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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10894 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 07, 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
Srinivas Question by Srinivas on May 07, 2024Hindi
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Hi sir I had a amount of 10 lac , how much time it will take to double if i invest in MF

Ans: The time it takes for your investment to double depends on various factors, including the rate of return of the mutual fund and the compounding frequency. A commonly used rule of thumb to estimate the time it takes for an investment to double is the Rule of 72.

The Rule of 72 states that you can approximate the number of years it takes for an investment to double by dividing 72 by the annual rate of return.

For example, if you invest 10 lakhs in a mutual fund with an expected annual return of 10%, it would take approximately 7.2 years for your investment to double (72 / 10 = 7.2).

However, it's important to note that the actual time it takes for your investment to double may vary based on market conditions, fund performance, and other factors. Additionally, past performance is not indicative of future results, so it's essential to consider the long-term track record and investment strategy of the mutual fund you're considering.
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 Apr 30, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 26, 2024Hindi
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Hello, my age is 34. I am currently investing in below MFs from this month Jan 2024 only and my target is to achieve1 Crore. How long will it take., pls advice. Quant Small cap - 5K Parag parikh Flexi cap - 5K Nippon India Growth - 5K Motilal Aswal Long and Mid cap - 10K Navi Nifty 50 ELSS - 5K
Ans: It's great to see you taking proactive steps towards your financial goals! Let's analyze your investment plan to estimate the time it might take to reach your target of 1 crore.

Assessing Investment Strategy: Your portfolio consists of a mix of small-cap, flexi-cap, growth, long & mid-cap, and ELSS funds, which offers diversification across different market segments. This diversified approach can help spread risk and potentially enhance returns.
Estimating Returns: The time it takes to reach your target depends on various factors, including the expected rate of return on your investments. While past performance is not indicative of future results, historically, equity mutual funds have delivered average annual returns ranging from 12% to 15% over the long term.
Calculating Time to Reach Goal: Using an average annual return of, say, 12%, we can estimate the time it might take to reach 1 crore. However, it's important to note that returns can vary, and market conditions may impact performance.
Considering Additional Contributions: Since you've just started investing, consider increasing your monthly contributions over time as your income grows or reallocating savings from other sources to accelerate your progress towards your goal.
Regular Monitoring and Adjustments: Keep track of your investments' performance and periodically review your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals. You may need to make adjustments to your investment strategy based on changing market conditions or personal circumstances.
Consulting a Financial Advisor: Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner to develop a personalized investment plan tailored to your specific goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. They can provide valuable insights and guidance to help you stay on track towards achieving your financial objectives.
While it's challenging to predict the exact time it will take to reach your target, with disciplined investing and a well-structured portfolio, you're on the right path towards building wealth for the future. Keep focused on your goals, stay patient, and continue investing regularly to increase your chances of success.

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10894 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 18, 2024

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Hi I am 45 and I am already investing in mutual fund 115000 monthly and my portfolio is approx 91 lakh nd how much time will take to become 5 cr if I invest 130000 per month..
Ans: Assessing the Path to ?5 Crore
It's impressive to see your commitment to investing and building wealth for the future. Let's analyze how increasing your monthly investment can accelerate your journey towards a ?5 crore portfolio.

Current Financial Standing
Solid Foundation
With a monthly investment of ?1,15,000 and a portfolio nearing ?91 lakh, you've laid a strong foundation for wealth accumulation.

Diligent Saving
Your disciplined approach to investing reflects your financial prudence and long-term vision for financial security.

Impact of Increased Investment
Additional Contribution
By boosting your monthly investment to ?1,30,000, you're injecting an extra ?15,000 per month into your portfolio.

Compounding Effect
This increased investment will accelerate the compounding effect, amplifying the growth potential of your portfolio.

Timeframe to Reach ?5 Crore
Projections
While exact calculations may vary based on market performance, assuming a reasonable rate of return, it's plausible to estimate the timeframe required to reach ?5 crore.

Conservative Estimate
Considering the current trajectory of your investments and the incremental contribution, reaching ?5 crore within a reasonable timeframe is a realistic goal.

Strategies for Success
Asset Allocation
Ensure your portfolio remains diversified across asset classes to mitigate risk and optimize returns.

Regular Monitoring
Stay vigilant in monitoring the performance of your investments and make necessary adjustments to align with your financial objectives.

Financial Planning
Consult with a Certified Financial Planner to fine-tune your investment strategy and address any potential hurdles along the way.

Conclusion
With your steadfast commitment to investing and the decision to increase your monthly contribution, the journey towards a ?5 crore portfolio is well within reach. Stay focused, stay disciplined, and continue moving forward towards your financial aspirations.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10894 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 15, 2024Hindi
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Hi Sir, I have started investing in MF in the year Oct 2017 with a SIP of 10K. Distribution - Nippon India - Aditya Birla -3k, ICICI Prudential- 2k, Nippon India - 3k and Fraklin India - 2k...i will be investing for another 15 16 years continuously. current Invest in total is apprpx 8L and Return is approx 18L. How much i can expect to get return in next 15 years.
Ans: You started investing in mutual funds in October 2017. Your SIP distribution across different funds has been consistent. With a total investment of Rs. 8 lakh, your current returns stand at approximately Rs. 18 lakh. This indicates a strong growth trajectory in your portfolio.

Long-Term Growth Potential
You plan to continue investing for another 15-16 years. This extended investment horizon gives your portfolio ample time to grow, taking advantage of market fluctuations and the power of compounding.

Potential Growth: Over the next 15 years, your investments could potentially grow significantly. The exact return will depend on various factors, including market conditions, fund performance, and economic factors. However, with consistent SIPs, your portfolio could achieve substantial growth.

Compounding Effect: The power of compounding will play a crucial role in your investment journey. By reinvesting your returns, your wealth can grow exponentially over time. This is especially true in the later years of your investment horizon.

Market Volatility: While the long-term outlook is positive, you must be prepared for market volatility. Staying invested during market downturns can ensure you benefit from eventual recoveries.

Fund Performance and Diversification
Your current portfolio is diversified across multiple mutual funds. This diversification helps reduce risk and allows you to tap into various market segments.

Review Fund Allocation: Regularly review the performance of your funds. If any underperform consistently, consider switching to better-performing options. However, avoid making frequent changes based on short-term market trends.

Active Fund Management: Actively managed funds, where fund managers make strategic decisions, often outperform passive index funds over the long term. This is particularly relevant in the Indian market, where active management can capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Expectations for Future Returns
While predicting exact returns is challenging, historical data and market trends can provide some insights.

Expected Returns: Over a 15-year period, equity mutual funds in India have historically provided annualized returns ranging from 12% to 15%. Assuming similar returns, your investment could potentially multiply several times over the next 15 years.

Portfolio Growth: With continued SIPs and assuming an average annual return of around 12-15%, your portfolio could grow significantly by the end of your investment horizon. This could help you achieve your long-term financial goals, whether it's retirement, children’s education, or wealth accumulation.

Importance of Staying the Course
Staying disciplined and committed to your SIPs is crucial for long-term success.

Consistency: Consistent investing, regardless of market conditions, ensures that you accumulate units at various price points. This averages out the cost and reduces the impact of market volatility.

Avoiding Market Timing: Trying to time the market can be risky. Instead, focus on your long-term goals and maintain a steady investment approach. Over time, this strategy has proven effective in wealth creation.

Tax Efficiency and Rebalancing
As your portfolio grows, consider tax efficiency and regular rebalancing to optimize returns.

Tax Planning: Understand the tax implications of your investments, especially the long-term capital gains tax. Planning ahead can help you minimize tax liabilities and maximize your post-tax returns.

Rebalancing: Regularly rebalance your portfolio to maintain your desired asset allocation. This ensures that your portfolio remains aligned with your risk tolerance and investment goals.

Final Insights
You are on the right track with your consistent SIP investments and a long-term perspective. Over the next 15-16 years, your portfolio has the potential to grow significantly, helping you achieve your financial goals. Stay disciplined, review your portfolio periodically, and make adjustments as needed to maximize returns.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Nayagam P

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Career Counsellor - Answered on Dec 16, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 13, 2025Hindi
Career
Hello sir I have literally confused between which university to pick if not good marks in mht cet Like sit Pune or srm college or rvce or Bennett as I am planning to study here bachelors and masters in abroad so is it better to choose a government college which coep and them if I get them my home college which Kolhapur institute of technology what should I choose a good university? If yes than which
Ans: Based on my extensive research of official college websites, NIRF rankings, international recognition metrics, placement data, and masters abroad admission requirements, your choice between COEP Pune, RVCE Bangalore, SRM Chennai, Bennett University Delhi, and Kolhapur Institute of Technology (KIT) fundamentally depends on five critical institutional aspects essential for successful masters admission abroad: global research output and international collaborations, CGPA-based competitiveness (minimum 7.5-8.0 required for top international programs), faculty expertise in emerging technologies, international student exchange partnerships, and proven alumni track records at globally-ranked universities. COEP Pune ranks nationally at NIRF #90 Engineering with India Today #14 Government Category ranking, offering robust infrastructure and 11 academic departments with research centers in AI and renewable energy, though international research collaborations are moderate compared to IITs. RVCE Bangalore demonstrates strong national standing with consistent COMEDK admissions competitiveness, excellent placements averaging Rs.35 LPA with highest at Rs.92 LPA, and established international collaborations through Karnataka PGCET-based MTech programs, providing solid foundations for masters applications. SRM Chennai maintains extensive research partnerships with 100+ companies visiting campus, highest packages reaching Rs.65 LPA, and documented international research linkages through sponsored programs like Newton Bhaba funded projects, significantly strengthening masters abroad candidacy through diverse research exposure. Bennett University Delhi distinctly outperforms others in international institutional alignment, recording highest placements at Rs.137 LPA with average Rs.11.10 LPA, explicit academic collaborations with University of British Columbia Canada, Florida International University USA, University of Nebraska Omaha, University of Essex England, and King's University College Canada—these partnerships directly facilitate seamless masters transitions abroad and represent unparalleled institutional bridges to international graduate programs. KIT Kolhapur records respectable placements at Rs.41 LPA highest with average Rs.6.5 LPA, NAAC A+ accreditation, autonomous institutional status under Shivaji University, and 90%+ placement consistency across technical streams, though international research visibility and foreign university partnerships remain comparatively limited. For international masters admission success, universities globally prioritize bachelors institution reputation, minimum CGPA 7.5-8.0 (Bennett and SRM facilitate this through curriculum rigor), GRE/GATE scores (minimum 90 percentile), English proficiency (TOEFL ≥75 or IELTS ≥6.5), research output documentation, and faculty recommendation quality reflecting institution's research culture—criteria most strongly supported by Bennett's explicit international collaborations, SRM's documented research partnerships, and COEP's autonomous departmental research centers. Bennett simultaneously offers global pathway programs reducing masters abroad costs through articulation agreements and provides curriculum aligned internationally with partner institution standards, representing optimal intermediate bridge structure versus direct masters application. The cost-effectiveness and structured transition support through international partnerships, combined with demonstrated placement success and faculty research visibility, position these institutions distinctly above KIT Kolhapur for masters abroad aspirations. For your specific objective of pursuing masters abroad, prioritize Bennett University Delhi first—its explicit international university partnerships with Canadian, American, and European institutions, highest placement packages (Rs.137 LPA), and structured global pathway programs create seamless masters transitions with reduced costs. Second choice: SRM Chennai, offering extensive research collaborations, documented international linkages, and competitive placements (Rs.65 LPA highest) strengthening masters applications. Third: COEP Pune, delivering strong national standing and autonomous research infrastructure. Avoid RVCE and KIT due to limited international visibility and explicit foreign university partnerships compared to the above three institutions. All the BEST for a Prosperous Future!

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10894 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 16, 2025

Money
I have 450000 on hand, looking into my kids goingto university in 13 years
Ans: I truly appreciate your clear goal and long planning horizon.
Planning children’s education early shows care and responsibility.
Your patience of thirteen years is a strong advantage.
Having Rs. 4,50,000 ready gives a solid starting base.

» Understanding the Education Goal Clearly
University education costs rise faster than general inflation.
Professional courses usually cost much more.
Foreign education costs can rise even faster.
Thirteen years allows equity exposure with control.
Time gives scope to correct mistakes calmly.
Clarity today reduces stress later.

Education is a non-negotiable goal.
Money should be ready when needed.
Returns are important, but certainty matters more.
Risk must reduce as the goal nears.

» Time Horizon and Its Advantage
Thirteen years is a long investment window.
Long horizons help equity recover from volatility.
Short-term market noise becomes less relevant.
Compounding works better with patience.
This time allows phased asset changes.

Early years can take moderate growth risk.
Later years need capital protection.
This shift must be planned in advance.
Discipline matters more than market timing.

» Role of Rs. 4,50,000 Lump Sum
A lump sum gives immediate market participation.
It saves time compared to slow investing.
However, timing risk must be managed carefully.
Markets can be volatile in short periods.
Staggered deployment reduces regret risk.

This amount should not sit idle.
Inflation silently erodes unused money.
Cash gives comfort, but no growth.
Balanced deployment creates confidence.

» Asset Allocation Approach
Education goals need growth with safety.
Pure equity creates unnecessary stress.
Pure debt fails to beat education inflation.
A blended structure works best.

Equity provides long-term growth.
Debt gives stability and predictability.
Gold can add limited diversification.
Each asset has a specific role.

Allocation must change with time.
Static plans often fail near goals.
Dynamic rebalancing improves outcomes.

» Equity Exposure Assessment
Equity suits long-term education goals.
It handles inflation better than fixed returns.
Active management helps during market shifts.
Fund managers can adjust sector exposure.

Active strategies respond to changing economies.
They manage downside better than passive options.
They avoid blind market tracking.
Skill matters during volatile phases.

Equity volatility is emotional, not permanent.
Time reduces its impact significantly.
Regular reviews keep risks under control.

» Why Actively Managed Funds Matter
Education money cannot follow markets blindly.
Index-based investing copies market mistakes.
It cannot avoid overvalued sectors.
It lacks flexibility during crises.

Active funds can reduce exposure early.
They can increase cash when needed.
They can protect capital during downturns.
They aim for better risk-adjusted returns.

Education planning needs judgment, not automation.
Human decisions add value here.

» Debt Allocation and Stability
Debt balances equity volatility.
It provides visibility of future value.
It helps during market corrections.
It offers smoother return paths.

Debt is important as the goal nears.
It protects accumulated wealth.
It reduces last-minute shocks.
It supports planned withdrawals.

Debt returns may look modest.
But stability is its true benefit.
Peace of mind has real value.

» Role of Gold in Education Planning
Gold is not a growth asset.
It works as a hedge during stress.
It protects during global uncertainties.
It diversifies portfolio behaviour.

Gold allocation should remain limited.
Excess gold reduces long-term growth.
Its price movement is unpredictable.
Moderation is essential here.

» Phased Investment Strategy
Deploying lump sum gradually reduces timing risk.
It avoids emotional regret from market falls.
It allows participation across market levels.
This approach suits cautious planners.

Phasing also improves confidence.
Confidence helps stay invested long term.
Consistency beats perfect timing always.

» Ongoing Contributions Alongside Lump Sum
Education planning should not rely only on lump sum.
Regular investments add discipline.
They average market volatility.
They build habit-based wealth.

Future income growth can support step-ups.
Small increases matter over long periods.
Consistency outweighs size in investing.

» Risk Management Perspective
Risk is not market volatility alone.
Risk includes goal failure.
Risk includes panic withdrawals.
Risk includes poor planning.

Diversification reduces risk effectively.
Rebalancing controls excess exposure.
Regular reviews catch issues early.
Emotions need structured guardrails.

» Behavioural Discipline and Emotional Control
Markets test patience frequently.
Education goals demand calm decisions.
Fear and greed harm outcomes.
Plans fail due to emotions mostly.

Pre-decided strategies reduce mistakes.
Written plans improve commitment.
Periodic review gives reassurance.
Staying invested is crucial.

» Importance of Review and Monitoring
Thirteen years bring many changes.
Income levels may change.
Family needs may evolve.
Education preferences may shift.

Annual reviews keep plans relevant.
Asset allocation needs adjustment.
Performance must be evaluated objectively.
Corrections should be timely.

» Tax Efficiency Awareness
Tax impacts net education corpus.
Equity taxation applies during withdrawal.
Long-term gains get favourable rates.
Short-term exits cost more.

Debt taxation follows income slab rules.
Planning withdrawals reduces tax impact.
Staggered exits help manage tax burden.
Tax planning should align with goal timing.

Avoid frequent unnecessary churning.
Taxes quietly reduce returns.
Simplicity supports efficiency.

» Liquidity Planning Near Goal Year
Final three years need special care.
Market risk must reduce steadily.
Liquidity becomes priority over returns.
Funds should be easily accessible.

Avoid last-minute equity exposure.
Sudden crashes hurt planned education.
Gradual shift reduces anxiety.
Preparation avoids forced selling.

» Inflation Impact on Education Costs
Education inflation exceeds normal inflation.
Fees rise faster than salaries.
Accommodation costs also rise.
Foreign education adds currency risk.

Growth assets are essential initially.
Ignoring inflation leads to shortfall.
Planning must consider future realities.
Hope alone is not a strategy.

» Currency Risk Consideration
Overseas education includes currency exposure.
Rupee depreciation increases cost burden.
Diversification helps partially manage this.
Early planning reduces shock later.

This aspect needs periodic reassessment.
Flexibility helps adjust plans.
Preparation gives confidence.

» Emergency Fund and Education Goal
Education funds should not handle emergencies.
Separate emergency money is essential.
This avoids disturbing long-term plans.
Liquidity prevents panic selling.

Emergency planning supports education planning indirectly.
Stability improves decision quality.

» Insurance and Protection Perspective
Parent income supports education plans.
Adequate protection is important.
Unexpected events disrupt goals severely.
Risk cover ensures plan continuity.

Insurance supports planning discipline.
It protects dreams, not investments.
Coverage must match responsibilities.

» Avoiding Common Education Planning Mistakes
Starting too late increases pressure.
Taking excess equity near goal is risky.
Ignoring inflation leads to shortfall.
Reacting emotionally harms returns.

Chasing past performance disappoints.
Over-diversification reduces clarity.
Lack of review causes drift.
Simplicity works best.

» Role of Professional Guidance
Education planning needs structure.
Product selection is only one part.
Behaviour guidance adds real value.
Ongoing review ensures discipline.

A Certified Financial Planner adds perspective.
They align money with life goals.
They manage risks beyond returns.

» 360 Degree Integration
Education planning connects with retirement planning.
Cash flow planning supports investments.
Tax planning improves efficiency.
Risk planning ensures stability.

All areas must align together.
Isolated decisions create future stress.
Integrated thinking brings peace.

» Adapting to Life Changes
Career shifts may happen.
Income gaps may occur.
Expenses may increase unexpectedly.

Plans must remain flexible.
Flexibility prevents panic decisions.
Adjustments should be calm and timely.

» Final Insights
Your early start is a major strength.
Thirteen years provide meaningful flexibility.
Rs. 4,50,000 is a solid foundation.
Structured investing can multiply its value.

Balanced allocation with discipline works best.
Active management suits education goals well.
Regular review keeps risks controlled.
Emotional stability protects outcomes.

Stay patient and consistent.
Education planning rewards long-term commitment.
Clear goals reduce anxiety.
Prepared parents raise confident children.

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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