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Can I Get 12%-15% Guaranteed Returns with My 1 Crore Investment?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 28, 2025

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
Ashok Question by Ashok on Mar 27, 2025Hindi
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One crore will you please let me know if there are any investment plans or instruments that will provide a guaranteed 12% to 15% annual return? In addition, I currently have 25 lacs invested in three products that have underperformed over the past four months: the ICICI Pru Nifty Auto Index fund, the Nippon Indian Nifty 50 Value 20 Index fund, and the UTI Nifty 200 Momentum 30 Index fund. Would you kindly encourage me to stick with these index funds? Or would you suggest selling these investments and reinvesting the money in a better mutual fund scheme?

Ans: No investment can guarantee a 12-15% return per annum.

High returns come with high risk.

Fixed-income products offer stability but lower returns.

Equity investments can give high returns, but they are not guaranteed.

If someone promises guaranteed double-digit returns, it's a red flag. Be cautious.

Assessing Your Index Fund Investments
You have invested in three index funds. These funds track specific indices, so they cannot outperform the market.

Disadvantages of Index Funds:
They lack active management. No expert is handling your money actively.

They follow the market blindly. If the market falls, your investment falls too.

They miss strategic opportunities. A fund manager cannot remove weak stocks.

Market timing is crucial. Since they follow indices, they cannot adjust to volatility.

They do not generate alpha. Actively managed funds aim for better returns.

Your investments in ICICI Pru Nifty Auto, Nippon Nifty 50 Value 20, and UTI Nifty 200 Momentum 30 have underperformed. This is because:

Auto stocks may be in a downtrend.

Value funds perform better in different market cycles.

Momentum funds depend on short-term trends.

These funds are passive, meaning they cannot adapt to market changes.

Should You Continue or Exit?
If you want higher returns, move to actively managed funds.

If you are okay with market-average returns, stay in index funds.

Based on your goal of 12-15% return, it is better to exit these index funds and shift to:

Actively managed flexi-cap funds for diversification.

Mid-cap and small-cap funds for higher growth potential.

A mix of sectoral/thematic funds based on strong future prospects.

How to Invest Your Rs. 1 Crore?
Since you expect high returns, you need a strategic mix.

1. Equity Mutual Funds (60-70%)
Invest in actively managed funds through an MFD with CFP credentials.

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

SIP + STP strategy will reduce risk and maximize gains.

2. Debt Instruments (20-30%)
Debt funds can stabilize your portfolio.

Consider short-duration debt funds for lower risk.

3. Alternative Investments (10-20%)
Some exposure to gold ETFs or international funds is good.

Avoid real estate since it lacks liquidity.

Final Insights
Avoid index funds if you want high returns.

Exit underperforming index funds and switch to actively managed funds.

Diversify your Rs. 1 crore into equity, debt, and alternative options.

Do not chase guaranteed returns. Instead, focus on risk-adjusted returns.

Choose actively managed funds through an MFD with CFP credentials to get professional guidance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP
Chief Financial Planner
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
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 Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 20, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 14, 2024Hindi
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I am 37 year old , I stay in Mumbai I want 1-2 crore down the line 5 years. How much I need to invest and where . Currently I have invested in shares 4 lac ,4 lac in mutual funds , sukanya samridhi account 5k monthly for my daughter , small plot I bought of 5 lac rupees. I have some active mutual funds monthly sip. 1. Parag paraikh flexi cap fund -3.3 k 2.Mirae asset less tax saver fund -6k 3.sundram Nifty 100 equal weight fund -2 k -weekly 4.Nippon India small cap fund -3 k 5.Axis Nifty 100 index fund -3 k 6.Axis blue chip fund -6k 7. safe gold -3k 8. Ssy for daughter -5 k
Ans: Your proactive approach towards financial planning reflects a commendable commitment to securing your future financial goals. Let's explore strategies to help you achieve your target corpus of 1-2 crore within the next 5 years.

Understanding Your Current Financial Landscape:
Your current investment portfolio showcases a diversified mix of assets, including shares, mutual funds, and savings instruments for your daughter's future. Let's evaluate how we can optimize your existing investments and explore additional avenues for wealth accumulation.

Assessing Investment Avenues:
To achieve your target corpus, consider the following investment avenues:

Equity Investments: Given your risk appetite and investment horizon, continue investing in equity through diversified mutual funds. However, ensure adequate research or seek professional advice to select funds with a proven track record of consistent returns.

Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs): Your existing SIPs in Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund, Mirae Asset Tax Saver Fund, Nippon India Small Cap Fund, and others align well with your long-term wealth-building goals. Consider increasing SIP amounts periodically to accelerate wealth accumulation.

Diversification: While equity investments offer the potential for high returns, diversification across asset classes can mitigate risk. Explore avenues such as debt mutual funds or fixed-income securities to balance your portfolio and safeguard against market volatility.

Review and Rebalance: Regularly review your investment portfolio to ensure alignment with your financial objectives. Rebalance your portfolio if necessary to maintain an optimal asset allocation strategy.

Calculating Investment Requirements:
To determine the amount you need to invest regularly to achieve your target corpus, consider factors such as expected rate of return, investment horizon, and risk tolerance. Consulting with a financial planner can help you tailor an investment plan suited to your specific needs and goals.

Embracing Financial Discipline:
Building wealth requires discipline and consistency in investment habits. By staying committed to your financial plan and making informed investment decisions, you can progress steadily towards your target corpus.

Conclusion: Charting Your Path to Financial Success
In conclusion, by optimizing your existing investments, diversifying across asset classes, and adhering to a disciplined investment approach, you can work towards realizing your financial aspirations within the stipulated timeframe.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 16, 2024

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I am investing : 2000 in SBI PSU mutual fund, 2000 in Quant Small Cap Fund direct growth, 1000 in SBI Small Cap Fund, 1000 in Aditya Birla PSU Equity Fund, 1000 for ICICI Infrastructure Fund . I need 20 lac after year. Pls suggest .
Ans: Current Investment Overview

You are investing Rs 7,000 monthly in various mutual funds. Your goal is to accumulate Rs 20 lakhs in one year.

Assessment of Current Portfolio

SBI PSU Mutual Fund:
Focuses on public sector units. It's sector-specific and carries higher risk.
Quant Small Cap Fund Direct Growth:
Invests in small-cap companies. High risk with potential for high returns.
SBI Small Cap Fund:
Another small-cap fund. High growth potential but volatile.
Aditya Birla PSU Equity Fund:
Similar to SBI PSU fund, with sector-specific risk.
ICICI Infrastructure Fund:
Invests in infrastructure sector. Sector-specific risks apply.

Investment Strategy Adjustment

Balanced Portfolio:
Diversify investments into balanced funds for stability. This helps mitigate sector-specific risks.

Debt Funds:
Consider investing in debt funds for stability and lower risk. They provide more predictable returns.

Equity Funds:
Maintain some investment in equity funds for growth. Choose funds with a good track record.

Achieving the Rs 20 Lakh Goal

Lump Sum Investment:
Consider a lump sum investment in a balanced fund or debt fund. This could help you reach your goal with lower risk.

Increase SIP Amount:
Increasing your SIP amount will boost your savings. Focus on funds with consistent returns.

Short-Term Debt Funds:
Invest in short-term debt funds for better returns than a savings account or FD. They are less volatile.

Final Insights

Your current investments are sector-specific and high-risk. Diversifying into balanced and debt funds will provide stability. Increasing your SIP amount or making a lump sum investment in a balanced fund can help achieve your Rs 20 lakh goal in one year.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 12, 2025
Money
I am 38 years old and self-employed, earning an average of 1.8 to 2 lakhs per month. I have a home loan of 44 lakhs (EMI is 46,000, tenure 15 years). There is no other liabilities. My investments include 11 lakhs in mutual funds, 3 lakhs in fixed deposits, and 1.5 lakh in gold. Should I focus on prepaying the home loan given my irregular income, or keep my investments intact and continue with EMIs?
Ans: You are doing quite well, especially with your investments and controlled liabilities. Your financial discipline is truly appreciable.

You are 38, self-employed, with Rs.1.8 to 2 lakhs monthly income.
Your current home loan is Rs.44 lakhs with EMI of Rs.46,000 for 15 years.
You have Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds, Rs.3 lakhs in FDs, and Rs.1.5 lakhs in gold.
Your income is irregular, but you have no other liabilities.

Let us now do a 360-degree evaluation of whether to prepay the loan or stay invested.

 

Step-by-Step Financial Assessment
1. Evaluate the Stability of Your Income First
You earn between Rs.1.8 to Rs.2 lakhs per month.

 

But income is irregular. That needs caution.

 

Loan EMI is Rs.46,000 — about 25% of your average income.

 

If income drops in any month, EMI pressure will increase.

 

So we must first ensure EMI is always affordable, without stress.

 

Hence, liquidity is more important for you right now than aggressive loan prepayment.

 

2. Evaluate Your Emergency Reserve
You have Rs.3 lakhs in FD and Rs.1.5 lakhs in gold.

 

That makes it Rs.4.5 lakhs total liquid safety.

 

Your EMI is Rs.46,000, and personal expenses will also be there.

 

Ideal emergency fund for you = 6 to 9 months of expenses + EMI.

 

That is around Rs.6 to Rs.8 lakhs minimum.

 

So current emergency fund is slightly lower than ideal.

 

Please don’t use this for loan prepayment now.

 

3. Assess the Role of Mutual Funds
You have Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds. That’s a solid step.

Now let’s assess whether to redeem this and prepay loan.

 

Should You Redeem Mutual Funds to Prepay?
Mutual funds, over long term, give better post-tax return than loan savings.

 

Loan interest is 8% to 9%, whereas mutual funds can give 11–13% in long term.

 

Especially if funds are equity-oriented and held for 5+ years.

 

You will also get capital gains tax exemption on Rs.1.25 lakhs LTCG annually.

 

If you redeem funds, you lose growth potential and compounding.

 

That hurts long-term wealth building.

 

So, do not redeem the entire Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds.

 

4. Disadvantage of Early Loan Prepayment in Your Case
Prepaying early will reduce interest over time, yes.

 

But you may run into cash flow stress in slow months.

 

Once money is used to prepay, it cannot be taken back easily.

 

Liquidity once lost = flexibility lost.

 

Also, income tax benefit under Section 24(b) gets reduced if loan balance drops.

 

So it’s better to maintain balance between repayment and investment.

 

5. Best Strategy for You – A Balanced Approach
Let’s now craft the best plan for you.

 

Maintain Strong Liquidity First
Keep FD and gold untouched.

 

Increase emergency fund to at least Rs.6–Rs.7 lakhs.

 

For that, set aside extra Rs.2.5–Rs.3 lakhs from savings over time.

 

This makes your EMI safe even in low-income months.

 

Continue Your Mutual Fund SIPs Without Stopping
SIPs give long-term growth and beat loan interest in most cases.

 

Don’t stop mutual fund investments to prepay loan.

 

Stay invested. Let wealth compound.

 

Start Small and Periodic Prepayments
Don’t do bulk prepayment now. Do systematic small prepayments.

 

For example, Rs.25,000 to Rs.50,000 extra every 3–4 months.

 

When income is higher, use that surplus to prepay in parts.

 

Target 1–2 bulk part-payments per year.

 

This reduces tenure and interest slowly, without affecting liquidity.

 

Track Your Loan Amortisation Every 6 Months
Use netbanking or get a fresh loan statement every 6 months.

 

Check how each prepayment is reducing principal.

 

Adjust your strategy accordingly.

 

Avoid One-Time Full Prepayment
That would kill your long-term investment compounding.

 

Also removes your income tax benefit under Section 24(b).

 

Stay flexible. You are self-employed.

 

You need cash buffers more than salaried people.

 

Final Insights
Do not do bulk home loan prepayment from mutual funds now.

 

Keep SIPs going and maintain your compounding.

 

Grow your emergency fund to Rs.6–7 lakhs minimum.

 

Use surplus months to make small part-payments towards home loan.

 

This protects your peace and builds wealth at the same time.

 

Reassess in 2–3 years. You may be able to prepay more later.

 

You are already in a good financial position. Your thoughtful approach is praiseworthy.

 

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Money
i wish to purchase new car i10, should i purchase the same through own money or should i take a vehicle loan from bank and the money own by my to be kept as FDR or liquid mutual fund
Ans: It’s a good sign that you’re thinking before buying a car. You’re not rushing into it. That shows maturity and smart thinking.

We will now evaluate own money vs vehicle loan — from every angle.

 

Understanding the Nature of a Car Purchase
A car is not an investment.

 

It is a consumption asset, not a growth asset.

 

It depreciates every year. Its value goes down, not up.

 

So the cheaper the total cost, the better for your wealth.

 

Option 1: Use Own Money Fully
Pros

No interest cost. You save on total expenses.

 

You are free from monthly EMI pressure.

 

Car becomes fully yours from day one.

 

No need to deal with bank, forms, hypothecation etc.

 

Cons

Your liquid money reduces.

 

You may not have enough cash for emergencies.

 

Opportunity loss if you had invested that money.

 

Option 2: Take Vehicle Loan & Keep Own Money in FDR or Liquid Mutual Fund
Let’s evaluate this with care.

Vehicle Loan Pros

You can preserve your savings for emergencies.

 

EMI can be budgeted monthly, if income is stable.

 

Some banks offer competitive interest rates.

 

Vehicle Loan Cons

You will pay interest on a depreciating item.

 

Loan adds to your monthly obligations.

 

You must pay insurance, EMI, fuel, and service together.

 

FDR and Liquid Mutual Funds give lower returns than loan cost.

 

So you will likely lose more in interest than you gain.

 

Let's Compare: Interest Rate vs Investment Return
Vehicle loan interest is usually 9% to 11% per year.

 

FDR gives around 6% to 7% before tax.

 

Liquid mutual funds give 6% to 7.5% on average.

 

So you pay more to the bank than you earn from investment.

 

Tax on interest or gains reduces actual return further.

 

This means taking a car loan and investing your own money leads to net loss.

 

Best Option for You: Smart Compromise Approach
Let me share a wise solution.

 

Don’t use full own money. Don’t take full loan either.

 

Instead, pay 70–80% from own funds.

 

Take a small car loan for the remaining 20–30% only.

 

This keeps EMI low and retains some liquidity.

 

You reduce interest cost and also keep Rs.50,000–Rs.1 lakh aside.

 

Park that in liquid fund for any urgent need.

 

Repay this small loan fast in 1–2 years.

 

Only Take a Car Loan If:
Your job income is stable.

 

You already have 3–6 months emergency fund ready.

 

You don’t have big loans running now.

 

You can pay EMI without affecting savings.

 

You commit to close the loan early.

 

Avoid This Mistake:
Never buy a more expensive car because loan makes it “feel affordable.”

 

Loan should not expand your car budget.

 

Whether you buy with loan or cash, pick a simple car within limits.

 

i10 is a wise, middle-ground choice. Good thought.

 

Tax Angle (If Business Use)
If you are using the car for business, vehicle loan interest may be tax-deductible.

 

But for personal use, there is no tax benefit.

 

So do not take loan just for imagined tax saving.

 

Final Insights
A car is a need, not an investment.

 

Using your own money fully keeps things simple and cheap.

 

Taking a full car loan and investing the money gives net negative return.

 

Best option is a split approach — pay major part from own funds.

 

Take small loan only if needed and close it early.

 

Always keep emergency money aside before buying.

 

Avoid emotional buying or overbudget cars.

 

Your financially balanced approach is very appreciable.

 

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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