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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 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
shailesh Question by shailesh on Nov 06, 2023Hindi
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My age is 57 years old. You may please advise me to invest in some SIPs of Rs. 15000/- per month for 5 years.

Ans: starting an SIP at 57 is a commendable step towards securing your financial future. Here’s a thoughtful approach tailored for you:

Risk Assessment: At this stage, capital preservation becomes paramount. Opt for balanced funds or hybrid funds that provide a blend of equity and debt. This offers growth potential while cushioning against market volatility.
Asset Allocation: Diversify your SIPs across asset classes to spread risk. Consider allocating a portion to equity for growth and the remainder to debt for stability.
Tenure Consideration: A 5-year SIP is relatively short-term in the investment horizon. However, it's essential to align with your retirement plans. Ensure the chosen funds have a consistent track record over this period.
Tax Efficiency: Look for tax-saving SIPs under Section 80C, if you haven’t exhausted the limit. This can provide tax benefits while growing your wealth.
Periodic Review: Regularly monitor the performance of your SIPs. If any fund underperforms consistently, consider switching to a better-performing fund.
Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with the market trends and financial news. This helps in making informed decisions and staying ahead of potential risks.
Emergency Fund: Ensure you have an emergency fund equivalent to 6-12 months of expenses. This will provide a financial cushion during unforeseen circumstances without liquidating your investments.
Remember, the goal is not just to invest but to invest wisely. It's essential to strike a balance between growth and stability, ensuring your investments align with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Your commitment to investing at this stage reflects prudence and foresight. Best wishes for your investment journey!
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  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hi sir iam 36 yrs right now.i am planning to start sip of around 10000rs per month.please suggest some funds to invest
Ans: starting a SIP is a great decision. It's good to start early and stay consistent.

At 36, you have ample time to build a strong portfolio.

Importance of SIPs
Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) are powerful.

They help you invest small amounts regularly and build wealth over time.

SIPs also bring discipline and mitigate market volatility.

Categories of Mutual Funds
Equity Mutual Funds
Equity funds invest in stocks.

They offer high growth potential but come with higher risk.

Ideal for long-term goals due to compounding.

Debt Mutual Funds
Debt funds invest in bonds and fixed-income securities.

They provide stable returns with lower risk.

Suitable for short to medium-term goals.

Hybrid Mutual Funds
Hybrid funds combine equity and debt.

They balance risk and reward.

Good for medium-term goals.

Evaluating Your Risk Appetite
Before choosing funds, assess your risk tolerance.

Higher risk can bring higher rewards but also higher losses.

Choose a mix of funds that match your comfort level.

Recommended Fund Types
Large Cap Funds
Large cap funds invest in large, established companies.

They are less volatile and provide stable returns.

Mid Cap Funds
Mid cap funds invest in medium-sized companies.

They offer higher growth potential with moderate risk.

Small Cap Funds
Small cap funds invest in small, emerging companies.

They are high-risk but can give high returns over the long term.

Multi Cap Funds
Multi cap funds invest across large, mid, and small cap stocks.

They offer diversification and balance risk and reward.

Balanced Advantage Funds
Balanced advantage funds adjust between equity and debt.

They provide stability and growth.

Suitable for moderate risk investors.

Steps to Start Your SIP
Define Your Goals

Identify your financial goals.

Is it retirement, children's education, or a big purchase?

Set Your Budget

You mentioned Rs. 10,000 per month.

Make sure it's affordable and sustainable.

Choose Fund Categories

Based on your risk appetite, select a mix of equity, debt, and hybrid funds.

Start Small and Increase Gradually

Begin with Rs. 10,000 and increase as your income grows.

Monitoring and Rebalancing
Regularly review your investments.

Rebalance your portfolio based on performance and market conditions.

This keeps your investments aligned with your goals.

Tax Implications
Understand the tax implications of your investments.

Equity funds held for over a year have lower tax rates.

Debt funds held for over three years benefit from indexation.

Final Insights
Starting a SIP is a smart move.

Your plan to invest Rs. 10,000 monthly is a great start.

Diversify across large cap, mid cap, small cap, and balanced funds.

Monitor and rebalance regularly to stay on track.

With consistency and smart choices, you’ll achieve your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 30, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 45 in a pvt job. I want to invest in SIP for a period of 5 yrs to get good returns by the end of 10 yrs. My risk appetite is moderate. I need to plan for my 2 children studies, their wedding and my retirement. 4 sips of Rs. 3000 is doable for me.
Ans: Investing in Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) is a smart way to build wealth over time. You are 45 years old, working in a private job, and can invest Rs. 3,000 in 4 SIPs for 5 years. Your risk appetite is moderate, and you need to plan for your children's studies, their weddings, and your retirement. Let's break down how you can achieve these goals with a well-planned investment strategy.

Understanding Your Financial Goals
Children’s Education and Weddings

Education expenses are significant and can increase over time. Weddings are also major financial commitments. You need investments that grow steadily.

Retirement Planning

Retirement planning requires a balance of growth and stability. You need to ensure you have enough funds to sustain your lifestyle.

The Benefits of SIPs
Disciplined Investing

SIPs encourage regular investing. This discipline is crucial for long-term wealth creation.

Rupee Cost Averaging

SIPs help in averaging the purchase cost of mutual funds over time. This reduces the impact of market volatility.

Compounding Power

Investing regularly and staying invested helps in compounding returns. The longer you stay invested, the more your money grows.

Allocating Your Investments
Let's explore how to allocate Rs. 3,000 in each of the 4 SIPs. Given your moderate risk appetite, we'll focus on a mix of equity and hybrid funds.

Equity Mutual Funds
Large-Cap Funds

Large-cap funds invest in well-established companies with a proven track record. They offer stability and reasonable returns.

Mid-Cap Funds

Mid-cap funds invest in medium-sized companies. They offer a balance of growth potential and risk.

Advantages of Equity Funds

Growth Potential: Equity funds have the potential for high returns.
Inflation Protection: They help in beating inflation over the long term.
Liquidity: Easy to redeem when needed.
Risks of Equity Funds

Market Volatility: Returns can fluctuate based on market conditions.
Investment Horizon: Requires a longer investment horizon for significant returns.
Hybrid Mutual Funds
Balanced Advantage Funds

These funds invest in a mix of equity and debt. They offer stability with the potential for growth.

Multi-Asset Allocation Funds

These funds invest in multiple asset classes like equity, debt, and gold. They provide diversification and balanced risk.

Advantages of Hybrid Funds

Diversification: Invest in a mix of asset classes.
Moderate Risk: Balance between growth and stability.
Flexibility: Fund managers can adjust the asset allocation based on market conditions.
Risks of Hybrid Funds

Lower Returns: Compared to pure equity funds, returns may be lower.
Management Risk: Fund managers' decisions impact performance.
Suggested SIP Allocation
Given your investment horizon and moderate risk appetite, here’s a suggested allocation:

SIP 1: Large-Cap Fund

Invest Rs. 3,000 in a large-cap fund. These funds offer stability and consistent returns, making them ideal for long-term goals like retirement.

SIP 2: Mid-Cap Fund

Invest Rs. 3,000 in a mid-cap fund. These funds provide a good balance of growth potential and risk, suitable for children's education and wedding expenses.

SIP 3: Balanced Advantage Fund

Invest Rs. 3,000 in a balanced advantage fund. These funds offer a mix of equity and debt, providing moderate risk and stable returns.

SIP 4: Multi-Asset Allocation Fund

Invest Rs. 3,000 in a multi-asset allocation fund. These funds provide diversification across multiple asset classes, balancing risk and returns.

Monitoring and Adjusting Your Portfolio
Regular Reviews

Review your portfolio every six months. Assess the performance of each fund and make adjustments if needed.

Annual Rebalancing

Rebalance your portfolio annually. Ensure your investments align with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Staying Informed

Stay updated with market trends and economic conditions. This helps in making informed decisions about your investments.

The Power of Compounding
Long-Term Growth

Investing regularly through SIPs harnesses the power of compounding. Your investments grow over time, providing substantial returns.

Example

If you invest Rs. 3,000 in each SIP for 5 years, your total investment is Rs. 7,20,000. With compounding, this amount can grow significantly over the next 10 years.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Lack of Guidance

Investing directly without a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) means you miss out on professional advice. This can lead to poor investment choices.

Time-Consuming

Managing direct investments requires time and effort to research and monitor.

Emotional Decisions

Without professional guidance, you might make impulsive decisions during market volatility.

Benefits of Investing through MFD with CFP
Personalized Advice

A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offers personalized advice tailored to your financial goals.

Professional Management

CFPs provide ongoing management and review of your portfolio.

Peace of Mind

Having a professional manage your investments reduces stress and ensures you stay on track.

Tax Planning
Tax Benefits of SIPs

Investing in Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) offers tax benefits under Section 80C. Consider allocating a part of your investment to ELSS for tax savings.

Tax on Capital Gains

Be aware of the tax implications on capital gains. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax applies after holding the investment for over a year.

Insurance and Emergency Fund
Life Insurance

Ensure you have adequate life insurance coverage. This provides financial security to your family in case of unforeseen events.

Health Insurance

Invest in a comprehensive health insurance policy. This covers medical expenses and safeguards your savings.

Emergency Fund

Maintain an emergency fund equal to 6-12 months of your expenses. This provides a financial cushion during unexpected situations.

Final Insights
Starting your SIP investment journey with a clear plan and diversified approach is commendable. By allocating Rs. 3,000 in each of the 4 SIPs across large-cap, mid-cap, balanced advantage, and multi-asset allocation funds, you balance growth potential with stability.

Regular monitoring, rebalancing, and staying informed ensures you stay on track to achieve your long-term financial goals. Investing through a Certified Financial Planner provides personalized advice and professional management, enhancing your investment experience.

Your disciplined approach and strategic planning will lead to a secure financial future. Stay committed, stay informed, and keep your long-term goals in sight.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hi I am 43, having salary of Rs. 55k per month. Want to invest in SIP of Rs. 5k for 17 years. Pls suggest for long term.
Ans: You are 43 years old and want to invest Rs. 5k per month in a SIP for 17 years. This is a wise decision for building a substantial corpus over time.

Benefits of SIP
Disciplined Investing: SIP encourages regular savings.
Rupee Cost Averaging: Invests a fixed amount regularly, reducing the impact of market volatility.
Compounding Benefits: Long-term SIPs benefit from the power of compounding.
Recommended Investment Strategy
1. Actively Managed Mutual Funds
Professional Management: Managed by experts to optimize returns.
Flexibility: Adapt to market conditions and select best-performing stocks.
Diversification: Invest in a variety of sectors to spread risk.
2. Portfolio Diversification
Equity Funds: For higher returns, suitable for long-term goals.
Debt Funds: Lower risk, providing stability and consistent returns.
Balanced Funds: Combine equity and debt for moderate risk and return.
3. Regular Monitoring
Annual Review: Monitor your investments and make necessary adjustments.
Market Trends: Stay informed about market conditions to tweak your portfolio.
4. Professional Guidance
Certified Financial Planner: Seek advice from a certified financial planner for a tailored investment plan.
Goal Setting: Align investments with your financial goals for better results.
Analytical Insights
Long-Term Growth
Compounding: The longer the investment, the greater the compounding effect.
Market Performance: Equity markets tend to outperform other assets over the long term.
Risk Management
Diversification: Spreading investments across different funds reduces risk.
Active Management: Professional managers can adapt to market changes, reducing potential losses.
Key Considerations
Investment Horizon: 17 years is a good period for long-term investments.
Risk Appetite: Determine your risk tolerance before choosing funds.
Financial Goals: Clearly define your financial objectives and align your investments accordingly.
Final Insights
Investing Rs. 5k per month in a SIP for 17 years is a wise decision. Opt for actively managed mutual funds for better returns and professional management. Diversify your portfolio with a mix of equity, debt, and balanced funds. Regularly monitor your investments and seek professional guidance to align with your financial goals. This disciplined approach will help you build a substantial corpus over time.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

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

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I want to invest ?5k monthly SIP for 17 years for long term investments. Pls advice
Ans: Investing Rs 5,000 monthly in a SIP for 17 years is a wise decision. It is crucial to ensure that your investment strategy aligns with your long-term goals. Let’s evaluate and plan accordingly.

Importance of Long-Term Investments
Compounding Benefits: Long-term investments maximize the power of compounding.

Market Volatility: Longer horizons mitigate short-term market fluctuations.

Goal Achievement: Helps in achieving significant financial goals.

Investment Strategy
Equity Mutual Funds

High Growth Potential: Suitable for long-term wealth creation.

Professional Management: Managed by experts for better returns.

Actively Managed Funds

Benefits: Potential for higher returns than index funds.

Expertise: Managed by experienced fund managers.

Diversification

Asset Allocation: Diversify across different sectors and market caps.

Risk Management: Spreads risk and reduces the impact of market volatility.

Regular Monitoring
Annual Reviews

Performance Check: Regularly review fund performance.

Rebalancing: Adjust portfolio to align with changing market conditions.

Additional Investments
Increase SIP Amount

Income Growth: As your income grows, increase your SIP amount.

Enhanced Corpus: Higher contributions will result in a larger corpus.

Systematic Transfer Plan (STP)

Risk Mitigation: Gradually move from equity to debt funds as you near your goal.

Stability: Ensures stability of your investments.

Financial Discipline
Consistency

Regular Investment: Ensure timely and consistent SIP contributions.

Long-Term Vision: Stay invested despite market fluctuations.

Benefits of Using a Certified Financial Planner
Expert Guidance

Personalized Advice: Tailored investment strategies based on your goals.

Continuous Support: Regular updates and adjustments to your investment plan.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Lower Flexibility

Fixed Portfolio: Less flexibility in changing market conditions.

Potential Underperformance: May underperform actively managed funds.

Benefits of Regular Funds
Professional Management

Expertise: Managed by professionals with extensive market knowledge.

Higher Returns: Potential for better returns compared to direct funds.

Final Insights
Stay Invested: Maintain your investments for the full tenure to maximize returns.

Professional Help: Consider working with a certified financial planner.

Regular Review: Monitor and adjust your portfolio as needed.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |1054 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 21, 2024Hindi
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Hello, I am 3 yr neet dropper.in 2025 it will be my third attempt... I'm trying my best to crack neet ...i don't know what will happen will i score good marks or not ... please help me in suggesting good career options if not crack neet .....there are many options through neet marks also like bhms , veterinary...etc. i will also give entrance exam also like cuet ,gbpuat ,....but i want that what to choose which course will be best for me ...i want to make my life good and happy... having a good degree, good job ,...
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Have you analyzed your failure in 2 successive attempts in the NEET examination? If yes, then the question is what you have done for improvement and not then again the question arises why not? Here, I would like to suggest you focus now only on the NEET examination which is your 3rd attempt. Don't think about any other options right now till May 2025. After the NEET exam is over, you have ample time to explore the options available. Depending on your score in NEET 2025, we will guide you at that time. But yet, if you are confused, then looking towards your question and anxiety, you need personal counseling where you can express yourself face-to-face. Only after the NEET exam is over, you contact a counsellor for one-to-one counseling. Till then, keep mum and focus only on NEET. Take this exam as your mission and project. Work on this project, apply forces from all sides, success is there which is waiting for you eagerly.
Best of luck for your bright future.

Some tips: (1) Analyse separately Phy, Che, Bio (2) Prepare a list of hard topics (3) First focus more on the topics which are easy for you and then try to excel in hard topics (4) Appear more and more online/offline examinations (4) Prepare your short-cut file for all subjects (5) Prepare a file for each subject having only synopsis of all chapters (6) Try to solve the problems at the lightening speed and observe the period on regular basis (7) Create your time table to revise the topics on regular basis (8) Do not hesitate to ask your difficulties to your teachers, if you have joined to offline classes (9) Keep the habit of marking the answers which you know 100%. Don't guess the answers and mark them, as there is -ve marking scheme. (10) Be calm, quite, and smiling all the time to release the tension and always have a healthy chat with your friends.

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Pradeep

Pradeep Pramanik  |186 Answers  |Ask -

Career And Placement Consultant - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

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I am looking for a job, I had uploaded my resume in job site. A consultant called me & introduced himself telling he know some of the openings. He had a detailed discussion about my job & my skills. He told need to register to his consultancy for scheduling interview. I registered with him & he got me a interview. Interview was done by the company through skype. I could not see the company persons. They told only they can see me. Interview went on well & regarding salary I told my expectation but they told it is not possible & they told their proposal. Finally I agreed to them. They gave me code & told to visit the company for next round. Consultant called me after first round & told recruiter is very happy with the interview. Regarding salary he told why I agreed for the proposal,he will discuss again & asked to pay charges for some of his services which he will refund the day I visit to the company & take the orders. I paid him. He told there is a increase in salary he has discussed with recruiter & again asked for the money I did only partial payment & further will not pay anything. Second round also happened through skype instead of in person. Interview went on well & salary offered was good comparing to before & there was a big jump. Recruiter told they have planned to give additional responsibilities so they have increased. Finally they gave me a date to visit company. I asked when will I get the order, he replied he will send to consultant as I was taken by them. Till now i did not get the orders, consultant is keep on postponing. Now he told visit to company date is also postponed, he will update in next week & not to worry as job is confirmed. Now not understanding what to do, am I been cheated or wait.
Ans: Dear Mr. Keshava ,

There are many unscruplous job agents who are fake and claim themselves to be a Placement consultant. In short You have been cheated . Before paying any fee for registration , you must ensure that the agency is genuine . If not don't even upload your resume . You may write to company , lodge a complaint against the agency. If the amount is very high , pl. take the help of police . .

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

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

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I hv started sip in 2008 and still continued , now the monthly sip is 55k and total value is 1.85cr. Need to accumulate 7cr with in next 4 yrs pls guide how can i achieve. - Deepak J. Hajari
Ans: Deepak, your long-term SIP discipline is impressive. Accumulating Rs. 7 crore in 4 years is ambitious. Achieving this goal requires a strategic approach, as time is limited. Let's create an actionable plan for your success.

Current Financial Snapshot
Ongoing SIPs: Rs. 55,000 monthly.
Current Portfolio Value: Rs. 1.85 crore.
Target Corpus: Rs. 7 crore within 4 years.
Your consistent investing habits have built a solid foundation. However, to achieve your target, adjustments are needed.

Key Challenges
Short Time Frame: Four years is a limited period for aggressive wealth accumulation.
Significant Gap: A gap of Rs. 5.15 crore remains to meet the Rs. 7 crore goal.
Market Volatility: Equity investments might face short-term volatility.
Recommendations to Bridge the Gap
1. Increase Your SIP Contributions
Raise your SIP amount to Rs. 1.25 lakh per month.
This increase ensures faster wealth creation through compounding.
Prioritise high-growth funds in equity-oriented categories.
2. Invest Lump Sum Amounts
Consider deploying a lump sum if you have idle savings or low-yield investments.
Invest in aggressive equity mutual funds for higher potential returns.
Break down the lump sum into tranches for better market timing.
3. Diversify into High-Growth Mutual Funds
Focus on small-cap and mid-cap mutual funds for higher growth potential.
Maintain a balance with some large-cap exposure for stability.
Ensure the portfolio aligns with your high-return requirements.
4. Avoid Overexposure to Debt or Low-Yield Instruments
Limit debt investments during this aggressive growth phase.
Avoid instruments like FDs or debt mutual funds with lower returns.
Rely on equity for the next four years to maximise growth.
5. Rebalance Your Portfolio Regularly
Conduct a portfolio review every 6 months.
Reallocate funds based on underperforming or outperforming sectors.
Keep your portfolio aligned with market trends and your goals.
6. Capitalize on Bonus or Windfall Gains
Direct any bonuses, salary hikes, or windfall gains towards your target.
Avoid unnecessary expenses during this focused phase.
Tax Efficiency Matters
Equity Mutual Funds Taxation: Gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
Debt Mutual Funds Taxation: Taxed as per your income slab.
Plan redemptions strategically to minimise tax liabilities.
Leverage Market Opportunities
Benefit from Market Corrections: Use corrections as opportunities to invest lump sums.
Stay Invested for Compounding: Avoid early redemptions to let compounding work fully.
Role of Regular Monitoring
Track Performance: Ensure funds are performing as per expectations.
Switch Funds if Needed: Shift from underperforming funds to high-growth options.
Final Insights
Deepak, achieving Rs. 7 crore in 4 years requires aggressive yet calculated strategies. Increase your SIPs, deploy lump sums, and focus on high-growth funds. Regular monitoring and disciplined investing are key to your success. Stay patient and consistent.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Investment in securities market are subject to market risks. Read all the related document carefully before investing. The securities quoted are for illustration only and are not recommendatory. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information and as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision. RediffGURUS is an intermediary as per India's Information Technology Act.

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