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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7333 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  |7333 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  |7333 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
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7333 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 25, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi Nikunjji, i am 45 years old & taken the following Mutual fund SIP for long term (approx 15-20 yrs) 1) Aditya birla sunlife india Gen next fund growth @ Rs. 3000/- per month 2) HDFC retirement saving fund equity plan growth plan growth option - Rs.10000/- per month 3) Aditya birla sunlife digital india fund- growth plan - Rs. 5000/- per month 4) Nippon india large cap fund - growth plan - Rs100000 lumsum 5) Parag parikh flexi cap fund-growth - Rs. 100000 lumsum 6) HDFC flexi cap fund growth option - Rs. 50000 lumsum 7) Aditya birla sunlife equity hybrid 95 fund growth - Rs. 50000 lumsum Request you to please review my above plan & advise taking into consideration the long term planning
Ans: Your portfolio reflects a disciplined approach to long-term wealth creation. Investing with a horizon of 15-20 years is an excellent strategy. Below is a detailed assessment and suggestions for optimisation.

Strengths of Your Portfolio
Diversification Across Asset Classes
Your portfolio includes equity-focused funds and hybrid funds. This diversification reduces risks.

Allocation to Flexi-Cap Funds
Including flexi-cap funds provides balanced exposure to large, mid, and small-cap companies.

Focus on Growth
Growth options in your funds allow compounding over the long term.

Systematic Investments
SIPs ensure disciplined investing and rupee-cost averaging.

Lump Sum Investments
Lump sum investments supplement SIPs by capturing market opportunities.

Areas for Improvement
1. Portfolio Overlap

Multiple funds in your portfolio might overlap in underlying investments.
For instance, flexi-cap and large-cap funds may invest in similar stocks.
Overlap reduces diversification benefits.
Recommendation

Evaluate fund portfolios with a Certified Financial Planner to identify overlap.
Retain funds with distinct investment strategies.
2. Sectoral Funds Risk

Sectoral funds focus on specific industries like technology or consumption.
These funds are highly volatile and carry higher risk.
Recommendation

Limit sectoral fund exposure to 10% of your portfolio.
Instead, focus on diversified funds for consistent growth.
3. Hybrid Fund Allocation

Hybrid funds mix equity and debt, offering balanced risk and returns.
However, they might underperform pure equity funds in long bull markets.
Recommendation

Reassess hybrid fund allocation based on your risk tolerance.
Consider increasing equity fund allocation for long-term goals.
4. Tax Efficiency

Equity mutual funds have specific tax implications under new rules:
LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
STCG is taxed at 20%.
Recommendation

Plan withdrawals to optimise tax liabilities.
Avoid frequent withdrawals to maximise compounding.
Suggestions for Portfolio Optimisation
1. Consolidate Mutual Funds

Retain 4-5 funds across different categories: large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap.
This reduces complexity and improves portfolio tracking.
2. Increase SIP Contributions

SIPs offer the advantage of disciplined investing and rupee-cost averaging.
Increase your SIPs gradually to enhance long-term corpus.
3. Focus on Actively Managed Funds

Actively managed funds outperform index funds in emerging markets like India.
They adapt to market conditions and deliver superior returns.
4. Review Fund Performance Annually

Monitor fund performance against benchmarks and peers.
Replace consistently underperforming funds after consulting a Certified Financial Planner.
5. Maintain an Emergency Fund

Keep 6-12 months’ expenses in a liquid fund or FD.
This ensures liquidity for unforeseen needs.
Retirement Planning Considerations
1. Corpus Target of Rs. 8 Crores

Achieving Rs. 8 crore requires consistent investments and strategic planning.
SIPs and lump sums in equity mutual funds are ideal for wealth creation.
2. Inflation Adjustment

Plan your retirement corpus keeping inflation at 6-7% annually in mind.
Ensure your investment strategy beats inflation over the long term.
3. Health Coverage

Health costs rise significantly in retirement.
Review your health insurance coverage to ensure sufficient protection.
4. Withdrawal Strategy

Adopt a systematic withdrawal plan (SWP) in retirement.
This ensures steady income while preserving your corpus.
Additional Considerations
1. Avoid Emotional Decisions

Market volatility is normal in long-term investments.
Stick to your plan and avoid reacting to short-term fluctuations.
2. Revisit Goals Periodically

Review your financial goals every 2-3 years.
Adjust your portfolio if your financial situation or goals change.
3. Stay Informed

Understand the funds you invest in.
Consult a Certified Financial Planner for insights and guidance.
4. Avoid Direct Funds

Direct funds may seem cost-effective but lack expert advice.
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner ensures informed decisions.
Final Insights
Your portfolio is well-structured for long-term wealth creation.

Consolidate funds to reduce overlap and complexity.

Focus on actively managed funds for superior returns.

Limit sectoral exposure to balance risk and reward.

Maintain discipline in SIPs and stay invested for the long term.

With these strategies, you can achieve your financial goals effectively.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

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

...Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1410 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 25, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 19, 2024
Relationship
I have a question that I’ve been too embarrassed to ask anyone, but I feel like it’s time to get some clarity. I’m a woman in my early 30s, in a stable relationship, but recently, I’ve been noticing something that’s throwing me off track. I’ve been having a lot of intense sexual thoughts that I can’t seem to shake off. It's not just about attraction to my partner; these thoughts are more spontaneous and often come at the most random moments. They feel almost uncontrollable, and it’s starting to affect how I see myself. I feel like I’m living in two worlds – one where I’m a responsible adult, and the other where these lustful feelings seem to take over, and it’s hard to focus on anything else. I’ve tried suppressing them, distracting myself, but it feels like they come back stronger, almost like my mind has a mind of its own! It’s frustrating, and honestly, I’m not sure if I should feel guilty or empowered by these urges. How do I handle this without feeling like I’m losing control? Any tips on how to balance my desires with my everyday life?
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Lust and behaviors that arise from it are just one aspect of your life not the only thing. When you get consumed with it in a way that it starts to impact your daily living, then hey, you have to do something really heavy to make a change.
Now, what can that be? A new skill, a hobby...these kind of challenges keep the mind in a learning mode and channelizes your energies into another thing as well.
But of course, do make sure that you and your partner are also having your share of intimacy. This along with learning something new can ideally do the magic. Also, put on those gym shoes, running shoes or anything that gets you enough physical activity. See where all this goes...
On, and guilt, is quite a wasteful job in your case...so drop it and focus on newer things that keep you on your toes.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

...Read more

Anu

Anu Krishna  |1410 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Dec 25, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 17, 2024Hindi
Listen
Relationship
Hi Anu, I need some advice that’s a bit out of the ordinary. I’ve been married for 8 years, and my wife and I have recently been discussing investing in property together. The twist is, we have very different ideas on what to do with it. I’ve always been more of a numbers person—thinking about it as a solid financial investment. I want to buy something that will increase in value over time and add to our financial security. On the other hand, my wife sees it more as a home. She’s emotionally attached to the idea of a cozy, dream house, somewhere we can raise our family and enjoy life together. So, we’ve been butting heads a bit, as I’m leaning more towards an investment property in a growing area, while she’s looking for something more in line with what we want to live in now. It’s getting a little tense between us because I feel like she’s not seeing the financial side of things, and she thinks I’m too focused on money and not on our happiness. Is there a middle ground where we can both be happy?
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
Well, it's dream v/s practicality, yeah?
When you get to a stalemate situation like the one you and your wife are in, the best way is to go back to the Square A.
Start where you began when you married...list down what's important to each of you and somewhere in your case, it will lead not just to her wants and yours, but it will go back to money and financial prudence. When you hit this, come to an understanding as to how you will overcome this; it has to be mutually agreed upon. Then bring your current home buying issue and solve it just like the way you sorted your differences over finances. Try it...it will work...

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7333 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 24, 2024Hindi
Money
I am 47 yr old IT Professional. I have diversified my porfolio across MF - 60L , Direct Equity - 15 L, Gold (SGB - 20L, Physical - 50L) , Real Estate - 2 CR(Flat), Independent home (2.5CR) which fetching 30K Monthly Rental. EPF - 90L, NPS - 20 L, FD - 90L, Sukanya Samridhi for 2 Daughters - 14L Each till date. I am contributing upto 1.5 L monthly into NPS, Equity MF. My MF is diversified into Flexi, mid and small cap fund (Total 8 Funds in portfolio). I am looking to build retirement corpus of 8 Cr based on my current monthly expenses.
Ans: You have a well-diversified portfolio. It includes real estate, mutual funds, equity, gold, EPF, NPS, and FDs. This balance reflects thoughtful planning.

Your rental income of Rs. 30,000 adds stability. Contributions to Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana secure your daughters’ futures.

Your focus on NPS and diversified mutual funds is commendable. These build long-term wealth efficiently.

You aim for Rs. 8 crore as a retirement corpus. With careful adjustments, this is achievable.

Key Areas to Strengthen
1. Portfolio Consolidation

Your portfolio has eight mutual funds. This may lead to overlap and inefficiency.

Review these funds with a Certified Financial Planner. Ensure no duplication across asset categories.

Consider consolidating into 3–5 actively managed funds. This maintains diversification while improving focus.

2. Asset Allocation

Your portfolio is heavy in real estate and gold. These are illiquid investments.

Aim to rebalance toward financial assets like equity mutual funds. These provide liquidity and growth potential.

A Certified Financial Planner can assist in optimal asset reallocation.

3. Emergency Fund

Ensure liquid funds for 6–12 months of expenses.

This fund should not overlap with FDs or long-term investments.

Maintain this emergency fund in a liquid fund or savings account.

4. Mutual Fund Taxation

When selling mutual funds, consider capital gains tax:

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

Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

Plan withdrawals with this tax implication in mind.

Actionable Strategies
1. Increase Equity Exposure

Your diversified mutual funds are strong.

Consider increasing equity mutual fund SIPs for long-term wealth.

Focus on flexi-cap, large-cap, and mid-cap funds for balanced growth.

Small-cap funds are volatile; limit exposure to 10–15%.

2. Optimise NPS Contributions

NPS is excellent for retirement. Its tax benefits under Sections 80C and 80CCD are helpful.

Invest up to Rs. 50,000 annually for additional tax savings.

However, review NPS as it locks in funds till retirement. Maintain flexibility elsewhere.

3. Rationalise FD Holdings

FDs are safe but offer low post-tax returns.

Shift a portion to debt funds for better returns and tax efficiency.

Debt funds balance portfolio risk without sacrificing liquidity.

4. Review Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana

Your contributions here are thoughtful. They offer assured returns for your daughters’ education.

Continue until the full maturity period. This ensures maximum benefit.

Retirement Planning
1. Expense Mapping

List all post-retirement expenses. Account for inflation at 6–7% annually.

Break these into essentials (medical, household) and discretionary (travel, hobbies).

Use this as a guide to calculate your future income requirement.

2. Corpus Building

Your current investments, including EPF and NPS, are solid.

Increase your mutual fund SIPs marginally to stay on track for Rs. 8 crore.

Continue Rs. 1.5 lakh monthly contributions strategically across financial instruments.

3. Health Coverage

Health insurance is critical post-retirement.

Review coverage for yourself and family. Ensure at least Rs. 50 lakh in coverage.

Consider adding a top-up plan for unforeseen medical costs.

Gold Portfolio Insights
Your gold portfolio is significant at Rs. 70 lakh.

SGBs are excellent for regular interest income and long-term growth.

However, physical gold is less efficient. Selling may involve lower liquidity and higher costs.

Convert a portion of physical gold into SGBs or financial assets.

Final Insights
You have made strong financial decisions so far.

Focus on reducing portfolio complexity and enhancing liquidity.

Rebalance your portfolio with a Certified Financial Planner. This ensures alignment with goals.

Stick to disciplined contributions toward NPS and mutual funds. This will help you reach Rs. 8 crore comfortably.

Ensure diversification without overextending into illiquid assets.

With this strategy, your retirement goals are well within reach.

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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