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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan has over 23 years of experience in mutual funds and financial planning.
He has an MBA in finance from the University of Madras and is a certified financial planner.
He is the director and chief financial planner at Holistic Investment, a Chennai-based firm that offers financial planning and wealth management advice.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Oct 10, 2024Hindi
Money

I am 71 years old man and I want to invest or good returns of my 20 lac . Please suggest me

Ans: At the age of 71, investments should focus on safety, liquidity, regular income, and moderate growth. It's important to avoid taking too much risk but still earn returns better than traditional savings accounts. Below is a detailed investment strategy that aligns with your objectives.

Asset Allocation: Balancing Safety and Growth
Splitting the investment amount across various asset classes ensures stability.
A balanced allocation reduces risks and ensures some steady returns.
A mix of debt and equity options can be ideal to meet liquidity and income needs.
Recommended Split:

60-70% in safe debt instruments for stability.
20-30% in equity-oriented instruments for moderate growth.
5-10% in liquid instruments for emergencies.
Debt Instruments for Stability and Safety
Debt mutual funds provide more flexibility than fixed deposits (FDs).

These funds ensure stable returns without locking your money.

They also have better post-tax returns for those in higher tax slabs.

Monthly Income Plans (MIPs) in mutual funds can generate regular payouts.

Conservative hybrid funds are another choice, combining debt with some equity.

Short-term debt funds can work well for liquidity while offering moderate returns.

Equity Funds for Growth with Controlled Risk
Actively managed mutual funds with a small allocation can give higher returns.

This exposure helps offset inflation over time.

Large-cap and balanced advantage funds are safer options for senior investors.

Avoid direct equity investments, as they carry higher risks and demand constant monitoring.

You can invest through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) linked to a Certified Financial Planner (CFP).

This approach offers expert advice and monitoring.

Liquid Funds for Emergency Needs
Keeping some money in liquid mutual funds ensures quick access.

These funds offer easy withdrawal, usually within 24 hours.

Unlike fixed deposits, you don’t need to break the whole investment if only part is needed.

Avoid holding too much in savings accounts, as they offer low returns.

Liquid funds strike a good balance between liquidity and returns.

Income Generation: Plan for Regular Cash Flow
Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWPs) from mutual funds can generate monthly income.

SWPs allow you to withdraw only a fixed amount regularly.

This prevents you from exhausting your corpus quickly.

Monthly Income Plans (MIPs) can also provide stable income, though payouts depend on market performance.

Tax Efficiency: Reducing Tax Liabilities
Debt mutual funds now have the same tax treatment as fixed deposits.

Gains are taxed according to your income tax slab, whether long or short-term.

Equity mutual funds’ long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.

Plan withdrawals carefully to minimize tax outflows.

SWPs from equity funds help reduce tax, as only the gains are taxed.

Health Insurance and Contingency Planning
Ensure that you have sufficient health insurance coverage.

Healthcare costs can rise with age, and good coverage reduces financial strain.

Personal health insurance offers more control than depending solely on employer-provided policies.

Keep a part of your liquid funds for unexpected medical expenses.

It’s better to avoid exhausting your core investments for such needs.

Avoiding Index Funds and Direct Funds
Index funds may seem appealing, but they lack the flexibility of actively managed funds.

Active funds aim to outperform the market, making them a better choice for long-term returns.

Professional fund managers can rebalance portfolios during market volatility.

Direct funds may have lower costs, but regular funds offer valuable advisory services.

Investing through an MFD tied to a CFP provides better monitoring and insights.

This professional support helps you manage risks effectively.

Estate Planning: Securing Wealth for the Next Generation
Review your investments and ensure nominees are correctly registered.
Consider creating a will to avoid complications for your heirs.
If needed, explore trusts or other instruments to distribute your wealth smoothly.
Reviewing Investments Regularly
Although you seek stable returns, it’s important to review your portfolio periodically.
A CFP can help you adjust the portfolio as market conditions change.
Reviewing at least once a year ensures the investments remain aligned with your goals.
Final Insights
Your investment strategy should aim for both stability and moderate growth.

Debt instruments ensure safety, while equity investments provide growth potential.

Liquid funds offer flexibility for emergencies, ensuring peace of mind.

A Certified Financial Planner can offer ongoing advice and portfolio reviews.

This approach helps you stay on track and meet your income needs comfortably.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 04, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 03, 2024Hindi
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Hi I am retiring in one year want to invest 25 lacs. Which are best safe and best returns options
Ans: Since you're retiring soon and looking for safe investment options with potentially good returns, here are some options to consider:
Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS): SCSS is a government-backed savings scheme for individuals above 60 years of age. It offers quarterly interest payouts and has a tenure of 5 years, which can be extended once for an additional 3 years.

Post Office Monthly Income Scheme (POMIS): POMIS is a low-risk investment option offered by India Post. It provides monthly interest payments and has a maturity period of 5 years.

Bank Fixed Deposits (FDs): FDs are a popular choice for conservative investors. Look for banks offering competitive interest rates and consider opting for cumulative or non-cumulative FDs based on your income needs.

Debt Mutual Funds: Debt mutual funds invest in fixed-income securities such as government bonds, corporate bonds, and money market instruments. They offer relatively higher returns than traditional fixed-income options like FDs and are tax-efficient for investors in higher tax brackets.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): If you prefer investing in mutual funds, you can consider setting up an SWP to generate regular income from your investment while staying invested in the market.

Assess your risk tolerance, investment horizon, and income requirements before finalizing your investment strategy. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to create a customized retirement plan that aligns with your financial goals and needs.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 31, 2024

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Money
Hello sir, I want to invest 20 lacs. Where can i investment all of this amounts to get maximum benefit return in 3 to 5 years??
Ans: Investment Options for Rs. 20 Lakhs
Equity Mutual Funds
1. Diversified Equity Funds

Overview: Invest in large, mid, and small-cap stocks.
Benefit: Potential for high returns over 3-5 years.
Recommendation: Invest Rs. 10 lakhs for growth.
2. Sectoral/Thematic Funds

Overview: Focus on specific sectors like technology or healthcare.
Benefit: High growth potential but with higher risk.
Recommendation: Invest Rs. 3 lakhs for diversification.
Debt Mutual Funds
1. Short-Term Debt Funds

Overview: Invest in short-duration bonds and securities.
Benefit: Lower risk with steady returns.
Recommendation: Invest Rs. 2 lakhs for stability.
2. Corporate Bond Funds

Overview: Invest in high-rated corporate bonds.
Benefit: Higher returns compared to bank FDs with moderate risk.
Recommendation: Invest Rs. 2 lakhs for moderate growth.
Hybrid Funds
1. Balanced Advantage Funds

Overview: Mix of equity and debt to balance risk and return.
Benefit: Adjusts exposure based on market conditions.
Recommendation: Invest Rs. 3 lakhs for balanced growth.
2. Dynamic Asset Allocation Funds

Overview: Flexible allocation between equity and debt.
Benefit: Aims to optimize returns while managing risk.
Recommendation: Invest Rs. 2 lakhs for flexible strategy.
Gold
1. Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGB)

Overview: Government bonds linked to gold prices.
Benefit: Earns interest along with capital appreciation.
Recommendation: Invest Rs. 2 lakhs for diversification and safety.
Tax Planning
1. ELSS (Equity Linked Savings Scheme)

Overview: Tax-saving mutual funds with a 3-year lock-in period.
Benefit: Tax benefits under Section 80C and potential for high returns.
Recommendation: Invest Rs. 1 lakh for tax savings and growth.
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
1. SIP in Equity Mutual Funds

Overview: Invest a fixed amount regularly in mutual funds.
Benefit: Rupee cost averaging and disciplined investing.
Recommendation: Set up monthly SIPs to spread out the investment.
Regular Monitoring and Review
1. Annual Review

Overview: Assess performance of investments annually.
Benefit: Adjust strategy based on market conditions and goals.
Recommendation: Regularly consult with a Certified Financial Planner.
Final Insights
Investing Rs. 20 lakhs with a mix of equity, debt, hybrid funds, and gold provides balanced growth and safety. Diversifying across different asset classes reduces risk and maximizes returns. Regular review and adjustments ensure alignment with financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
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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