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Should I continue with my current Lumsum investments to reach 1.15 Cr. in next 5 years?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 30, 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
Manoj Question by Manoj on Dec 20, 2024Hindi
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Hi, My current holdings in Lumsum MFs are: ICICI Pru Infrastructure- G Rs. 50,000 Motilal Oswal Digital India Reg-G Rs. 40,000 Motilal Oswal Nifty Capital Market Index Reg-G Rs. 50,000 Quant Small Cap- G Rs. 70,000 Kindly asses my above investments and also, I wish to invest Rs. 50,000 per month in Lumsum MFs with a goal of achieving 1.15 Cr. corpus in next 5 years. Thank you.

Ans: Your current mutual fund portfolio includes investments in sectoral, index, and small-cap funds. Here's an analysis:

1. ICICI Pru Infrastructure Fund
This is a sectoral fund focusing on infrastructure.
Sectoral funds have concentrated risk and depend on specific sector performance.
Performance may be inconsistent if the sector underperforms.
Consider reducing exposure to avoid overdependence on a single sector.
2. Motilal Oswal Digital India Fund
This is another sectoral fund targeting technology.
The technology sector has high growth potential but can be volatile.
Limit exposure to 10-15% of your portfolio for stability.
3. Motilal Oswal Nifty Capital Market Index Fund
Index funds track the market but lack active management.
They do not outperform during volatile or changing market cycles.
Actively managed funds provide better potential for long-term wealth creation.
4. Quant Small Cap Fund
Small-cap funds offer high growth but carry high volatility.
They are suitable for long-term investors with higher risk tolerance.
Diversify with large and mid-cap funds to balance risk.
Recommendations for Current Portfolio
1. Rebalance Sectoral Exposure
Reduce the weight of sectoral funds like infrastructure and technology.
Invest in diversified funds for consistent performance.
2. Increase Large-Cap Allocation
Large-cap funds provide stability and steady growth.
They are ideal for achieving medium-term goals.
3. Consider Actively Managed Funds
Replace the index fund with actively managed funds.
Active funds perform better in dynamic and evolving market conditions.
4. Review Small-Cap Allocation
Retain the small-cap fund but cap allocation to 20%.
Balance this with large and mid-cap funds for smoother returns.
Planning for Rs. 1.15 Crore in 5 Years
You aim to invest Rs. 50,000 monthly in mutual funds. This target requires a systematic and disciplined approach.

Investment Strategies
Allocate funds across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds for diversification.
Use a mix of growth-oriented funds and stable funds for balanced growth.
Prioritise equity-heavy investments for higher returns.
Suggested Allocation
Large-Cap Funds: 40% for stability and consistent returns.
Mid-Cap Funds: 30% for moderate risk and growth potential.
Small-Cap Funds: 20% for aggressive growth opportunities.
Debt Funds: 10% to cushion market fluctuations.
Avoid Common Mistakes
Avoid overexposure to high-risk or thematic funds.
Avoid index funds due to their inability to beat the market.
Tax Implications
Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%.
Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.
Plan redemptions strategically to minimise tax impact.
Execution and Monitoring
1. Invest Through SIP or Lumpsum
SIPs offer cost averaging and reduce timing risks.
Lumpsum investing is effective during market corrections.
2. Review Portfolio Regularly
Monitor fund performance every 6 months.
Adjust allocations based on market trends and goals.
3. Seek Professional Guidance
Consult a Certified Financial Planner for personalised advice.
They help align your investments with your goals and risk tolerance.
Final Insights
Your current portfolio has potential but needs better diversification. Avoid overdependence on sectoral and index funds. Focus on a balanced approach with large, mid, and small-cap funds. Your goal of Rs. 1.15 crore in 5 years is achievable with disciplined investing and proper 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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Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 17, 2023Hindi
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Hi Sir, I am having following MF portfolio and Investment (Monthly) 1. ICICI PRU NIfty 50 Index Fund (2200) 2. CICI PRU NIfty Next 50 Index Fund (2200) 3. Parag parekh Flexi (4400) 4. HSBC Small Cap (1000) 5. Canara Robeco Small Cap( 4000) 6. HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund (4000). 7. Nippon Gold ETF (2000) 8. MON 100 (1000) .I want to increase my monthly investment by 25000-30000. Wanted to invest lumsum of 200000 in MF. Plz comment on Portfolio. Investment horizon 15-20 years. Wanted good corpus.
Ans: Assessing Your Current Mutual Fund Portfolio
Your current portfolio is diverse and well-structured. It includes large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and balanced funds. This diversification reduces risk and enhances growth potential. Let's delve into each aspect of your portfolio and assess it critically.

Diversification and Balance
You have a good mix of equity and balanced funds. This provides a safety net against market volatility. The inclusion of small-cap funds adds growth potential, though they come with higher risk.

Equity Funds
Your portfolio includes large-cap and mid-cap equity funds. Large-cap funds offer stability, while mid-cap funds provide growth opportunities. The mix is well-balanced for long-term growth.

Balanced Funds
Balanced funds provide a mix of equity and debt. This combination offers moderate risk with decent returns. They are suitable for investors with a long-term horizon like yours.

Sector and Theme Funds
Investing in specific sectors or themes can be risky. They depend heavily on the performance of that sector. It’s wise to keep these investments to a minimum to avoid concentration risk.

Small-Cap Funds
Small-cap funds offer high growth potential but come with higher volatility. It’s good to have them in your portfolio, but they should not dominate your investments.

Evaluating Index Funds and ETFs
Disadvantages of Index Funds
Index funds have a passive management style. They mimic market indices and lack flexibility. They perform well only when the market is rising. In a downturn, they tend to perform poorly.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds have professional fund managers. These managers can make strategic decisions based on market conditions. They can outperform the market and provide better returns.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds may seem cost-effective due to lower expense ratios. However, they lack professional advice and guidance. Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) provides valuable insights and tailored strategies.

Recommendations for Increasing Monthly Investment
Given your investment horizon of 15-20 years, you have the potential to build a significant corpus. Here’s how you can allocate an additional Rs 25,000-30,000 monthly:

Increase Allocation to Balanced Funds
Balanced funds provide stability and moderate returns. Increasing your investment in balanced funds can ensure steady growth.

Enhance Exposure to Large-Cap Funds
Large-cap funds offer stability and steady returns. They are less volatile compared to small-cap funds. Increasing allocation here can balance your portfolio.

Moderate Increase in Small-Cap Funds
Small-cap funds should still be part of your portfolio for growth. However, keep the exposure moderate to manage risk.

Consider Adding Mid-Cap Funds
Mid-cap funds offer a good balance between risk and return. Adding them can enhance your portfolio's growth potential without excessive risk.

Systematic Transfer Plans (STPs)
Utilize STPs to transfer a lump sum amount into equity funds gradually. This reduces the risk of market volatility and averages out the purchase cost.

Lump Sum Investment Strategy
Investing a lump sum of Rs 2,00,000 requires careful planning. Here’s a strategy to maximize returns:

Gradual Deployment Through STPs
Avoid investing the entire amount at once. Use STPs to move the lump sum into equity funds over 6-12 months. This approach mitigates market timing risk.

Diversify Across Asset Classes
Spread the lump sum across equity, balanced, and debt funds. This ensures a balanced risk-return profile and provides stability.

Focus on Actively Managed Funds
Choose actively managed funds for lump sum investments. These funds can adapt to market changes and aim for higher returns.

Regular Monitoring and Rebalancing
Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio. This ensures alignment with your investment goals and market conditions.

Conclusion
Your current portfolio is well-diversified and suitable for long-term growth. By increasing your monthly investment and carefully deploying the lump sum, you can build a substantial corpus over 15-20 years.

Remember to stay informed and make adjustments as needed. Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures you receive professional guidance tailored to your goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 05, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Sep 27, 2023Hindi
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SIR, I am investing 12000/-pm from April 23 , in following MFs. 1.Nippon India small cap @2000/- 2.Axis small cap fund direct growth @1000/- 3.SBI Magnum Mid cap@2000/- 4.Nippon india growth direct fund @1000/- 5.HDFC index S&P BSE sensex direct @2000/- 6.SBI Bluechip direct plan growth @2000/- 7.ICICI prudential bluechip @2000/- Plan for investment is 5 Yrs for a required wealth of 25 Lacs, please advice whether I am on right track.
Ans: Your investment plan seems diversified with allocations across different types of mutual funds, including small-cap, mid-cap, index funds, and large-cap funds. Here are some key points to consider:

Diversification: You have spread your investments across various categories, which can help reduce risk and enhance potential returns over the long term.

Investment Horizon: Investing for a period of 5 years is a good approach, but ensure that your investment horizon aligns with your financial goals. Since equity investments can be volatile in the short term, it's essential to stay invested for the long term to ride out market fluctuations.

Risk Assessment: Small-cap and mid-cap funds tend to be riskier than large-cap and index funds due to their higher volatility. Make sure you are comfortable with the risk level associated with these investments based on your risk tolerance and investment objectives.

Review and Adjust: Regularly review your portfolio's performance and make adjustments if needed. Consider rebalancing your portfolio periodically to maintain your desired asset allocation and risk level.

Professional Advice: If you're uncertain about your investment strategy or need personalized guidance, consider consulting with a financial advisor who can provide tailored recommendations based on your financial situation and goals.

Overall, your investment plan appears to be on the right track, but it's crucial to monitor your investments regularly and stay informed about market developments. Adjust your strategy as needed to stay on course towards achieving your wealth accumulation goal of 25 lakhs in 5 years.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 22, 2024

Money
I want to invest lumsum 12.lakh in mutual.fund
Ans: Investing a lump sum of Rs. 12 lakhs in mutual funds is a substantial financial decision. Your goal should guide the selection of funds and the strategy used to invest. Whether your aim is wealth creation, retirement planning, or funding a specific goal, aligning your investment with your objectives is critical.

Assessing Your Risk Tolerance and Time Horizon
Before diving into fund selection, it’s important to understand your risk tolerance and investment time horizon.

Risk Tolerance: Are you comfortable with high risk for potentially higher returns, or do you prefer a balanced approach with moderate risk?

Time Horizon: How long can you leave this investment untouched? A longer horizon allows for more equity exposure, while a shorter horizon might require a more conservative approach.

Based on these factors, we can tailor a strategy that suits your profile.

Investment Strategy for Lump Sum Amount
1. Systematic Transfer Plan (STP)
Why: Investing Rs. 12 lakhs directly into equity mutual funds might expose you to market timing risk. A Systematic Transfer Plan (STP) allows you to invest in a liquid fund initially and then gradually transfer the money into equity funds.

How it Helps: STP reduces the risk of entering the market at a peak. It spreads your investment over time, averaging the purchase cost and reducing volatility impact.

Duration: Consider a 6-12 month STP period to smoothly transition your funds into equity mutual funds.

2. Allocation Strategy
A well-diversified portfolio should include a mix of equity and debt funds, aligned with your risk tolerance.

Equity Funds: These are suitable for long-term growth. Depending on your risk tolerance, you might allocate 60-70% of your investment to equity funds. This could include Large Cap, Mid Cap, and Small Cap funds.

Debt Funds: These provide stability to your portfolio. Allocating 30-40% to debt funds can balance risk and provide regular income, especially if your investment horizon is shorter.

3. Large Cap Funds
Why: Large Cap funds invest in established companies. They offer stable growth with relatively lower risk compared to Mid and Small Cap funds.

Allocation: A significant portion of your equity allocation should go into Large Cap funds. They provide a solid foundation for your portfolio.

4. Mid and Small Cap Funds
Why: Mid and Small Cap funds offer higher growth potential but come with higher volatility. They are suitable for investors with a higher risk appetite and a longer investment horizon.

Allocation: Depending on your risk tolerance, allocate a portion to these funds. This adds growth potential to your portfolio.

5. Flexi Cap Funds
Why: Flexi Cap funds provide the flexibility to invest across different market capitalizations. This allows the fund manager to take advantage of opportunities across the market.

Allocation: Including Flexi Cap funds can enhance your portfolio’s flexibility and adapt to changing market conditions.

6. Debt Funds
Why: Debt funds are important for balancing your portfolio. They provide stability and reduce overall portfolio risk.

Allocation: Depending on your risk tolerance and time horizon, allocate a portion to debt funds. These funds will act as a cushion during market downturns.

The Case Against Index Funds
You might have heard about Index Funds as a simple and cost-effective investment option. However, they have certain limitations:

No Active Management: Index Funds simply track a market index and don’t benefit from active management. In volatile markets, this can be a disadvantage as there’s no room for tactical adjustments.

Market Average Returns: Index Funds aim to replicate market performance, but they don’t provide the opportunity to outperform. This limits their growth potential, especially when your goal is wealth creation.

Lack of Diversification: Index Funds are concentrated in the stocks of the index they track. This can lead to underperformance if those particular sectors or companies don’t do well.

Given these limitations, I recommend focusing on actively managed funds. They offer the potential for better returns through professional management and diversified investments.

Direct vs. Regular Funds
Opting for Direct Funds might seem appealing due to lower expense ratios. However, there are significant drawbacks:

No Professional Guidance: With Direct Funds, you miss out on the expertise of a Certified Financial Planner. This could lead to poor fund selection and suboptimal portfolio performance.

Increased Responsibility: Direct Fund investors must manage their portfolios themselves. This includes regular monitoring, rebalancing, and making investment decisions, which can be challenging without expert knowledge.

Higher Risk: Without professional advice, the risk of making wrong investment decisions increases. Regular Funds, on the other hand, come with the support of an MFD with a CFP credential, ensuring your investments are well-managed.

For these reasons, I suggest investing in Regular Funds through a CFP. This ensures your portfolio is professionally managed, aligned with your goals, and optimized for performance.

Considerations for a Balanced Portfolio
1. Diversification
Why: Diversification reduces risk by spreading investments across different asset classes and sectors. It ensures that your portfolio is not overly dependent on the performance of a single sector or company.

How: A mix of equity and debt funds, along with investments across various market caps, ensures proper diversification. This strategy helps in achieving steady returns with manageable risk.

2. Regular Review and Rebalancing
Why: Market conditions and personal financial situations change over time. Regular review and rebalancing of your portfolio ensure it remains aligned with your goals.

When: Conduct a review at least once a year with your CFP. This will help in making necessary adjustments, such as reallocation between equity and debt based on market performance and your evolving risk tolerance.

3. Emergency Fund
Why: Before fully committing your Rs. 12 lakhs, ensure you have an emergency fund. This fund should cover 6-12 months of expenses and be easily accessible.

Where to Keep: Consider parking your emergency fund in a liquid fund or a high-interest savings account. This ensures that you have quick access to funds in case of emergencies.

4. Insurance Coverage
Why: Adequate life and health insurance coverage is crucial to protect your financial future. It ensures that unforeseen events do not derail your investment plans.

Review Needs: Discuss your current insurance coverage with your CFP. If you have any investment-cum-insurance policies like ULIPs, consider surrendering them and redirecting those funds into mutual funds for better returns.

Tax Efficiency
Equity-Linked Savings Scheme (ELSS): If tax savings are a priority, consider allocating a portion of your investment to ELSS funds. These funds come with a 3-year lock-in period and provide tax benefits under Section 80C.

SIPs from Lump Sum
Why: To mitigate market volatility, consider converting your lump sum into a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP). This involves investing a fixed amount regularly instead of all at once.

How it Helps: SIPs reduce the impact of market fluctuations by spreading out the investment over time. This strategy also takes advantage of rupee cost averaging, where you buy more units when prices are low.

Monitoring and Adjustments
Why: Your financial situation and market conditions will evolve over time. It’s important to monitor your investments and make necessary adjustments to stay on track.

Action Plan: Work closely with your CFP to ensure that your portfolio is adjusted as needed. This could include rebalancing, shifting to less risky funds as you approach your goal, or increasing your SIPs based on performance.

Final Insights
Investing Rs. 12 lakhs in mutual funds with the right strategy can help you achieve your financial goals. Start with a Systematic Transfer Plan to reduce market timing risk. Focus on a well-diversified portfolio of Large Cap, Mid Cap, Small Cap, Flexi Cap, and Debt Funds. Avoid Index and Direct Funds in favor of actively managed and Regular Funds for better performance. Regular reviews, a SIP strategy, and proper insurance coverage are crucial for long-term success. Stay committed to your investment plan and make adjustments as necessary with the help of a Certified Financial Planner.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 22, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello Sir, First of all thank you for providing this service. I need your guidance to invest 7 lakhs rupees lumsum for longterm for my daughters future, her age is 14 yrs for now. My risk appetite is moderate to high. So kindly suggest if below MF funds investments and amount distribution looks fine or not 1) UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund - 2 Lakhs 2) UTI Nifty Next 50 Index Fund - 1.5 Lakhs 3) Parag Parikh Conservative Hybrid Fund - 1.5 Lakhs 4. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund - 1 Lakhs 5. Nippon India Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund - 1 Lakhs
Ans: I understand you want to invest Rs. 7 lakhs for your daughter’s future. With her being 14 years old, it's important to maximize growth while maintaining an eye on risk. Your focus on mutual funds is a good approach given your moderate to high-risk appetite.

Let’s evaluate the funds and allocation you've selected.

Concerns with Index Funds
You’ve chosen UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund, UTI Nifty Next 50 Index Fund, and Nippon India Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund. While index funds are popular, they have certain limitations.

No Active Management: Index funds passively track an index and don’t offer the opportunity for fund managers to make active investment decisions based on market conditions.

Potential Underperformance: In volatile markets, index funds may underperform actively managed funds because they lack the flexibility to adjust their holdings.

Not Ideal for Long-Term Growth: Actively managed funds often outperform index funds in the long run due to the expertise of fund managers who can navigate market cycles better.

Given these points, actively managed funds might offer better growth potential, especially since you have a long-term horizon until your daughter needs these funds.

Disadvantages of Direct Plans
You’ve also mentioned investments in direct plans like Parag Parikh Conservative Hybrid Fund and Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund. While direct funds have lower expense ratios, they lack the guidance that comes with investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP).

Missed Opportunities: A CFP can help you identify better investment opportunities and rebalance your portfolio based on market conditions and your changing life goals.

Holistic Financial Planning: Direct plans lack the comprehensive planning that comes from working with a CFP, who can offer insights on tax efficiency, retirement planning, and more.

Investing through a CFP in regular funds ensures you have a partner in your financial journey, optimizing returns while mitigating risks.

Suggested Changes for a Balanced Portfolio
Given your goals and risk appetite, here are some suggestions to optimize your investment plan:

Large-Cap Funds: Instead of investing in UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund, consider an actively managed large-cap fund. These funds have the potential to outperform the index due to active stock selection.

Mid-Cap and Small-Cap Funds: For mid-cap exposure, look into actively managed funds rather than index funds. These funds allow fund managers to select quality stocks that may not be part of an index. Similarly, a small-cap fund managed by an experienced manager might offer better returns than a small-cap index fund.

Balanced Allocation: You’ve selected Parag Parikh Conservative Hybrid Fund. This is a good choice for some stability in your portfolio. However, it’s important to ensure that the allocation doesn’t become too conservative, given your moderate to high-risk appetite. You might consider reducing this allocation slightly and increasing exposure to equity funds.

Diversification Strategy
Proper diversification is key to reducing risk while aiming for growth. Here’s a suggested allocation that aligns with your risk profile:

Large-Cap Fund (Actively Managed): Rs. 2 lakhs. This provides stability with growth potential.

Mid-Cap Fund (Actively Managed): Rs. 1.5 lakhs. This can offer higher returns with moderate risk.

Small-Cap Fund (Actively Managed): Rs. 1.5 lakhs. This is higher risk but offers the potential for significant growth.

Flexi Cap Fund (Actively Managed): Rs. 1 lakh. This offers flexibility to invest across market caps based on where the fund manager sees opportunities.

Hybrid Fund (Conservative or Aggressive, Actively Managed): Rs. 1 lakh. This offers a mix of equity and debt, providing some stability.

Monitoring and Rebalancing
Investing is not a one-time activity. You need to regularly monitor and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it aligns with your goals.

Annual Review: Conduct an annual review of your investments. Check if the funds are performing as expected and make adjustments if needed.

Market Conditions: React to major changes in market conditions by consulting your CFP. They can help you decide whether to stay the course or make adjustments.

Aligning with Your Daughter’s Future Goals
As your daughter approaches 18 years, you’ll need to start shifting your portfolio to less volatile investments. This ensures the funds are secure when needed.

Gradual Shift to Debt Funds: About two years before you expect to use the funds, begin shifting from equity to debt funds. This reduces exposure to market volatility as you near the goal.

Education Planning: Consider how the investments align with potential education costs. If needed, consult with your CFP to create a plan that ensures you can meet these expenses without stress.

Final Insights
Your intent to invest for your daughter’s future is commendable. However, there are certain tweaks needed in your approach to maximize returns and manage risks effectively.

Prioritize Actively Managed Funds: Replace index funds with actively managed ones for better long-term growth.

Work with a CFP: Invest through a CFP to gain personalized advice and a comprehensive financial plan.

Diversify Wisely: Ensure your portfolio is well-diversified across different types of funds and market caps.

Stay Involved: Regularly review and adjust your portfolio to stay aligned with your goals.

Investing is a journey. With the right strategy and guidance, you can confidently build a secure financial future for your daughter.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Dr Dipankar

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Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025
Career
Dear Sir/Madam, I am currently a 1st year UG student studying engineering in Sairam Engineering College, But there the lack of exposure and strict academics feels so rigid and I don't like it that. It's like they don't gaf about skills but just wants us to memorize things and score a good CGPA, the only skill they want is you to memorize things and pass, there's even special class for students who don't perform well in academics and it is compulsory for them to attend or else the student and his/her parents needs to face authorities who lashes out. My question is when did engineering became something that requires good academics instead of actual learning and skill set. In sairam they provides us a coding platform in which we need to gain the required points for each semester which is ridiculous cuz most of the students here just look at the solution to code instead of actual debugging. I am passionate about engineering so I want to learn and experiment things instead of just memorizing, so I actually consider dropping out and I want to give jee a try and maybe viteee , srmjeee But i heard some people say SRM may provide exposure but not that good in placements. I may not be excellent at studies but my marks are decent. So gimme some insights about SRM and recommend me other colleges/universities which are good at exposure
Ans: First — your frustration is valid

What you are experiencing at Sairam is not engineering, it is rote-based credential production.

“When did engineering become memorizing instead of learning?”

Sadly, this shift happened decades ago in most Tier-3 private colleges in India.

About “coding platforms & points” – your observation is sharp

You are absolutely right:

Mandatory coding points → students copy solutions

Copying ≠ learning

Debugging & thinking are missing

This is pseudo-skill education — it looks modern but produces shallow engineers.

The fact that you noticed this in 1st year already puts you ahead of 80% students.

Should you DROP OUT and prepare for JEE / VITEEE / SRMJEEE?

Although VIT/SRM is better than Sairam Engineering College, but you may face the same problem. You will not face this type of problem only in some top IITs, but getting seat in those IITs will be difficult.
Instead of dropping immediately, consider:

???? Strategy:

Stay enrolled (degree security)

Reduce emotional investment in college rules

Use:

GitHub

Open-source projects

Hackathons

Internships (remote)

Hardware / software self-projects

This way:

College = formality

Learning = self-driven

Risk = minimal

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Kanchan Rai  |646 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 07, 2025Hindi
Relationship
Dear Madam, I was a bright student during my school days and my plan was to become a civil servant but that did not succeed even after several attempts. With the advise of my brother i went ahead and pursued Masters at a normal university in Sydney. I did internship and continued staying with my job though it wasn't my field of study. After that what came as a shock was my brother's divorce. We don't know what is the actual issue till date but I tried a lot to fix the gap by talking to his ex-wife but they were very orthodox. I couldn't see my brother suffer because he had planned and arranged so much for her. I had no choice then so i try to harm his ex-wife by spoiling her reputation thinking she will come back for him. In the mean time i got married to a girl who was her relative too thinking my wife can help us in some case but she turned out to be completely in the opposite direction. She was probably convinced by my brother's ex-wife or their relatives that she is not coming back. Even then my brother tried to go meet his ex-wife through many channels. My wife did not help him at all in any aspect. Finally the divorced happened and everything ended. Now we have sought several proposals but nothing seem to be a good fit for him. Most of the girls whom we met on matrimonial sites are fake profiles with something hidden or falsely represented. I would say my brother escaped all this. But we are worried about his life now as he is already in his 40's and he seem to be struggling for a good job and finance. He is very picky probably but doesn't talk much to all of us. Sometimes he even says the game is over so no point looking at a second marriage. My wife and he fought once when he visited us because she didn't want him in our house and she created a fight putting me in the front. After that he stopped coming to our house or see us or talk to us. Things even gets worse sometimes when her brother comes and visits us and stays at our house which my parents don't like. My parents argue that your brother was not allowed to stay for few months then how come her brother is allowed for several months. What kind of partiality is that? I feel i could not do anything for him despite the fact that he is my only brother. He is good at heart and looked after me when i went abroad financially and even came to meet me few times. I tried to send him money, gifts but he is still the same. He communicates with our parents but not with me nor my wife anymore. Kindly give us a good advise.
Ans: Your brother’s distance is not a rejection of you. It is his way of protecting himself. He went through a difficult marriage, an emotional collapse, and then watched people around him — including you — react out of desperation to fix things for him. Even though your intentions came from love, he may have associated those actions with more pain and pressure. When a person has been wounded, silence feels safer than conversation. His withdrawal simply means he is tired, not that he dislikes you.
You also need to understand that the guilt you are carrying is heavier than it needs to be. You tried to intervene in his marriage because you wanted to protect him, not because you wanted to cause harm. Looking back now, with more maturity and clarity, you see the mistakes, but at that time, you were acting out of fear and love. This is why it’s important to forgive yourself instead of punishing yourself over and over.
The conflict between your wife and your brother only added another layer of stress, because it forced you into choosing sides. Your wife reacted emotionally, your brother pulled away, your parents questioned the imbalance — and in the middle of all this, you lost your sense of peace. But their disagreements are not failures on your part. They are the natural result of people operating from insecurity, fear, and past hurt.
What needs to happen now is a shift in your role. You cannot continue trying to solve everything for everyone. You cannot carry your brother’s marriage, your wife’s fears, and your parents’ judgments all at once. It’s time to step out of the role of rescuer and step into the role of a grounded, calm brother who offers presence, not solutions.
Rebuilding your bond with your brother will not come from pushing proposals, sending gifts, or trying to fix his life. It will come from offering him emotional safety. A simple message, expressing that you are sorry for any hurt, that you care for him, and that you are available whenever he feels ready, will speak louder than any effort to arrange his future. Once you send such a message, the healthiest thing you can do is give him space. Sometimes relationships repair themselves in silence, when pressure is removed.
And for yourself, healing begins when you stop believing that every problem in the family rests on your shoulders. You have given more than enough over the years. Now you deserve emotional rest. You deserve peace. You deserve to feel like a brother, not a crisis manager.
Your brother may take time, but distance does not erase love. When he feels safe, he will come closer again. Your responsibility is not to force that moment, but to make sure you are emotionally steady and ready when it happens.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 11, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear sir This is regarding my mother's financials. She is 71 years old and she earns a pension of 31k p.m. She has FD's worth 60 lacs and earns interest income of Rs.25k. I wish to know if we can buy mutual funds worth 10 lacs by diverting funds from FD for better returns. She owns a house and does not have house rent commitment . She is currently investing 10k p.m in SIP . Now the lump sum investment of 5 lacs each is intended to be done in HDFC balanced advantage fund Direct Growth and ICICI Prudential balanced advantage fund . Please advise
Ans: You are caring about your mother’s future.
This shows deep responsibility.
Her financial base also looks strong today.
Her pension gives steady cash.
Her FD interest gives extra safety.
Her home is secure.
Her SIP shows healthy discipline.

» Her Present Financial Position
Your mother is 71.
Her age makes safety a key priority.
But some growth is also needed.

She gets Rs 31000 pension each month.
This covers most basic needs.
Her FD interest adds Rs 25000 per month.
So her total monthly inflow is near Rs 56000.
This is healthy at her age.

She owns her house.
She has no rent stress.
This gives great relief.

She has FD worth Rs 60 lakh.
This gives safe income.
She also runs a SIP of Rs 10000 per month.
This is a good step.
It keeps her connected to long-term growth.

Her total structure looks balanced.
She has safety.
She has income.
She has some growth exposure.
She has low liabilities.

This is a very stable base for her age.

» Understanding Her Risk Level
At age 71, risk must be low.
But risk cannot be zero.
Zero risk pushes money into FD only.
FD return stays low.
FD return sometimes falls after tax.
FD return often stays below inflation.

This reduces future buying power.
Inflation in India stays high.
Medical costs rise fast.
Home repair costs rise.
Daily needs rise.
So some growth is needed.

Balanced exposure gives stability.
Balanced allocation protects both sides.
She should not go too high on equity.
She should not avoid equity fully.
A middle path works best at this age.

Your idea of shifting Rs 10 lakh for growth is fine.
But the type of fund must be chosen well.
The plan must also follow her age.
Her risk must be respected.

» Impact of Growth Options at Her Age
Growth funds move with markets.
Markets move up and down.
These swings can disturb seniors.
But some controlled equity helps fight inflation.

Funds with mix of equity and debt help.
They adjust risk.
They protect capital better.
They manage volatility better.
They offer smoother experience.
They suit senior citizens more.

So a mild growth approach is healthy.
This gives better long-term value.
This gives inflation protection.
This reduces long-term stress.

Still, the fund choice must be careful.
And the plan style must be guided.

» Concerns With Direct Plans
You mentioned direct funds.
Direct funds seem cheap.
But cheap is not always better.

Direct funds give no guidance.
Direct funds give no review support.
Direct funds give no risk matching.
Direct funds need constant study.
Direct funds need skill.
Direct funds need time.

Many investors think direct plans save money.
But small savings can cause big losses.
Wrong choices reduce returns.
Wrong timing reduces gains.
Wrong exit increases tax.

Regular plans bring professional support through MFDs with CFP credentials.
They offer yearly reviews.
They track risk closely.
They guide corrections.
They support crisis moments.
They help in asset mix.
They help keep emotions stable.

This support is very helpful for seniors.
Your mother will not need to study markets.
She will not need to track cycles.
She will not need to worry about volatility.
She can stay calm.

So regular plans may suit her better.
The small extra fee is actually buying professional hand-holding.
This hand-holding protects wealth.
This reduces mistakes.
This brings long-term peace.

» Her Liquidity Need
At age 71, liquidity matters.
She must access money fast during emergencies.
Medical needs can arise.
Health cost can be sudden.
She must be ready.

FD gives quick access.
This is useful.
So FD should not be reduced too much.

Shifting Rs 10 lakh is acceptable.
But shifting more may reduce comfort.
She must always feel safe.
Her emotional comfort is important.

So Rs 10 lakh is the right level.
It keeps major FD corpus safe.
It keeps growth exposure controlled.

This balance supports her peace.

» Her Current SIP
She puts Rs 10000 per month in SIP.
This is positive.
This brings slow steady growth.
This builds long-term value.

She should continue this SIP.
She may reduce it later based on comfort.
But she should not stop it now.
This SIP adds inflation protection.
This SIP builds a small buffer.

A continuous SIP helps smooth markets.
It builds confidence.

» Income Stability for Her
Her pension covers needs.
Her FD interest adds comfort.
Her SIP invests for future needs.
Her home saves rent.

So she has stable income.
Her life standard is maintained.
Her risk level can stay low.

Her monthly cash flow is positive.
Her needs are covered.
So she need not worry about returns too much.
But a little growth is still healthy.

» Should She Shift Rs 10 Lakh From FD?
Yes, she can shift Rs 10 lakh.
This does not hurt her safety.
This does not shake her cash flow.
This supports inflation protection.

But the fund must be right.
The plan must match her age.
The risk must stay low.
The allocation must stay controlled.

A balanced strategy is better.
Smooth returns suit seniors.
Moderate risk suits her age.

Still, the fund must be in regular plan.
Direct plan may cause long-term risk.
Direct plans place the heavy load on the investor.
At her age, this stress is avoidable.
Regular plans give smoother support.

» Why Not Use the Specific Schemes Mentioned
The schemes you named are direct plans.
Direct plans give no support.
Direct plans leave all decisions to you.
Direct plans leave all risk checks on you.

Also, each fund has its own style.
Each adjusts differently.
You must check suitability.
You must review them yearly.
This needs time and skill.

For her age, this is not ideal.
A simple, guided, regular plan works better.

Also, some funds change risk levels fast.
Some increase equity without warning.
Some change style in market shifts.
This can disturb seniors.
She must stay with stable funds.
She must stay with guided models.

This protects her long-term peace.

» The Role of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds suit Indian markets.
India grows fast.
Sectors rise and fall fast.
Many companies grow fast.
Many also fall fast.

Active managers study these shifts.
They adjust quicker.
They avoid weak sectors.
They add strong businesses.
They protect downside.
They enhance upside.

Index funds cannot do this.
Index funds copy indices.
Indices carry weak companies also.
Indices carry overpriced stocks.
Indices do not avoid bad phases.
Indices cannot change weight fast.
So index funds give no defensive shield.

Actively managed funds work harder.
They try to reduce shocks.
They try to smooth volatility.
This suits seniors more.

So an active regular plan through an MFD with CFP credentials is better for her.

» Tax Angle on Mutual Fund Redemption
Capital gain rules matter.
For equity funds, long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh have 12.5% tax.
Short-term gains have 20% tax.
Debt fund gains follow your tax slab.

Senior investors must plan exits well.
They must avoid excess tax shock.
They must stagger withdrawals.
They must redeem only when needed.

A guided regular plan helps avoid tax mistakes.
Direct funds offer no such guidance.

» Her Emergency Preparedness
At her age, emergency readiness is key.
She must have quick cash.
She must have easy access.
Her FD base helps this.

She has Rs 60 lakh in FD.
This is strong.
She should keep most of this.
Maybe an emergency bucket of Rs 5 to 10 lakh must stay fully liquid.

This brings peace.
This prevents panic.
This avoids forced redemption.

» Family Support System
You are involved.
This protects her retirement.
You can offer emotional help.
You can offer decision help.
This support makes her financial life safe.

Family support keeps stress low for seniors.
She will feel secure.
She will stay calm during market changes.

» How Her Future Years Can Stay Stable
She needs comfort.
She needs safety.
She needs liquidity.
She needs some growth.
She needs health cover.
She needs emotional peace.

A control-based plan helps:
– Keep most money in FD
– Keep some in balanced mutual funds
– Keep SIP running
– Keep money easily accessible
– Keep risk low
– Keep asset mix simple
– Keep tax impact low
– Keep reviews yearly

This keeps her retirement smooth.

» Built-In Protection for Senior Life
Her plan must also protect future risk.
Medical cost may rise.
Home repairs may occur.
Occasional family support may be needed.

So she must:
– Keep cash bucket
– Keep healthy insurance
– Keep documents updated
– Keep financial papers organised
– Keep digital and physical files safe

This brings long-term safety.

» Withdrawal Strategy
She may not need withdrawals now.
Her income covers expenses.
But she may need money in later years.

She should follow a layered method:

Short-term needs from FD

Medium needs from balanced funds

Long-term needs from SIP corpus

Emergency money from liquid FD

This spreads risk.
This avoids sudden losses.
This protects her capital.

» Assessing the Rs 10 Lakh Transfer
This transfer is fine.
But it must not go to direct plans.
It must go to regular plans.
Guided plans reduce mistakes.
Guided plans suit seniors.

Split into two funds is fine.
But avoid too much complexity.
Simple structure reduces stress.
Easy structure improves clarity.

So two regular plans through an MFD with CFP credentials is ideal.

» Final Insights
Your mother has a strong base.
Her pension is stable.
Her FD pool is healthy.
Her home reduces cost.
Her SIP adds growth.

Adding Rs 10 lakh into balanced mutual funds is a good idea.
But shift to regular plans with expert guidance.
Direct plans are not suitable for seniors.
They bring more risk.
They bring more complexity.
They bring more stress.

Regular plans bring reviews.
Regular plans match risk.
Regular plans reduce mistakes.
Regular plans suit her age.

Her future looks stable with this mix.
Her life can stay comfortable.
She can enjoy her senior years with peace.

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

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10881 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 12, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi, I am 53 years with a wife and two children. My total savings comprising of MF, Shares, PDF,EPF, NPS & FD are approx. 3Cr. Our current monthly outgoing including SIPs is approximately 100000. Will the above savings amount be sufficient to sustain for the next 20 years?
Ans: You have managed to build Rs 3 Cr by age 53.
This shows steady discipline.
Your savings mix also looks balanced.
Your family seems stable.
Your cost control also looks fair.
This gives a good base for the next stage of life.

» Your Current Position
Your savings stand near Rs 3 Cr.
Your monthly outflow is near Rs 100000.
This includes your SIP amount also.
Your family has four members.
You have two children.
Your wife is with you.
You have a mixed pool across MF, shares, PF, EPF, NPS, and FD.
This mix brings both growth and stability.
This gives you a good base.

Your age is 53.
You have around 7 to 12 working years left.
This period is crucial.
Your decisions now shape the next 20 years.
Your savings rate also matters.
Your cost control also shapes the future.

Today’s numbers show you have a good foundation.
But sustainability depends on many factors.
We must study inflation, spending pattern, growth pattern, tax, risk level, health cost, and cash flow flexibility.

» Understanding the Cash Flow Stress
Your family spends around Rs 100000 today.
This includes SIP.
After retirement, SIP will stop.
But living costs will continue.
Costs increase each year.
Inflation can eat cash fast.
So we must ensure growth in wealth.
Slow growth can stress the corpus.
Fast growth brings more shocks.
So balance is key.

Rs 3 Cr looks large today.
But 20 years is long.
Inflation reduces buying power.
Medical costs also rise.
Family needs also shift.

Your money can last 20 years.
But it needs correct planning.
Blind use of the corpus will not help.
Proper flow matters.
Proper asset selection also matters.
You need steady growth.
You need low shocks.
You need stable income.

» Role of Growth Assets
Many families fear growth assets.
But growth assets are needed today.
Inflation is strong in India.
If money stays in FD only, it suffers.
FD return stays low.
Post-tax return stays even lower.
FD return does not beat inflation.
FD cannot support long-term plans.

Mutual funds bring better growth.
Actively managed funds bring better research.
They allow expert judgement.
They can handle market swings better.
They study sectors and businesses.
They adjust the portfolio.
They aim for more consistent returns.
This helps protect wealth.

Some people choose direct plans.
But direct plans need full time study.
They need skill.
They need discipline.
Most investors do not have the time.
Wrong choices can reduce returns.
Direct plans give no guidance.
Direct plans can reduce long-term peace.

Regular plans through an MFD with CFP credential give better support.
They help with reviews.
They help with corrections.
They help with rebalancing.
They help manage behaviour.
They save time and stress.

You already have MF exposure.
This is good.
You should keep this path.
Active fund management will help long-term stability.

» Role of Safety Assets
You have EPF, PPF, NPS, FD.
These give safety.
They give peace.
But they give lower return.
Too much safety reduces future income.
A mix of both is needed.

Safety assets give steady income.
But they do not grow fast.
They cannot support 20 years alone.
So balance must be kept.

» Assessing the Sustainability for 20 Years
Rs 3 Cr can support 20 years.
But it depends on:

Your retirement age

Your spending pattern

Your ability to reduce costs

Your asset mix

Your growth rate

Your inflation level

Your health cost

Your emergency needs

If your core expenses stay in control, your corpus can last.
If you invest well, your corpus can support you.
If you avoid panic, your wealth will grow.
Your children may also get settled.
Your own needs may reduce.

The key is proper planning.
Without planning, the corpus can shrink fast.
With planning, it will last long.

» Inflation Impact
Inflation is silent.
It eats buying power.
Costs double every few years.
Food rises.
Health rises.
Daily life rises.
School fees rise.
Lifestyle rises.

If your money grows slower than inflation, you lose power.
So growth assets must be part of the plan.
They help beat inflation.
They help protect lifestyle.
They help support long-term needs.

This is why active mutual funds stay useful.
They bring research-driven decisions.
They help fight inflation better.
They stay flexible.
They move with the economy.

» Evaluating Your Retirement Readiness
You stand near retirement zone.
You still have some working life.
You still earn.
You still save.
Your income supports your SIP.
This is good.
This is the right stage to improve planning.

Your SIP amount builds future cash.
Your insurance must be proper.
Your emergency fund must be strong.
Your health cover must be strong.

You have PF and NPS.
These give safety.
They bring stability.
They give steady return.
But they do not give high return.
Growth will come from MF and equity.

Your retirement readiness depends on:

Cash flow plan

Growth plan

Insurance plan

Medical cover plan

Long-term income plan

Withdrawal plan

When all parts align, you will stay secure.

» Withdrawal Strategy for the Future
When you retire, cash flow must stay smooth.
You cannot depend on FD alone.
You cannot depend only on EPF.
You cannot depend on one asset class.
You need a mix.

Your withdrawal should come from:

Some from safety assets

Some from growth assets

Some from periodic rebalancing

This helps you avoid panic selling.
This helps you maintain stability.
This protects your lifestyle.

Tax must also be managed.
Tax on equity MF has new rules.
Long-term gain above Rs 1.25 lakh has 12.5% tax.
Short-term gain has 20% tax.
Debt MF gain follows your tax slab.
These rules shape your withdrawal plan.
You must plan redemptions wisely.

» Health and Family Factors
Health cost is rising in India.
Hospital bills rise fast.
Health shocks drain savings.
So good health cover is needed.
Family needs must be studied.

Your children may still need some support.
Their education or marriage may need funds.
These costs must be planned early.
You should not dip into retirement money.
Clear planning avoids stress.

Your wife also needs future support.
Joint planning is better.
Shared decisions help discipline.

» Need for a Structured Review
A structured review every year is needed.
Your income may change.
Your savings may rise.
Your spending may shift.
Your goals may change.
Your risk level may shift.
Your family needs may change.

Review helps you stay on track.
Review helps catch issues early.
Review helps you correct mistakes.
Review brings peace.

A Certified Financial Planner can guide reviews.
This support builds confidence.
This reduces stress.
This brings clarity.

» How to Strengthen Your Position
You already stand strong.
But you can still improve.
Here are some steps to make your 20 years safer.

Keep your growth-safety mix balanced

Increase your SIP when income allows

Avoid direct plans if guidance needed

Use regular plans for proper support

Avoid real estate due to low returns

Increase your emergency fund

Improve your health cover

Avoid ULIP and mixed plans if you ever have them

Review your EPF and NPS allocation

Track your spending carefully

Plan for yearly rebalancing

Keep enough liquidity for short needs

Keep boredom decisions away

Stay invested even in tough times

Trust long-term compounding

Each step adds stability.
Your family will feel safe.

» Building a Strong Future Income Flow
Income must not come from one basket.
Income should come from:

MF SWP

PF interest

FD ladder

NPS withdrawal in a slow way

Equity redemption in a planned way

This spreads risk.
This spreads tax.
This spreads stress.

Staggered withdrawal helps peace.
Your money grows even while you spend.
Your corpus stays healthy.

» Maintaining Low Stress in Retirement
Retirement should be peaceful.
Money stress should be low.
Good planning ensures this.

Keep clear communication with your family.
Keep your files organised.
Keep your goals updated.
Keep calm during market swings.

Your corpus can support you.
Your strategy will shape your peace.

» Final Insights
Your Rs 3 Cr corpus is a strong base.
Your age gives you time to improve more.
Your monthly spending is manageable.
Your asset mix supports your future.

But planning is needed.
Cash flow must be aligned with inflation.
Growth assets must stay active.
Safety assets must be balanced.
Withdrawal must be planned wisely.
Health cost must be covered.
Risk must be contained.

With proper planning, your wealth can support the next 20 years.
Your family can live with comfort.
Your lifestyle can stay stable.
Your future can stay safe.

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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