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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 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 Jun 03, 2024Hindi
Money

Hi sir i had land , can i sell it put the money in mutal fund .... tq in advance

Ans: Thank you for your query. Selling land to invest in mutual funds can be a prudent financial decision. Let's explore this idea in detail, keeping your best interests in mind. I appreciate your forward-thinking approach and understand the significance of this decision for your financial future.

Understanding the Benefits of Mutual Funds
Mutual funds offer several advantages over real estate as an investment. They provide diversification, liquidity, professional management, and the potential for significant returns.

Diversification
Mutual funds invest in a variety of assets, including stocks and bonds. This diversification reduces risk, as poor performance in one asset is often balanced by better performance in another.

Liquidity
Mutual funds are highly liquid. You can redeem your investments at any time, unlike real estate, which can take months or even years to sell.

Professional Management
Mutual funds are managed by experienced fund managers. These professionals use their expertise to maximize returns, adjusting the portfolio as needed.

Evaluating Your Current Financial Position
Before proceeding, let's evaluate your current financial position. Understanding your overall financial health is crucial in making informed decisions.

Existing Assets and Liabilities
You own land and are considering selling it. Assess the current market value of your land. Determine if there are any outstanding loans or liabilities associated with it.

Financial Goals
Clearly define your financial goals. Are you looking for long-term growth, regular income, or capital preservation? Your goals will influence the type of mutual funds suitable for you.

Risk Tolerance
Assess your risk tolerance. Mutual funds come in various risk levels, from conservative debt funds to aggressive equity funds. Knowing your risk tolerance helps in selecting appropriate funds.

The Process of Selling Land
Selling land involves several steps. It’s important to follow a structured approach to maximize returns and ensure a smooth transaction.

Market Valuation
Get a professional valuation of your land. Understanding its market value helps in setting a realistic selling price.

Finding Buyers
Engage a real estate agent or use online platforms to find potential buyers. Effective marketing can attract serious buyers quickly.

Legal Considerations
Ensure all legal documentation is in place. This includes the title deed, tax receipts, and encumbrance certificate. Clear any legal issues before proceeding with the sale.

Finalizing the Sale
Negotiate with potential buyers to get the best price. Once agreed, complete the sale through a registered sale deed. Ensure all payments are received and documented.

Investing in Mutual Funds
Once the land is sold, the next step is to invest the proceeds wisely. Mutual funds offer various options tailored to different financial goals.

Types of Mutual Funds
Mutual funds come in several types, each with unique characteristics and benefits.

Equity Funds
Equity funds invest primarily in stocks. They offer high growth potential but come with higher risk. Suitable for long-term goals.

Debt Funds
Debt funds invest in fixed-income securities like bonds and treasury bills. They provide stable returns with lower risk. Ideal for conservative investors.

Hybrid Funds
Hybrid funds invest in a mix of equity and debt. They balance risk and reward, suitable for moderate risk-takers.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds, guided by expert fund managers, aim to outperform the market. They offer potential for higher returns, especially in volatile markets.

Expertise and Strategy
Fund managers use their expertise to make informed investment decisions. They actively monitor and adjust the portfolio based on market conditions.

Flexibility
Actively managed funds can adapt to market changes. This flexibility helps in capturing opportunities and mitigating risks effectively.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Index funds aim to replicate market indices. They can be less responsive to market changes, potentially yielding lower returns during downturns. Actively managed funds leverage expert insights to navigate market fluctuations, aiming for better performance.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds, although lower in cost, might lack the personalized guidance offered by Mutual Fund Distributors (MFDs) with Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credentials. Regular funds provide professional advice, helping you make informed investment decisions tailored to your financial goals.

Step-by-Step Investment Plan
Here’s a step-by-step plan to invest the proceeds from selling your land into mutual funds.

Step 1: Determine Investment Amount
Calculate the net amount from the land sale after deducting any liabilities and transaction costs. This is your investable amount.

Step 2: Asset Allocation
Based on your risk tolerance and financial goals, decide the asset allocation between equity, debt, and hybrid funds. Diversification is key to balancing risk and return.

Step 3: Choose Mutual Funds
Select mutual funds that align with your investment goals. Look for funds with a good track record, consistent performance, and reputable fund managers.

Step 4: Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
Consider investing through SIPs. This approach spreads your investment over time, reducing the impact of market volatility and leveraging rupee cost averaging.

Step 5: Monitor and Review
Regularly monitor your investments. Review the performance of your mutual funds periodically and make adjustments if necessary. Stay informed about market trends and economic factors that may affect your investments.

Potential Growth and Returns
Investing in mutual funds can potentially offer significant returns over the long term. Let’s illustrate with an example.

Assume you invest Rs.50 lacs from the land sale into mutual funds. If we consider an average annual return of 12%, here’s how your investment can grow over 10, 15, and 20 years.

10 Years
FV = PV × (1 + r)^n

Where:

PV = Rs.50,00,000
r = 12% annually
n = 10 years
FV = 50,00,000 × (1 + 0.12)^10

FV = 50,00,000 × 3.1058

FV = Rs.1,55,29,000

15 Years
FV = PV × (1 + r)^n

Where:

PV = Rs.50,00,000
r = 12% annually
n = 15 years
FV = 50,00,000 × (1 + 0.12)^15

FV = 50,00,000 × 5.4734

FV = Rs.2,73,67,000

20 Years
FV = PV × (1 + r)^n

Where:

PV = Rs.50,00,000
r = 12% annually
n = 20 years
FV = 50,00,000 × (1 + 0.12)^20

FV = 50,00,000 × 8.983

FV = Rs.4,49,15,000

Addressing Common Concerns
Market Volatility
Market volatility is a common concern for investors. However, staying invested for the long term can help ride out short-term fluctuations and benefit from overall market growth.

Inflation
Mutual funds, especially equity funds, have the potential to outpace inflation over the long term. They provide growth that can help preserve the purchasing power of your money.

Tax Efficiency
Mutual funds offer tax benefits, especially long-term capital gains (LTCG). Equity funds have a favorable tax regime, making them attractive for long-term investors.

Final Insights
Selling your land and investing the proceeds in mutual funds is a smart financial move. It offers diversification, liquidity, and the potential for significant returns. By following a structured investment plan and leveraging the expertise of fund managers, you can achieve your financial goals. Regular monitoring and periodic reviews will ensure your investments stay aligned with your objectives.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
Asked on - Jun 08, 2024 | Answered on Jun 08, 2024
Listen
Thank you very much sir,
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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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2024

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My self Shubham , I have agriculture land whose value is around 1.5 cr and right now i m getting 2 lakh rs annually as i have given my land in lease for farming i m thinking to sell my land to put that money some where else what is ur suggestion whether i sell it or not. N what is the future of agriculture land in india if i keep it with self for more 10-15 years right now my age is 27 Thank you
Ans: Dear Shubham,

Thank you for reaching out with your query. Your decision to either sell your agricultural land or retain it for future gains is a significant one and requires careful consideration. Here’s a detailed assessment to help you make an informed decision.

Evaluating the Future of Agricultural Land in India
Increasing Demand for Agricultural Land
India’s growing population and rising food demand suggest that agricultural land will continue to be valuable. The government’s focus on improving agricultural productivity and rural infrastructure could increase land value. Additionally, advancements in agricultural technology can boost land productivity, making agricultural land a potentially lucrative long-term investment.

Urbanization and Industrialization
As urban areas expand, agricultural land near cities may become prime targets for real estate development. This could significantly increase the land's value. However, this also depends on the land’s location and its proximity to urban centers. If your land is near an expanding urban area, its value might appreciate considerably over the next 10-15 years.

Assessing Your Current Returns and Future Potential
Current Lease Income
Currently, you are earning Rs. 2 lakh annually from leasing your land. This provides a steady, although relatively modest, income. Over the next 10-15 years, lease rates might increase, providing higher annual returns. However, this income may not match potential returns from other investment avenues.

Potential Appreciation
Agricultural land has historically shown significant appreciation in value over time. Keeping the land for another 10-15 years might result in a substantial increase in its value, especially if located near growing urban areas or if agricultural policies favor landowners.

Investment Alternatives if You Sell
Mutual Funds
Mutual funds can offer diversified exposure to different asset classes. Actively managed funds, guided by professional fund managers, can potentially provide higher returns than the agricultural lease income. Consult a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to select funds aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Public Provident Fund (PPF) and National Savings Certificate (NSC)
Investing in PPF or NSC can provide stable, tax-free returns with government-backed security. These are suitable for conservative investors looking for long-term wealth accumulation with tax benefits.

Equities and Bonds
Investing in equities offers potential for high returns, though with higher risk. Bonds, on the other hand, provide stable income and are less risky. A balanced portfolio, combining equities and bonds, can offer a good mix of growth and stability.

Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs)
SIPs in mutual funds allow for disciplined investing with potential for good returns over the long term. They help mitigate market volatility through rupee cost averaging. This can be a good option for regular and systematic investments.

Pros and Cons of Selling vs. Keeping the Land
Selling the Land
Pros:

Immediate access to a significant amount of capital.
Opportunity to invest in diversified financial instruments.
Potential for higher returns compared to lease income.
Cons:

Loss of a tangible asset that could appreciate over time.
No guarantee that new investments will outperform future land value.
Keeping the Land
Pros:

Steady lease income with potential for future increases.
Possibility of significant value appreciation, especially near urban areas.
Retaining a physical asset provides a sense of security.
Cons:

Lower current returns compared to potential investment alternatives.
Opportunity cost of not utilizing capital for higher returns.
Conclusion
Given your age (27) and the long investment horizon (10-15 years), you have time on your side. If your land is in a promising location near urban expansion, retaining it could be beneficial due to potential appreciation. However, if you seek higher returns and are comfortable with investing in diversified financial instruments, selling the land and reinvesting the proceeds could be a wise choice.

Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner to develop a personalized investment strategy. They can help balance risk and returns, ensuring your financial goals are met effectively.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 25, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 15, 2024Hindi
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Sir I retd teacher given vrs.i am having no savings.i am getting 42000 as monthly pension.i have personal loan 4lakhs and paying 17000 monthly.i have 5cent of land which if I sell I will get 25lakhs.i have no children.i am in my own house.i am getting 4000 as rent.my age is 55.if I sell the property I can live a comfortable life, but a person known to me is telling not to sell now.my only problem is that if i get money I have to spend for farm land.my husband is an officer and he earns about 1lakhs and have saving in pF . can I see the land and put a small amount in farm 2acres of land or can i wait.5cent is ideal.
Ans: Financial Position Assessment

You have a monthly pension of Rs. 42,000 and a personal loan of Rs. 4 lakhs with a monthly EMI of Rs. 17,000. You also receive Rs. 4,000 as rent. Your primary asset is 5 cents of land, valued at Rs. 25 lakhs.

You have no children and live in your own house. Your husband earns Rs. 1 lakh monthly and has savings in PF.

Debt Management

Prioritize repaying the personal loan. The high EMI reduces your disposable income. Consider using part of the land sale proceeds to clear this debt. This will relieve financial stress.

Asset Utilization

Selling your 5 cents of land could provide immediate liquidity. With Rs. 25 lakhs, you can clear your personal loan and still have a significant amount left. This could enhance your financial stability.

Investment Strategy

Instead of reinvesting in farmland, consider diversifying your investments. Farm land can be risky and illiquid. Here are some options to explore:

Mutual Funds: Opt for actively managed mutual funds. They offer potential for higher returns. They also provide professional management.
Fixed Deposits: For safety and guaranteed returns. They offer peace of mind.
Post Office Schemes: Safe and offer decent returns. Ideal for retired individuals.
Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS): Offers regular interest payments. Safe and government-backed.
Income Generation

Continue renting out your property for Rs. 4,000 monthly. This provides a steady income stream.

Insurance Review

Review your insurance policies. Ensure adequate health and term insurance coverage. This protects against unforeseen events.

Husband's Contributions

Leverage your husband's income and savings. His PF savings can be a good backup. Plan together for a secure retirement.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner

A CFP can help you make informed decisions. They offer professional advice tailored to your needs.

Final Insights

Selling your land can provide immediate financial relief. It allows you to clear your personal loan and invest the remaining amount wisely. Diversifying your investments ensures financial stability and regular income.

Avoid reinvesting in farmland due to its risks. Leverage your husband's income and savings for a secure future. Consulting a CFP ensures you make the best decisions for your financial well-being.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Milind

Milind Vadjikar  | Answer  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Jan 27, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Jan 27, 2025Hindi
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Hello Respected sir, I have an old land worth 2 crore which I am planning to sell.Original sale deed is of Rs 1 lakh Can you please help me: 1. How much tax have to pay? 2. Where should I invest rest for max return? 3. Currently living on rent but planning to buy 2 flats around 50 lacks each. I will stay in one and the second one will sell. Is this correct? 4. My current income is 2 lakh a month and I have kid only. Investments already in PPF monthly 10K, Sukanya Yojna monthly 20K rest expenses 60K monthly. I am a 44 year old married. My Goal is to have: 25 Lakhs for Education in next 7 yrs and Retirement income 1Lakh a month.
Ans: Hello;

1. You have 2 options of long term capital gain tax working because you have old land.
a.200-1=199 Lakhs on this a tax of 12.5% i.e.24.875 Lakhs
b.200-x=xyz Lakhs on this a tax of 20%
Where "x" is the inflation indexed cost of acquisition
You may consult a CA for calculating "x" for you and also recommending ways in which you can avoid payment of this tax based on provisions of income tax act.

If you can save on entire tax payment by reinvesting the capital gain from land sale into real estate then it makes sense to invest in real estate. You may rent out part of your real estate to earn rental income.

You may do a monthly sip of `90 K in an equity savings type mutual fund with low to moderate risk for 7 years.

It may grow into a sum of 1 Cr after 7 years assuming modest return of 9%. It may be utilised to fund higher education of your kid and partially funding your retirement income in addition to rental income.

Best Wishes;
X: @mars_invest

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Naveenn Kummar  |234 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF, Insurance Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

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Dear Naveen Sir, I am 55 Years old and have five more years in superannuation. My monthly take home is approx. 6 Lacs PM . I have accumulated 2 Cr. in MF , 1.5 Cr in PF , 1 Cr FD and NPS and LIC put all together will be approx 50 Lacs and payout will start from 2028 onwards. I have just booked one 4 BHK and take home loan which is construction linked plan . Possession will be in 2029. My Daughter and Son are on Marriage age but both are also earning handsomely as they are in 30% bracket of IT . Have parental property approx 1.5 Cr which i will get in due course of the time. Monthly expenses are approx 1 Lacs only . Please suggest the way forward for next 5 Years .....how and where i start investing ....
Ans: Dear Sir
For a comprehensive QPFP level financial planning and retirement assessment we request the following details. These inputs will allow financial planner to prepare an accurate inflation-adjusted roadmap covering risk protection, income stability, investment strategy and long-term financial security.
________________________________________
1. Personal and Family Details
Your age and planned retirement year.
Spouse’s age, working status and future income expectations.
Number of dependents and their financial reliance on you.
Any major medical conditions in the family.
________________________________________
2. Parents’ Health and Financial Dependence
Current health condition of parents.
Do they have their own medical insurance cover.
Sum insured and type of policy.
Any critical illness or pre-existing conditions.
Monthly financial support you provide to them if any.
Expected future medical or caretaker expenses.
________________________________________
3. Income and Cash Flow
Monthly take home income.
Expected increments or bonuses for the next five years.
Monthly household expense structure.
Existing EMIs and financial commitments.
Monthly surplus available for investments.
Any expenses expected to rise due to inflation or lifestyle changes.
________________________________________
4. Home Loan and Liabilities
Sanctioned home loan amount, interest rate and tenure.
Current disbursement status under construction linked plan.
Your plan for EMI servicing and part-prepayment.
Any other loans or financial liabilities.
________________________________________
5. Real Estate Profile
Is this 4 BHK your first home or do you own other properties.
Any rental income from existing properties.
Purpose of the new 4 BHK after retirement for self, parents or children.
Your plan for the parental house. Retain, sell or rent.
Where you plan to settle post retirement.
________________________________________
6. Investment Portfolio
Current mutual fund corpus and category-wise split.
SIP amounts and investment horizon.
PF, EPF, PPF and other retirement scheme balances.
Fixed deposit amounts, maturity periods and ownership structure for DICGC protection.
NPS allocations Tier 1 and Tier 2.
LIC policies with surrender value and maturity year.
Any bonds, NCDs, PMS, private equity or invoice discounting exposure.
________________________________________
7. Emergency Preparedness
Current emergency fund value.
Loan facility available against MF or FD.
Any credit line for medical or sudden expenses.
________________________________________
8. Insurance Protection (Self and Spouse)
Term insurance coverage and policy details.
Health insurance sum assured and insurer.
Top-up or super top-up cover details.
Critical illness and accident cover status.
Adequacy of insurance after accounting for inflation.
________________________________________
9. Children’s Goals and Planning
Are you contributing financially to your children's planning.
Any corpus set aside for their marriage.
Children’s own investment and insurance setup.
Any future goals involving them.
________________________________________
10. Retirement Vision and Income Planning
Expected retirement lifestyle and monthly cost adjusted for inflation.
Your preferred retirement income structure
SWP from mutual funds
Annuity or pension products
PF interest
NPS annuity
Rental income
Plans to monetise or downsize real estate if needed.
Any travel, medical or lifestyle goals post retirement.
________________________________________
11. Estate and Succession Planning
Will availability and last update date.
Nominations across MF, PF, NPS, FD, LIC, demat and bank accounts.
Any instructions for asset distribution.
________________________________________
Next Step
Only Once you share these details, financial planner can prepare a complete five year roadmap covering asset allocation, inflation-adjusted corpus projections, loan strategy, insurance adequacy, medical preparedness, pension and SWP planning, liquidity management and post-retirement income stability.


Disclaimer / Guidance:
The above analysis is generic in nature and based on limited data shared. For accurate projections — including inflation, tax implications, pension structure, and education cost escalation — it is strongly advised to consult a qualified QPFP/CFP or Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD). They can help prepare a comprehensive retirement and goal-based cash flow plan tailored to your unique situation.
Financial planning is not only about returns; it’s about ensuring peace of mind and aligning your money with life goals. A professional planner can help you design a safe, efficient, and realistic roadmap toward your ideal retirement.

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Chief Financial Planner | AMFI Registered MFD
https://members.networkfp.com/member/naveenkumarreddy-vadula-chennai
044-31683550

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

Money
Im aged 40 years and my husband is aged 48 years. We have one son aged 8 years and daughter aged 12 years. We both are in business. What should be the ideal corpus to meet their education at the age of 18 years for both children? Present business income we can save Rs.50000 pm
Ans: You are thinking early. That itself is a smart step. Many parents postpone planning and later struggle with loans. You are not in that situation. So appreciate your approach.

You asked about ideal corpus for higher education. Education cost is rising fast. So planning early avoids financial pressure later.

You have two kids. Your daughter is 12. Your son is 8. You have around six years for your daughter and around ten years for your son. With this time frame, you need a proper structured plan.

» Understanding Future Education Cost

Education inflation in India is high. It is increasing year after year. Even professional courses are becoming costly. College fees, hostel fees, books, digital tools and transportation also add cost.

You need to consider this inflation. Higher education cost will not remain at today’s value. It will grow.

So if today a standard undergraduate program costs around a few lakhs, in six to ten years the cost may go much higher. That is why estimating corpus should consider this future cost.

You don’t need exact numbers today. You need a target range to plan. A comfortable range gives clarity.

» Typical Cost Structure for Higher Education

Higher education cost depends on:

– Private or government institution
– Course type
– City or abroad option
– Duration

For engineering, medical, management or technology courses, cost goes higher. For government colleges the cost is lower but seats are limited. Private colleges are more accessible but expensive.

So planning based only on government college assumption may create funding gaps. Planning based on private college range gives safer margin.

» Suggested Corpus for Both Children

For your daughter, considering next six years gap and inflation, a target range should be higher. For your son, you have more time. So his corpus can grow better because compounding works more with time.

For a comfortable education corpus that covers most course possibilities, many families plan for a higher number. It gives flexibility to choose better college without stress.

So you can aim for a larger goal for both children like this:

– Daughter: Target a strong education fund for next six years
– Son: Target a similar or slightly higher fund for the next ten years because future costs may be higher

You may not need the whole amount if your child chooses a less expensive route. But having extra cushion gives peace.

» Your Savings Ability

You mentioned you can save Rs.50000 monthly. That is a strong saving capacity. But this saving should not go entirely to a single goal. You will also need future retirement planning, emergency fund and other life goals.

Still, a reasonable portion of this amount can be allocated towards education planning. Some families divide savings based on urgency and time horizon. Since daughter’s goal is near, she may need a more stable allocation.

Your son’s goal is long term. So his part can stay in growth asset for longer.

» Choosing the Right Investment Style

A long term goal like your son’s education needs equity exposure. Equity gives better potential for long term growth. It beats inflation better than fixed deposits.

But for your daughter, pure equity can create risk because goal is nearer. Market fluctuations may affect final corpus. So she needs a balanced asset mix.

So investment approach must be different for both.

» Asset Allocation Strategy

For your daughter with six year horizon:

– Higher allocation to a balanced type category
– Some allocation to equity through diversified categories
– Step down equity allocation in final three years

This structure protects capital in later years.

For your son with ten year horizon:

– Higher equity allocation at start
– Continue systematic investing
– Reduce risk allocation gradually closer to goal period

This helps growth and protection.

» Avoiding Wrong Investment Products

Parents often buy traditional insurance plans or children policies for education. These policies give low returns. They lock money and reduce wealth creation potential.

So avoid purely insurance based products for education goals. Insurance is separate. Investment is separate. This separation creates clarity and better growth.

If you already hold any ULIP or investment insurance product, it may not be efficient. Only if you have such policies then you may review and consider if surrender is needed and reinvest in mutual funds. If you don’t have such policies, no need to worry.

» Role of Actively Managed Mutual Funds

For long term goals, actively managed mutual funds offer better flexibility and expert management. They are designed to outperform inflation. A regular plan through a mutual fund distributor with CFP support helps with guidance. They also track your goal and give advice in volatile phases.

Direct funds look cheaper on expense ratio. But they lack advisory support. Long term investors often make emotional mistakes in direct investing. They stop SIPs or switch wrong schemes. So advisory backed investing avoids costly behaviour mistakes.

Index funds look simple and low cost. But they only follow the market. They don’t protect during corrections. There is no strategy or research. Actively managed funds adjust holdings based on market research and valuation. For life goals like education, smoother growth and strategy are needed.

So regular plan with advisory support helps you avoid unnecessary emotional decisions.

» Importance of Systematic Investing

A fixed monthly SIP gives discipline. It also benefits from market volatility. When markets fall, SIP buys more units. In rise phase, the value grows.

A structured SIP helps both goals. For daughter, SIP should shift towards low volatility funds slowly. For son, SIP can run longer in growth-oriented funds before reducing risk.

Your contribution amount may change based on future business income. But start now with whatever comfortable.

» Protecting the Goal With Insurance

Since you both are running business, income stability may fluctuate. So ensuring life security is important. Term insurance is the right option. It is low cost and high coverage.

This ensures child’s education is protected even if income stops.

Medical insurance also matters. A medical emergency should not break education savings.

» Reviewing the Plan Periodically

A fixed plan is good. But markets and life conditions change. So review once every twelve months.

Points to review:

– Are SIPs running on time?
– Is allocation suitable for goal year?
– Any need to shift from equity to safer category?
– Any tax planning advantage needed?

But avoid checking portfolio every week. Frequent checking creates stress.

» Education Goal Withdrawal Plan

As the daughter’s goal comes close:

– Stop SIP in high risk category
– Start shifting profit to debt type fund over systematic transfers
– Keep final year money in safe option like liquid category

Same formula should be applied for your son when his goal approaches.

This protects against last minute market crash.

» Emotional Side of Planning

Education is an emotional goal. Parents feel pressure to provide the best. But planning removes fear.

Saving consistently gives confidence. Having a plan helps avoid panic decisions. It also brings clarity of future expense.

This planning sets financial discipline for your children as well.

» Taxation Factors

When redeeming funds for education, tax rules will apply. For equity fund withdrawals, long term capital gains above exemption are taxed at 12.5% as per current rules. For short term within one year, tax is higher.

For debt investments, gains are taxed as per your tax slab.

So plan the withdrawal timing to reduce tax.

Tax planning near goal year is very important.

» What You Can Do Next

– Start separate investments for each child
– Use SIP for disciplined investing
– Choose growth-oriented asset for son
– Choose balanced and phased investment approach for daughter
– Review allocation yearly
– Protect the goal with insurance cover

Following these steps helps achieve the target corpus smoothly.

» Finally

You are already thinking in the right direction. You have time for both goals. You also have a good saving frequency. So you can build a strong education fund without stress.

Your children’s future will be secure if you continue with a structured and disciplined plan.

Stay consistent with your savings. Make investment choices carefully. Review and adjust calmly over time.

This journey will help you reach your ideal corpus for both children.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 09, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi Sir, Regarding recent turmoils in global economic situation and trends, Trump's tariffs, relentless FII selling, should I be worried about midcap, large&midcap funds that I have in my mutual fund portfolio? I have been investing from last 4 years and want to invest for next 10 years only. And then plan to retire and move to SWP. I'm targeting a 10%-11% return eventually. And I don't want to make lower returns than FD's. Is now the time to switch from midcap, laege&midcap to conservative, large, flexi funds? Please suggest.
Ans: You have asked the right question at the right time. Many investors panic only after damage happens. You are thinking ahead. That is a strong habit.

You also have clarity about your goal, time horizon and expected returns. This mindset will help you handle market noise better.

» Current Market Sentiment and Global Events
The global economy is seeing stress. There are trade decisions, tariff announcements, and geopolitical issues. Foreign institutional investors are selling. News flow looks negative.
These events can cause short term volatility. Midcaps and small caps usually react faster during these phases. Even large caps show some stress.
But markets have seen many crises in the past. Elections, governments, conflicts, pandemics, financial crashes and tariff wars are not new events. Markets always recover over time.
Short term movements are unpredictable. Long term wealth creation depends more on patience and asset allocation.

» Your Time Horizon Matters More Than Market Noise
You have been investing for 4 years. You plan to invest for the next 10 years. That means your remaining maturity is long term.
For a 10 year goal, equity is suitable. Midcap and large and midcap funds are designed for long term investors. They are not meant for short periods.
If your time horizon is short, it is valid to worry about downside risk. But with 10 more years ahead, temporary volatility is normal and expected.
Short term fear should not drive long term decisions.

» Should You Switch to Conservative or Large Cap Now?
Switching based on panic or temporary news is not ideal. When you switch now, you lock the current lower value permanently. You also miss the recovery phase.
Large cap and flexi cap funds offer stability. But they also deliver lower growth potential during bull runs compared to midcaps.
Midcaps usually fall deeper when markets drop. But they also recover faster and often outperform in the next cycle.
Switching now may protect emotions but may reduce long term wealth creation.

» Target Return of 10% to 11% is Reasonable
Aiming for 10%-11% return with a 10 year investment horizon is realistic.
Fixed deposits now offer around 6.5% to 7.5%. After tax, the return becomes lower.
Equity funds have potential to generate better returns compared to FD over a long tenure. Midcap allocation contributes to this return potential.
So moving fully to conservative funds may reduce your ability to beat inflation comfortably.

» Impact of FII Selling
FII selling creates pressure on the market. But domestic investors including SIP flows are strong today. India is seeing strong structural growth.
Retail investors, mutual funds and systematic flows act as stabilizers.
FII selling is temporary and cyclical. It is not a permanent trend.

» Economic Slowdowns Create Opportunities
Corrections make valuations reasonable. This can benefit long term SIP investors.
During downturns, your SIP buys more units. During recovery, these units grow.
This mechanism works best in volatile categories like midcaps.
Stopping SIP or switching during dips blocks this benefit.

» Midcap Cycles Are Natural
Midcap funds move in cycles. They have phases of strong growth followed by correction. The correction phase is painful but temporary.
Every cycle contributes to future upside. Staying invested during all phases is important.
Many investors exit during downturns and enter again after markets rise. This behaviour produces lower returns than the mutual fund performance.

» Role of Portfolio Balance
Instead of exiting fully, review your asset allocation. You can hold a mix of:
– Large cap
– Flexi cap
– Midcap
– Large and midcap
This gives stability and growth potential.
Midcap should not be more than a suitable percentage for your age and risk tolerance. Since you are 36, some meaningful midcap exposure is fine.
If midcap exposure is very high, you can reduce slightly and move that portion to flexi cap or large cap funds slowly through a systematic transfer. Do not do a lump sum shift during panic.

» Behavioural Discipline Matters More Than Fund Selection
Market cycles test investor patience. Consistency in SIP and holding through declines builds wealth.
Most investors do not fail due to bad funds. They fail due to fear-based decisions.
Your approach should be systematic, not emotional.

» Do Not Compare with FD Frequently
FD gives predictable return. Equity gives volatile but higher potential return.
Comparing FD returns every time the market falls leads to wrong decisions.
FD is for safety. Equity is for growth. They serve different purposes.
Your retirement plan and SWP plan depends on growth. Only equity can provide that growth.

» Should You Change Strategy Because Retirement is 10 Years Away?
Now is not the time to exit growth segments. You are still in accumulation phase.
When you reach the last 3 years before retirement, then reducing equity exposure step by step is required.
At that stage, a glide path helps preserve gains. That time has not yet come.
So continue building wealth now.

» Market Timings and Shifts Rarely Work
Many investors try to predict markets. Most of them fail.
Switching based on news looks logical. But news and market timing rarely align.
Staying consistent with your asset allocation gives better results than frequent changes.

» Portfolio Review Approach
You can follow these steps:
– Continue SIPs in all categories
– Avoid stopping based on short term fears
– If midcap allocation is above comfort level, shift only small portion gradually
– Review allocation once in a year, not every month
This structured approach prevents emotional decisions.

» Tax Rules Matter When Switching
Switching between equity funds involves tax impact.
Short term capital gains tax is higher.
Long term capital gains above the exemption limit are taxed at 12.5%.
Switching without purpose can create avoidable tax leakage.
This reduces your compounding.

» When to Worry?
You need to reconsider only if:
– Your goal horizon becomes short
– Your risk appetite changes
– Your allocation becomes unbalanced
Not because of headlines or temporary corrections.

» Your Retirement SWP Plan
Once your accumulation phase is completed, you can shift to:
– Conservative hybrid
– Flexi cap
– Balanced allocation
This will support a smoother SWP.
But this transition should happen only closer to the retirement start date. Not now.

» SIP is Designed for Turbulent Years
SIP works best when markets are volatile. The hardest years for emotions are the most powerful for compounding.
Your long term discipline is your strategy.
Do not interrupt it.

» What You Should Do Now
– Stay invested
– Continue SIP
– Avoid panic selling
– Review allocation once a year
– Use a steady plan, not reactions
This will help you reach your target return range.

» Finally
You are on the right path. The current volatility is temporary. Your 10 year horizon gives enough time for recovery and growth.
Switching right now based on fear may reduce your future returns. Staying invested and continuing SIPs is the sensible approach.
Your goal of better return than FD is realistic. Equity can deliver that with patience.
Stay calm and systematic.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |6740 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 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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