wealth generation goal.

Time Horizon for Wealth Generation
To create a corpus of Rs. 1 crore, you need a long-term perspective.

Assuming an average annual return of 12-15%, it may take around 10-12 years to reach your goal.

Regularly increasing your SIP amount will shorten this timeline.

Reviewing and Adjusting Your Portfolio
Balanced Advantage and Multi Asset Funds
Balanced Advantage and Multi Asset funds offer stability with growth potential.

They balance equity and debt exposure, reducing risk.

Flexicap Fund
Flexicap funds provide flexibility to invest across market capitalizations.

This diversification enhances growth potential.

Midcap and Small Cap Funds
Midcap and Small Cap funds are high-risk, high-reward investments.

They are suitable for long-term wealth creation but require regular monitoring.

SIP Amounts and Fund Allocation
Consider increasing SIP amounts annually with salary increments.

Review fund performance annually and adjust investments accordingly.

Focus on funds with consistent performance and strong management.

Direct Funds vs. Regular Funds
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds require regular monitoring and deeper market knowledge.

You may miss out on professional advice and guidance.

Benefits of Regular Funds through MFD with CFP Credential
Investing through an MFD with CFP credential offers professional management.

They provide insights and adjustments based on market conditions.

This ensures better alignment with your financial goals.

Steps to Enhance Your Portfolio
Increase SIP Contributions
With salary hikes, increase SIP contributions proportionally.

This accelerates your corpus accumulation.

Monitor and Review
Regularly review your portfolio performance.

Adjust investments based on fund performance and market conditions.

Diversify Wisely
Ensure your portfolio remains diversified across different fund categories.

Avoid over-concentration in high-risk funds.

Professional Guidance
Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP).

A CFP can provide tailored advice and strategies for your goals.

Creating a Financial Roadmap
Set Clear Milestones
Break down your Rs. 1 crore goal into smaller, achievable milestones.

Celebrate progress at each milestone to stay motivated.

Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses.

This ensures your investments remain untouched during emergencies.

Insurance Coverage
Ensure adequate health and life insurance coverage.

This protects your financial plan from unforeseen events.

Tax Planning
Invest in tax-saving instruments to optimize your returns.

Ensure your investment strategy is tax-efficient.

Continuous Learning
Stay informed about market trends and investment strategies.

This knowledge helps you make informed decisions.

Conclusion
Your dedication to systematic investing is impressive.

By increasing your SIP contributions, monitoring performance, and seeking professional guidance, you can achieve your Rs. 1 crore goal.

Stay disciplined and focused on your long-term vision.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |10852 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 07, 2025

Career
Hello, I’m a student who recently joined the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita University. I’m aiming for a strong academic foundation and a clear career path. Could you please guide me on the following: How good is this course for research careers or higher studies (IISc, IITs, abroad)? What are the placement prospects after Integrated M.Sc Physics at Amrita? Does the program help in preparing for alternate options like UPSC, CDS/AFCAT, or technical roles? What skills (coding, research projects, certifications) should I start early to make the most of this degree?
Ans: Sree, Program Overview and Academic Foundation: Congratulations on joining the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita University. This five-year integrated program represents a rigorous pathway designed to equip you with advanced theoretical and experimental physics knowledge combined with cutting-edge scientific computing skills. The curriculum uniquely integrates a minor in Scientific Computing, which adds substantial computational capability to your profile—a critical advantage in today's research and professional landscape. The program incorporates comprehensive coursework spanning classical mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum mechanics, statistical physics, advanced laboratory work, and specialized topics in materials physics, optoelectronics, and computational methods, positioning you excellently for both research and professional careers.
Research Career Prospects: IISc, IITs, and Beyond: For research-oriented careers, the Integrated M.Sc Physics program at Amrita provides an exceptional foundation. Amrita's curriculum specifically aligns with GATE and UGC-NET examination syllabi, and the institution emphasizes early research engagement. The faculty at Amrita actively publish research in Scopus-indexed journals, with over 60 publications in international venues within the past five years, exposing you to active research environments.
To pursue research at premier institutions like IISc, you would typically follow the PhD pathway. IISc accepts M.Sc graduates through their Integrated PhD programs, and with your Amrita M.Sc, you're eligible to apply. You'll need to qualify the relevant entrance examinations, and your integrated program's emphasis on research fundamentals provides strong preparation. The final year of your Integrated M.Sc is intentionally structured to be nearly free of classroom commitments, enabling engagement with research projects at institutes like IISc, IITs, and National Labs. According to Amrita's data, over 80% of M.Sc Physics students secured internship offers from reputed institutions during academic year 2019-20, directly facilitating research career transitions.
Placement and Direct Employment Opportunities: Amrita University boasts a comprehensive placement ecosystem with strong corporate and government sector connections. According to NIRF placement data for the Amrita Integrated M.Sc program (5-year), the median salary in 2023-24 stood at ?7.2 LPA with approximately 57% placement rate. However, these figures reflect general placement trends; physics graduates often secure higher packages in specialized technical roles. Many graduates join software companies like Infosys (with early offers), Google, and PayPal, where their strong analytical and computational skills command competitive compensation packages ranging from ?8-15 LPA for entry-level positions.
The Department of Corporate and Industrial Relations at Amrita provides intensive three-semester life skills training covering linguistic competence, data interpretation, group discussions, and interview techniques. This structured placement support significantly enhances your employability in both government and private sectors.
Government Sector Opportunities: UPSC, BARC, DRDO, and ISRO: Your M.Sc Physics degree opens multiple avenues for prestigious government employment. UPSC Geophysicist examinations explicitly list M.Sc Physics or Applied Physics as qualifying degrees, enabling you to compete for Group A positions in the Geological Survey of India and Central Ground Water Board. The age limit for geophysicist positions is 32 years (with relaxation for reserved categories), and the exam comprises preliminary, main, and interview stages.
BARC (Bhabha Atomic Research Centre) actively recruits M.Sc Physics graduates as Scientific Officers and Research Fellows. Recruitment occurs through the BARC Online Test or GATE scores, with positions in nuclear science, radiation protection, and atomic research. BARC Summer Internship programs are available, offering ?5,000-?10,000 monthly stipends with opportunity for future scientist recruitment.
DRDO (Defense Research and Development Organization) recruits M.Sc Physics graduates through CEPTAM examinations or GATE scores for roles involving defense technology, weapon systems, and laser physics research. ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) regularly advertises scientist/engineer positions through competitive recruitment for candidates with strong physics backgrounds, offering opportunities in satellite technology and space science applications.
Other significant employers include the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) recruiting as scientific officers, and NPCIL (Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited), offering stable government service with competitive compensation packages exceeding ?8-12 LPA for scientists.
Alternate Career Pathways: UPSC, CDS, and AFCAT: UPSC Civil Services (IFS - Indian Forest Service): M.Sc Physics graduates qualify for UPSC Civil Services examinations, with the forest service offering opportunities for science-based administrative roles with potential to reach senior government positions.
CDS/AFCAT (Armed Forces): While AFCAT meteorology branches specifically require "B.Sc with Maths & Physics with 60% minimum marks," the technical branches (Aeronautical Engineering and Ground Duty Technical roles) require graduation/integrated postgraduation in Engineering/Technology. An M.Sc Physics integrates well with technical qualifications, though you would need engineering background for direct officer entry. However, you remain eligible for specialized technical interviews if applying through alternate defence channels.
UGC-NET Examination: This pathway leads to Assistant Professor positions in central universities and colleges across India. NET-qualified candidates receive scholarships of ?31,000/month for 2-year JRF positions with PhD pursuit, transitioning to Assistant Professor salaries of ?41,000/month in government institutions. This route provides long-term academic career security with research opportunities.
Private Sector Technical Roles
M.Sc Physics graduates are increasingly valued in data science, software engineering, and technical consulting. Companies actively recruit physics graduates for software development, where strong problem-solving and logical reasoning translate to competitive packages of ?10-20 LPA. Specialized domains including quantum computing development, financial modeling, and scientific computing offer premium compensation. Your minor in Scientific Computing makes you particularly attractive to technology companies requiring computational expertise.
International Opportunities and Higher Studies Abroad
An M.Sc from Amrita facilitates admission to PhD programs at international institutions. German universities offer tuition-free or low-fee MSc Physics programs (2 years) with scholarships like DAAD providing €850+ monthly stipends. US universities accept M.Sc graduates directly for PhD positions with full funding (tuition coverage + stipend). These pathways require GRE scores and strong Statement of Purpose articulating research interests. Research collaboration opportunities exist with Max Planck Institute (Germany) and CalTech Summer Research Program (USA), both welcoming Indian M.Sc students.
Essential Skills and Certifications to Develop Immediately: Programming Languages: Start learning Python immediately—it's universally used in research and industry. Dedicate 2-3 hours weekly to data analysis, scientific computing libraries (NumPy, SciPy, Pandas), and machine learning fundamentals. MATLAB is equally critical for physics applications, particularly numerical simulations and data visualization. Aim to complete MATLAB certification courses within your first year.
Research Tools: Learn Git/version control, LaTeX for scientific documentation, and data analysis frameworks. These skills are indispensable for publishing research papers and collaborating on projects.
Certifications Worth Pursuing: (1) MATLAB Certification (DIYguru or MathWorks official courses) (2) Python for Data Science (complete certificate programs from platforms like Coursera) (3) Machine Learning Fundamentals (for expanding technical versatility) & (4) Scientific Communication and Technical Writing (develop through departmental workshops)
Strategic Internship Planning: Leverage Amrita's research connections systematically. In your third year, apply to BARC Summer Internship, IISER Internships, TIFR Summer Fellowships, and IIT Internship programs (like IIT Kanpur SURGE). These expose you to frontier research while establishing connections for future PhD or scientist recruitment. Target 2-3 research internships across different specializations to develop versatility.

TO SUM UP, Your Integrated M.Sc Physics degree from Amrita positions you exceptionally well for competitive research careers at IISc/IITs, prestigious government scientist roles at BARC/DRDO/ISRO, and international PhD opportunities. The program's scientific computing emphasis differentiates you in the job market. Immediate priorities: (1) Master Python and MATLAB within the first two years; (2) Engage in research projects starting year 2-3; (3) Target internships at premiere research institutions; (4) Prepare GATE while completing your degree for maximum flexibility in recruitment; (5) Consider UGC-NET for long-term academic stability. Your career trajectory will ultimately depend on developing strong research fundamentals, demonstrating consistent excellence in specialization areas, and strategically selecting internship and research opportunities. The rigorous Amrita program combined with disciplined skill development positions you for exceptional career success across multiple sectors. Choose the most suitable option for you out of the various options available mentioned above. All the BEST for Your Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURUS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.
Asked on - Dec 07, 2025 | Answered on Dec 07, 2025
Thankyou
Ans: Welcome Sree.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

Career
Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.
Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

...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