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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 22, 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
Suraj Question by Suraj on Apr 20, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money

Sir. I am continuing my sip of 17000 in these mutual fund. 1.parag parikh flexicap dir- 3000 2.icici prudential technology-2000 3.Axis small cap dir-3000 4.Canara robeco small cap-2000 5. Quant small cap-3000 6. Nippon ind small cap-4000. Investment period - 15yr plus .Age- 35. Please suggest me for the same.

Ans: Your SIP allocation has a significant tilt towards small and flexi-cap funds, which can be volatile but offer growth potential. Given your age and investment horizon:

Consider diversifying by adding a large-cap or multi-cap fund to balance the portfolio.
Revisit the technology fund's exposure; while it can offer high growth, it can also be volatile.
Ensure your portfolio aligns with your risk tolerance and long-term goals.
Regular reviews with a financial advisor can help adjust your strategy as needed and ensure your portfolio remains well-balanced.
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 Apr 15, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 14, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Sir. I am continuing my sip of 17000 in these mutual fund. 1.parag parikh flexicap dir- 3000 2.icici prudential technology-2000 3.Axis small cap dir-3000 4.Canara robeco small cap-2000 5. Quant small cap-3000 6. Nippon ind small cap-4000 Investment period - 15yr plus Age- 35. Please suggest me for the same.
Ans: Your portfolio has a mix of flexi-cap, sectoral, and small-cap funds, which is good for diversification. Considering your age and investment horizon, here are a few suggestions:

Risk Assessment: Ensure you're comfortable with the risk level, especially with the small-cap funds, which can be volatile but offer high growth potential.

Goal Alignment: Make sure each fund aligns with a specific financial goal. For example, flexi-cap for long-term wealth creation, technology fund for growth in the tech sector, and small-cap funds for higher growth potential but with higher risk.

Portfolio Balance: It might be beneficial to review your portfolio's asset allocation periodically. Ensure you're not too heavily skewed towards one asset class, which can expose you to unnecessary risks.

Performance Review: Regularly monitor the performance of your funds. If a fund consistently underperforms its benchmark or peers, consider replacing it with a better-performing alternative.

Emergency Fund: Before investing, ensure you have an emergency fund set aside to cover 3-6 months of living expenses.

Professional Advice: Consider consulting with a financial advisor for personalized advice tailored to your financial situation and goals.

Overall, your portfolio seems diversified and aligned with your long-term goals. Regular monitoring and adjustments will help you stay on track towards achieving your financial objectives.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 17, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello Sir, I m 42, Investing in Mutual fund from last 2 years, following are the SIP's Quant infrastructure- Rs.3000 Quant Small cap- Rs.3000 Parag Parikh Flaxi cap- Rs. 3000 Nippon large cap - Rs. 3000 Newly started Motilal Oswal Midcap- Rs. 3000 Newly started Quant Multi asset fund- Rs. 3000 Newly started Please let me know if needs any changes and my investment span will be 15-20 years.
Ans: Evaluating Mutual Fund Portfolio for Long-Term Goals
As a Certified Financial Planner, I understand the importance of optimizing your mutual fund portfolio to achieve your long-term financial goals. Let's analyze your current investments and assess if any changes are necessary for your investment horizon of 15-20 years.

Genuine Appreciation for Long-Term Investment Horizon
I appreciate your commitment to long-term investing, which is essential for wealth accumulation and financial security over time.

Analyzing Current Investments
Existing SIPs:
Quant Infrastructure Fund
Quant Small Cap Fund
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund
Nippon Large Cap Fund
Newly Started SIPs:
Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund
Quant Multi Asset Fund
Assessing Portfolio Composition
Pros of Current Portfolio:
Diversification: Your portfolio includes funds across various market segments, providing diversification benefits.
Potential for Growth: Each fund targets different sectors and market capitalizations, offering growth opportunities.
Considerations for Changes:
Risk Management: Evaluate the risk exposure of newly started funds and ensure they align with your risk tolerance and investment objectives.
Performance Review: Regularly monitor the performance of all funds to ensure they meet expectations and remain suitable for your goals.
Cost Analysis: Consider the expense ratios and fees associated with each fund to optimize your overall portfolio cost.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Given your investment horizon of 15-20 years, it's crucial to:

Stay Invested: Continue investing systematically in mutual funds to benefit from long-term compounding.
Review Periodically: Periodically review your portfolio performance and make adjustments if necessary to align with changing market conditions and financial goals.
Consult a Financial Planner: Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner to get personalized advice tailored to your specific financial situation and goals.
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 May 06, 2024

Listen
Money
I am 43 years old and a salaried person. Started in SIP in 2018. Kindly suggest about the funds. Following are my current mutual fund investments: 1) Franklin India Prima fund Rs.1000 2) Invesco India Contra Fund Rs.6000 3) Kotak flexicap fund Rs.4000 4) Mirae Large & midcap fund Rs.2000 5) Axis Bluchip fund 3500 6) Sbi Banking & financial service fund Rs.3500 7) Axis Small cap fund Rs.5000. All i have monthly SIP. please suggest me if any changes require.
Ans: It's great to see that you've started investing in mutual funds through SIPs. Here are some suggestions regarding your current mutual fund investments:

• Diversification: You have a good mix of funds across various categories, which is essential for diversification. It's important to spread your investments across different sectors and market capitalizations to reduce risk.

• Review Performance: Periodically review the performance of your funds to ensure they are meeting your expectations and performing in line with their peers and benchmarks.

• Consider Your Goals: Reflect on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon to determine if your current funds align with your objectives. If you have specific goals such as retirement planning or wealth accumulation, consider adjusting your portfolio accordingly.

• Evaluate Fund Managers: Assess the track record and expertise of the fund managers managing your investments. Look for consistency in performance and a clear investment strategy aligned with your goals.

• Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated with market trends, economic developments, and changes in regulations that may impact your investments. Stay connected with your financial advisor or conduct your research to make informed decisions.

• Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or a qualified financial advisor to get personalized advice based on your financial situation and goals. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your needs.

Overall, while your current mutual fund portfolio appears well-diversified, it's essential to periodically review and adjust your investments based on changes in your financial situation and market conditions. By staying disciplined and informed, you can work towards achieving your financial goals effectively.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
I am plning to do sip of 60000 monthly in following mutual funds. Kindly suggest me the best ones so that diversification and balanced must be there. BAJAJ FINSERV FLEXI CAP FUND - DIRECT PLAN BANDHAN ELSS TAX SAVER FUND - DIRECT PLAN HDFC BSE SENSEX INDEX FUND - DIRECT PLAN HDFC DIVIDEND YIELD FUND - DIRECT PLAN HDFC LARGE AND MID CAP FUND - DIRECT PLAN HDFC SMALL CAP FUND - DIRECT PLAN ICICI PRUDENTIAL LARGE CAP FUND - DIRECT PLAN ICICI PRUDENTIAL NIFTY 50 INDEX FUND - DIRECT PLAN ICICI PRUDENTIAL NIFTY PRIVATE BANK INDEX FUND - DIRECT PLAN KOTAK MIDCAP FUND - DIRECT PLAN MIRAE ASSET MULTICAP FUND - DIRECT PLAN MOTILAL OSWAL NIFTY BANK INDEX FUND - DIRECT PLAN MOTILAL OSWAL NIFTY MIDCAP 150 INDEX FUND - DIRECT PLAN NIPPON INDIA SMALL CAP FUND - DIRECT PLAN PARAG PARIKH FLEXI CAP FUND - DIRECT PLAN QUANT ELSS TAX SAVER FUND - DIRECT PLAN SBI CONTRA FUND - DIRECT PLAN
Ans: It is great that you are planning a disciplined SIP of Rs 60,000 monthly.
You are thinking long-term, which is the right way to grow wealth.
Starting early, and staying invested will build a strong future for your family.
Now, you are on the right track. But the fund selection needs careful refining.

You’ve shortlisted too many mutual funds. That can hurt your diversification.
Too many overlapping schemes create confusion, not balance.
Even good funds lose impact if spread too thin.
Let’s structure your Rs 60,000 SIP better, with focus and clarity.

» Avoid Over-Diversification

– You’ve listed more than 15 funds for one SIP plan.
– That’s excessive and creates overlap across market segments.
– Many schemes fall in the same category – large cap, flexi cap, mid cap.
– This causes unnecessary duplication and weakens returns.

– Ideal portfolio needs 5 to 7 well-selected funds only.
– Each fund should have a clear and unique role.
– Too many funds dilute compounding benefits.
– You also lose track of performance when holding many schemes.

» Say No to Index Funds in SIP Portfolio

– You have multiple index funds in your selection list.
– These include Nifty 50, Nifty Midcap, Bank Index, Sensex-based schemes.
– Index funds follow market passively, without active strategy.
– They invest based on market cap, not on potential or value.

– They also invest in overvalued stocks due to index weighting.
– During market correction, index funds fall with no defence.
– They can’t avoid poor-performing sectors or companies.
– Your portfolio stays exposed even during market weakness.

– Actively managed funds, in contrast, offer flexibility.
– Fund managers can exit weak stocks and sectors.
– This helps reduce downside and improve long-term returns.

– Especially for SIP investors, active funds bring better long-term stability.
– So, remove all index funds from your SIP plan.
– Focus only on quality actively managed mutual funds.

» Avoid Direct Plans if You Want Personalised Guidance

– You’ve selected all direct plans.
– Direct plans do not offer professional support.
– You invest alone, without expert help in goal tracking or market timing.

– If a crisis or market crash comes, there is no guidance.
– Most direct investors panic-sell or stop SIPs during volatility.

– With regular plans, you get support from a qualified Certified Financial Planner.
– A CFP helps in fund selection, goal planning, rebalancing, and reviews.
– They also help manage tax planning and withdrawals.

– Slightly higher cost in regular plans brings long-term value.
– That extra support protects your capital during tough times.

– Direct plans may look cheaper, but can cost more in long run.
– So choose regular plans through a CFP with MFD credentials.

» Build Your Portfolio Around Core and Satellite Approach

– A smart SIP structure follows the core and satellite model.
– Core funds provide stability and long-term compounding.
– Satellite funds add aggression and higher return potential.

– Core should form 60% of SIP amount.
– Satellite should form remaining 40%.
– This keeps the portfolio balanced, yet growth-oriented.

» Suggested Allocation Strategy For Rs 60,000 Monthly SIP

Core Portfolio – Rs 36,000 (60%)
– Choose 1 flexi cap fund for core exposure across market caps.
– Add 1 large and mid cap fund for balanced growth and stability.
– Add 1 multicap fund for structural allocation to large, mid, and small.
– Choose 1 large cap fund with consistent history of risk-managed growth.

Satellite Portfolio – Rs 24,000 (40%)
– Pick 1 small cap fund for aggressive long-term growth.
– Add 1 mid cap fund for wealth building with moderate volatility.
– Include 1 contra or value fund for contrarian exposure during market cycles.
– If tax saving is needed, keep only one ELSS fund.

– Avoid having multiple ELSS schemes, as that over-diversifies the tax benefit.
– One well-performing ELSS fund is enough under Section 80C.

– Don’t mix too many funds from the same AMC.
– Maintain diversity in fund houses for risk spread.

» Avoid Thematic and Sector Funds for Now

– Your list includes sector index funds like private bank or Nifty Bank.
– These are high-risk and narrow-focus schemes.
– Sector funds perform well only during favourable cycles.
– Outside of that, they underperform heavily.

– Avoid sector-specific funds unless you understand sector timing.
– SIP in sector funds is not ideal due to cyclicality.
– Stay with diversified equity funds instead.
– Let sector allocation happen inside multicap or flexicap funds.

» Don’t Mix Similar Category Funds

– You’ve selected 2–3 funds from the same category.
– Example: multiple small cap, large cap, ELSS funds.
– This creates clutter, not clarity.
– Choose one best fund from each category only.
– That keeps the portfolio efficient and easy to manage.

– Fund selection should be based on performance consistency, risk-adjusted returns, fund house philosophy.
– Stick to funds that have proven performance over multiple cycles.

– Don’t choose based on short-term hype or recent rankings.

» Regular Review and SIP Increment Are Important

– SIP is not one-time setup. It needs review every year.
– Check fund performance, category changes, and goal alignment.
– Remove underperformers. Add better options with CFP support.
– Rebalance between categories if one becomes too dominant.

– Increase SIP every year by 10–15%.
– That boosts long-term compounding without stress.
– Review your goals – retirement, child education, house down payment, etc.
– Link each SIP to one goal for better focus.

» Tax Planning Needs Thoughtful Fund Choices

– ELSS funds help save tax under 80C up to Rs 1.5 lakh yearly.
– Don’t invest in more than one ELSS scheme.
– One ELSS fund is enough for tax and growth.

– Avoid choosing ELSS just based on returns.
– Choose based on long-term stability and fund house quality.

– Remember new mutual fund taxation rules.
– Equity LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
– STCG taxed at 20% on equity funds.
– Debt mutual fund gains taxed as per your slab.
– So plan redemptions and switches carefully with your CFP.

» Align SIP With Your Risk Profile

– You are investing Rs 60,000 per month. That’s significant.
– So it must match your risk appetite and financial goals.
– Flexi cap and multicap funds are good for balanced growth.
– Small cap and mid cap funds bring high returns, but also more risk.

– Don’t over-allocate to small cap unless you are ready for volatility.
– Keep riskier funds within 20–30% of SIP only.
– Stay invested for minimum 7–10 years in small cap schemes.
– Shorter durations will harm returns.

– With right mix, even high volatility becomes wealth-building over time.

» Avoid Emotional SIP Decisions

– Don’t pause SIPs when markets fall.
– That’s the best time for long-term growth.
– Falling markets allow you to buy more units.
– This helps you build strong returns in future.

– Avoid switching funds often.
– Let SIPs run uninterrupted for long periods.
– Review performance, but don’t react emotionally.

– Good funds need time to show full potential.
– Stay patient and trust the process.

» Finally

– You have the right mindset and monthly commitment.
– Rs 60,000 SIP monthly is powerful for wealth creation.
– But reduce the number of mutual funds in your portfolio.
– Remove all index and sector-based schemes.
– Focus only on actively managed, diversified equity mutual funds.
– Avoid direct plans and invest via regular plans with CFP support.
– Use a core and satellite portfolio structure.
– Review annually and align with changing goals.
– Avoid overreacting to short-term performance.

– With this discipline and focus, your financial future is very bright.
– Stay invested and consistent. Your goals are well within reach.

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