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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 23, 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
Prajwal Question by Prajwal on May 22, 2024Hindi
Money

Hello. I need your financial advise here. Can we maintain a Mutual Fund for long-term? Suppose if I have these funds: Nippon India Large Cap fund (large cap), PGIM India Mid Cap fund, Quant Small cap fund. Can I decide to maintain this for long-term (10-15 years)? Or should we regularly monitor these funds and opt for other funds where we get better returns than these. I am looking for a long-term investment let it be retirement plan or kid's education. All I am looking for is long-term. Could you pls suggest what to do in this scenario? How can I manage this?

Ans: Long-Term Investment in Mutual Funds: A Strategic Approach
Understanding Your Current Investments
You have chosen three mutual funds for your long-term investment goals:

Nippon India Large Cap Fund (large cap)
PGIM India Mid Cap Fund
Quant Small Cap Fund
These funds cover large, mid, and small-cap categories, providing a diversified portfolio.

Your dedication to long-term investment planning is commendable. Balancing large, mid, and small-cap funds shows a strategic approach to diversification.

Benefits of Long-Term Mutual Fund Investment
Compounding Effect
Investing in mutual funds for the long-term allows you to benefit from the power of compounding. Over time, the returns on your investments can generate their own returns, significantly growing your wealth.

Reduced Market Volatility
Long-term investments help mitigate the impact of short-term market volatility. Staying invested through market ups and downs can lead to more stable and substantial growth.

Monitoring and Managing Your Investments
Importance of Regular Monitoring
While long-term investments are beneficial, regular monitoring is essential. Market conditions and fund performance can change, requiring adjustments to your portfolio.

Evaluating Fund Performance
Regularly review the performance of your mutual funds. Compare their returns with benchmark indices and peer funds. Consistent underperformance might indicate the need for a change.

Role of a Certified Financial Planner
A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide professional guidance. They can help you evaluate fund performance, recommend adjustments, and ensure your investments align with your goals.

Actively Managed Funds vs. Index Funds
Disadvantages of Index Funds
Index funds track a specific market index and aim to replicate its performance. They lack the flexibility to adapt to market changes, potentially leading to lower returns compared to actively managed funds.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds, like those you have chosen, are overseen by professional fund managers. They can adjust the portfolio based on market conditions, aiming for higher returns and better risk management.

Direct Funds vs. Regular Funds
Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds save on commission fees but lack the personalized guidance of a professional. Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with CFP credentials ensures you receive expert advice and strategic insights.

Benefits of Regular Funds
Regular funds offer the expertise of professional advisors who can help you make informed decisions, optimize your portfolio, and achieve your long-term investment goals.

Long-Term Investment Goals
Retirement Planning
Investing in a mix of large, mid, and small-cap funds can help build a substantial corpus for retirement. Regular contributions and long-term growth can ensure financial security in your retirement years.

Kid's Education
Long-term investments are ideal for funding your child's education. Starting early and staying invested can generate the necessary funds to cover higher education expenses, even for overseas studies.

Strategic Portfolio Management
Asset Allocation
Maintain a balanced asset allocation across large, mid, and small-cap funds. This diversification helps manage risk and optimize returns.

Regular Rebalancing
Periodically rebalance your portfolio to maintain your desired asset allocation. This involves selling overperforming assets and buying underperforming ones, ensuring your portfolio stays aligned with your goals.

Managing Market Uncertainties
Staying Invested
Market fluctuations are inevitable. Staying invested through market cycles can yield better long-term returns. Avoid making impulsive decisions based on short-term market movements.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
Continue investing through SIPs. SIPs allow you to invest a fixed amount regularly, averaging out the cost of investments and reducing the impact of market volatility.

Building a Contingency Fund
Importance of Liquidity
Ensure you have an adequate contingency fund. This fund provides liquidity for emergencies, reducing the need to withdraw from your long-term investments.

Planning for Future Financial Goals
Setting Clear Goals
Define your financial goals clearly. Whether it's retirement, your child's education, or other long-term objectives, having specific targets helps create a focused investment strategy.

Professional Guidance
Seek regular advice from a Certified Financial Planner. They can help you set realistic goals, develop a strategic investment plan, and adjust your portfolio as needed.

Conclusion
Maintaining a long-term mutual fund portfolio is a sound strategy for achieving financial goals. Regular monitoring, professional guidance, and a balanced approach can help you optimize returns and manage risks. Your commitment to securing your financial future is commendable, and with the right strategy, you can achieve your retirement and education goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
Asked on - May 23, 2024 | Answered on May 23, 2024
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Thank you very much for your professional assistance here. This has a detailed explanation of every element needed for investment. One question - Can we use these online SIP/Lumpsum calculators to get to know our goal-based investment amount? For example, I tried the SIP calculator by INDMoney (online) where I entered the following details under "I know my goal amount" under SIP as: Goal amount: 3,00,00,000 Time period: 15 years Growth rate: 12% (approx) And, it shows the monthly required amount to be 63k/month to reach this goal. I am not sure if this is the correct way to calculate the monthly investments required for our goals. Could you provide your guidance here.
Ans: Using online SIP (Systematic Investment Plan) or Lumpsum calculators can be a convenient way to get a rough estimate of the monthly investment required to reach your financial goals. However, these calculators come with several limitations:

Limitations of Free Online Calculators:
Simplistic Assumptions: Most online calculators use a fixed rate of return assumption (e.g., 12% in your case), which might not reflect market volatility and actual performance over time.
Lack of Personalization: These tools don't account for your individual financial situation, risk tolerance, inflation rates, tax implications, and other factors that could impact your investment strategy.
No Consideration for Market Dynamics: Real-world investments are subject to market risks and fluctuations. A steady growth rate assumption can be overly optimistic or pessimistic depending on market conditions.
Inflation Impact: Many calculators do not properly factor in inflation, which can erode the purchasing power of your goal amount over time.
Periodic Review and Adjustment: Financial goals and market conditions change. Free calculators do not provide a mechanism for periodic review and adjustment of your investment plan.
Seeking Professional Guidance:
To develop a more accurate and personalized investment strategy, it is highly recommended to consult with a certified financial planner (CFP). A CFP can:

Conduct a Comprehensive Financial Assessment: Understand your current financial situation, future goals, and risk tolerance.
Develop a Tailored Plan: Create a customized investment plan that takes into account various factors like inflation, market conditions, tax implications, and your personal financial goals.
Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustments: Provide continuous monitoring of your investments and make adjustments as necessary based on changes in your life circumstances and market conditions.
Holistic Advice: Offer advice on a wide range of financial matters beyond just investment, including retirement planning, estate planning, and insurance needs.
Practical Steps:
Use Calculators as a Starting Point: Use online calculators to get a basic idea of the investment required.
Consult a Financial Planner: Schedule a meeting with a CFP to get a comprehensive and personalized financial plan.
Review Regularly: Periodically review your investment plan with your financial planner to ensure it remains aligned with your goals and market conditions.
By taking these steps, you'll be better equipped to achieve your financial goals with a well-rounded and realistic investment strategy.
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  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 24, 2024

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Sir I am a regular reader of rediffguru, pls check my Mutual funds for long term 7-10 year investing from last 3 years Parag parikh flexi cap-6k/month SBI Contra fund 6k/month SBI focus fund 2500/month Axis blue chip 5000/month SBI nifty50 index fund 5000/month PPF 8000/month Please advise for long term and I can add another 15k per month to the mutual fund, where I should add 15k per month Thank you
Ans: It's great to see your commitment to long-term investing. Your current portfolio showcases a mix of flexi-cap, contra, focused, and index funds, which is a good start. Given your 7-10 year horizon, it's essential to maintain a balance between growth and stability.

Considering your existing investments, adding 15k per month, you could diversify further. Given the current market scenario, you might consider adding to sectors or fund types that complement your existing holdings. For instance, you might look into international funds for geographical diversification, or debt funds for stability.

It's also worth considering your risk tolerance and investment goals when deciding where to allocate the additional funds. If you're comfortable with a bit more risk for potentially higher returns, you could lean towards mid or small-cap funds. Conversely, if you prefer stability, large-cap or balanced funds might be more suitable.

Remember, diversification is key to managing risk, so try not to put all your eggs in one basket. It might be beneficial to consult with a Certified Financial Planner to tailor a strategy that aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Keep up the good work, and happy investing!

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - May 12, 2025
Money
I am 38 years old and self-employed, earning an average of 1.8 to 2 lakhs per month. I have a home loan of 44 lakhs (EMI is 46,000, tenure 15 years). There is no other liabilities. My investments include 11 lakhs in mutual funds, 3 lakhs in fixed deposits, and 1.5 lakh in gold. Should I focus on prepaying the home loan given my irregular income, or keep my investments intact and continue with EMIs?
Ans: You are doing quite well, especially with your investments and controlled liabilities. Your financial discipline is truly appreciable.

You are 38, self-employed, with Rs.1.8 to 2 lakhs monthly income.
Your current home loan is Rs.44 lakhs with EMI of Rs.46,000 for 15 years.
You have Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds, Rs.3 lakhs in FDs, and Rs.1.5 lakhs in gold.
Your income is irregular, but you have no other liabilities.

Let us now do a 360-degree evaluation of whether to prepay the loan or stay invested.

 

Step-by-Step Financial Assessment
1. Evaluate the Stability of Your Income First
You earn between Rs.1.8 to Rs.2 lakhs per month.

 

But income is irregular. That needs caution.

 

Loan EMI is Rs.46,000 — about 25% of your average income.

 

If income drops in any month, EMI pressure will increase.

 

So we must first ensure EMI is always affordable, without stress.

 

Hence, liquidity is more important for you right now than aggressive loan prepayment.

 

2. Evaluate Your Emergency Reserve
You have Rs.3 lakhs in FD and Rs.1.5 lakhs in gold.

 

That makes it Rs.4.5 lakhs total liquid safety.

 

Your EMI is Rs.46,000, and personal expenses will also be there.

 

Ideal emergency fund for you = 6 to 9 months of expenses + EMI.

 

That is around Rs.6 to Rs.8 lakhs minimum.

 

So current emergency fund is slightly lower than ideal.

 

Please don’t use this for loan prepayment now.

 

3. Assess the Role of Mutual Funds
You have Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds. That’s a solid step.

Now let’s assess whether to redeem this and prepay loan.

 

Should You Redeem Mutual Funds to Prepay?
Mutual funds, over long term, give better post-tax return than loan savings.

 

Loan interest is 8% to 9%, whereas mutual funds can give 11–13% in long term.

 

Especially if funds are equity-oriented and held for 5+ years.

 

You will also get capital gains tax exemption on Rs.1.25 lakhs LTCG annually.

 

If you redeem funds, you lose growth potential and compounding.

 

That hurts long-term wealth building.

 

So, do not redeem the entire Rs.11 lakhs in mutual funds.

 

4. Disadvantage of Early Loan Prepayment in Your Case
Prepaying early will reduce interest over time, yes.

 

But you may run into cash flow stress in slow months.

 

Once money is used to prepay, it cannot be taken back easily.

 

Liquidity once lost = flexibility lost.

 

Also, income tax benefit under Section 24(b) gets reduced if loan balance drops.

 

So it’s better to maintain balance between repayment and investment.

 

5. Best Strategy for You – A Balanced Approach
Let’s now craft the best plan for you.

 

Maintain Strong Liquidity First
Keep FD and gold untouched.

 

Increase emergency fund to at least Rs.6–Rs.7 lakhs.

 

For that, set aside extra Rs.2.5–Rs.3 lakhs from savings over time.

 

This makes your EMI safe even in low-income months.

 

Continue Your Mutual Fund SIPs Without Stopping
SIPs give long-term growth and beat loan interest in most cases.

 

Don’t stop mutual fund investments to prepay loan.

 

Stay invested. Let wealth compound.

 

Start Small and Periodic Prepayments
Don’t do bulk prepayment now. Do systematic small prepayments.

 

For example, Rs.25,000 to Rs.50,000 extra every 3–4 months.

 

When income is higher, use that surplus to prepay in parts.

 

Target 1–2 bulk part-payments per year.

 

This reduces tenure and interest slowly, without affecting liquidity.

 

Track Your Loan Amortisation Every 6 Months
Use netbanking or get a fresh loan statement every 6 months.

 

Check how each prepayment is reducing principal.

 

Adjust your strategy accordingly.

 

Avoid One-Time Full Prepayment
That would kill your long-term investment compounding.

 

Also removes your income tax benefit under Section 24(b).

 

Stay flexible. You are self-employed.

 

You need cash buffers more than salaried people.

 

Final Insights
Do not do bulk home loan prepayment from mutual funds now.

 

Keep SIPs going and maintain your compounding.

 

Grow your emergency fund to Rs.6–7 lakhs minimum.

 

Use surplus months to make small part-payments towards home loan.

 

This protects your peace and builds wealth at the same time.

 

Reassess in 2–3 years. You may be able to prepay more later.

 

You are already in a good financial position. Your thoughtful approach is praiseworthy.

 

Best Regards,
 
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
 
Chief Financial Planner,
 
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8334 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 12, 2025

Money
i wish to purchase new car i10, should i purchase the same through own money or should i take a vehicle loan from bank and the money own by my to be kept as FDR or liquid mutual fund
Ans: It’s a good sign that you’re thinking before buying a car. You’re not rushing into it. That shows maturity and smart thinking.

We will now evaluate own money vs vehicle loan — from every angle.

 

Understanding the Nature of a Car Purchase
A car is not an investment.

 

It is a consumption asset, not a growth asset.

 

It depreciates every year. Its value goes down, not up.

 

So the cheaper the total cost, the better for your wealth.

 

Option 1: Use Own Money Fully
Pros

No interest cost. You save on total expenses.

 

You are free from monthly EMI pressure.

 

Car becomes fully yours from day one.

 

No need to deal with bank, forms, hypothecation etc.

 

Cons

Your liquid money reduces.

 

You may not have enough cash for emergencies.

 

Opportunity loss if you had invested that money.

 

Option 2: Take Vehicle Loan & Keep Own Money in FDR or Liquid Mutual Fund
Let’s evaluate this with care.

Vehicle Loan Pros

You can preserve your savings for emergencies.

 

EMI can be budgeted monthly, if income is stable.

 

Some banks offer competitive interest rates.

 

Vehicle Loan Cons

You will pay interest on a depreciating item.

 

Loan adds to your monthly obligations.

 

You must pay insurance, EMI, fuel, and service together.

 

FDR and Liquid Mutual Funds give lower returns than loan cost.

 

So you will likely lose more in interest than you gain.

 

Let's Compare: Interest Rate vs Investment Return
Vehicle loan interest is usually 9% to 11% per year.

 

FDR gives around 6% to 7% before tax.

 

Liquid mutual funds give 6% to 7.5% on average.

 

So you pay more to the bank than you earn from investment.

 

Tax on interest or gains reduces actual return further.

 

This means taking a car loan and investing your own money leads to net loss.

 

Best Option for You: Smart Compromise Approach
Let me share a wise solution.

 

Don’t use full own money. Don’t take full loan either.

 

Instead, pay 70–80% from own funds.

 

Take a small car loan for the remaining 20–30% only.

 

This keeps EMI low and retains some liquidity.

 

You reduce interest cost and also keep Rs.50,000–Rs.1 lakh aside.

 

Park that in liquid fund for any urgent need.

 

Repay this small loan fast in 1–2 years.

 

Only Take a Car Loan If:
Your job income is stable.

 

You already have 3–6 months emergency fund ready.

 

You don’t have big loans running now.

 

You can pay EMI without affecting savings.

 

You commit to close the loan early.

 

Avoid This Mistake:
Never buy a more expensive car because loan makes it “feel affordable.”

 

Loan should not expand your car budget.

 

Whether you buy with loan or cash, pick a simple car within limits.

 

i10 is a wise, middle-ground choice. Good thought.

 

Tax Angle (If Business Use)
If you are using the car for business, vehicle loan interest may be tax-deductible.

 

But for personal use, there is no tax benefit.

 

So do not take loan just for imagined tax saving.

 

Final Insights
A car is a need, not an investment.

 

Using your own money fully keeps things simple and cheap.

 

Taking a full car loan and investing the money gives net negative return.

 

Best option is a split approach — pay major part from own funds.

 

Take small loan only if needed and close it early.

 

Always keep emergency money aside before buying.

 

Avoid emotional buying or overbudget cars.

 

Your financially balanced approach is very appreciable.

 

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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