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Omkeshwar

Omkeshwar Singh  | Answer  |Ask -

Head, Rank MF - Answered on May 14, 2021

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Neeraj Question by Neeraj on May 14, 2021Hindi
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I am from Delhi. I am regular reader of Get Ahead. May I request you to pl. advise me if I shall invest in NFO of Invesco India ESG equity regular -growth Fund?

Ans: It’s better to invest in existing ESG funds, because the portfolio is known for the quality of the scheme.

Axis and ICICI Pru have very good ESG Funds!

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  |8610 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Mar 01, 2024Hindi
Money
Asked on - Mar 01, 2024 We have disabled son so we want invest in this fund for next 40 years Now I am 35 years old and my wife is 32 years old . Our combined monthly income is 2 lakh. We have 40 lacs in the hand which we have started our investment in below funds from this year. Parag parikh flexi cap fund Nippon india Small cap fund Icici value discovery fund HDFC mid cap opportunities fund Quant mid cap fund icici nifty 50 index fund Please let me know if it's good to invest in this fund.
Ans: Thank you for sharing your investment details and financial goals. It's commendable that you and your wife are planning for the long term, especially considering the needs of your disabled son. Let's analyze your current investments and provide guidance to ensure you meet your financial objectives over the next 40 years.

Current Investment Overview
1. Investment Horizon
You have a long investment horizon of 40 years, which is excellent for wealth accumulation. Long-term investments in equity mutual funds can yield significant returns due to the power of compounding.

2. Monthly Income and Lump Sum Investment
Your combined monthly income is Rs. 2 lakhs, and you have a lump sum of Rs. 40 lakhs that you've started investing this year. This strong financial base allows you to make substantial investments regularly.

3. Selected Mutual Funds
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund
Nippon India Small Cap Fund
ICICI Value Discovery Fund
HDFC Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
Quant Mid Cap Fund
ICICI Nifty 50 Index Fund
Portfolio Analysis
1. Diversification
Your portfolio includes a mix of large cap, mid cap, small cap, value, and index funds. This diversification helps spread risk and capture growth across different segments of the market.

2. Fund Selection
Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: Known for its flexibility to invest across market caps and international stocks.
Nippon India Small Cap Fund: Focuses on small cap stocks, offering high growth potential but with higher volatility.
ICICI Value Discovery Fund: Concentrates on undervalued stocks, aiming for long-term capital appreciation.
HDFC Mid Cap Opportunities Fund and Quant Mid Cap Fund: Invest in mid cap stocks, balancing growth potential and risk.
ICICI Nifty 50 Index Fund: Provides exposure to the top 50 companies in India, offering stability and diversification.
Evaluating and Optimizing Your Portfolio
1. Consider Actively Managed Funds
While index funds like ICICI Nifty 50 Index Fund offer low costs, actively managed funds can potentially outperform by selecting high-quality stocks. Given your long horizon, consider focusing more on actively managed funds with strong track records.

2. Balance Between Risk and Return
Your portfolio has a good mix, but small cap and mid cap funds can be volatile. Ensure you balance them with more stable options to manage risk, especially considering your son's long-term needs.

3. Regular Review and Rebalancing
Regularly review your portfolio to ensure it stays aligned with your goals. Rebalancing helps maintain the desired asset allocation, especially as market conditions change.

Financial Planning for Your Son
1. Special Needs Trust
Consider setting up a special needs trust to ensure financial security for your son. This trust can manage and protect the assets for his benefit.

2. Insurance Coverage
Ensure you have adequate life and health insurance coverage. This provides financial protection in case of unforeseen events.

3. Emergency Fund
Maintain an emergency fund to cover at least 6-12 months of expenses. This fund acts as a safety net for unexpected financial needs.

Consulting a Certified Financial Planner
1. Personalized Financial Advice
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide personalized advice tailored to your family's unique financial situation and goals.

2. Expert Investment Management
A CFP can help manage and optimize your investment portfolio, ensuring it remains aligned with your long-term objectives.

3. Risk Management Strategies
A CFP employs strategies to manage risk and optimize returns, helping you navigate market volatility and safeguard your investments.

Long-Term Investment Strategy
1. Regular SIP Contributions
Consider starting a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) with a portion of your monthly income. Regular SIP contributions help in rupee cost averaging and building wealth over time.

2. Increasing SIP Amounts
Gradually increase your SIP amounts as your income grows. This strategy ensures that your investments keep pace with inflation and enhance your corpus.

3. Focus on Growth-Oriented Funds
Given your long-term horizon, focus on growth-oriented mutual funds with a strong track record. This includes diversified equity funds, mid cap funds, and flexi cap funds.

Example Projection
Assuming an average annual return of 12%, let’s project the potential growth of your investments over 40 years. This simplified projection can illustrate how your disciplined investment strategy can achieve substantial wealth.

Conclusion
Your disciplined approach to investing and long-term horizon position you well to achieve your financial goals. By focusing on quality funds, maintaining diversification, and regularly reviewing your portfolio, you can optimize your investment strategy.

Consulting with a Certified Financial Planner will provide you with personalized advice and expert management to ensure your investments stay on track. Your commitment to regular SIP contributions and increasing your investment amounts over time will significantly enhance your financial security.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8610 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Money
I am planning to Invest in NFO (HDFC Manufacturing Fund). And plan to invest for 2 years the same amount. And after that every year increase by 10% to 15%. How good is this Investment plan. Please advise.
Ans: Your interest in investing in the HDFC Manufacturing Fund New Fund Offer (NFO) is commendable. It’s crucial to evaluate such investments carefully, especially when considering sectoral funds and NFOs. Let’s explore the potential downsides of NFOs and sectoral funds and understand why you might want to consider other options.

Firstly, your proactive approach to increasing your investment amount annually by 10% to 15% is excellent. This strategy reflects a commitment to growing your wealth systematically.

Understanding NFOs
Lack of Performance History
One of the primary disadvantages of investing in NFOs is the lack of a performance track record. Unlike established funds, NFOs do not have historical data to demonstrate how they perform across different market cycles. This makes it challenging to gauge their potential for future returns.

Marketing Hype
NFOs are often heavily marketed, creating a sense of urgency and excitement. However, this hype can overshadow the fund’s actual investment strategy and potential risks. Investors might get swayed by marketing campaigns without fully understanding the implications of their investment.

Initial Costs
NFOs sometimes come with initial costs, such as entry loads, which can eat into your returns. Established funds often have lower expense ratios and no entry loads, making them more cost-effective in the long run.

Disadvantages of Sectoral Funds
High Risk and Volatility
Sectoral funds, like the HDFC Manufacturing Fund, focus on a specific industry. This concentration can lead to high risk and volatility. If the manufacturing sector faces a downturn, your entire investment could be adversely affected. Diversification is limited, increasing the impact of sector-specific risks.

Lack of Diversification
Sectoral funds do not offer the broad diversification found in multi-cap or flexi-cap funds. Investing heavily in one sector means your portfolio is not protected against risks in that particular sector. Diversified funds spread investments across various sectors, reducing overall risk.

Economic Cycles Impact
Sectoral funds are highly sensitive to economic cycles. The manufacturing sector, for example, can be significantly affected by economic downturns, changes in government policies, and global market conditions. This sensitivity can lead to unpredictable returns.

Evaluating Your Investment Strategy
Investment Horizon
Given your plan to invest for two years and then increase your investment annually, it’s essential to align your strategy with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Sectoral funds are generally more suitable for experienced investors with a higher risk appetite and a longer investment horizon.

Consider Diversified Funds
Instead of sectoral funds, consider investing in diversified equity funds. These funds spread your investment across various sectors and companies, providing better risk management and potentially more stable returns. Diversified funds can include large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks, offering a balanced approach.

Professional Guidance
Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to ensure your investment strategy aligns with your long-term financial goals. A CFP can provide personalized recommendations based on your risk profile and investment objectives.

Conclusion
Investing in NFOs and sectoral funds comes with significant risks due to the lack of performance history, high volatility, and limited diversification. Instead, consider diversified equity funds for a more balanced and stable investment approach. Your proactive strategy of increasing investment annually is commendable, and with the right guidance, you can achieve your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8610 Answers  |Ask -

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

Listen
Money
We have disabled son so we want invest in this fund for next 40 years Now I am 35 years old and my wife is 32 years old . Our combined monthly income is 2 lakh. We have 40 lacs in the hand which we have started our investment in below funds from this year. Parag parikh flexi cap fund Nippon india Small cap fund Icici value discovery fund HDFC mid cap opportunities fund Quant mid cap fund icici nifty 50 index fund Please let me know if it's good to invest in this fund.
Ans: Investment Strategy for Long-Term Financial Security

Firstly, I commend your proactive approach towards securing your disabled son's future through prudent financial planning. Let's assess the suitability of your current investment portfolio and explore strategies to optimize it for long-term growth and stability.

Understanding Your Financial Goals

It's heartening to see your commitment to providing for your disabled son's needs over the next four decades. To ensure the effectiveness of your investment strategy, let's align it with your long-term financial objectives.

Assessment of Current Investment Portfolio

Your decision to invest ?40 lakhs across multiple funds reflects a diversified approach to wealth accumulation. Let's evaluate the suitability of each fund in your portfolio:

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: This fund offers flexibility by investing across market caps and geographies, potentially mitigating risk through diversification.
Nippon India Small Cap Fund: Small-cap funds have the potential for high growth but come with higher volatility and risk. Ensure you're comfortable with this risk-return trade-off.
ICICI Value Discovery Fund: Value-oriented funds seek undervalued stocks with the potential for appreciation. This strategy aligns with a long-term investment horizon.
HDFC Mid Cap Opportunities Fund: Mid-cap funds target stocks of medium-sized companies with growth potential. These funds offer a balance between risk and return.
Quant Mid Cap Fund: Similar to the HDFC Mid Cap Opportunities Fund, this fund focuses on mid-cap stocks but adopts a quantitative investment approach.
ICICI Nifty 50 Index Fund: While index funds offer broad market exposure at low cost, active management may provide opportunities to outperform the market.

Active vs. Passive Management:
While you've included both actively managed mutual funds and index funds (ETFs) in your portfolio, it's important to understand the differences between the two. Actively managed funds aim to outperform the market through active stock selection and portfolio management, while index funds passively track a specific index's performance.
Benefits of Actively Managed Funds:
Actively managed funds offer the potential for higher returns compared to index funds, especially during market inefficiencies or when skilled fund managers can identify lucrative investment opportunities. Additionally, active management allows for flexibility in portfolio construction and adjustments based on market conditions.
Potential Disadvantages of Index Funds:
While index funds offer low expense ratios and broad market exposure, they may lack the potential for outperformance compared to actively managed funds. Additionally, they're subject to tracking error, which occurs when the fund's performance deviates from the index it's designed to replicate.

Evaluating the Investment Strategy

While your portfolio comprises a diverse mix of funds, it's essential to assess its alignment with your long-term financial goals and risk tolerance.

1. Risk Management:

Given your son's long-term financial needs, prioritize stability and capital preservation alongside growth opportunities. Evaluate the risk profile of each fund and ensure it aligns with your risk tolerance.

2. Review and Rebalance:

Periodically review your portfolio's performance and rebalance it as necessary to maintain your desired asset allocation. Consider factors such as changing market conditions, fund performance, and evolving financial goals.

3. Professional Guidance:

Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to fine-tune your investment strategy and ensure it aligns with your son's long-term financial needs. A financial planner can provide personalized advice based on your unique circumstances.

Conclusion

Your commitment to securing your disabled son's future through long-term financial planning is admirable. By evaluating your current investment portfolio, aligning it with your financial goals, and seeking professional guidance, you can optimize your strategy for long-term growth and stability.

Best Regards,

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |5512 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on May 30, 2025

Career
Hello sir I am getting cse in Chandigarh University and Jaypee noida 68 which is better and I have also applied for the thapar will I get computer engineering with 85 percentile in the jee mains and the 95.4 in boards
Ans: Aditya, With an 85 percentile in JEE Mains and 95.4% in 12th boards, securing Computer Engineering at Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology (TIET) is unlikely, as the expected cutoff for outside Punjab candidates is around 94.47 percentile. However, branches like Electronics & Communication Engineering (ECE) or Electrical and Computer Engineering (EEC) may be attainable.
Collegedunia
Adarsh Barnwal
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Collegedunia
+2
Collegedunia
+2

Chandigarh University (CU) offers strong placement opportunities, with the highest domestic package reaching ?54.75 LPA and over 900 recruiters participating in the placement drive. Admission into CU's CSE program is highly probable given your scores.
Shiksha
+3
Shiksha
+3
PagalGuy
+3

At Jaypee Institute of Information Technology (JIIT), Noida, the closing rank for CSE is around 51,000 (approximately 95 percentile), making admission less likely with your current percentile.

Recommendation: Prioritize Chandigarh University for CSE due to its robust placement record and higher likelihood of admission. Consider TIET for alternative branches like ECE or EEC, and explore other institutions where your percentile aligns with the cutoff requirements. All the BEST for your Admission & Prosperous Future!

Follow RediffGURURS to Know More on 'Careers | Money | Health | Relationships'.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8610 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 30, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 30, 2025
Money
My Salary is 78000 per month and I have house rent 20500 and 17000 emi and 15000 monthly expenses other emis 15000 and iam unable to save please suggest
Ans: You are facing a very common challenge. Many earn well but struggle to save. The good part is that you are aware and looking for a solution. That’s the first important step.

Let me now give you a 360-degree analysis and practical advice to help you manage better.

 
 
1. Monthly Income and Expense Breakdown

Your salary is Rs. 78,000 per month.
 
 

House rent is Rs. 20,500.
 
 

EMI for one loan is Rs. 17,000.
 
 

Other EMIs total Rs. 15,000.
 
 

Monthly living expenses are Rs. 15,000.
 
 

After these, almost nothing is left.
 
 

There is no saving happening right now. But small adjustments can bring big changes.
 
 
2. Rent Expense Evaluation

Rent is the biggest cost. Rs. 20,500 is over 26% of your income.
 
 

Ideally, rent should not exceed 20% of income.
 
 

Check if slightly cheaper home is available.
 
 

A Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 4,000 saving in rent helps.
 
 

Shifting may feel hard. But it gives monthly relief.
 
 

Stay near public transport to reduce travel cost also.
 
 

Even small rent change brings long-term benefits.
 
 
3. EMI Consolidation Strategy

You have Rs. 32,000 total EMI every month.
 
 

This is over 40% of your income. That is too high.
 
 

Ideally, EMI should be under 30% of income.
 
 

Check if some loans are high-interest short-term loans.
 
 

If possible, combine all EMIs into one with lower interest.
 
 

Talk to your bank about loan consolidation options.
 
 

Even 2–3% interest reduction will help monthly cash flow.
 
 

Loan restructuring gives breathing space.
 
 
4. Monthly Expenses Assessment

You spend Rs. 15,000 monthly for all needs.
 
 

This looks reasonable, but break it down category-wise.
 
 

Note how much goes to groceries, mobile, subscriptions, fuel, etc.
 
 

Use a simple mobile app to track. Or a paper log.
 
 

You may find Rs. 1,000–2,000 saving opportunity easily.
 
 

Cancel unused services like OTT or apps.
 
 

Prepare weekly shopping list. Avoid impulse purchases.
 
 

Every rupee saved adds up.
 
 
5. Surrender Low-Return Insurance Policies (if any)

Do you hold any LIC, ULIP or endowment plan?
 
 

These plans mix insurance with investment. They give poor returns.
 
 

If held for more than 3 years, check surrender value.
 
 

If suitable, surrender and reduce premium load.
 
 

Take separate term insurance if not already done.
 
 

Reinvest in SIP when your cash flow improves.
 
 

This step will free up space in your budget.
 
 
6. Start Emergency Fund, Even Small

You may feel saving is impossible now.
 
 

But even Rs. 500–1000/month is a start.
 
 

Keep this money in a separate savings account.
 
 

Don’t touch unless it’s urgent.
 
 

Over time, it builds up to 3–6 months of expenses.
 
 

Emergency fund avoids fresh loans in future.
 
 

Even small savings matter. Start tiny, but stay regular.
 
 
7. Avoid New Loans or EMI Purchases

Say no to credit card EMIs or online EMIs.
 
 

These temptations disturb cash flow and cause stress.
 
 

If you need anything, plan and save first.
 
 

Delay buying until you have money.
 
 

EMI-free life feels peaceful and light.
 
 

Self-control today brings freedom tomorrow.
 
 
8. Health and Life Insurance Priority

Health emergency can break your finances.
 
 

Take a personal health insurance cover.
 
 

Group cover from employer is not always enough.
 
 

Also take a low-cost term life insurance.
 
 

Do not mix insurance with investments.
 
 

Term plan protects family. Premium is affordable.
 
 

Insurance is not optional. It’s your safety net.
 
 
9. Don’t Rely on Index Funds or Direct Mutual Funds

Some people suggest index funds or direct plans.
 
 

But these lack personalised support and active review.
 
 

Index funds don’t beat inflation in long term.
 
 

Direct funds don’t guide you in market changes.
 
 

Use actively managed mutual funds.
 
 

Invest through a Mutual Fund Distributor backed by a Certified Financial Planner.
 
 

Proper advice gives proper results.
 
 
10. Set a 3-Step Goal Plan

Step 1: Get control of monthly spending.
 
 

Step 2: Reduce EMIs or consolidate loans.
 
 

Step 3: Start small savings. Build emergency fund.
 
 

Once your cash flow improves, you can add SIPs.
 
 

Even Rs. 2,000/month SIP can build wealth slowly.
 
 

Long-term discipline matters more than short-term sacrifice.
 
 
11. Talk to a Certified Financial Planner

You don’t have to figure it all alone.
 
 

Certified Financial Planners can review your full profile.
 
 

They guide step-by-step based on your goals.
 
 

You get help with loan restructuring, budgeting and investing.
 
 

Regular plan reviews give better direction.
 
 

Guided support gives better results than guesswork.
 
 
Finally

Your situation is difficult but not unfixable. You are not alone. Many professionals earn well but have tight budgets. You are aware. That’s the key strength.

Now you need to make few lifestyle and financial changes. Nothing happens overnight. But over 6–12 months, you can turn things around.

Build better habits. Spend less than income. Don’t take more loans. Start even the smallest savings.

Once you’re stable, shift focus to long-term investments. Work with a Certified Financial Planner to guide you along the journey.

You’ll find peace, progress and purpose.

 
 

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

...Read more

Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |5512 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on May 30, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 29, 2025
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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