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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 30, 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
Dipak Question by Dipak on Nov 08, 2023Hindi
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Hello Sir, I am 24 Years old, My goal - 1 CR in next 10-15 year. As a beginner, I have been making SIP's since last 5 months in ( Parag P Flexi 2k Pm, Axis Small cap 2.5kPm, Motilal oswal midcap 1.5Kpm, ICICI Pru Value Discovery 1 K ) total @7000 per month. (step up 30% every year) . Going forward, >> Now for lumpsum I have identified 1. Nippon India power and Infra , ( as i want to invest in Power sectoral funds) 2. Canara Robeco Bluechip Equity fund OR Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund ( Direct Growth @ 10000 initially) , I plan to add 5k Quarterly until i reach a reasonable lumpsum amount. Please share your valuable suggestions on my plan. and addition or deletion to any funds. Thanks, Dipak

Ans: Your commitment to investing at such a young age is commendable. Achieving Rs 1 crore in the next 10-15 years is a realistic goal with your disciplined approach.

Current SIP Strategy

You have started SIPs in four diversified funds, totaling Rs 7,000 per month. This strategy, combined with a 30% annual step-up, is a strong foundation for growth.

Evaluating Your Fund Selection

Your chosen funds cover flexi-cap, small-cap, mid-cap, and value categories. This diversification is prudent, spreading risk and capturing growth across different market segments.

Lump Sum Investment Strategy

You plan to invest in sectoral and large-cap funds. These choices can add stability and sector-specific growth to your portfolio. Diversifying across sectors reduces risk and enhances potential returns.

Sectoral Fund Considerations

Investing in sectoral funds like power and infrastructure can be rewarding. However, these funds are highly volatile. Ensure they constitute a smaller portion of your portfolio to manage risk.

Large-Cap Fund Choices

Choosing between Canara Robeco Bluechip Equity and Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund is wise. Both funds are known for stability and steady growth. Allocating your lump sum and quarterly investments in these funds balances your portfolio.

Advantages of Actively Managed Funds

Actively managed funds offer professional management, adapting to market changes. This flexibility can result in higher returns compared to passive index funds, which simply track the market.

Disadvantages of Index Funds

Index funds mimic market indices and may not perform well in downturns. They lack the adaptability and professional oversight of actively managed funds, limiting potential returns.

Benefits of Investing Through a Certified Financial Planner

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner ensures tailored advice and professional management. They can help you make informed decisions and optimise your investment strategy.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds

Direct funds have lower expense ratios but lack professional guidance. Investing through a certified planner provides expert oversight, ensuring your portfolio aligns with your goals.

Periodic Review and Rebalancing

Regularly review your portfolio's performance. Rebalancing ensures your investments stay aligned with your financial goals and market conditions. This approach optimises returns and manages risks effectively.

Creating a Comprehensive Financial Plan

In addition to mutual funds, consider other financial aspects like emergency funds, insurance, and tax planning. A holistic financial plan ensures a secure and well-rounded approach to wealth creation.

Monitoring Market Trends

Stay informed about market trends and economic factors. This knowledge helps you make timely adjustments to your investments, maximising returns and mitigating risks.

Conclusion

Your disciplined investment strategy and diversified portfolio are commendable. With regular review and professional guidance, you can achieve your goal of Rs 1 crore in the next 10-15 years.

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 52 year professional, working in private sector. Other than my EPF & PF savings I am having following mutual fund investments (both in SIP & lump su). My goal is to have a corpus of Rs 1.5 - 2 cr in next 4-5 years. I am ready to invest Rs 40K in SIP on monthly basis and may be Rs 5-10 lump sum in another 6 months’ time. Request you to review my portfolio and advise on what SIPs I can start (also any correction required for existing funds?) as well as whether to invest in good equity stocks (I am having a demat account with few direct equities of Rs 2 L only) or in lump sum mutual fund for annual Rs 5-10 L surplus. Company No of shares Price Recommendation PORTFOLIO DETAILS A MONTHLY SIP MUTUAL FUND     Sl No Fund Details Current value in Rs L SIP AMOUNT in RS 1 HDFC Flexi Cap Fund - Regular Plan Growth 4.32 3000 2 Axis Mid cap fund 0.6 5000 3 Mirage assets large cap fund 0.58 5000 4 Axis Special situation fund - Regular Plan - Growth 0.09 2000 5 Aditya Birla Sun Life Frontline Equity Fund Growth 3.8 3000 6 Kotak Emerging Equity Fund - Regular Plan Growth 0.09 3000 7 Kotak Equity Opportunity Fund - Regular Plan Growth 0.09 3000                 B LUMP SUM MUTUAL FUND     Sl No Fund Details Current value in Rs L Initial Value in Rs L 1 Axis Retirement Savings Fund - Conservative Plan - Regular Growth 6.2 5 2 Axis ESG Equity Fund Regular Plan Growth 4.85 3 3 Axis Blue-chip Fund Growth 5.2 3 4 Tata Focused Equity Fund - Regular Plan 6.16 4 5 LIC Debt Fund - Secured NA 2 6 LIC balanced Fund NA 2
Ans: Please continue, we can review after 1 year

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

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Hi Samraat, ( My goal - 1 CR in next 10-15 year) As a beginner, I have been making SIP's since last 5 months in ( Parag P Flexi 2k Pm, Axis Small cap 2.5kPm, Motilal oswal midcap 1.5K, ICICI Pru Value Discovery 1 K ) total @7000 per month. returns are reasonable and good. (step up 30% every year). (Thanks for your earlier advice on these) . Going forward, >> Now for lumpsum I have identified 1. Nippon India power and Infra , ( as i want to invest in Power sectoral funds) 2. Canara Robeco Bluechip Equity fund ( Direct Growth @ 10000 initially) , I plan to add 5k Quarterly ntil i reach a reasonable lumpsum amount. Please share your valuable suggestions on my plan. Thanks,
Ans: Assessment of Current SIPs:

Your SIP portfolio is well-diversified across different categories like flexi cap, small cap, mid cap, and value discovery funds. It's commendable that you've started your SIP journey, and the step-up strategy of increasing investments by 30% annually demonstrates a disciplined approach towards wealth accumulation.

Proposed Lump Sum Investments:

Nippon India Power and Infra Fund:

Investing in sectoral funds like power and infrastructure can offer growth opportunities, especially if you believe in the long-term prospects of this sector.
However, it's essential to note that sectoral funds can be volatile and carry higher risk compared to diversified equity funds.
Ensure that your investment horizon aligns with the inherent volatility of the power sector, and consider diversifying across other sectors for risk mitigation.
Canara Robeco Bluechip Equity Fund (Direct Growth):

Opting for a blue-chip equity fund is a prudent choice for investors seeking stability and consistent returns.
Blue-chip funds typically invest in large-cap stocks with strong fundamentals, making them relatively safer than mid and small-cap funds.
Your strategy of initially investing a lump sum followed by quarterly additions is a systematic way to build wealth over time.
Overall Recommendations:

Diversification:

While your selection of funds seems reasonable, consider further diversification across different asset classes like debt, gold, and international funds to mitigate risk.
Diversification helps in spreading risk and optimizing returns, especially during market uncertainties.
Regular Review:

It's essential to review your portfolio periodically, preferably annually or bi-annually, to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Rebalancing your portfolio based on changing market conditions and your investment objectives is crucial for long-term wealth creation.
Risk Management:

As you progress towards your goal of accumulating Rs. 1 crore in the next 10-15 years, consider your risk appetite and adjust your investment strategy accordingly.
Ensure that your asset allocation reflects your risk tolerance and investment horizon to achieve a balance between growth and stability.
In conclusion, your investment plan demonstrates a proactive approach towards wealth creation. However, remember to stay informed about market developments and seek professional advice whenever necessary to make informed investment decisions.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 06, 2024

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 20, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 04, 2024Hindi
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Hi, I am 29 yr old and i have two sip's: quant flexi cap fund which i started last with 5k and increased to 6k and mireae assed emerging blue chip fund which i started 4 months which 5k. I have investment 5l lumpsum in quant multi cap fund 5l in sbi blue chip fund 1 in nippon large cap fund 1.5l in quant small cap fund. My goal is to reach 1 cr in next 5- 6 yrs span. Please guide me how much i need to invest and in which mutual funds i need to invest into.
Ans: Let's begin by appreciating your proactive approach to financial planning at such a young age. It's commendable that you've already started investing through SIPs and lump sum investments.

Your current portfolio includes a mix of flexi cap, emerging blue chip, multi cap, large cap, and small cap funds, showcasing a diversified investment strategy. However, to evaluate your progress towards your goal of reaching 1 crore in the next 5-6 years, let's delve deeper.

Your SIP investments in Quant Flexi Cap Fund and Mirae Asset Emerging Blue Chip Fund demonstrate a disciplined saving habit. With time, consistent SIPs have the potential to accumulate substantial wealth due to the power of compounding.

Analysis of Portfolio Performance
While your investment choices show promise, it's crucial to assess the performance of your funds periodically. As a Certified Financial Planner, I would suggest reviewing your portfolio at least annually to ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Strategic Investment Approach
Given your ambitious goal of accumulating 1 crore in 5-6 years, it's essential to evaluate your investment strategy. Considering the relatively short time frame, a more aggressive approach may be warranted.

Recommendations for Optimizing Portfolio
To optimize your portfolio, consider reallocating your investments towards funds with higher growth potential. You may want to increase your exposure to mid and small-cap funds, which historically have shown greater growth potential over the short to medium term.

Building a Path to 1 Crore
To estimate how much you need to invest regularly, it's essential to consider factors like expected returns, inflation, and time horizon. A Certified Financial Planner can help you calculate the required SIP amount based on these variables, ensuring your investment strategy remains aligned with your goal.

Conclusion
In summary, while your current investment portfolio demonstrates a proactive approach towards wealth accumulation, optimizing it further can enhance your chances of reaching your goal of 1 crore in 5-6 years. Regular reviews and adjustments, coupled with strategic investments, will pave the way for financial success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Moneywize

Moneywize   | Answer  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on May 09, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 07, 2024Hindi
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I am 22 today and I would like to build a corpus of Rs 1 cr in next 8 to 10 years. I have been investing in SIPs since last 8 months in: * Motilal oswal midcap 2K * ICICI Pru Value Discovery 2K * Parag P Flexi 2k * Axis Small cap 2k I plan to step up b 30 per cent every year going forward in the above funds. Are these funds identified by me good for lump sum investment of Rs 20,000? * Canara Robeco Bluechip Equity fund * Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund * Nippon India power and Infra Looking forward to your valuable suggestions. Thanks
Ans: The funds you have chosen for your SIPs have a good mix of mid-cap and flexi-cap exposure, which can be suitable for a long-term investment horizon like yours (8-10 years). Here's a breakdown of your questions:

Suitability of existing SIP funds for lump sum investment:

While your SIP funds focus on mid-cap and flexi-cap, the lump sum investment options you've chosen lean more towards large-cap. This creates a more balanced portfolio across market capitalisations. However, directly suggesting specific funds for a lump sum investment is difficult due to regulatory restrictions.

Here's what you can do:

• Maintain asset allocation: Consider the overall asset allocation you want for your portfolio (mid-cap, large-cap weightage). Look for funds within those categories that complement your existing SIP choices.
• Research the new funds: Do your research on the Canara Robeco Bluechip Equity Fund, Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund, and Nippon India Power and Infra Fund. Check their past performance, investment philosophy, expense ratio etc.

Stepping up SIPs by 30%:

This is a good strategy to increase your investment amount gradually and benefit from rupee-cost averaging. It helps you invest more when the market is low and potentially less when it's high.

Additional tips:

• Stay Invested: Don't panic and redeem your investments based on market fluctuations. Focus on the long term.
• Review Portfolio: Regularly review your portfolio performance (once a year) and rebalance if needed to maintain your desired asset allocation.

Please remember that this is not financial advice. It's crucial to do your research and potentially consult a registered financial advisor for personalised investment plans.

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Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
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Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

Career
Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.
Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

...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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