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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8270 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 22, 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
rajplayster Question by rajplayster on May 18, 2024Hindi
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Dear guru, I have been investing in regular mutual funds (both lumpsum and SIP) since 2014 through an agent whose is a family friend. Recently my wife told me about the hude difference in returns between sirect and regular plans. I am grateful to the agent for getting me an XIRR of 18% on my investment but at the same time I believe I have paid him enough commission for his services. 1 have 2 questions: 1. How much will I loose if i continue with regular plans for another 5 years? 2. How do I switch to direct plans without denting his commission too much? Thank you, Anand, Delhi

Ans: Dear Anand,

Thank you for sharing your investment journey and your thoughtful questions. It's great to hear that you've been investing consistently and achieving an impressive XIRR of 18% since 2014. This shows your commitment to securing a strong financial future.

Evaluating Your Current Investment Approach
The Role of Your Agent
Your agent, who is also a family friend, has played a significant role in helping you achieve these returns. Their guidance and support have been valuable, and it's important to appreciate their contributions.

Regular vs. Direct Plans
It's true that direct plans have lower expense ratios compared to regular plans. However, the difference in returns may not always justify switching, especially when considering the value of professional advice.

Financial Impact of Staying with Regular Plans
Understanding the Cost Difference
Regular plans have a higher expense ratio because they include a commission for the agent. Direct plans, on the other hand, do not have this commission, leading to potentially higher returns.

Potential Loss Calculation
While the exact amount you'll lose by staying with regular plans for another five years depends on various factors, the difference could be around 0.5% to 1% annually in returns. However, it's crucial to weigh this against the benefits of professional advice and support from your agent.

Importance of Professional Guidance
The guidance from your agent has helped you achieve a solid 18% XIRR, which is commendable. This shows the value of having someone knowledgeable to guide your investment decisions, especially during volatile market conditions.

The Ethical Consideration
Gratitude and Respect
It's important to express gratitude and respect towards your agent, who has helped you achieve significant financial growth. Switching to direct plans might feel like bypassing someone who has been instrumental in your financial journey.

Impact on Relationship
Bypassing your agent could potentially affect your personal and professional relationship. Maintaining a good relationship with your agent is beneficial for future investment decisions and continued support.

How to Proceed
Continued Investment in Regular Plans
Continuing with regular plans ensures that you keep receiving professional advice and support. The slightly higher expense ratio can be seen as a fee for this valuable guidance.

Consider Hybrid Approach
If you still wish to explore direct plans, you could consider a hybrid approach. Invest a portion of your funds in direct plans while keeping the majority in regular plans. This way, you can experience the benefits of both approaches.

Open Communication
Discuss your concerns and thoughts with your agent. A transparent conversation can help find a mutually beneficial solution. They might even offer to help you with direct plans or reduce their commission.

Long-Term Perspective
Focus on Long-Term Goals
Your investment decisions should align with your long-term financial goals. The guidance from your agent has proven beneficial, and their continued support can help you navigate future market challenges.

Risk Management
Your agent helps in managing risks and making informed decisions. This professional support can protect your investments during market downturns and help capitalize on opportunities.

Conclusion
Switching to direct plans solely to save on expense ratios might not be the best move. The professional guidance and support you receive from your agent are valuable and have contributed to your impressive returns. Maintaining this relationship and valuing their contributions can lead to continued financial success.

Final Thoughts

Balancing financial efficiency with professional guidance is crucial. Appreciate the support from your agent and consider discussing your concerns with them to find the best path forward.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in
Asked on - May 22, 2024 | Answered on May 22, 2024
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Thank you Mr Ramalingam.
Ans: You're welcome! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask. Best wishes on your financial journey!

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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I am a mutual fund investor since 2010 by SIP & Lupsum , Now I am holding Funds Quant Small cap , Quant large & Mid cap , Hdfc 30 Foused fund , Aditya Birla psu equity Fund , & Sbi contra Fund all are direct plan Every month sip is 20000 each Fund shall I continue as it is or any changes
Ans: Kudos on your decade-long journey in mutual fund investments! It's impressive to see your commitment to building wealth through disciplined investing.

As a Certified Financial Planner, I understand the importance of periodically reviewing and adjusting your investment portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Here are some considerations regarding your current portfolio:

Diversification: Your portfolio appears to be well-diversified across different fund categories, which is commendable. Diversification helps spread risk and potentially enhance returns over the long term.
Performance Evaluation: Evaluate the performance of each fund in your portfolio relative to its benchmark and peer group. Ensure that the funds are consistently meeting your expectations and delivering satisfactory returns.
Fund Manager Track Record: Assess the track record and expertise of the fund managers managing your investments. Consistent and experienced fund management can significantly influence the performance of mutual fund schemes.
Expense Ratio: Keep an eye on the expense ratio of your funds, as lower expenses can directly impact your returns over time. Direct plans typically have lower expense ratios compared to regular plans, allowing you to maximize your investment returns.
Market Conditions: Stay attuned to prevailing market conditions and economic trends that may impact the performance of your investments. Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice based on the current market scenario.
Ultimately, the decision to continue with your existing SIPs or make changes depends on various factors, including your investment objectives, risk tolerance, and market outlook. Regularly reviewing your portfolio and seeking professional guidance can help you make informed investment decisions and stay on track to achieve your financial goals.

Keep up the good work, and remember that consistency and discipline are key to long-term investment success!

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8270 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 22, 2025

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Sir, I am 45 years old and want to invest in equity mutual funds. I have time horizon of 10 years . Can you suggest me some good funds in large cap category, IT sector theme fund, 1 or 2 small/midcap funds or any other fund you think would be good for long term. I want to start SIP of Rs 40000/- across 4 mutual funds.
Ans: Your intent to invest Rs 40,000 per month in equity mutual funds for 10 years is a strong move.

Your fund choices across large-cap, IT sector, and mid/small-cap categories are sensible.

Let’s look at how to structure this investment efficiently.

Investment Objective Assessment

You have a long-term vision.

Ten years is a healthy horizon for equity.

SIP is the right approach.

Rs 40,000 monthly is a good contribution.

Your Ideal Asset Allocation Strategy

Diversify across categories.

Blend large-cap, sectoral, and mid/small-cap funds.

Avoid putting too much in one theme.

This lowers risk and boosts consistency.

Large-Cap Mutual Fund (Rs 14,000/month)

These funds invest in stable, top companies.

Ideal for long-term wealth growth.

Less volatile than mid/small-cap funds.

Good for capital preservation with growth.

IT Sector Fund (Rs 6,000/month)

IT sector can give high returns.

But it’s highly cyclical and sector-dependent.

Limit allocation to protect from volatility.

Use as a return booster, not a core.

Mid and Small-Cap Funds (Rs 14,000/month)

These funds carry high growth potential.

But they are more volatile and risky.

Suitable for your long-term horizon.

Split the allocation between mid and small caps.

Keep an eye on market trends regularly.

Flexi Cap or Multi Cap Fund (Rs 6,000/month)

This gives you market-wide exposure.

Fund manager picks across market segments.

Offers balance and flexibility in returns.

Helps when market cycles shift.

Avoid Direct Mutual Funds for Long-Term SIPs

Direct funds miss advisor insights.

You might make emotional, untimely exits.

They lack personalisation and professional guidance.

Regular plans via a CFP-MFD give strategy support.

Expert monitoring helps long-term discipline.

Stay Away from Index Funds

Index funds don’t beat the market.

They lack fund manager expertise.

No downside protection in falling markets.

Actively managed funds aim to outperform indices.

They adapt during market changes.

Review Your Plan Regularly

Review performance every year.

Rebalance based on life changes.

Switch underperforming funds if needed.

A Certified Financial Planner will guide you.

Monitoring is as important as starting.

Taxation Aspects You Must Know

Equity mutual funds have two tax rules.

Long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh: taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term gains: taxed at 20%.

Holding for 10 years is tax efficient.

Stay invested to maximise post-tax returns.

Emergency Fund Planning Before SIPs

Keep at least 6 months of expenses saved.

Don’t invest this in mutual funds.

Use liquid funds or bank deposits.

This protects your SIPs during emergencies.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan Later

After 10 years, use SWP for income.

It gives tax-efficient regular withdrawals.

Avoid lump sum exits.

Plan withdrawal strategy 1-2 years before maturity.

Should You Include Sectoral Funds Beyond IT?

Sectoral funds are risky.

Don’t add too many of them.

You already plan IT sector exposure.

Focus more on diversified equity.

This improves overall stability.

Insurance and Health Coverage Are Essential

Review your term plan now.

Make sure it covers all your liabilities.

Have health cover for your family.

Don’t rely only on employer policy.

Your SIP Distribution Suggestion (Rs 40,000)

Large Cap Fund: Rs 14,000

IT Sector Fund: Rs 6,000

Mid Cap Fund: Rs 7,000

Small Cap Fund: Rs 7,000

Flexi or Multi Cap Fund: Rs 6,000

Strategy to Add More SIPs Yearly

Increase SIP by 10% annually.

This boosts compounding significantly.

You’ll reach bigger goals faster.

Link SIP increase to your salary hike.

Final Insights

Your investment plan is smart and timely.

Your SIP amount and time horizon are ideal.

Diversify smartly across fund types.

Avoid direct plans; take regular funds via CFP.

Stay away from index funds and too many sector bets.

Review your plan yearly with your Certified Financial Planner.

Tax efficiency and goal focus are key to success.

Your long-term wealth is built step by step.

A clear path and steady discipline will help you achieve it.

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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