50- YEAR-OLD DAD SEEKS ADVISE FOR 24 YEARS OLD SON MUTUAL FUND INVESTMENT. QUANT SMALL CAP FUND 3.6K, SBI SMALL CAP FUND 2K, ADITYA BIRLA SUN LIFE NIFTY MIDCAP 150 INDEX FUND 6K, PARAG PAREKH FLEXI XAP FUND 6K, HDFC FLEXI CAP FUND 6K. PLS ADVICE FOR CHANGES
Ans: Your son's current portfolio shows a good mix of small-cap and flexi-cap funds. However, there are areas that can be refined for better diversification and long-term growth. Here's a detailed evaluation and advice.
Observations and Insights
Heavy Allocation to Small-Cap Funds
Allocating Rs. 5.6K to small-cap funds (Quant Small Cap and SBI Small Cap) creates concentration risk. While small-cap funds offer high returns, they are volatile and risky.
Overlapping Flexi-Cap Investments
Both Parag Parikh Flexi Cap and HDFC Flexi Cap focus on a similar category. This might lead to duplication in portfolio holdings.
Presence of Index Fund
The Aditya Birla Sun Life Nifty Midcap 150 Index Fund is a passive investment. Index funds are cost-effective but lack flexibility in stock selection, unlike actively managed funds.
Suggestions for Portfolio Improvement
Reduce Small-Cap Allocation
Limit exposure to small-cap funds to not exceed 15-20% of the total portfolio. Retain the best-performing fund and divert the excess into other categories for diversification.
Replace Index Fund with Actively Managed Mid-Cap Fund
Index funds may not actively respond to market changes. Actively managed funds, guided by experienced managers, can adapt and potentially outperform during volatile times.
Maintain Only One Flexi-Cap Fund
Retain the flexi-cap fund with a consistent track record and higher adaptability to market conditions. Redirect the other fund's allocation to diversified funds.
Consider a Balanced Portfolio
Introduce a hybrid fund or a conservative allocation to large-cap funds. This can stabilise the portfolio while ensuring steady returns.
Diversify Further
Explore sectoral or thematic funds to add unique exposure to high-growth industries like technology or healthcare.
Tax Implications to Keep in Mind
Equity Fund Taxation
Gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5% for long-term investments. Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.
Rebalancing Costs
Adjusting your portfolio involves selling and reinvesting, which might trigger capital gains tax. Plan these changes carefully to minimise tax impact.
Benefits of Regular Funds
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) using regular funds provides:
Expert Guidance
Access to well-researched fund recommendations for long-term wealth creation.
Monitoring and Rebalancing
Regular funds include advisory services to monitor and rebalance portfolios.
Convenience
A CFP takes care of portfolio adjustments and ensures investments align with financial goals.
Best Practices for Long-Term Investment
Systematic Investment
Continue monthly SIPs to benefit from market fluctuations.
Goal-Based Investing
Align investments with future goals like education, marriage, or home ownership.
Avoid Frequent Changes
Stick to the plan unless there is a major market shift or personal need.
Final Insights
Your son's portfolio has potential but requires slight adjustments. Balancing risk with diversification and including actively managed funds can enhance returns. Simplify the portfolio for better monitoring and tax efficiency. With discipline and proper planning, his investments can achieve long-term financial goals.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment