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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8175 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 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
Anuj Question by Anuj on May 09, 2024Hindi
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Hello sir , I am 32 year old I am a salaried person around 60k per month and want to start SIP for my children education I have two children one is 6 year old and another one is 3 year old. Please suggest me the best

Ans: It's fantastic that you're thinking ahead and planning for your children's education at such a young age. Starting SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans) is a smart way to build a corpus for their future educational expenses.
Considering your financial situation and your children's ages, here's a suggested approach:
1. Set Clear Goals: Determine the amount you'll need for each child's education, factoring in inflation and the type of education you aspire for them. This will help you set realistic investment targets.
2. Choose Suitable SIPs: Opt for diversified equity mutual funds that have a track record of consistent performance and align with your investment goals and risk tolerance. Look for funds with a long-term horizon and a focus on capital appreciation.
3. Allocate Funds Wisely: Divide your SIP investments among different funds to spread risk and maximize growth potential. Consider a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds to achieve diversification and optimize returns.
4. Start Early and Stay Consistent: Time is your biggest ally when it comes to investing. Start your SIPs as soon as possible to benefit from the power of compounding. Even small, regular investments can grow substantially over time with discipline and consistency.
5. Review and Adjust Regularly: Periodically review your SIP investments to ensure they're on track to meet your goals. Make adjustments as needed based on changes in your financial situation, market conditions, and investment objectives.
6. Stay Disciplined: Avoid the temptation to withdraw or stop your SIPs during market fluctuations. Stay focused on your long-term goals and continue investing consistently, regardless of short-term market movements.
7. Consider Tax Implications: Keep tax efficiency in mind while selecting SIPs. Opt for funds with favorable tax treatment like Equity Linked Savings Schemes (ELSS) for potential tax benefits under Section 80C of the Income Tax Act.
Remember, education is one of the most valuable investments you can make for your children's future. By starting SIPs early and staying disciplined, you can build a solid financial foundation to provide them with the best opportunities for education.

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  |8175 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 18, 2024Hindi
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HI, I am 41 years old and want to start a SIP to give a return of 20 lakh in next 15 yrs for children education. which fund I should choose?
Ans: Goal Assessment

You aim to accumulate Rs. 20 lakh over the next 15 years for your children's education.

Starting a SIP is a smart way to achieve this goal.

Let's explore the best approach to meet your objective.

Investment Horizon and Risk Appetite

You have a long-term horizon of 15 years.

This allows you to take on more risk for potentially higher returns.

Equity mutual funds are suitable for long-term goals.

Types of Equity Mutual Funds

Large-Cap Funds: Invest in big, stable companies. Less risky but moderate returns.

Mid-Cap Funds: Invest in medium-sized companies. Moderate risk and returns.

Small-Cap Funds: Invest in smaller companies. High risk but high returns.

Flexi-Cap Funds: Invest across various company sizes. Balanced risk and returns.

Why Not Index Funds?

Index funds follow the market. They lack active management.

Actively managed funds aim to beat the market.

This offers potentially higher returns.

For your goal, actively managed funds are better.

Benefits of Regular Funds

Professional Management: Managed by experts.

Personal Guidance: Certified Financial Planner can guide you.

Better Performance: Regular monitoring and adjustments.

Choosing the Right Funds

Diversify across different types of funds.

This balances risk and reward.

A mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap funds is ideal.

Example Allocation Strategy

Large-Cap Fund: 40% for stability and steady growth.

Mid-Cap Fund: 30% for moderate growth.

Small-Cap Fund: 20% for high growth potential.

Flexi-Cap Fund: 10% for balanced growth.

Regular Monitoring and Review

Review your investments annually.

Adjust based on performance and changing market conditions.

Seek advice from a Certified Financial Planner regularly.

Benefits of SIP

Discipline: Ensures regular investment.

Rupee Cost Averaging: Buys more units when prices are low.

Compounding: Helps in wealth creation over time.

Why Avoid Direct Funds?

Direct funds lack personal guidance.

You miss out on expert advice.

Certified Financial Planners provide valuable insights.

Final Insights

Starting a SIP for your child's education is a wise decision.

Choose a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, small-cap, and flexi-cap funds.

Regularly review and adjust your portfolio.

Seek professional guidance to stay on track.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8175 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 28, 2024Hindi
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Hello Everyone one greetings! I am planning to start SIP. I AM 40 yrs n can invest 5000 monthly to start initially and continue for next 12-15yers. The goal to create some corpus for child education n their future needs.Any suggestion would help. I am unable find good fund across different fund houses. Thank you.
Ans: Starting a SIP with Rs. 5,000 per month is a great decision. With a disciplined approach over 12 to 15 years, this amount can grow significantly. Let’s structure your plan step by step.

1. Set Clear and Realistic Goals
Define how much you need for your child’s education or other future needs.

Estimate the timeline—when will the expenses occur (school, college, or higher education)?

Having a target amount will guide your investment strategy better.

2. Determine Your Risk Appetite
Since your investment horizon is 12 to 15 years, you can take moderate to high risks.

Long-term investments tend to perform better in equity-based funds.

If you want lower risk, you can mix equity with hybrid funds.

3. Avoid Index Funds and Choose Actively Managed Funds
Index funds may provide average returns, as they follow the market.

Actively managed funds can outperform markets, especially during volatility.

Professional fund managers adjust portfolios to benefit from changing market conditions.

This makes actively managed funds better suited for long-term goals.

 
4. Importance of Regular Funds over Direct Funds
Direct funds offer slightly lower costs but come with higher management challenges.

Choosing regular funds through a certified financial planner provides expert guidance.

They help you with fund selection, monitoring, and timely portfolio adjustments.

This ensures your investments stay aligned with your goals.


5. Diversify Across Different Fund Types
Spread your Rs. 5,000 SIP across multiple categories for better returns and risk management.

Consider allocating across large-cap, mid-cap, and hybrid funds.

Large-cap funds offer stability, while mid-cap funds provide growth potential.

Hybrid funds ensure some safety by combining equity and debt.

6. Increase SIPs Over Time
Start with Rs. 5,000 monthly and increase it by 10-15% annually.

This helps you counter inflation and meet rising education costs.

Even a small increase yearly will have a big impact over time.

7. Monitor and Rebalance Regularly
Track your portfolio performance every 6 to 12 months.

If a fund underperforms for long, switch to a better-performing fund.

As the education expenses approach, shift some investments to safer instruments.

This helps protect your corpus from sudden market drops.

8. Understand Taxation of Mutual Funds
For equity funds, long-term capital gains above Rs. 1.25 lakh attract 12.5% tax.

Short-term capital gains are taxed at 20%.

Debt funds are taxed according to your income tax slab.

Plan withdrawals smartly to reduce tax impact on your earnings.

9. Use Lump Sum Investments for Boosting Growth
Apart from SIPs, invest lump sums whenever possible, such as bonuses or gifts.

Lump sum investments in hybrid funds can stabilise returns.

This strategy will ensure your overall corpus grows faster.
10. Stay Disciplined During Market Volatility
The market may fluctuate, but SIPs work best during corrections.

Continue investing even in downturns to benefit from rupee cost averaging.

Avoid panic-selling during market dips.

Staying invested ensures long-term wealth creation.

11. Avoid Investment-Cum-Insurance Policies
If you hold LIC or ULIP policies, they may offer low returns.

Consider surrendering such policies and reinvesting the proceeds into mutual funds.

Keep insurance and investments separate for better financial outcomes.

12. Consult a Certified Financial Planner
A planner helps with fund selection, portfolio tracking, and risk management.

They offer valuable insights that ensure your investments stay on course.

Their expertise makes investing less stressful and more efficient for you.

13. Finally: Keep a Long-Term Focus
Building a corpus takes time, patience, and consistent effort.

Celebrate small milestones along the way to stay motivated.

Adjust your investments based on life changes, like additional children’s needs.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Samraat

Samraat Jadhav  |2248 Answers  |Ask -

Stock Market Expert - Answered on Apr 02, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 02, 2025Hindi
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I have been investing in shares for several years and have seen good returns, but with increasing market volatility, I'm considering diversifying into international stocks or alternative assets. What are the potential benefits and risks of each approach?
Ans: Diversifying into international stocks and alternative assets can be a strategic move, especially given your experience in financial analysis and investment planning. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits and risks of each approach:
International Stocks
Benefits are as follows:
- Diversification – Investing globally reduces dependence on domestic market conditions and spreads risk
- Access to High-Growth Markets – Some international markets, particularly emerging economies, may offer higher growth potential.
- Currency Appreciation – If the foreign currency strengthens against the INR, your returns could increase.
- Exposure to Leading Industries – Developed markets like the U.S. provide access to top tech, healthcare, and finance companies.

Risks involved in international markets are as follows:
- Currency Fluctuations – Exchange rate volatility can impact returns.
- Political & Economic Risks – Foreign regulations, trade policies, and economic instability can affect investments.
- Higher Transaction Costs – International investing often involves additional fees and taxes.
- Limited Information Access – Researching foreign companies may be more challenging compared to domestic firms.

Alternative Assets (Real Estate, Commodities, Private Equity, etc.)
Following are the benefits:
- Low Correlation with Stock Markets – Alternative assets often move independently of traditional markets, helping mitigate volatility.
- Inflation Hedge – Real assets like gold and real estate tend to retain value during inflationary periods.
- Potential for High Returns – Private equity and hedge funds can offer substantial gains if managed well.
- Portfolio Customization – Some alternative investments allow direct control, such as real estate or private businesses.

Risks involved are as follows:
- Illiquidity – Many alternative assets, such as private equity and real estate, are not easily sold.
- Complexity – These investments often require specialized knowledge and due diligence.
- Higher Fees – Alternative investments may have higher management costs and entry barriers.
- Market Uncertainty – Some assets, like cryptocurrencies, can be highly volatile.

Given your methodical approach to financial planning, you might find international ETFs a convenient way to gain global exposure while managing risk. Similarly, REITs or commodity funds could be a structured way to enter alternative assets without direct ownership complexities.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8175 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 02, 2025

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I'm now 68 years old. Living with my wife. I have 2 daughters. Both are well settled. I don't have any liability. I'm a pension holder. I'm getting Rs 75,000/- pension pm. I have invested Rs1,50,00,000 in FD. 7lakhs in Mutual funds, 6,50,000 in equity. 12 Lakhs in Sovereign Gold Bond, I'm getting Rs 35,000/- House rent pm. I have 25 lakhs Cash in hand. I want to deposit the above amount. How can I diversified the above amount to deposit?
Ans: Your financial position is strong. You have a steady pension and rental income. Your investments are diversified across FDs, mutual funds, equity, and gold bonds. Let’s allocate your Rs. 25L wisely.

Emergency Fund Allocation
Keep Rs. 5L in a high-interest savings account.

Use a liquid mutual fund for another Rs. 3L for easy access.

This ensures quick access to funds in case of unexpected expenses.

Debt Investment for Stability
Invest Rs. 7L in a mix of short-term and medium-term debt mutual funds.

These offer better post-tax returns than FDs.

Choose high-quality funds with stable performance.

Equity Investment for Growth
Allocate Rs. 5L to large-cap mutual funds via SIP.

This ensures gradual market participation and reduces risk.

Avoid direct stocks for this amount, as mutual funds offer better risk management.

Gold Investment for Inflation Hedge
You already have Rs. 12L in Sovereign Gold Bonds.

No additional gold investment is needed.

Regular Income Investment
Invest Rs. 5L in SWP-based mutual funds for periodic withdrawals.

This provides additional income while keeping capital appreciation intact.

Final Insights
Your current portfolio is well-structured. This allocation balances liquidity, stability, and growth. Your pension and rental income provide financial security. Diversifying your Rs. 25L ensures better returns while maintaining risk control.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8175 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 02, 2025

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Sir kindly suggest some mf for steady return for 5 yr in SIP in large cap
Ans: Investing in large-cap mutual funds through SIP is a stable choice. These funds focus on established companies with strong financials. They offer consistent growth with lower risk compared to mid-cap and small-cap funds.

Let’s assess how to select the right fund.

Why Large-Cap Funds for Five Years?
Invest in top companies with proven stability.

Less volatile than mid-cap and small-cap funds.

Suitable for a five-year investment horizon.

Provide inflation-beating returns over time.

Ideal for steady compounding with SIP investments.

Actively Managed vs. Index Funds
Actively managed funds outperform index funds in varying market conditions.

Fund managers adjust portfolios based on market trends.

Index funds only replicate the market and cannot outperform it.

Actively managed funds provide better downside protection.

For five-year investments, active management ensures stable performance.

Choosing the Right Fund
Look for funds with a history of stable returns.

Ensure the fund has an experienced fund manager.

Avoid funds with frequent manager changes.

Select funds with lower expense ratios among actively managed ones.

Check the rolling returns of the fund, not just past performance.

Tax Considerations
Long-term capital gains (LTCG) above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term capital gains (STCG) taxed at 20%.

SIP investments held for over one year qualify for LTCG benefits.

Plan withdrawals strategically to reduce tax burden.

Final Insights
Large-cap mutual funds are suitable for stable returns over five years. They balance risk and reward effectively. Choose an actively managed fund with strong historical performance. Stay invested with SIPs for disciplined wealth creation.

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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