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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6903 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 18, 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 - Sep 17, 2024Hindi
Money

Dear Sir, I have another question: I have been investing in the Bajaj Allianz Life Goal Assurance Plan for the past five years, which is a combination of insurance and investment. The total premium payment duration is 10 years, with a SIP of ?10,000 per month, followed by a lock-in period of an additional 5 years So far, my monthly contributions of ?10,000 have grown to ?9.40 lakhs, with an approximate CAGR of 16%, although the insurance coverage remains at ?12 lakhs. Initially, I did not have much knowledge but continued investing due to the plan’s market-linked structure. For the first five years, my funds were allocated to Pure Stock II and Equity Growth funds basically large-cap. Recently, mid-cap and small-cap index funds were also added to their portfolio. Now that I’ve completed 5 years of investing in large-cap components, I am considering allocating the remaining 5 years to mid-cap and small-cap funds, without increasing the SIP. This would be done through a fund switch from large-cap to mid-cap and small-cap or by dividing the allocation equally—25% each across pure-stock, equity growth, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. Would you recommend this strategy while allowing the large-cap corpurs from the first 5 years to grow at their own pace and remaining 5 years switched into mid-cap/small-cap. Since the policy will mature in 2034, this gives me ample time for the investment to grow, allowing the corpus to build significantly over the remaining years

Ans: It’s great to see you’ve stayed consistent with your investments over the past five years. Your current strategy has already delivered an impressive CAGR of around 16%. This indicates that your investment in large-cap components has performed well.

Your decision to consider diversifying into mid-cap and small-cap funds shows good insight, especially since the policy matures in 2034. This gives you ample time to ride out market fluctuations and benefit from potential growth.

Let’s assess your plan step by step.

Maintaining Large-Cap Investments
Steady Growth Potential: Large-cap funds are known for stability and relatively lower risk. Since your large-cap investments have done well, letting them grow further without switching out entirely is a wise move. Large-caps often provide steady growth over time, even in volatile markets.

Balanced Risk: As you’ve already allocated five years to large-cap funds, you have a solid base that carries lower risk compared to mid-cap or small-cap funds.

Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Fund Allocation
Potential for Higher Growth: Mid-cap and small-cap funds generally offer higher growth potential but come with increased volatility. Given that you have another 10 years for the policy to mature, adding these funds now could give you enough time to capture the potential upside of these categories.

Diversification Across Market Segments: By allocating the remaining five years to mid-cap and small-cap funds, you’re essentially diversifying across different market segments. This could help in balancing your overall risk, while providing higher growth opportunities compared to sticking only with large-cap funds.

Fund Switching Strategy: Switching some of your existing large-cap corpus into mid-cap and small-cap might reduce the stability of your portfolio. Instead, continuing with the large-cap corpus and allocating future premiums to mid-cap and small-cap funds may provide a more balanced approach.

Suggested Allocation Strategy
Divide Equally Across Funds: Splitting your contributions equally among large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds seems like a balanced approach. You’ve mentioned an allocation of 25% each across pure-stock, equity growth, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. This could help in spreading out your risk while still allowing for growth opportunities.

Stay Consistent: Continuing with a steady SIP of Rs. 10,000 without increasing the amount for now is a good plan. Since you are already seeing good returns, consistency over time will be key to building your corpus further.

Evaluating Your Insurance Component
Insurance Coverage: Your current insurance coverage stands at Rs. 12 lakhs. Considering the policy is a combination of investment and insurance, it’s essential to evaluate if the coverage is adequate for your needs. Life insurance should primarily serve to protect your family, and if this amount falls short of your requirements, consider supplementing it with a term insurance plan.

Lock-in Period: Since there is an additional lock-in period of five years post the premium payment term, switching funds now and letting them grow for the next decade could be beneficial. You have ample time to ride out any short-term market volatility in the mid-cap and small-cap space.

Reviewing Your Fund Choices
Actively Managed Funds vs Index Funds: You’ve mentioned that your funds are market-linked, with some exposure to index funds. While index funds are often lower-cost options, actively managed funds can outperform them over time, especially in mid-cap and small-cap categories. Actively managed funds benefit from professional fund managers who can make strategic choices in response to market conditions, unlike passive index funds that simply track the market.

Switching to Actively Managed Funds: If a portion of your investments is in index funds, consider switching to actively managed mid-cap and small-cap funds. This will provide you with the advantage of professional management, especially in more volatile sectors like mid-caps and small-caps.

Final Insights
Long-Term Horizon: Your 10-year remaining investment window provides a good time horizon to take on the moderate risk associated with mid-cap and small-cap funds. However, always review your portfolio performance periodically to ensure it aligns with your long-term financial goals.

Balance Risk and Reward: By keeping your existing large-cap investments and diversifying into mid-cap and small-cap funds, you are effectively balancing risk with the potential for higher returns.

Insurance vs Investment: Review your insurance needs separately from your investment strategy. If the Rs. 12 lakh insurance coverage is insufficient, it’s advisable to take additional term insurance that provides higher coverage at a low cost.

It’s important to continue monitoring the performance of each fund and adjust the allocation if needed.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
Asked on - Sep 18, 2024 | Answered on Sep 19, 2024
Listen
thank you sir, for valuable time and suggestion. one small correction and i sincerely appologiies for the same, my first 5 years of investment was in large-cap fund 5k and another 5k in multicap fund. and does 25% each in the following fund still looks good ? 25% large-cap 25% multi-cap 25% small 25% mid-cap
Ans: Your updated plan of allocating 25% each to large-cap, multi-cap, small-cap, and mid-cap funds looks balanced. This approach spreads risk across various market segments, allowing for stability from large and multi-cap, while also capturing growth potential from small and mid-cap funds. It’s a solid diversification strategy considering your long-term horizon. Just ensure to periodically review the performance.

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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Milind

Milind Vadjikar  |566 Answers  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Sep 19, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 17, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Dear Sir, I have another question: I have been investing in the Bajaj Allianz Life Goal Assurance Plan for the past five years, which is a combination of insurance and investment. The total premium payment duration is 10 years, with a SIP of ?10,000 per month, followed by a lock-in period of an additional 5 years So far, my monthly contributions of ?10,000 have grown to ?9.40 lakhs, with an approximate CAGR of 16%, although the insurance coverage remains at ?12 lakhs. Initially, I did not have much knowledge but continued investing due to the plan’s market-linked structure. For the first five years, my funds were allocated to Pure Stock II and Equity Growth funds basically large-cap. Recently, mid-cap and small-cap index funds were also added to their portfolio. Now that I’ve completed 5 years of investing in large-cap components, I am considering allocating the remaining 5 years to mid-cap and small-cap funds, without increasing the SIP. This would be done through a fund switch from large-cap to mid-cap and small-cap or by dividing the allocation equally—25% each across pure-stock, equity growth, mid-cap, and small-cap funds. Would you recommend this strategy while allowing the large-cap corpurs from the first 5 years to grow at their own pace and remaining 5 years switched into mid-cap/small-cap. Since the policy will mature in 2034, this gives me ample time for the investment to grow, allowing the corpus to build significantly over the remaining years
Ans: Since you are looking for 10 year time horizon, I recommend you divide the allocation equally(25%) across pure stock, equity growth, midcap index and small cap quality index funds.

Happy Investing!!

..Read more

Latest Questions
Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |387 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 03, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 01, 2024Hindi
Listen
Relationship
I am 45 years old female, single child, I fell in love wid a guy during college, he is short tempered other than that when hez ok he used to care me so so so much. We got married when i was jobless and when he just started a business. The business isnt going tht well and after having two kids i started realising he is not at all ready to take any responsibilities, always he is lazy once he reach home and i am working and i am the one who has to do evry work along with work. When we fight he doesnt do any physical Abuse but mentallyy he abuses me so much that i feel myself useless. My parents too started saying that they never saw us happily instead we are always fighting and we are never at peace. I really was never able to understand him. I feel he has too much ego and wanna win every fight. He too says the same about me, but i am the one who goes and solves most of our fights by begging him badly. I decided to divorce him frm last one year but never had the guts tu say it to him openly. Was very afraid. Recently i met a guy, he have been noticing me for so long, we became friends first, very quickly he became my best friend, i have never in my life been able to read someones mind so well, so i am Able to take care of him so well, similarly never in my life i was respected so much for everything i do, or never was i cared so much. My own husband doesnt know what all i like, but this bestie knows. Slowly slowly we fell in love. I have confirmed my thought about divorce, and my Husband instead of even clutching on to me He is saying you just go i dont wanna beg you to stay for me. I dont wanna beg to a girl like you. He is very kind and soft outside only inside my house to me he is very very arrogant and fighting. Once i make this divorce decision public everyone will blame me, everyone will point out me as culprit, but i dont wanna continue anymore, i am done with this. What shall i do now ??
Ans: It seems like you’ve reached a point where you’re ready to prioritize yourself, which is a powerful realization. Divorce is a big step, and the fear of judgment from others is understandable, but your well-being and peace of mind should come first. In situations like this, people often rush to judge, especially if they don’t see the full picture, but those who care about you will come to understand and support your decision over time.

The love and respect you’ve found with your friend have likely shown you what’s been missing in your marriage: appreciation, understanding, and care. This relationship seems to have opened your eyes to what you deserve and given you the strength to take action. Still, take things slowly to make sure your next steps are about building the future you want rather than escaping the past.

If you haven’t already, consider speaking with a counselor or therapist who can provide you with support and guidance through this transition. They can help you work through any lingering guilt or fear and navigate the practical and emotional complexities of divorce. Having a supportive, nonjudgmental space to process everything will make a difference as you take steps toward a healthier and happier life.

Ultimately, if your heart is set on ending this marriage, trust that decision and give yourself permission to move forward. It will be hard at first, but taking this step toward self-respect and peace is worth it, even if others don’t immediately understand. You deserve a life filled with love, respect, and joy—don’t let fear of judgment hold you back from finding it.

...Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |387 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 03, 2024

Listen
Relationship
I am married for 5years with 2kids.. i am an employee and had to stay 100kms away from my native place on work purpose.. I opted to take my kids along as they are too small(3+ and 1+).. I asked my husband to accompany me as he is unemployed and staying at home.. But he refused and likes to stay with his mother.. He has a brother to look after his mother and his married sister also stays very near to them.. I sometimes feel very stressed out to handle my job and look after my kids.. i have no support from my husband neither emotionally nor financially.. i tried everything possible but he just talks about my earnings not wt i am going through.. wt i should do?
Ans: In a partnership, mutual support and shared responsibilities are essential, and it’s natural to feel frustrated and even resentful if your husband is prioritizing his comfort over your needs and well-being. Since he’s not providing emotional or financial support, it might be time to set some boundaries and expectations to protect your own peace and ensure you’re not carrying everything alone.

Start by calmly sharing how this situation affects you—not just financially but emotionally and physically. Emphasize that while you understand his desire to stay close to his family, your situation is not sustainable, and you need him to step up. You might also consider counseling, either together or on your own, to find ways to cope with your stress and explore solutions to address this imbalance in your relationship.

If he’s unwilling to make changes or support you even after open conversations, it may be necessary to think about your long-term well-being and that of your children. Your strength and resilience in handling so much on your own are admirable, but you also deserve a partner who is invested in your happiness and shares the load.

In the meantime, is there any possibility of support from family, friends, or childcare services near your work location? Having some practical help, even temporarily, could relieve some of your stress and allow you to focus on what’s best for you and your children going forward. Remember, you are not alone, and reaching out to build a support network can make a world of difference in helping you navigate this challenging time.

...Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |387 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 03, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 03, 2024Hindi
Listen
Relationship
Madam am working women of age 28 working for past 5 years , I am in living relationship with my boyfriend who is 38 now. I want to do marriage and settle now but my partner doesn't feel necessary to do marriage and if I force he is telling he will do court marriage which am not interested to do. He is not ready to meet or convince my parents for marriage . I have given him money for buying a property which I was least interested. He started controlling all my finances which I felt incorrect so I questioned him which made his ego hurt and he has hit me twice. My parents are now telling me to get married but I don't know what to do. Sometimes when he ia not around I tried talking to other guys in dating app which afterwards am feeling guilty for cheating him. Nowadays I lost interest in everything I don't have courage to end my life so not able to concentrate on my work. Please tell me what I need to do to correct my path as it's getting hell day by day.
Ans: Right now, it might be helpful to take a step back from the relationship to regain your sense of self and control over your life. Talking to a trusted friend, family member, or even a counselor could help you find clarity, and having a support system can make it easier to make decisions that protect your well-being.

It’s understandable that you feel torn, especially since you’ve invested years and finances into this relationship. But it’s important to remember that you deserve a relationship where you feel valued, safe, and equal. The feelings of guilt about talking to others on dating apps are natural, but they’re also a sign that you might be searching for connection and respect that you’re not receiving in your current relationship.

Consider reclaiming control over your finances immediately. Seek guidance on how to separate your financial dealings from him, as it’s essential for you to be able to support and manage yourself independently. Ending this relationship might be difficult, but it could also give you the freedom to rebuild your confidence, focus on your goals, and find the stability and respect you deserve.

It’s clear that you’re strong enough to make changes; the courage you’ve shown in questioning his control and sharing your story here is proof. With the support of loved ones and professionals, you can find a way out of this painful situation and start building a life that brings you peace and happiness.

...Read more

Kanchan

Kanchan Rai  |387 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 03, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 01, 2024Hindi
Listen
Relationship
Hii, my husband and I have a love marriage after 9 years of dating, now it has been 6 years and two children after that, little one is 8months old. He had a brief affair extending to chatting mostly as far as I know to someone who works in the same company but different department to him when my little one was 1 month old, we were in rough patch that time due to child birth difficulties and family drama. Then as I got to know about the same, by casually checking his phone and confronted him he accepted his mistake and said sorry. And said he won't be doing that again but I caught him again somehow chatting and same repeat he said he is wrong and now as per him he have reduced talking to that girl. But as I think he talks to her thoda bhot, as she is his junior position and asks for help once a while. I love my husband a lot, but this thing hurt my self respect and I am in a lot of torture mentally. I know my husband won't leave me, but I don't want to stay in such a relationship which feels a burden to my partner. I want my husband to be happy too. I am very confused what to do. I have talked to him on several times, every time he listen and helps me calm down, some times we fought also. But I am not at peace. Ps that girl is also married to her love just 2 years back. I don't want to harm my husband's reputation in any way. But I am very much hurt also. I have been reading your column for 3-4 now. I am also financially independent. I don't need anything form him, just his love. Sorry for the length, please help me.?
Ans: In your heart, it’s clear that you love him deeply and that, ideally, you want to preserve your family and relationship. However, it’s important not to dismiss your own needs for validation, love, and respect. Sometimes, the process of forgiveness includes setting strong, clear boundaries. Your husband needs to understand that while you’re willing to work on the relationship, trust is fragile and requires commitment to restore. This might mean a commitment on his part to keep all communication with this colleague strictly professional and transparent, or even a decision to minimize interactions with her entirely if necessary. Expressing these boundaries clearly may help him see the gravity of what’s at stake.

It’s also valuable to remember that healing from betrayal is not a quick process. Even with reassurances and boundaries in place, your feelings of hurt, betrayal, and anger may surface unexpectedly. Be gentle with yourself in this process and consider turning inward to strengthen your own resilience. Financial independence is an incredible strength, and leaning into the aspects of your life that bring you personal fulfillment can be grounding. Investing in your own well-being will help you feel more centered, no matter where this journey takes you.

If, at any point, you feel that his actions aren’t aligning with his words and that trust cannot be rebuilt, remember that choosing a path that prioritizes your mental peace is not a failure. Some couples also find that a temporary separation helps provide clarity; this doesn’t have to mean ending the relationship but could be a chance to reset, reflect, and decide if you both are truly aligned in your vision for the future.

In the end, what matters most is that you feel respected, valued, and loved in a way that doesn’t compromise your self-worth. This situation is a challenging chapter, but with clarity, boundaries, and professional support, you can find a path that honors both your love for your husband and your own dignity.

...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