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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 03, 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
Nitin Question by Nitin on Jun 02, 2024Hindi
Money

BEST MUTUAL FUNDS FOR SWP FOR 10 TO 15 YEARS INVESTMENT OF 50LAC

Ans: Investing in Mutual Funds for Systematic Withdrawal Plans (SWP)

Investing in mutual funds for a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) is a strategic way to ensure regular income while growing your wealth. Let’s explore how to select the best mutual funds for a SWP, especially when you are looking to invest Rs 50 lakh over 10 to 15 years.

Understanding SWP

An SWP allows you to withdraw a fixed amount from your investment at regular intervals. This is beneficial for creating a steady income stream, particularly in retirement or for meeting recurring expenses.

Evaluating Your Financial Goals

First, clearly define your financial goals. Understand what you need this regular income for. Is it for retirement, education, or other recurring expenses? Knowing your goals helps in choosing the right mutual funds.

Assessing Risk Tolerance

Consider your risk tolerance. Are you comfortable with high-risk investments, or do you prefer more stable options? Your risk tolerance will guide your choice between equity and debt mutual funds.

Choosing the Right Mutual Funds

Active vs. Passive Funds

You may have heard about index funds. They follow a market index and have lower fees. However, they lack the potential for outperformance compared to actively managed funds. Actively managed funds, overseen by expert fund managers, can outperform the market, especially in volatile conditions.

Direct vs. Regular Funds

Direct funds bypass intermediaries and have lower fees. However, they require you to manage your investments independently. Regular funds, on the other hand, involve a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) who can offer expert advice, helping you make informed decisions.

Balancing Equity and Debt

For a 10 to 15-year investment horizon, a balanced mix of equity and debt funds is advisable. Equity funds provide growth, while debt funds offer stability. The exact allocation depends on your risk tolerance and financial goals.

Equity Mutual Funds

Equity mutual funds invest in stocks. They are suitable for long-term growth and can provide substantial returns. They carry higher risk but offer higher potential rewards. Over a 10 to 15-year period, the power of compounding can significantly grow your investment.

Debt Mutual Funds

Debt mutual funds invest in bonds and other fixed-income securities. They are less volatile than equity funds and provide more stable returns. These funds are ideal for the portion of your investment that you want to keep safe from market fluctuations.

Hybrid Mutual Funds

Hybrid funds offer a mix of equity and debt investments. They balance growth and stability, making them a good option for medium risk tolerance. They can provide decent returns while minimizing risk.

Evaluating Fund Performance

Look at the historical performance of mutual funds. Choose funds that have consistently performed well over a long period. This indicates the fund’s ability to handle market ups and downs.

Expense Ratio

The expense ratio is the annual fee charged by the fund. Lower expense ratios mean higher returns for you. However, don’t compromise on fund performance for a lower expense ratio.

Fund Manager’s Expertise

The fund manager’s expertise plays a crucial role. A skilled manager can make a significant difference in fund performance. Check the manager’s track record before investing.

Tax Efficiency

Consider the tax implications of your investments. Long-term capital gains on equity funds are taxed at a lower rate. Debt funds have different tax rules. Choose funds that are tax-efficient to maximize your returns.

Role of a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)

Expertise in Financial Planning

A CFP provides expert guidance in financial planning. They help you define your financial goals, assess your risk tolerance, and create a tailored investment strategy. This personalized approach ensures that your investments align with your long-term objectives.

Selecting the Right Funds

With their extensive knowledge of the market, CFPs help you select the best mutual funds. They analyze fund performance, evaluate fund managers, and consider expense ratios. This ensures you choose funds that offer the best potential returns while minimizing risks.

Regular Monitoring and Adjustments

Investing is not a one-time activity. A CFP regularly monitors your portfolio, keeping track of market changes and fund performance. They make necessary adjustments to ensure your investments stay on track to meet your goals.

Tax Planning and Efficiency

CFPs are well-versed in tax laws and implications. They help you choose tax-efficient funds, maximizing your after-tax returns. This is crucial for long-term wealth building and ensuring you retain more of your hard-earned money.

Managing Market Fluctuations

Market fluctuations can be challenging for individual investors. A CFP provides the expertise to navigate these ups and downs. They help you stay focused on your long-term goals, preventing impulsive decisions that could harm your investment.

Holistic Financial Advice

Beyond mutual funds, CFPs offer holistic financial advice. They assist with retirement planning, insurance needs, estate planning, and more. This comprehensive approach ensures all aspects of your financial life are well-coordinated and optimized.

Implementing the SWP

Once you have selected the funds, setting up the SWP is straightforward. Decide on the withdrawal amount and frequency. Ensure the amount aligns with your financial needs and goals.

Monitoring and Reviewing Your Portfolio

Regularly review your portfolio. Monitor the performance of your funds and adjust your investments if needed. Consulting with a CFP can provide valuable insights for making informed decisions.

Benefits of SWP

SWP offers regular income, which is ideal for meeting recurring expenses. It provides flexibility in withdrawal amounts and frequency. Moreover, it helps in disciplined investing and ensures that you don’t run out of money prematurely.

Drawbacks of SWP

SWP can deplete your investment if not managed properly. Market fluctuations can affect the value of your investments. It requires careful planning and monitoring to ensure sustainability.

Conclusion

Investing Rs 50 lakh in mutual funds for a SWP over 10 to 15 years requires careful planning and strategic decision-making. By understanding your goals, assessing your risk tolerance, and choosing the right mix of funds, you can create a reliable income stream while growing your wealth. Engaging a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can significantly enhance your investment strategy, providing expert guidance, regular monitoring, and holistic financial advice to ensure your financial success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 10, 2024

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Could you please advise funds for SWP want to invest 50lac
Ans: Setting up a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) with an initial investment of 50 lakhs requires careful selection of mutual funds to ensure steady income while preserving capital. Here are some suggestions:
1. Debt Mutual Funds: Opt for debt funds for stability and regular income. Consider funds with a track record of consistent returns and low volatility, such as liquid funds or short-term debt funds. These funds provide relatively predictable returns and liquidity for your withdrawal needs.
2. Balanced Advantage Funds: These funds dynamically allocate between equity and debt based on market conditions. They offer the potential for capital appreciation along with regular income through systematic withdrawals. Look for funds with a proven strategy and experienced fund management team.
3. Monthly Income Plans (MIPs): MIPs invest in a mix of debt and equity instruments, aiming to provide regular income to investors. They are suitable for investors seeking a balance between income and growth. Choose MIPs with a conservative allocation to equities to minimize risk.
4. Equity Savings Funds: These funds invest in a combination of equity, debt, and arbitrage opportunities. They offer potential capital appreciation from equity exposure while providing downside protection through debt allocation. Select funds with a proven track record of managing volatility and generating consistent returns.
5. Dynamic Asset Allocation Funds: These funds adjust their asset allocation dynamically based on market valuations and economic indicators. They aim to provide steady returns across market cycles by shifting between equity and debt. Look for funds managed by experienced fund managers with a disciplined investment approach.
Before investing, assess your risk tolerance, investment horizon, and income requirements. Consult with a Certified Financial Planner to tailor a SWP strategy that aligns with your financial goals and risk profile.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 06, 2025Hindi
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Greetings, I am 46 yrs and have 50 lacs. My monthly expenses is about 50k.Unemployed due to health reasons. I want to invest in mutual fund wherein the capital can grow and also use SWP. Looking at the current markets what would be the best funds to invest in over long time about 10 yrs. Thanks
Ans: You want to grow your capital while using a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP). Since you are unemployed due to health reasons, this plan must balance returns and stability.

A well-structured investment strategy can help sustain your monthly expenses while allowing capital appreciation over 10 years.

Understanding Your Investment Needs
You have Rs 50 lakh as your corpus.

Your monthly expenses are Rs 50,000.

You need a plan that gives regular income and long-term growth.

The portfolio should be stable and not highly volatile.

Why a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP)?
An SWP allows you to withdraw a fixed amount every month.

Unlike fixed deposits, it gives better returns and tax efficiency.

It helps maintain financial discipline while keeping the corpus invested.

Returns from mutual funds can beat inflation over time.

Investment Strategy for 10 Years
Your corpus should be divided into different asset classes.

Equity Mutual Funds: These funds help in long-term capital growth.

Debt Mutual Funds: These provide stability and reduce risk.

Liquid Funds: These act as an emergency buffer.

Portfolio Allocation for Stability and Growth
60% in Equity Mutual Funds for long-term appreciation.

30% in Debt Mutual Funds to provide stability and steady returns.

10% in Liquid Funds to cover immediate expenses.

This allocation balances risk and return. Equity grows wealth, debt protects capital, and liquid funds handle short-term needs.

Choosing the Right Mutual Funds
Equity Mutual Funds (60%)
Select a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds.

Large-cap funds give stability.

Mid-cap and flexi-cap funds provide higher growth potential.

Debt Mutual Funds (30%)
Choose funds with a good balance of safety and returns.

Short-duration and dynamic bond funds work well.

Liquid Funds (10%)
These funds should have high liquidity for emergency needs.

Avoid keeping too much in savings accounts or fixed deposits.

How to Implement the SWP?
Start withdrawing from the debt portion first.

Let equity investments grow without withdrawals for the first 3-5 years.

Gradually shift funds from equity to debt as you approach 10 years.

Keep reviewing the plan every year.

Tax Implications on SWP
Withdrawals from equity funds after one year are taxed at 12.5% if gains exceed Rs 1.25 lakh.

Debt mutual fund withdrawals are taxed as per your income slab.

Spreading withdrawals across years helps reduce tax burden.

Best Practices for a Sustainable Plan
Keep an emergency fund to avoid withdrawing from investments in a market downturn.

Rebalance the portfolio based on market conditions.

Avoid withdrawing too much in the early years to keep the corpus growing.

Review your financial plan every year with a certified financial planner.

Finally
A mix of equity, debt, and liquid funds ensures growth and stability.

SWP gives tax-efficient monthly income.

Avoid withdrawing from equity in the early years.

Regular review and rebalancing are essential.

A certified financial planner can help fine-tune the plan based on market changes.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Naveenn

Naveenn Kummar  |234 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF, Insurance Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

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Dear Naveen Sir, I am 55 Years old and have five more years in superannuation. My monthly take home is approx. 6 Lacs PM . I have accumulated 2 Cr. in MF , 1.5 Cr in PF , 1 Cr FD and NPS and LIC put all together will be approx 50 Lacs and payout will start from 2028 onwards. I have just booked one 4 BHK and take home loan which is construction linked plan . Possession will be in 2029. My Daughter and Son are on Marriage age but both are also earning handsomely as they are in 30% bracket of IT . Have parental property approx 1.5 Cr which i will get in due course of the time. Monthly expenses are approx 1 Lacs only . Please suggest the way forward for next 5 Years .....how and where i start investing ....
Ans: Dear Sir
For a comprehensive QPFP level financial planning and retirement assessment we request the following details. These inputs will allow financial planner to prepare an accurate inflation-adjusted roadmap covering risk protection, income stability, investment strategy and long-term financial security.
________________________________________
1. Personal and Family Details
Your age and planned retirement year.
Spouse’s age, working status and future income expectations.
Number of dependents and their financial reliance on you.
Any major medical conditions in the family.
________________________________________
2. Parents’ Health and Financial Dependence
Current health condition of parents.
Do they have their own medical insurance cover.
Sum insured and type of policy.
Any critical illness or pre-existing conditions.
Monthly financial support you provide to them if any.
Expected future medical or caretaker expenses.
________________________________________
3. Income and Cash Flow
Monthly take home income.
Expected increments or bonuses for the next five years.
Monthly household expense structure.
Existing EMIs and financial commitments.
Monthly surplus available for investments.
Any expenses expected to rise due to inflation or lifestyle changes.
________________________________________
4. Home Loan and Liabilities
Sanctioned home loan amount, interest rate and tenure.
Current disbursement status under construction linked plan.
Your plan for EMI servicing and part-prepayment.
Any other loans or financial liabilities.
________________________________________
5. Real Estate Profile
Is this 4 BHK your first home or do you own other properties.
Any rental income from existing properties.
Purpose of the new 4 BHK after retirement for self, parents or children.
Your plan for the parental house. Retain, sell or rent.
Where you plan to settle post retirement.
________________________________________
6. Investment Portfolio
Current mutual fund corpus and category-wise split.
SIP amounts and investment horizon.
PF, EPF, PPF and other retirement scheme balances.
Fixed deposit amounts, maturity periods and ownership structure for DICGC protection.
NPS allocations Tier 1 and Tier 2.
LIC policies with surrender value and maturity year.
Any bonds, NCDs, PMS, private equity or invoice discounting exposure.
________________________________________
7. Emergency Preparedness
Current emergency fund value.
Loan facility available against MF or FD.
Any credit line for medical or sudden expenses.
________________________________________
8. Insurance Protection (Self and Spouse)
Term insurance coverage and policy details.
Health insurance sum assured and insurer.
Top-up or super top-up cover details.
Critical illness and accident cover status.
Adequacy of insurance after accounting for inflation.
________________________________________
9. Children’s Goals and Planning
Are you contributing financially to your children's planning.
Any corpus set aside for their marriage.
Children’s own investment and insurance setup.
Any future goals involving them.
________________________________________
10. Retirement Vision and Income Planning
Expected retirement lifestyle and monthly cost adjusted for inflation.
Your preferred retirement income structure
SWP from mutual funds
Annuity or pension products
PF interest
NPS annuity
Rental income
Plans to monetise or downsize real estate if needed.
Any travel, medical or lifestyle goals post retirement.
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11. Estate and Succession Planning
Will availability and last update date.
Nominations across MF, PF, NPS, FD, LIC, demat and bank accounts.
Any instructions for asset distribution.
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Next Step
Only Once you share these details, financial planner can prepare a complete five year roadmap covering asset allocation, inflation-adjusted corpus projections, loan strategy, insurance adequacy, medical preparedness, pension and SWP planning, liquidity management and post-retirement income stability.


Disclaimer / Guidance:
The above analysis is generic in nature and based on limited data shared. For accurate projections — including inflation, tax implications, pension structure, and education cost escalation — it is strongly advised to consult a qualified QPFP/CFP or Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD). They can help prepare a comprehensive retirement and goal-based cash flow plan tailored to your unique situation.
Financial planning is not only about returns; it’s about ensuring peace of mind and aligning your money with life goals. A professional planner can help you design a safe, efficient, and realistic roadmap toward your ideal retirement.

Best regards,
Naveenn Kummar, BE, MBA, QPFP
Chief Financial Planner | AMFI Registered MFD
https://members.networkfp.com/member/naveenkumarreddy-vadula-chennai
044-31683550

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

Money
Im aged 40 years and my husband is aged 48 years. We have one son aged 8 years and daughter aged 12 years. We both are in business. What should be the ideal corpus to meet their education at the age of 18 years for both children? Present business income we can save Rs.50000 pm
Ans: You are thinking early. That itself is a smart step. Many parents postpone planning and later struggle with loans. You are not in that situation. So appreciate your approach.

You asked about ideal corpus for higher education. Education cost is rising fast. So planning early avoids financial pressure later.

You have two kids. Your daughter is 12. Your son is 8. You have around six years for your daughter and around ten years for your son. With this time frame, you need a proper structured plan.

» Understanding Future Education Cost

Education inflation in India is high. It is increasing year after year. Even professional courses are becoming costly. College fees, hostel fees, books, digital tools and transportation also add cost.

You need to consider this inflation. Higher education cost will not remain at today’s value. It will grow.

So if today a standard undergraduate program costs around a few lakhs, in six to ten years the cost may go much higher. That is why estimating corpus should consider this future cost.

You don’t need exact numbers today. You need a target range to plan. A comfortable range gives clarity.

» Typical Cost Structure for Higher Education

Higher education cost depends on:

– Private or government institution
– Course type
– City or abroad option
– Duration

For engineering, medical, management or technology courses, cost goes higher. For government colleges the cost is lower but seats are limited. Private colleges are more accessible but expensive.

So planning based only on government college assumption may create funding gaps. Planning based on private college range gives safer margin.

» Suggested Corpus for Both Children

For your daughter, considering next six years gap and inflation, a target range should be higher. For your son, you have more time. So his corpus can grow better because compounding works more with time.

For a comfortable education corpus that covers most course possibilities, many families plan for a higher number. It gives flexibility to choose better college without stress.

So you can aim for a larger goal for both children like this:

– Daughter: Target a strong education fund for next six years
– Son: Target a similar or slightly higher fund for the next ten years because future costs may be higher

You may not need the whole amount if your child chooses a less expensive route. But having extra cushion gives peace.

» Your Savings Ability

You mentioned you can save Rs.50000 monthly. That is a strong saving capacity. But this saving should not go entirely to a single goal. You will also need future retirement planning, emergency fund and other life goals.

Still, a reasonable portion of this amount can be allocated towards education planning. Some families divide savings based on urgency and time horizon. Since daughter’s goal is near, she may need a more stable allocation.

Your son’s goal is long term. So his part can stay in growth asset for longer.

» Choosing the Right Investment Style

A long term goal like your son’s education needs equity exposure. Equity gives better potential for long term growth. It beats inflation better than fixed deposits.

But for your daughter, pure equity can create risk because goal is nearer. Market fluctuations may affect final corpus. So she needs a balanced asset mix.

So investment approach must be different for both.

» Asset Allocation Strategy

For your daughter with six year horizon:

– Higher allocation to a balanced type category
– Some allocation to equity through diversified categories
– Step down equity allocation in final three years

This structure protects capital in later years.

For your son with ten year horizon:

– Higher equity allocation at start
– Continue systematic investing
– Reduce risk allocation gradually closer to goal period

This helps growth and protection.

» Avoiding Wrong Investment Products

Parents often buy traditional insurance plans or children policies for education. These policies give low returns. They lock money and reduce wealth creation potential.

So avoid purely insurance based products for education goals. Insurance is separate. Investment is separate. This separation creates clarity and better growth.

If you already hold any ULIP or investment insurance product, it may not be efficient. Only if you have such policies then you may review and consider if surrender is needed and reinvest in mutual funds. If you don’t have such policies, no need to worry.

» Role of Actively Managed Mutual Funds

For long term goals, actively managed mutual funds offer better flexibility and expert management. They are designed to outperform inflation. A regular plan through a mutual fund distributor with CFP support helps with guidance. They also track your goal and give advice in volatile phases.

Direct funds look cheaper on expense ratio. But they lack advisory support. Long term investors often make emotional mistakes in direct investing. They stop SIPs or switch wrong schemes. So advisory backed investing avoids costly behaviour mistakes.

Index funds look simple and low cost. But they only follow the market. They don’t protect during corrections. There is no strategy or research. Actively managed funds adjust holdings based on market research and valuation. For life goals like education, smoother growth and strategy are needed.

So regular plan with advisory support helps you avoid unnecessary emotional decisions.

» Importance of Systematic Investing

A fixed monthly SIP gives discipline. It also benefits from market volatility. When markets fall, SIP buys more units. In rise phase, the value grows.

A structured SIP helps both goals. For daughter, SIP should shift towards low volatility funds slowly. For son, SIP can run longer in growth-oriented funds before reducing risk.

Your contribution amount may change based on future business income. But start now with whatever comfortable.

» Protecting the Goal With Insurance

Since you both are running business, income stability may fluctuate. So ensuring life security is important. Term insurance is the right option. It is low cost and high coverage.

This ensures child’s education is protected even if income stops.

Medical insurance also matters. A medical emergency should not break education savings.

» Reviewing the Plan Periodically

A fixed plan is good. But markets and life conditions change. So review once every twelve months.

Points to review:

– Are SIPs running on time?
– Is allocation suitable for goal year?
– Any need to shift from equity to safer category?
– Any tax planning advantage needed?

But avoid checking portfolio every week. Frequent checking creates stress.

» Education Goal Withdrawal Plan

As the daughter’s goal comes close:

– Stop SIP in high risk category
– Start shifting profit to debt type fund over systematic transfers
– Keep final year money in safe option like liquid category

Same formula should be applied for your son when his goal approaches.

This protects against last minute market crash.

» Emotional Side of Planning

Education is an emotional goal. Parents feel pressure to provide the best. But planning removes fear.

Saving consistently gives confidence. Having a plan helps avoid panic decisions. It also brings clarity of future expense.

This planning sets financial discipline for your children as well.

» Taxation Factors

When redeeming funds for education, tax rules will apply. For equity fund withdrawals, long term capital gains above exemption are taxed at 12.5% as per current rules. For short term within one year, tax is higher.

For debt investments, gains are taxed as per your tax slab.

So plan the withdrawal timing to reduce tax.

Tax planning near goal year is very important.

» What You Can Do Next

– Start separate investments for each child
– Use SIP for disciplined investing
– Choose growth-oriented asset for son
– Choose balanced and phased investment approach for daughter
– Review allocation yearly
– Protect the goal with insurance cover

Following these steps helps achieve the target corpus smoothly.

» Finally

You are already thinking in the right direction. You have time for both goals. You also have a good saving frequency. So you can build a strong education fund without stress.

Your children’s future will be secure if you continue with a structured and disciplined plan.

Stay consistent with your savings. Make investment choices carefully. Review and adjust calmly over time.

This journey will help you reach your ideal corpus for both children.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 09, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi Sir, Regarding recent turmoils in global economic situation and trends, Trump's tariffs, relentless FII selling, should I be worried about midcap, large&midcap funds that I have in my mutual fund portfolio? I have been investing from last 4 years and want to invest for next 10 years only. And then plan to retire and move to SWP. I'm targeting a 10%-11% return eventually. And I don't want to make lower returns than FD's. Is now the time to switch from midcap, laege&midcap to conservative, large, flexi funds? Please suggest.
Ans: You have asked the right question at the right time. Many investors panic only after damage happens. You are thinking ahead. That is a strong habit.

You also have clarity about your goal, time horizon and expected returns. This mindset will help you handle market noise better.

» Current Market Sentiment and Global Events
The global economy is seeing stress. There are trade decisions, tariff announcements, and geopolitical issues. Foreign institutional investors are selling. News flow looks negative.
These events can cause short term volatility. Midcaps and small caps usually react faster during these phases. Even large caps show some stress.
But markets have seen many crises in the past. Elections, governments, conflicts, pandemics, financial crashes and tariff wars are not new events. Markets always recover over time.
Short term movements are unpredictable. Long term wealth creation depends more on patience and asset allocation.

» Your Time Horizon Matters More Than Market Noise
You have been investing for 4 years. You plan to invest for the next 10 years. That means your remaining maturity is long term.
For a 10 year goal, equity is suitable. Midcap and large and midcap funds are designed for long term investors. They are not meant for short periods.
If your time horizon is short, it is valid to worry about downside risk. But with 10 more years ahead, temporary volatility is normal and expected.
Short term fear should not drive long term decisions.

» Should You Switch to Conservative or Large Cap Now?
Switching based on panic or temporary news is not ideal. When you switch now, you lock the current lower value permanently. You also miss the recovery phase.
Large cap and flexi cap funds offer stability. But they also deliver lower growth potential during bull runs compared to midcaps.
Midcaps usually fall deeper when markets drop. But they also recover faster and often outperform in the next cycle.
Switching now may protect emotions but may reduce long term wealth creation.

» Target Return of 10% to 11% is Reasonable
Aiming for 10%-11% return with a 10 year investment horizon is realistic.
Fixed deposits now offer around 6.5% to 7.5%. After tax, the return becomes lower.
Equity funds have potential to generate better returns compared to FD over a long tenure. Midcap allocation contributes to this return potential.
So moving fully to conservative funds may reduce your ability to beat inflation comfortably.

» Impact of FII Selling
FII selling creates pressure on the market. But domestic investors including SIP flows are strong today. India is seeing strong structural growth.
Retail investors, mutual funds and systematic flows act as stabilizers.
FII selling is temporary and cyclical. It is not a permanent trend.

» Economic Slowdowns Create Opportunities
Corrections make valuations reasonable. This can benefit long term SIP investors.
During downturns, your SIP buys more units. During recovery, these units grow.
This mechanism works best in volatile categories like midcaps.
Stopping SIP or switching during dips blocks this benefit.

» Midcap Cycles Are Natural
Midcap funds move in cycles. They have phases of strong growth followed by correction. The correction phase is painful but temporary.
Every cycle contributes to future upside. Staying invested during all phases is important.
Many investors exit during downturns and enter again after markets rise. This behaviour produces lower returns than the mutual fund performance.

» Role of Portfolio Balance
Instead of exiting fully, review your asset allocation. You can hold a mix of:
– Large cap
– Flexi cap
– Midcap
– Large and midcap
This gives stability and growth potential.
Midcap should not be more than a suitable percentage for your age and risk tolerance. Since you are 36, some meaningful midcap exposure is fine.
If midcap exposure is very high, you can reduce slightly and move that portion to flexi cap or large cap funds slowly through a systematic transfer. Do not do a lump sum shift during panic.

» Behavioural Discipline Matters More Than Fund Selection
Market cycles test investor patience. Consistency in SIP and holding through declines builds wealth.
Most investors do not fail due to bad funds. They fail due to fear-based decisions.
Your approach should be systematic, not emotional.

» Do Not Compare with FD Frequently
FD gives predictable return. Equity gives volatile but higher potential return.
Comparing FD returns every time the market falls leads to wrong decisions.
FD is for safety. Equity is for growth. They serve different purposes.
Your retirement plan and SWP plan depends on growth. Only equity can provide that growth.

» Should You Change Strategy Because Retirement is 10 Years Away?
Now is not the time to exit growth segments. You are still in accumulation phase.
When you reach the last 3 years before retirement, then reducing equity exposure step by step is required.
At that stage, a glide path helps preserve gains. That time has not yet come.
So continue building wealth now.

» Market Timings and Shifts Rarely Work
Many investors try to predict markets. Most of them fail.
Switching based on news looks logical. But news and market timing rarely align.
Staying consistent with your asset allocation gives better results than frequent changes.

» Portfolio Review Approach
You can follow these steps:
– Continue SIPs in all categories
– Avoid stopping based on short term fears
– If midcap allocation is above comfort level, shift only small portion gradually
– Review allocation once in a year, not every month
This structured approach prevents emotional decisions.

» Tax Rules Matter When Switching
Switching between equity funds involves tax impact.
Short term capital gains tax is higher.
Long term capital gains above the exemption limit are taxed at 12.5%.
Switching without purpose can create avoidable tax leakage.
This reduces your compounding.

» When to Worry?
You need to reconsider only if:
– Your goal horizon becomes short
– Your risk appetite changes
– Your allocation becomes unbalanced
Not because of headlines or temporary corrections.

» Your Retirement SWP Plan
Once your accumulation phase is completed, you can shift to:
– Conservative hybrid
– Flexi cap
– Balanced allocation
This will support a smoother SWP.
But this transition should happen only closer to the retirement start date. Not now.

» SIP is Designed for Turbulent Years
SIP works best when markets are volatile. The hardest years for emotions are the most powerful for compounding.
Your long term discipline is your strategy.
Do not interrupt it.

» What You Should Do Now
– Stay invested
– Continue SIP
– Avoid panic selling
– Review allocation once a year
– Use a steady plan, not reactions
This will help you reach your target return range.

» Finally
You are on the right path. The current volatility is temporary. Your 10 year horizon gives enough time for recovery and growth.
Switching right now based on fear may reduce your future returns. Staying invested and continuing SIPs is the sensible approach.
Your goal of better return than FD is realistic. Equity can deliver that with patience.
Stay calm and systematic.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

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Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |6740 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

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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