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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7184 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 29, 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
Asked by Anonymous - Nov 28, 2024Hindi
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I am having a SIP of 2000 on Bandhan flexicap_regular plan since 2014. Its XIRR is 13.6%. But, presently, many Flexicap funds like HDFC/Motilal Oswal/Patag Parikh is giving better return (>20%, 5 year). Should I consider to stop this SIP and start in another Flexicap fund for better return.

Ans: You have consistently invested Rs 2,000 per month in a flexicap fund since 2014. With an XIRR of 13.6%, this SIP has delivered a strong, inflation-beating return over time. This consistency reflects disciplined investment behaviour. However, it is natural to compare returns with other funds offering better short-term performance.

Let us analyse the situation and guide your next steps.

Strengths of Your Current Investment
Long-Term Investing: Staying invested since 2014 has leveraged the power of compounding.

Steady Returns: The fund has provided a stable 13.6% XIRR over nine years.

Market Phases: The fund has weathered various market cycles, proving its resilience.

Should You Switch to a New Fund?
Switching funds requires careful consideration. A short-term performance comparison alone is not enough.

1. Check Consistency Over Time
Review the 10-year and 15-year performance of your current fund.
Consistent performers in all market cycles are more reliable.
2. Assess Fund's Risk and Style
A high return in another fund may come with higher volatility or risks.
Evaluate the investment style and portfolio diversification of alternatives.
3. Impact of Capital Gains Tax
Selling your current investments may trigger long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax.
LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%. Factor this into your decision.
4. Transaction Costs
Consider exit loads or transaction charges if applicable.
Regular switching can erode returns through such costs.
Benefits of Staying Invested
1. Avoid Market Timing
Timing the market by chasing high-return funds can lead to losses.
Patience with a consistent performer usually pays off in the long term.
2. Power of Compounding
Long-term SIPs maximise compounding benefits.
Frequent fund changes interrupt this growth cycle.
When Should You Consider Switching?
If the fund consistently underperforms its benchmark and peers over 5-10 years.
If there are major changes in fund management or strategy.
Alternative Approach Instead of Switching
1. Diversify Across Funds
Start a SIP in another flexicap fund without stopping the existing one.
This ensures better diversification without disrupting current investments.
2. Review Portfolio Overlap
Avoid funds with overlapping portfolios to ensure diversification.
3. Seek Expert Guidance
Invest through an MFD with CFP credentials for personalised fund selection.
Active management ensures funds align with your financial goals.
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds do not offer advisory support.
You may miss crucial rebalancing opportunities without professional guidance.
Investing through regular plans with an MFD ensures expert monitoring and timely actions.
Final Insights
Your existing SIP has delivered steady, long-term returns. Do not switch based on short-term fund performance alone. Evaluate long-term consistency and risk before making changes. Consider starting a new SIP in another fund to diversify instead of stopping your current SIP.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
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  |7184 Answers  |Ask -

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

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I am regularly investing via SIP in UTI flexicap since last 6 years. Now, I am seeing that, UTI FLEXICAP is underperforming relative to its peers. What should I do now? Should I stop SIP or continue?
Ans: When faced with underperformance in an investment like UTI Flexicap, it's essential to assess your options carefully. Here's a suggested approach:

Review Performance: Evaluate the fund's performance relative to its benchmark and peer group over various time frames. Consider factors like consistency, volatility, and risk-adjusted returns.
Understand Reasons: Research and understand the reasons behind the fund's underperformance. Assess changes in fund management, investment strategy, sectoral exposures, or market conditions that may have contributed to the performance lag.
Assess Your Portfolio: Consider how UTI Flexicap fits into your overall investment portfolio. Evaluate its role in diversification, risk management, and alignment with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Consult with a Certified Financial Planner: Seek advice from a professional who can provide personalized guidance based on your individual circumstances. A Certified Financial Planner can help you assess whether to continue SIPs in UTI Flexicap or consider alternative options.
Explore Alternatives: Research other mutual funds in the flexicap category that have demonstrated consistent performance and align with your investment objectives. Compare their track records, investment philosophies, and expense ratios before making a decision.
Monitor Regularly: Regardless of your decision, continue to monitor the performance of your investments regularly. Stay informed about market trends, fund developments, and changes in your financial situation that may warrant adjustments to your investment strategy.
Ultimately, the decision to continue or stop SIPs in UTI Flexicap depends on your assessment of its performance, your investment goals, and your risk tolerance. With careful consideration and professional guidance, you can make informed choices to optimize your investment portfolio.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Dr Shyam

Dr Shyam Jamalabad  |82 Answers  |Ask -

Dentist - Answered on Nov 29, 2024

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Doctor, my 4.5-year-old son has baby bottle tooth decay in four of his front teeth. However, this wasn't caused by bottle-feeding but rather by him holding food in his mouth for extended periods when he was younger, around two years old. Local dentists have advised us to do nothing, as these teeth will eventually fall out and be replaced by adult teeth. However, I'm concerned that his new teeth might also be at risk. Is there anything we can do to prevent further decay of his current teeth, and is there a treatment available to help his teeth stay healthier? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Ans: Hello
This type of tooth decay is rather common in children. Most parents dismiss it as inconsequential because "milk teeth fall off anyway" and do not seek professional advice. I am happy to note that you are concerned and have already consulted a couple of dentists.
As long as your son's decayed teeth are asymptomatic, I would agree with your local dentists that, for now, no procedures should be done.
The logic is simple. A visit to the dentist is stressful even for adults. I imagine it would be even more so for a child of 4 or 5!
If the teeth in question are free from pain or underlying infection, we (the dental fraternity) would rather not expose the child to procedures which could potentially instill in him a lifelong fear of dentists and dental clinics.
However I strongly urge you to take your child for periodic check ups to ensure the decay doesn't spread unchecked and/or can be treated in time if the need arises. Please note if these teeth get infected and the infection is left untreated, the permanent teeth can also get damaged.
Also, you (the parent) need to inspect the said teeth and surrounding gums regularly to spot gum boils or swellings. If you spot any of this or if the child complains of pain please consult your dentist at once.
It goes without saying that he should brush his teeth with even more care. Ideally after every meal. Children cannot be fully trusted to brush their teeth well, so it's always wise for a parent to supervise.
If your son is a fussy eater you could consider giving him Calcium supplements. This will not help his current teeth in any way, but the permanent teeth which are due to erupt a few years later will hopefully be more resistant to decay.
Hope this answers your question.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7184 Answers  |Ask -

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

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I am 54 years. wnats to retire as early as possible. Have a housing loan of 70 lacs.. EMI is 80K every month. My monthly expenses is 70K. I have mutual funds /PF etc of app Rs 1.50 cr.. I want to clear my loan from the funds which I am having. Thereafter I will left with 80 lacs. I have two childerns. After 8-10 years I will requre funds for marrying both. My monthly in hand is app Rs 1.90 lacs.. For How many years will I have to work/or how much funds should i have to see that I have funds to marry my childerns and to met my monthly expenses once i retire
Ans: Your financial situation reflects thoughtful planning and steady savings. Let's assess your assets, liabilities, and goals for an early retirement.

Key Details of Your Financial Status
Housing Loan: Rs. 70 lakh housing loan with an EMI of Rs. 80,000 per month.

Monthly Expenses: Rs. 70,000 per month for regular living expenses.

Current Investments: Mutual funds and PF of Rs. 1.50 crore.

Funds Post Loan Clearance: Rs. 80 lakh remaining after clearing the loan.

Monthly Income: Rs. 1.90 lakh in-hand income.

Upcoming Responsibilities: Marriage expenses for two children in 8–10 years.

Evaluating the Housing Loan Decision
Clearing the housing loan now reduces debt burden but impacts your liquidity.

Rs. 70 lakh repayment will leave you with Rs. 80 lakh in investments.

Retain emergency funds for unforeseen expenses after loan repayment.

Once EMI stops, Rs. 80,000 will be available monthly for investments or savings.

Key Goals to Address
Retirement Planning: Ensure your corpus supports expenses after retirement.

Children's Marriages: Allocate funds for both weddings within 8–10 years.

Monthly Expenses Post Retirement: Maintain Rs. 70,000 adjusted for inflation.

Steps for Managing Funds After Loan Clearance
Emergency Fund Setup: Keep Rs. 10 lakh in a liquid fund for emergencies.

Diversify Remaining Funds: Divide Rs. 70 lakh into equity, hybrid, and debt funds.

Future Marriage Goals: Invest Rs. 30 lakh specifically for children's marriage expenses.

Retirement Corpus Growth: Use the remaining Rs. 40 lakh for retirement-focused investments.

Monthly Savings Post-Loan
After loan repayment, you save Rs. 80,000 EMI monthly.

Combine this with Rs. 40,000 (from Rs. 1.90 lakh income after expenses).

Total Rs. 1.20 lakh can be invested monthly for retirement and future goals.

Suggested Investment Allocation
Equity Mutual Funds: Allocate 60% of monthly savings for long-term growth.

Hybrid Mutual Funds: Allocate 20% for a balance of growth and stability.

Debt Funds: Allocate 20% for safer, predictable returns.

Goal-Based SIPs: Create separate SIPs for retirement and marriage goals.

Retirement Corpus Estimation
Aim for a corpus that generates Rs. 70,000 monthly, adjusted for inflation.

Plan for a 30-year retirement, assuming early retirement at age 55–57.

Factor in rising medical costs, lifestyle changes, and unforeseen expenses.

Taxation Considerations
Equity mutual funds' LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income tax slab.

Invest strategically to minimise tax liabilities while maximising returns.

Children's Marriage Planning
Allocate Rs. 30 lakh across equity and balanced funds for this goal.

Ensure growth-oriented investments to meet inflation-adjusted costs.

Withdraw gradually closer to the marriage dates to avoid market volatility.

Suggestions for Early Retirement
Continue working for 3–5 years to build a stronger retirement corpus.

This allows you to grow investments and plan for children's weddings.

Focus on reducing liabilities, increasing savings, and investing wisely.

Protection for Your Family
Health Insurance: Increase family coverage to Rs. 20–25 lakh.

Life Insurance: Ensure adequate coverage, at least 10 times your annual income.

Will and Estate Planning: Secure your wealth distribution legally.

Final Insights
Clearing your housing loan now can simplify your finances. However, focus on balancing liquidity for future goals. Continue working for a few more years to strengthen your retirement corpus. A well-structured investment plan can help meet your children’s marriage expenses and ensure a comfortable retired life.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Dr Shyam

Dr Shyam Jamalabad  |82 Answers  |Ask -

Dentist - Answered on Nov 29, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 18, 2024Hindi
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Health
Dr Saheb, I have gum problems and need to get treated. But Iam not able to find good dentist. Iam scared when they don't show any kindness or use soothing words. How to identify good dentist.
Ans: Hello
I understand your anxiety. A visit to the dentist can be stressful, especially if you have had a bad experience.

Here are some key factors to help you identify a good dentist:

1. *Qualifications*: Check for a degree from a reputable dental school and valid licenses.

2. *Experience*: Consider a dentist with extensive experience in general dentistry or specialized fields like orthodontics or oral surgery.

3. *Communication*: A good dentist listens attentively, explains procedures clearly, and answers questions patiently.

4. *Chairside manner*: A caring and compassionate attitude can make dental visits less stressful.

5. *Up-to-date technology*: Modern equipment and digital X-rays indicate a commitment to quality care.

6. *Sterilization and hygiene*: Ensure proper sterilization techniques and a clean environment.

7. *Continuing education*: A good dentist stays updated on the latest techniques and advancements.

8. *Patient reviews*: Research online reviews and ask for referrals from satisfied patients.

9. *Professional affiliations*: Membership in organizations like the Indian Dental Association (IDA) or local dental societies indicates a commitment to ethical standards.

10. *Comfort level*: Trust your instincts and choose a dentist with whom you feel comfortable discussing your concerns and treatment options.

11. *Clear treatment plans*: A good dentist explains procedures, costs, and alternatives clearly.

12. *Emergency care*: Find out their policy for handling dental emergencies and after-hours care.

13. *Office hours and location*: Consider a dentist with convenient office hours and a location that suits your needs


By evaluating these factors, you can find a skilled and caring dentist who meets your oral health needs.

...Read more

Dr Shyam

Dr Shyam Jamalabad  |82 Answers  |Ask -

Dentist - Answered on Nov 29, 2024

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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