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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 23, 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
Ulka Question by Ulka on Jan 30, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

Good Afternoon Sir, I just would like to ask you that how much and which SIP should i start to invest to generate at least 50 lakhs corpus in next 15 Years.

Ans: Investing with a goal in mind is much like planting a tree. The earlier and more diligently you nurture it, the stronger and more fruitful it grows over time. To aim for a 50 lakh corpus in 15 years, starting early and being consistent with your SIPs is key.

Considering the time horizon and your risk appetite, diversifying across different asset classes might be a wise strategy. It's a bit like cooking a balanced meal, where each ingredient plays a vital role in the overall taste and nutrition.

Remember, the journey of investing is as important as the destination. It's not just about the numbers but also about creating a financial discipline and understanding the markets. A Certified Financial Planner can guide you through this journey, helping you navigate the complexities and ensuring you stay on track.

So, let's embark on this journey together, nurturing your investments and watching them grow towards your goal.
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  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 14, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello Sir, i invest monthly in SIPS to a total of 35000. and as on date my total of sip amount has gathered to 31 lac Rs. I want a corpus of 3 crore in the next 10 years. Kindly give me your valuable suggestion on the same.
Ans: It's great to see your dedication to your financial future. Your commitment to investing in SIPs and your clear goal of accumulating Rs 3 crore in 10 years is commendable. Let's break down your current situation, evaluate your options, and outline a strategy to help you achieve your financial goals.

Understanding Your Current Investments
You invest Rs 35,000 monthly in SIPs, which has accumulated to Rs 31 lakh. This demonstrates your disciplined approach to wealth building. Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) are a good way to invest in mutual funds, as they offer the benefits of rupee cost averaging and compounding over time.

Evaluating Your Financial Goals
You aim to achieve a corpus of Rs 3 crore in the next 10 years. This is an ambitious goal, but with a strategic approach, it is certainly achievable. Given your current investments and the time frame, we'll need to ensure your portfolio is well-diversified and aligned with your risk tolerance and financial objectives.

Portfolio Diversification and Asset Allocation
Diversification is key to managing risk and optimizing returns. Your current SIP investments need to be spread across various asset classes and sectors. A balanced portfolio might include a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap equity funds, along with debt funds to manage risk. The right mix depends on your risk appetite and market conditions.

Regular Review and Rebalancing
It's important to regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your goals. Market conditions and personal circumstances can change, so periodic adjustments are necessary. This could involve shifting funds from over-performing to under-performing assets or vice versa.

Importance of Actively Managed Funds
While index funds are often recommended for their low costs, actively managed funds can offer better returns, especially in a market like India where fund managers can exploit market inefficiencies. Actively managed funds, with the expertise of fund managers, have the potential to outperform the index. They are better suited for investors looking to achieve specific financial goals.

Benefits of Regular Funds
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and using regular funds can be beneficial. Regular funds offer professional management and advice, which is crucial for making informed investment decisions. A CFP can provide personalized advice, portfolio management, and periodic reviews to ensure you stay on track to meet your goals.

Avoiding Annuities and Real Estate
Annuities are often not the best investment option due to their lower returns and higher fees. They also lack flexibility and can tie up your funds for long periods. Real estate, while a popular investment, involves high transaction costs, illiquidity, and requires significant capital outlay, making it less attractive for achieving your Rs 3 crore goal.

Long-term Focus and Patience
Investing is a long-term journey. Staying focused on your goal, being patient, and avoiding knee-jerk reactions to market fluctuations is crucial. Your Rs 31 lakh accumulation is a significant achievement. Continue this disciplined approach, and over time, compounding will work in your favor.

Seeking Professional Advice
Working with a Certified Financial Planner can provide you with the expertise and guidance needed to navigate the complexities of investing. A CFP can help you develop a comprehensive financial plan, tailored to your specific needs and goals. They can also assist in selecting the right funds, managing risks, and optimizing your investment strategy.

Final Insights
Your current SIPs and accumulated corpus are a strong foundation. To achieve your Rs 3 crore goal, focus on a diversified portfolio, regular reviews, and leveraging the expertise of a CFP. Avoid high-risk and low-return investments like annuities and real estate. Stay disciplined, patient, and proactive in your investment approach.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 25, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 15, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
I'm a 20 year old student. I want a corpus of 15 crores in the next 15 to 20 years. How much daily SIP should I do? And which type of mutual fund should I invest it.
Ans: Creating a corpus of Rs. 15 crores in 15 to 20 years is a significant goal. You will need a structured investment strategy and disciplined approach to achieve it.

Benefits of Early Investment

Starting investments at 20 gives you a huge advantage. Time is on your side, allowing your investments to compound and grow significantly.

Daily SIP for Consistency

A daily SIP ensures regular investment without burdening you with a large lump sum. It helps inculcate discipline and takes advantage of market fluctuations.

Types of Mutual Funds

Given your long-term horizon, equity mutual funds are ideal. They offer higher returns compared to other types, albeit with higher risk.

Recommended Mutual Funds

Large-Cap Funds

These invest in large, established companies.
They offer relatively stable returns.
Mid-Cap Funds

These invest in mid-sized companies.
They provide a balance between risk and return.
Small-Cap Funds

These invest in small companies with high growth potential.
They come with higher risk but can offer substantial returns.
Flexi-Cap Funds

These funds invest across market capitalizations.
They offer diversification and flexibility.
Sectoral/Thematic Funds

These invest in specific sectors.
Higher risk but can provide significant returns if the sector performs well.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds

Investing in direct funds requires a deep understanding of the market. Without expert guidance, it can be challenging to manage. It's beneficial to invest through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential. They offer professional advice, regular portfolio reviews, and help in achieving your goals efficiently.

Calculating Daily SIP

To estimate the daily SIP amount:

The total corpus required: Rs. 15 crores
Investment horizon: 15 to 20 years
Let's assume an average return of 12% per annum from equity mutual funds. For accurate daily SIP calculation, consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner.

Diversification

Diversifying your investments reduces risk. Allocate your SIP across different fund types to balance risk and returns. For example:

Large-Cap: 30%
Mid-Cap: 30%
Small-Cap: 20%
Flexi-Cap: 20%
Regular Monitoring and Adjustment

Regularly review your portfolio. Market conditions and your financial situation may change. Adjust your investments accordingly.

Building Financial Discipline

Consistent investing and financial discipline are crucial. Avoid unnecessary expenses and focus on your long-term goals.

Importance of Professional Guidance

Consulting a Certified Financial Planner can provide personalized advice and help you navigate market complexities. They ensure your investment strategy aligns with your financial goals.

Final Insights

Achieving a corpus of Rs. 15 crores in 15 to 20 years is ambitious but attainable. Start with a daily SIP in diversified mutual funds. Regularly review and adjust your investments. Professional guidance can greatly enhance your investment strategy.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 02, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 31, 2024Hindi
Money
I want a corpus of 2 crore in next 10 years. How much will be the monthly SIP and pls advise some funds
Ans: You’ve set a goal to accumulate Rs. 2 crore in 10 years. This is ambitious and achievable with disciplined investing. Let's explore how to achieve this.

Estimating the Required Monthly SIP
Target Corpus:
To reach Rs. 2 crore, you need to invest consistently. The amount of monthly SIP depends on expected returns.

Expected Returns:
Assuming a moderate return rate from mutual funds (around 12% per annum), you would need to invest a significant amount every month.

Monthly SIP Calculation:
A Certified Financial Planner would suggest that to achieve Rs. 2 crore, you should consider a monthly SIP of around Rs. 85,000 to Rs. 1 lakh, depending on the exact returns. This might seem high, but it's aligned with your goal.

Importance of Actively Managed Funds
Avoiding Index Funds:
Index funds may not give you the required returns. They follow the market and lack the potential for higher gains. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, are handled by professional fund managers. These managers aim to outperform the market, which could help in reaching your goal faster.

Regular Funds via MFD:
Direct funds might seem cost-effective, but regular funds through a trusted MFD with CFP credentials can provide better long-term results. MFDs offer professional advice, regular reviews, and adjustments to your portfolio. They ensure that your investments stay on track.

Suggested Fund Categories
Large-Cap Funds:
These funds invest in well-established companies. They are stable and offer consistent returns. Allocating a portion to large-cap funds reduces risk while ensuring steady growth.

Mid-Cap Funds:
Mid-cap funds have the potential for higher returns compared to large-cap funds. They invest in companies that are in the growth phase. Including mid-cap funds in your portfolio can enhance your overall returns.

Small-Cap Funds:
Small-cap funds are riskier but offer the possibility of higher returns. These funds invest in smaller companies with high growth potential. A small allocation here can boost your corpus if the companies perform well.

Flexi-Cap Funds:
Flexi-cap funds offer flexibility in investment. They can invest across different market capitalizations based on market conditions. These funds adapt to market changes, which can be beneficial in a volatile market.

Balancing Your Portfolio
Diversification is Key:
Don’t put all your money in one type of fund. A well-diversified portfolio across large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and flexi-cap funds will spread risk and optimize returns.

Review Regularly:
Regularly review your portfolio with the help of a Certified Financial Planner. Adjustments might be needed based on market conditions and your financial situation.

Risk Assessment and Management
Understand Your Risk Appetite:
Investing in mutual funds involves risk. It's crucial to understand your risk tolerance. If you're not comfortable with high risk, allocate more towards large-cap and flexi-cap funds.

Stay Invested:
Market fluctuations are normal. Don't panic during market corrections. Staying invested for the long term is key to achieving your financial goals.

Emergency Fund:
Before committing to high SIPs, ensure you have an emergency fund. This fund will cover unexpected expenses and prevent you from dipping into your investments.

Tax Considerations
Tax Efficiency:
Equity mutual funds are tax-efficient. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) up to Rs. 1 lakh per annum are tax-free. Gains above this threshold are taxed at 10%. Plan your investments to maximize tax efficiency.

Section 80C Benefits:
You can also consider tax-saving mutual funds under Section 80C. These funds have a lock-in period of three years but offer tax benefits along with potential returns.

Additional Financial Goals
Retirement Planning:
While working towards your Rs. 2 crore goal, don’t neglect retirement planning. Ensure that you are also contributing towards a retirement corpus. Consider options like PPF, NPS, or dedicated retirement funds.

Insurance Needs:
Ensure you have adequate life and health insurance. These are crucial for financial security. If you hold LIC, ULIP, or other investment cum insurance policies, it might be wise to review them. Surrendering these policies and reinvesting in mutual funds could yield better returns.

Steps to Start Your SIP
Choose a Reputable AMC:
Select a reputed Asset Management Company (AMC) with a good track record.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner:
Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner to select the best funds suited to your risk profile and financial goals.

Automate Your SIPs:
Set up automatic SIPs to ensure disciplined investing. This reduces the temptation to skip payments and keeps you on track.

Finally
Achieving a Rs. 2 crore corpus in 10 years requires a disciplined approach. With the right selection of actively managed funds and regular monitoring, you can reach your goal. Diversify your investments, stay invested, and consult a Certified Financial Planner to stay on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
I'm a 22 year old student. I want a corpus of 15 crores in the next 25 - 30 years. How much monthly SIP should I do to get this sum?
Ans: Firstly, it’s fantastic that you’re thinking long-term about your financial future at just 22. Setting a goal like Rs 15 crores in 25-30 years is ambitious, but with discipline and the right strategy, it’s definitely achievable.

You're already on the right path by considering Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs). SIPs are a great tool for long-term wealth creation, as they allow you to invest regularly and benefit from compounding.

Let’s break down the steps required to meet your goal and how much you need to invest every month.

Factors to Consider for Achieving Rs 15 Crores
Achieving your goal will depend on several factors:

Investment Horizon: Since you have a timeline of 25-30 years, your investments will have time to grow and compound.

Expected Rate of Return: For equity-based SIPs, a long-term average return between 10% to 12% per annum is realistic.

Inflation Impact: Over such a long period, inflation can affect the purchasing power of your corpus. Keep that in mind as you plan your SIP.

With these factors in mind, we will now calculate the approximate monthly SIP required.

How Much SIP to Invest?
Since your goal is Rs 15 crores over 25-30 years, the monthly SIP amount will vary depending on the expected rate of return. Let’s break this into simple steps:

Assume a Rate of Return: For equity mutual funds, a conservative estimate of 12% per annum is reasonable over the long term. However, it’s important to review this regularly.

Investment Timeframe: You have a long-term horizon of 25 to 30 years, which is ideal for achieving large financial goals.

Based on these assumptions, here's an approximate guide to how much you may need to invest monthly:

For 25 years: To accumulate Rs 15 crores in 25 years at a 12% return, you may need to start with an SIP of Rs 30,000 to Rs 35,000 per month.

For 30 years: With a 30-year timeline and 12% return, your required SIP would reduce slightly to around Rs 18,000 to Rs 25,000 per month.

These figures are approximate, and you may adjust them based on your risk appetite and the performance of the funds you choose.

The Importance of Staying Consistent
Consistency is key to reaching your financial goal. Regularly investing in SIPs helps in the following ways:

Power of Compounding: As your investments grow, the returns themselves start generating more returns. This compounding effect will help you reach Rs 15 crores over time.

Market Volatility: SIPs allow you to invest regularly, no matter whether the market is high or low. Over time, this helps average out the cost of your investments.

Why Actively Managed Funds Matter
While some investors may suggest index funds, it's important to understand that index funds only mirror market performance and don’t aim to outperform the market. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, have the potential to generate higher returns through active management by experienced fund managers.

Benefits of actively managed funds include:

Professional Management: Actively managed funds have dedicated fund managers who make investment decisions based on research and market conditions. This can lead to better performance, especially during volatile times.

Flexibility: Fund managers in actively managed funds can adjust the portfolio to better align with market opportunities, while index funds are tied to a specific market index, limiting flexibility.

For a long-term goal like yours, opting for actively managed funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures that you have the expertise to guide you in selecting the best funds.

Why Regular Funds Are a Better Choice Than Direct Funds
Some investors might suggest investing in direct mutual funds, but for someone starting out, regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) might be a better choice. Here’s why:

Expert Advice: A CFP provides ongoing advice and helps you select the right funds based on your goals and risk profile. With direct funds, you’ll need to do all the research and monitoring yourself, which can be overwhelming.

Portfolio Monitoring: A CFP will regularly review your portfolio to ensure it stays aligned with your goals and make adjustments as needed. This professional oversight can improve your investment performance over time.

Convenience: Managing your own direct funds requires a significant time commitment to monitor markets, fund performance, and make decisions. Regular funds give you peace of mind knowing an expert is managing your portfolio.

The Importance of Regular Reviews
While SIPs are a “set and forget” strategy to some extent, regular reviews are still important. Every year or two, sit down with your Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to assess your progress.

Reasons to review your investments include:

Adjusting for Life Changes: Over time, your financial goals may change. You may need to adjust your SIP contributions, especially if you receive a salary increase or bonus.

Fund Performance: Ensure that the funds you’re invested in continue to perform well over the long term. If a particular fund is underperforming, your CFP can guide you in switching to a better one.

Rebalancing: As you grow older, you may want to shift part of your portfolio to more conservative investments. This can be done gradually, and regular reviews help you stay on track.

Risk Management Over the Long Term
Investing in SIPs, particularly in equity mutual funds, involves some level of risk, especially in the short term. However, given your long-term horizon of 25-30 years, short-term volatility should not deter you.

Key points on risk management:

Start Early, Stay Long: Starting SIPs at age 22 gives you an enormous advantage. The longer your money is invested, the more it benefits from compounding.

Focus on Equity Funds: For long-term goals like yours, equity mutual funds tend to offer the highest potential for growth. Diversifying your SIPs across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap equity funds can help manage risks.

Avoid Emotional Decisions: Over 25-30 years, there will be times when the market declines. During such periods, avoid making emotional decisions like stopping your SIP or redeeming your funds. Instead, continue your investments, as markets tend to recover over time.

Final Insights
You are already ahead of the curve by planning for your future at just 22 years old. Achieving a corpus of Rs 15 crores over the next 25-30 years is a significant goal, but it’s achievable with a disciplined approach to SIPs and smart fund selection.

Here’s a summary of what you should focus on:

Start your SIPs as soon as possible, aiming for Rs 18,000 to Rs 35,000 per month depending on your time horizon.

Stick with actively managed funds through a Certified Financial Planner for the potential to outperform the market.

Avoid the temptation to switch to direct funds, as regular funds provide professional management and ongoing advice.

Be consistent with your SIPs, even during market downturns. Long-term growth will come from staying invested.

Review your portfolio every year or two to ensure it remains aligned with your goals.

With the right plan and a commitment to regular investments, you will be well on your way to building a corpus of Rs 15 crores in the next 25-30 years. Best of luck!

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
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

Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |676 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Dec 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 02, 2025Hindi
Relationship
My married ex still texts me for comfort. Because of him, I am unable to move on. He makes me feel guilty by saying he got married out of family pressure. His dad is a cardiac patient and mom is being treated for cancer. He comforts me by saying he will get separated soon and we will get married because he only loves me. We have been in a relationship for 14 years and despite everything we tried, his parents refused to accept me, so he chose to get married to someone who understands our situation. I don't know when he will separate from his wife. She knows about us too but she comes from a traditional family. She also confirmed there is no physical intimacy between them. I trust him, but is it worth losing my youth for him? Honestly, I am worried and very confused.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I understand how difficult it is to let go of a relationship you have built from scratch, but is it really how you want to continue? It really seems to be going nowhere. His parents are already in bad health and he married someone else for their happiness. Does it seem like he will be able to leave her? So many people’s happiness and lives depend on this one decision. I think it’s about time you and your BF have a clear conversation about the same. If he can’t give a proper timeline, please try to understand his situation. But also make sure he understands yours and maybe rethink this equation. It really isn’t healthy. You deserve a love you can have wholly, and not just in pieces, and in the shadows.

Hope this helps

...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