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Should I Diversify My Portfolio and Invest in SIP for my Child?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7163 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 20, 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
Ankit Question by Ankit on Aug 20, 2024Hindi
Money

Dear sir, currently I am investing 5000 in SBI Blue chip, 3500 in ABSL frontline equity, 2000 in mira asset ELSS, 5000 in PPFAS flexi cap , 2500 in Quant active fund 5000 in Motilal Oswal mid cap , 1000 in HSBC midcap , 2500 in HSBC small cap, 3000 in Nippon small cap and 2000 in quant small cap. Apart from this I am doing 1 lakh per year in PPF and 10000 per month in NPS. I have started my investment since 2017 and gathered around 16 lakhs , my target is 1 cr in 2031 , Questions , is my investments are inline to achieve my aim , further I want to start sip exclusively for my kid , he is 8 yrs old I can contribute 5 k , pls suggest a aggressive Equity fund for around 20 yrs horizon. Shall I continue to invest in PPF / NPS OR divert money to MFs pls suggest, waiting for your reply. Thanks and regards.

Ans: Your current investment portfolio includes:

SBI Blue Chip Fund: Rs. 5,000
Aditya Birla Sun Life Frontline Equity Fund: Rs. 3,500
Mirae Asset ELSS: Rs. 2,000
PPFAS Flexi Cap Fund: Rs. 5,000
Quant Active Fund: Rs. 2,500
Motilal Oswal Midcap Fund: Rs. 5,000
HSBC Midcap Fund: Rs. 1,000
HSBC Small Cap Fund: Rs. 2,500
Nippon Small Cap Fund: Rs. 3,000
Quant Small Cap Fund: Rs. 2,000
Public Provident Fund (PPF): Rs. 1 lakh per year
National Pension System (NPS): Rs. 10,000 per month
You've accumulated around Rs. 16 lakhs since 2017. Your goal is to achieve Rs. 1 crore by 2031. Additionally, you're looking to start an aggressive equity SIP for your 8-year-old child, with a 20-year horizon.

Assessing Your Current Portfolio
Diversification and Fund Allocation:

Your portfolio is diversified across large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and flexi-cap funds. This diversification is positive as it balances risk and return potential.
Your exposure to mid-cap and small-cap funds indicates a moderate to high-risk appetite. This is aligned with your long-term goal but requires consistent monitoring due to the inherent volatility in these segments.
The allocation to ELSS (Mirae Asset) provides tax benefits but also contributes to your equity exposure.
PPF and NPS Contributions:

PPF: While PPF is a safe investment with tax benefits, its returns (typically around 7-8%) may not be sufficient to meet your aggressive goal of Rs. 1 crore by 2031. The lock-in period is also a limitation if you require liquidity.
NPS: NPS offers a mix of equity and debt, with some tax benefits. However, its returns are generally lower than pure equity funds, and it comes with restrictions on withdrawal until retirement.
Progress Towards Your Rs. 1 Crore Goal
Current Portfolio Value:

You've accumulated Rs. 16 lakhs since 2017, which is a commendable start. However, to reach Rs. 1 crore by 2031, you'll need to assess whether your current SIPs are adequate.
Expected Growth:

Assuming an average return of 12-14% per annum from your equity mutual funds, your current investments should grow significantly by 2031. However, to reach Rs. 1 crore, you'll need to ensure that your investments are aggressive enough and consistently reviewed.
SIP Analysis:

Your current SIPs total Rs. 30,500 per month. If this continues, and assuming a 12% annual return, you could potentially reach around Rs. 80-90 lakhs by 2031. To bridge the gap to Rs. 1 crore, you may need to increase your SIPs slightly or optimize your portfolio.
Recommendations for Optimizing Your Portfolio
Continue Investing in Equity Mutual Funds:

Considering your goal and risk appetite, it's advisable to continue focusing on equity mutual funds. They have the potential to deliver higher returns over the long term compared to PPF and NPS.
Reallocation from PPF/NPS to Mutual Funds:

You may consider reducing your contributions to PPF and NPS and reallocating those funds into your equity mutual funds. This strategy could enhance your portfolio's growth potential.

For instance, you could reduce your PPF contribution to the minimum required to maintain the account and redirect the surplus to a well-performing equity fund.

Additional SIP for Your Child:

For your child’s education or future needs, with a 20-year horizon, you can opt for an aggressive equity fund. An equity fund with a focus on growth sectors like technology, healthcare, or emerging markets can be suitable.

Since you’re comfortable with risk, you might consider a mid-cap or small-cap fund with a strong track record. Over 20 years, these funds can deliver substantial returns, though they come with higher volatility.

Fund Performance Monitoring:

Regularly review the performance of your mutual funds. If a fund consistently underperforms its benchmark or peers, consider switching to a better-performing option.

While diversification is important, avoid over-diversification, which can dilute returns. A well-chosen set of 5-7 funds can be more effective than spreading your investments too thinly.

Suggested Changes and Future Actions
Consolidate Your Portfolio:

Consider consolidating your investments into fewer, high-performing funds. For instance, you might reduce the number of small-cap funds to focus on those with the best track records.

Simplifying your portfolio makes it easier to manage and track performance.

Increase SIPs Gradually:

To bridge the gap to Rs. 1 crore, consider increasing your SIPs by a small amount each year. Even a Rs. 2,000-3,000 increase annually can make a significant difference over time.
Maintain Emergency Funds:

Ensure you have an adequate emergency fund separate from your investments. This will prevent you from liquidating investments during market downturns or emergencies.
Final Insights
Your current investment strategy is on the right track, but slight adjustments and a focus on equity funds can help you achieve your Rs. 1 crore target by 2031. For your child’s future, an aggressive equity fund with a 20-year horizon is a wise choice. Reducing your exposure to lower-yielding options like PPF and reallocating to mutual funds can further enhance your portfolio's growth potential.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7163 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 12, 2024

Money
I am 63years old and last month I have invested in SIP for 10 yrs Axissmall cap fund regular plan growth Rs3000 HDFC top 100fund --do-Rs3000 UTI nifty 50index fund growth Rs5000 ICICI prudential value discovery fund growth Rs5000 Sbi contra fund regular plan growth Rs3000 UTI transport and logistics sector growth fund I am a retired having sufficient corpus for old age. The above investment is for my grand children. Can you advise me whether my investment is correct and will you suggest better funds
Ans: I'd be happy to offer some insights and recommendations for your current investment strategy. Investing for your grandchildren is a wonderful gesture and can provide them with a significant financial head start in life. Let's break down your current investments and explore some alternatives that might better suit your goals.

Understanding Your Current Investments
You've chosen a variety of mutual funds, each with distinct characteristics. Here's a brief overview:

Axis Small Cap Fund: Small cap funds invest in companies with smaller market capitalization. These can offer high returns but come with higher risk due to volatility.

HDFC Top 100 Fund: This is a large-cap fund, focusing on stable, well-established companies with a track record of growth and reliability.

UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund: Index funds track a specific index, like the Nifty 50. They offer broad market exposure with lower management fees but lack the potential for higher returns from active management.

ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund: Value funds look for undervalued stocks with growth potential. These funds can perform well in different market conditions but may also carry higher risk.

SBI Contra Fund: Contra funds invest in out-of-favor stocks. These can provide high returns when the market corrects itself, but timing and selection are crucial.

UTI Transport and Logistics Fund: Sectoral funds like this one focus on specific sectors, offering higher returns when the sector performs well but also higher risk due to lack of diversification.

Evaluating Your Portfolio
Your investment portfolio showcases a mix of different types of funds, which is generally good for diversification. However, let's delve into some considerations:

Risk Assessment
Small Cap Funds: These funds can be highly volatile. While they offer high returns, the risk might be considerable, especially considering the investment is for your grandchildren and potentially for the long-term. Evaluating whether you need this high level of risk is crucial.

Sectoral Funds: Investing heavily in a single sector can lead to higher returns if the sector performs well. However, this comes with the downside of being overly exposed to sector-specific risks. Diversification across sectors might mitigate this risk.

Active vs. Passive Management
Index Funds: While they provide broad market exposure, index funds lack the potential for outperformance that actively managed funds might offer. The Nifty 50 Index Fund, for example, will mirror the market, which might be less desirable if you're aiming for higher returns over the long term.

Actively Managed Funds: These funds, like HDFC Top 100 and ICICI Prudential Value Discovery, aim to outperform the market through strategic stock selection. The expertise of fund managers can potentially lead to higher returns, justifying their higher management fees compared to index funds.

Potential Improvements and Suggestions
Given your investment goals for your grandchildren, let’s look at some potential adjustments:

Diversification
While your portfolio is diversified, you might want to consider reducing exposure to high-risk and sector-specific funds. Instead, opt for more balanced and multi-cap funds which offer diversification across market caps and sectors.

Balanced Fund Choices
Balanced Advantage Funds: These funds dynamically adjust between equity and debt based on market conditions. This provides a balanced approach, managing risk while aiming for reasonable returns.

Multi-Cap Funds: These funds invest across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks. They offer the potential for higher returns with a balanced risk profile compared to investing solely in small caps or sectoral funds.

Long-Term Growth with Stability
Flexi-Cap Funds: These funds have the flexibility to invest across various market capitalizations, offering growth potential while maintaining a diversified portfolio.

Focused Funds: Investing in a limited number of high-conviction stocks, these funds can provide significant returns. The risk is higher due to the concentrated portfolio, but the potential rewards might align with your long-term goals.

Reviewing Your Specific Choices
Axis Small Cap Fund
This fund can offer significant growth, but it comes with higher risk. You might consider reducing exposure to this fund and reallocating to more stable options.

HDFC Top 100 Fund
A solid choice for stability and consistent returns. Large-cap funds like this can anchor your portfolio, offering lower risk and steady growth.

UTI Nifty 50 Index Fund
While index funds are cost-effective, actively managed funds might better serve your goal of maximizing returns for your grandchildren. Consider reallocating to an actively managed fund with a good track record.

ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund
Value funds are great for long-term growth. This fund is a good choice, as it can perform well in various market conditions.

SBI Contra Fund
Contra funds can offer high returns but require good timing. If you're comfortable with the risk, it can stay in your portfolio. Otherwise, consider switching to a more diversified option.

UTI Transport and Logistics Fund
Sectoral funds are risky due to lack of diversification. Consider reallocating to a more broadly diversified fund to mitigate sector-specific risks.

Implementing Changes
Reduce High-Risk Investments: Consider reducing your allocation in small-cap and sectoral funds. Instead, invest in balanced advantage or multi-cap funds for a more stable growth trajectory.

Increase Stability: Boost your investment in large-cap and diversified equity funds. These provide more stability and consistent returns.

Consider Actively Managed Funds: Given your long-term horizon and the goal of maximizing returns, actively managed funds could be a better fit than index funds.

Regular Review and Adjustment: Periodically review your portfolio with a Certified Financial Planner. Adjust based on market conditions and your evolving financial goals.

Power of Compounding
Investing for your grandchildren allows you to harness the power of compounding. The longer the investment horizon, the greater the potential for exponential growth. Ensure that your portfolio includes funds that can compound effectively over the long term.

Tax Efficiency
While planning investments, consider the tax implications. Long-term capital gains on equity funds are taxed at a lower rate compared to short-term gains. Structuring your investments to minimize tax liabilities can enhance net returns.

Final Insights
Your current investments show a thoughtful mix of different types of mutual funds. However, balancing risk and reward, especially for long-term goals like investing for grandchildren, is crucial. By reducing exposure to high-risk and sector-specific funds, and increasing stability through balanced and diversified funds, you can create a robust portfolio. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your investments with a Certified Financial Planner ensures alignment with your financial goals and market conditions.

Investing wisely today sets the foundation for a secure and prosperous future for your grandchildren.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7163 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 27, 2024Hindi
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Money
Hi, sir I am a an 30 year old (single) engineer working with a MNC in Chennai, unfortunately till this day i haven't had any savings at all for my future (retirement, other short term or long term goals). Currently my take home salary after EPF and parental insurance is 53k ( EPF is about 4900/month - employee+employer) i haven't opted for Corporate NPS but is provided by the company without any additional contribution from company. I have company health insurance policy and have planned to take my own health insurance and term insurance plan. Adding to above I have zero emergency fund with me. How should I proceed with my investments?
Ans: You have taken the first step by recognising the need to plan. It’s essential to appreciate your intention to secure your financial future. Let’s look at how you can proceed to achieve your short-term and long-term goals.

Your current take-home salary is Rs 53,000, and your EPF contribution is Rs 4,900. However, you lack savings, investments, and an emergency fund. Here's a step-by-step strategy:

Build an Emergency Fund
Set aside funds to cover at least six months' expenses.

Start by saving 10-15% of your salary monthly into a high-interest savings account.

Use Recurring Deposits or Liquid Mutual Funds to maintain this fund for emergencies.

Secure Yourself with Insurance
Health insurance: Maintain your company health policy but add a personal health policy. Choose a policy offering a sum insured of Rs 10-15 lakh.

Term insurance: Buy a term plan covering 10-15 times your annual income. Keep the policy simple and avoid investment-linked insurance.

Budget Your Income
Allocate your income carefully for expenses, savings, and investments.

Use the 50-30-20 rule: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings and investments.

Avoid unnecessary expenses to increase your saving capacity.

Start Investing Gradually
Short-term goals (1-5 years): Invest in debt funds or recurring deposits. Debt mutual funds are good for stable returns.

Long-term goals (5+ years): Invest in equity mutual funds for higher returns. Choose actively managed funds with consistent performance.

Avoid index funds. Actively managed funds have a better potential for higher returns through professional fund management.

Retirement Planning
Utilise the EPF for retirement. Your current contribution will grow over time with compounding.

Consider investing in diversified equity mutual funds for additional retirement savings.

Corporate NPS: You can explore NPS for its tax-saving benefits. However, don’t rely solely on it for retirement.

Tax-Saving Investments
Use Section 80C to save taxes up to Rs 1.5 lakh.

EPF, PPF, ELSS mutual funds, and life insurance premiums can qualify under this section.

Opt for ELSS funds for tax saving and wealth creation.

Review Existing Expenses
Evaluate and minimise unnecessary expenditures.

Avoid loans for discretionary spending like vacations or gadgets.

Advantages of Using a Certified Financial Planner
A CFP can help you plan holistically and ensure you stick to your goals.

They provide tailored strategies, ensuring proper fund allocation and monitoring.

Invest through a Mutual Fund Distributor with CFP credentials to access professional advice.

Key Steps for Discipline
Automate investments through SIPs in mutual funds.

Track your monthly budget and investment progress regularly.

Avoid direct funds. Regular funds offer professional guidance and fund distributor support.

Tax Implications
For equity mutual funds, LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh attracts 12.5% tax.

STCG on equity funds is taxed at 20%.

Debt fund gains are taxed as per your income slab. Consider these while investing.

Final Insights
You are in the right direction by seeking advice now. Build a solid foundation with savings, insurance, and investments. Take small steps toward financial independence.

Remain consistent with your investments, and review your financial plan annually.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Mayank

Mayank Chandel  |1940 Answers  |Ask -

IIT-JEE, NEET-UG, SAT, CLAT, CA, CS Exam Expert - Answered on Nov 27, 2024

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Career
Hello, i really have a serious issue regarding my studies as i am 24 yrs now and gave NEET 4times and i am still preparing for nxt year 2025 but at the back of my mind i am really tensed what if the same thing repeats in the neet 2025 also like paper leak and all, So now i am confused that should i take a full drop or partial drop. The mental pressure is really hitting hard and also its almost been 4years that i am still 12th pass only and my classmates have already completed their college and some are flight attendant and earning well, So this all things just hits so hard and also the hope in parents eyes as my father is already proud that i studied science so i would definitely become doctor. I wasted a lot of money in pg and coaching (fastrack) and this all things are hitting so hard that i really feel sad and have no ways to go.
Ans: Hi Bhima
I must say you have got perseverance & I appreciate your parent's trust in you. You have already appeared multiple times and you are going to appear again in 2025. By the time you will be 25 years old. They say there is no age to learn. But after getting admission you need another 10 years to practice as a qualified specialist. Make sure you take admission in the next session.

If higher cutoff & high fees of private colleges are an issue for you, then try exploring the MBBS abroad option, I can help with that too. Since NEXT is compulsory for Indian & Foreign graduates too it won't make a difference if you study in India or Abroad.

For time forget all the societal pressure and give your 100% and make your parents proud.

...Read more

Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |439 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Nov 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 26, 2024Hindi
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Relationship
Hi Ravi sir, I am 24 yrs old girl, currently pursuing MBA from a middle class family. I have a 5 yr relationship with my boyfriend. I love him very much. Don't want to loose him. Maybe he also love me. But the problem start few days ago when he suddenly confessed me that he visit red light area thrice at the first year of our relationship. From those initial days we are in a serious relationship and family involved in this. But we don't intimate but virtual intimacy was there. But this year in january we for first time got intimate and after 4 time of intimacy he confess me this that he physical one time and two time just visit their to see naked dance but failed due to some reason. Now He told me that he felt it will be cheating if he not told me this now. One side I am depressed and fear to loose him. He repetitively beg pardon from me and told that this was his peer pressure and now he mature enough to say no this.. Now he can't imagine his life without me. I don't want to loose him but can't forgive or forgot this. Now he repeatedly told me to marry him and proposed me romantically. He repeatedly want pardon from me . I love him very much that I want to forget all things and start from first again. But will it be right, if I easily forgive him than is he got much confidence to do this again?? I am depressed and confused. Pls help me . What will be right decision in this situation? Forgive him or not?
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I understand how conflicted you must be feeling right now, and I am sorry that you are going through this. I wish I could tell you what would be the right thing to do, but it has to be your decision and yours alone. All I can suggest is to take a beat and not rush into deciding anything.

Take everything into consideration-
On the one hand, infidelity is indeed unacceptable in a relationship. But on the other, it was in the initial stage. He might not have been as serious about the relationship as you during those days. Nevertheless, the timing does not make his action justifiable. I suggest you have an open conversation and ask him why he felt the need to do this. Ask him if he did not consider your feelings. What's concerning is that he did not stop after the first time; he went back twice more. I am not judging his choice of location but the fact that he was in a committed relationship puts him in the wrong. Also, blaming it on peer pressure is inexcusable; this isn't something funny or trivial he did because his friends dared him to. Ask him to take accountability and understand that actions have consequences.

Take it one day at a time. Whatever you decide is okay. And if at any point you want to pick yourself over the relationship, I want you to understand that it is completely alright. You will feel like it's a selfish decision, but it isn't. Remember that. Please do what you need to help you heal from this.

Best Wishes.

...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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