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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 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
PARTHA Question by PARTHA on Apr 05, 2023Hindi
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Dear Sir, I am 53 years, and planning to do SWP for Rs. 3 Lacs ...it would be better than MIS in Bank/PO.... what is minimum/maximum return may earn in SWP whether itis monthy/qtly/yearly......Partha P. Chowdhury..

Ans: Assessment of Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) vs. Monthly Income Scheme (MIS):

Understanding Your Financial Situation:

At 53 years of age, planning for regular income streams is a prudent financial decision as you approach retirement.
Your consideration of SWP as an alternative to Monthly Income Scheme (MIS) in banks or post offices reflects a proactive approach towards optimizing your income sources.
Evaluation of Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP):

SWP allows you to withdraw a fixed sum periodically from your mutual fund investments, providing a steady income stream.
Unlike MIS in banks or post offices, SWP offers the flexibility to choose withdrawal frequencies such as monthly, quarterly, or yearly based on your cash flow requirements.
SWP from mutual funds potentially offers higher returns compared to MIS, as mutual funds invest in a diversified portfolio of assets, including equities, which have the potential for capital appreciation over the long term.
Assessment of Potential Returns:

The minimum and maximum returns from SWP depend on various factors such as the underlying performance of the mutual fund scheme, market conditions, and the chosen withdrawal frequency.
While SWP provides the opportunity for capital appreciation and higher returns over the long term, it also exposes your investments to market volatility, which may impact the returns.
Historical data suggests that equity-oriented mutual funds have delivered average annual returns ranging from 10% to 15% over the long term, although past performance does not guarantee future results.
By diversifying your investments across asset classes and opting for a systematic withdrawal approach, you can mitigate risk and potentially enhance returns over time.
Comparison with Monthly Income Scheme (MIS):

MIS in banks or post offices typically offer fixed interest rates, providing predictable but relatively lower returns compared to equity-oriented mutual funds.
While MIS offers capital protection and stable income, it may not keep pace with inflation, leading to a decline in purchasing power over time.
SWP from mutual funds, on the other hand, has the potential to generate inflation-beating returns and preserve the purchasing power of your capital over the long term.
Recommendations:

Considering your age and income requirements, SWP from mutual funds can be a suitable option to generate regular income while potentially achieving higher returns compared to traditional income schemes.
Consult with a Certified Financial Planner to assess your risk tolerance, investment objectives, and cash flow needs to determine the most appropriate withdrawal frequency and mutual fund schemes for your SWP strategy.
In conclusion, SWP from mutual funds offers the flexibility, potential for capital appreciation, and inflation-beating returns that may be superior to traditional income schemes like MIS in banks or post offices, provided it aligns with your risk profile and financial goals.

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.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 18, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 12, 2024Hindi
Money
Sir, I have a sum of 70 lacs which can be invested in Mutual funds. If I plan for SWP, How much amount, I may get yearly.
Ans: Hope this message finds you well. You have Rs 70 lakhs to invest in mutual funds and are considering a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP). Let’s explore the details, benefits, and potential returns of an SWP.

Understanding Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP)
A Systematic Withdrawal Plan allows you to withdraw a fixed amount at regular intervals. This method helps in creating a steady income stream from your investments.

What is SWP?
Regular Income: SWP provides a regular income by redeeming units of your mutual fund investments periodically.
Flexibility: You can choose the frequency (monthly, quarterly, annually) and the amount to withdraw.
Capital Protection: Helps in managing withdrawals without significantly eroding the invested capital.
Benefits of SWP
SWP offers multiple advantages which make it an attractive option for investors seeking regular income.

Steady Cash Flow
Predictable Income: SWP ensures a steady and predictable cash flow, aiding in financial planning.
Monthly Expenses: Ideal for covering monthly expenses without liquidating large portions of your investment.
Tax Efficiency
Capital Gains Tax: Withdrawals are subject to capital gains tax, which can be more tax-efficient than regular income.
Long-Term Gains: If the investment has been held for over a year, it qualifies for long-term capital gains tax benefits.
Rupee Cost Averaging
Market Fluctuations: SWP helps in mitigating the impact of market volatility by averaging the cost of withdrawals.
Reduced Risk: By not redeeming all units at once, it reduces the risk associated with market timing.
Determining Potential Returns
The amount you can withdraw annually depends on the performance of the mutual fund and your withdrawal rate. Let’s discuss how to estimate this.

Assumptions for Calculation
Investment Amount: Rs 70 lakhs.
Expected Return: Assume a conservative annual return of 8%.
Withdrawal Rate: Typically, a safe withdrawal rate is around 6-8% per annum.
Calculation Example
Annual Withdrawal: With a withdrawal rate of 6%, you can withdraw Rs 4.2 lakhs per year.
Monthly Withdrawal: This translates to Rs 35,000 per month.
Growth Factor: The remaining investment continues to grow, providing potential for increased withdrawals in the future.
Selecting the Right Mutual Funds
Choosing the right mutual funds is crucial for the success of your SWP. Consider the following factors:

Diversification
Equity Funds: Provide growth potential but are subject to market volatility.
Debt Funds: Offer stability and regular income with lower risk.
Balanced Funds: Combine equity and debt to balance risk and return.
Fund Performance
Historical Returns: Analyze the historical performance of the funds to gauge potential future returns.
Fund Manager: Consider the expertise and track record of the fund manager.
Risk Tolerance
Risk Appetite: Choose funds that align with your risk tolerance and financial goals.
Market Conditions: Be aware of current market conditions and economic outlook.
Managing Your SWP
To maximize the benefits of an SWP, effective management of the withdrawal plan is essential.

Periodic Review
Annual Review: Regularly review your investment portfolio and withdrawal strategy to ensure alignment with your financial goals.
Adjust Withdrawals: Adjust the withdrawal amount based on the performance of the investments and changing financial needs.
Reinvestment Strategy
Reinvest Excess: If the fund performs well, consider reinvesting a portion of the returns to ensure long-term capital growth.
Maintain Balance: Ensure a balance between withdrawals and reinvestment to sustain the investment corpus.
Addressing Inflation
Inflation can erode the purchasing power of your withdrawals. Here’s how to mitigate its impact:

Inflation-Adjusted Withdrawals
Increase Withdrawals: Periodically increase the withdrawal amount to keep pace with inflation.
Diversify Investments: Include funds that historically outpace inflation, such as equity funds.
Long-Term Growth
Growth-Oriented Funds: Invest in growth-oriented mutual funds that have the potential to deliver higher returns over the long term.
Review Strategy: Regularly review and adjust your investment strategy to counteract the effects of inflation.
Potential Risks and Mitigation
While SWP is a beneficial strategy, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks and ways to mitigate them.

Market Volatility
Diversify Portfolio: Diversify your investments across different asset classes to reduce risk.
Regular Monitoring: Regularly monitor market conditions and adjust your portfolio accordingly.
Sequence of Returns Risk
Initial Losses: Early losses can significantly impact the sustainability of withdrawals.
Buffer Assets: Maintain a buffer of low-risk assets to draw from during market downturns.
Final Insights
Your decision to invest Rs 70 lakhs in mutual funds with an SWP is wise, offering both growth and regular income. By selecting the right funds and managing withdrawals effectively, you can ensure a steady income while preserving your capital. Regularly review your strategy, stay informed about market conditions, and make adjustments as needed to 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 Jul 19, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 12, 2024Hindi
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Hi, Im 48 years old and need to know about SWP. What should be the ideal withdrawal percentage from SWP. For example if I put 20 lakhs in SWP is 20000 per month OK. Can I expect growth in principal amount also? Please suggest some good SWP?
Ans: What is SWP?
Regular Withdrawals: SWP allows you to withdraw a fixed amount regularly.
Investment in Mutual Funds: Your investment remains in mutual funds while you withdraw.
Ideal Withdrawal Percentage
Determining the Right Percentage
Sustainable Withdrawals: A withdrawal rate of 5-6% per year is generally considered sustainable.
Monthly Example: For Rs. 20 lakhs, a 6% annual withdrawal rate equals Rs. 10,000 per month.
Your Scenario
Current Plan: Rs. 20,000 per month from Rs. 20 lakhs is a 12% annual withdrawal.
High Withdrawal: This rate is high and may deplete your principal over time.
Expecting Growth in Principal Amount
Factors Affecting Growth
Market Performance: Growth depends on the performance of the mutual fund.
Withdrawal Rate: A lower withdrawal rate helps in maintaining and potentially growing the principal.
Suggested Withdrawal Strategy
Balanced Approach
Reduce Withdrawals: Consider reducing withdrawals to Rs. 10,000 per month.
Monitor Performance: Regularly check the performance and adjust if needed.
Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Active Management
Professional Expertise: Actively managed funds can adjust strategies based on market conditions.
Potential for Higher Returns: These funds may offer better returns compared to passive index funds.
Finding the Right SWP
Diversified Funds
Equity Funds: For potential growth, allocate a portion to equity funds.
Debt Funds: For stability, include debt funds in your SWP.
Hybrid Funds: Combine the benefits of equity and debt for balanced growth.
Regular Review and Adjustment
Stay Updated
Quarterly Reviews: Check the performance of your SWP every quarter.
Rebalance: Adjust the allocation between equity and debt funds based on performance.
Additional Considerations
Professional Guidance
Consult a CFP: A Certified Financial Planner can provide tailored advice for your needs.
Final Insights
Sustainable Withdrawals: Keep your withdrawal rate around 5-6% annually.
Diversify Investments: Balance your SWP between equity, debt, and hybrid funds.
Regular Monitoring: Regularly review and adjust your SWP to ensure long-term sustainability.
By following this strategy, you can aim to maintain a steady income while preserving your principal amount.

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 Feb 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 06, 2025Hindi
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My age is 40 and I have 40 lakh invest in mutual funds and planning to do swp to get monthly 20 thousand. Please help me is it correct approa
Ans: You have Rs. 40 lakh in mutual funds.

You plan to withdraw Rs. 20,000 monthly.

A systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) can provide steady income.

It should not deplete your corpus too soon.

A balanced strategy is essential.

Checking the Sustainability of SWP
The withdrawal rate should match returns.

High withdrawals can erode capital.

Market performance affects fund growth.

A mix of equity and debt is needed.

Debt funds provide stability.

Equity ensures long-term growth.

Asset Allocation for Stability
Avoid relying only on equity.

Allocate funds for long-term security.

Debt funds can handle short-term needs.

Equity funds grow wealth over time.

A mix of both balances risk and return.

Tax Implications of SWP
SWP in equity funds is tax-efficient.

Long-term capital gains are taxed at 10%.

Short-term gains are taxed at 15%.

Debt fund withdrawals attract slab tax.

Tax planning can reduce liability.

Adjusting SWP for Longevity
Increase withdrawals gradually.

Monitor portfolio performance.

Adjust allocation based on market cycles.

Avoid withdrawing more than growth.

Review plan every year.

Final Insights
SWP can work if planned well.

A balanced allocation is necessary.

Tax-efficient withdrawals save money.

Regular reviews keep the plan effective.

Aim for capital preservation with growth.

Your income should last for decades.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Naveenn

Naveenn Kummar  |233 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF, Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 24, 2025

Money
I pay monthly future saving NPS 5000 EPF 2000 PPF 1000 LIC 60000 (annually) MF 10000 Bajaj capital 45000 (annually) Now I want start some SWP INVESTMENT TO Withdraw a few monthly earning after 5yr.... Please Guide...
Ans: Dear Sir,

You are currently saving in:

NPS – ?5,000/month

EPF – ?2,000/month

PPF – ?1,000/month

LIC – ?60,000/year

Mutual Funds (SIP) – ?10,000/month

Bajaj Capital Policy – ?45,000/year

Now you want to start SWP investments today so that after 5 years you can withdraw a regular monthly income.

Observations

Current Mix –

NPS, EPF, PPF → locked till retirement / long term.

LIC, Bajaj policies → low return (~5.5–6.5%), not flexible for SWP.

Mutual Funds → only liquid & growth-oriented asset here for future SWP.

Goal – Create a pool of money today which in 5 years can start giving you monthly cash flow (SWP).

Recommended Action

1. Start a Dedicated SWP Corpus (Separate from existing investments):

Invest lump sum / systematic investments in Debt + Hybrid Mutual Funds for 5 years.

Good options:

Short Duration Debt Fund / Banking PSU Debt Fund (safe, stable)

Aggressive Hybrid Fund / Balanced Advantage Fund (for growth + income)

2. 5-Year Build-Up Example (if you start ?10,000/month extra now):

At 8% CAGR → in 5 years, corpus grows to ~?7.5 lakh.

From 6th year → you can withdraw ~?6,000/month (SWP) comfortably while letting capital grow.

If you put higher (say ?25,000/month), corpus will be ~?19 lakh in 5 years → SWP ~?15,000/month possible.

3. Tax Efficiency:

SWP from equity/debt MF is more tax-friendly than FD interest (capital gains taxed at lower rate).

Plan mix: ~60% debt funds + 40% balanced/hybrid for inflation protection.

4. What Not to Use for SWP:

LIC & Bajaj policies are not designed for monthly cash flows. Keep them as maturity lumpsums.

NPS, EPF, PPF – long-term, don’t touch now.

Simple Strategy

Open 1–2 good mutual fund folios only for SWP corpus.

Invest regularly (monthly / lump sum).

After 5 years, instruct AMC/MFD to start Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) for desired monthly payout.

Withdraw only ~6–7% of corpus annually to keep money sustainable.

? Conclusion: For reliable SWP after 5 years, build a dedicated MF corpus (debt + hybrid). Avoid locking in more with LIC/ULIP type products. Keep target clear: Corpus first, SWP later.

Please consult a QPFP / AMFI-registered MFD to select right schemes & plan tax-efficient SWP.
Mutual Fund investments are subject to market risks. Read all scheme related documents carefully before investing.

Best regards,
Naveenn Kummar, BE, MBA, QPFP
Chief Financial Planner | AMFI Registered MFD
https://members.networkfp.com/member/naveenkumarreddy-vadula-chennai

..Read more

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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!

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Asked on - Dec 07, 2025 | Answered on Dec 07, 2025
Thankyou
Ans: Welcome Sree.

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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.

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