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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 27, 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
Sanna Question by Sanna on May 20, 2024Hindi
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Hello sir, My intake salary is 49 k per month and my EMI is 7300 of card loan and 5000 k invested in mutual fund 2 k in SBI conservative fund 1 k each in hdfc mid and large cap fund, hdfc mid cap opportunities and hdfc flexi cap fund ... Please help I need to invest more and currently I am 36

Ans: Managing Your Investments and Budget: A Comprehensive Guide

Understanding Your Current Financial Situation
It's great that you are already investing in mutual funds. At 36, you have a significant time horizon for investments. Your monthly intake salary is Rs 49,000, with an EMI of Rs 7,300.

Reviewing Your Existing Investments
Mutual Fund Investments
You invest Rs 5,000 monthly in mutual funds. Your portfolio includes a conservative fund and various equity funds. This shows a balanced approach towards risk and growth.

Evaluating Your Debt Obligations
Your EMI for a card loan is Rs 7,300. Managing debt effectively is crucial to avoid financial strain. Prioritizing debt repayment can free up more funds for investment.

Analyzing Your Investment Portfolio
Conservative Fund
You invest Rs 2,000 in a conservative fund. These funds offer stability and lower risk, suitable for conservative investors. They provide steady returns with minimal risk.

Mid and Large Cap Funds
You invest Rs 1,000 each in mid and large cap funds. Mid cap funds offer high growth potential, though with higher risk. Large cap funds provide stability through investments in well-established companies.

Flexi Cap Fund
You also invest Rs 1,000 in a flexi cap fund. Flexi cap funds offer flexibility to invest across market capitalizations. They adapt to market conditions, balancing growth and stability.

Recommendations for Increasing Investments
Assessing Disposable Income
After EMIs and existing investments, assess your disposable income. Allocating additional funds towards investments can enhance your financial growth. Creating a budget helps in identifying areas to save more.

Increasing SIP Contributions
Consider increasing your SIP contributions in existing funds. This enhances your investment in a disciplined manner. Regular investments through SIPs benefit from rupee cost averaging.

Diversifying Portfolio
Diversifying your portfolio reduces risk and optimizes returns. Consider adding debt funds or balanced funds for stability. Diversification ensures a balanced risk-return profile.

Importance of Actively Managed Funds
Benefits Over Index Funds
Actively managed funds aim to outperform market indices through expert management. They adapt to market changes, potentially providing higher returns. Index funds, on the other hand, only match market performance.

Professional Management
Actively managed funds are overseen by professional fund managers. They make strategic investment decisions based on research and analysis. This expertise can lead to better returns compared to passive funds.

Investing Through Regular Funds
Advantages of Regular Funds
Investing through regular funds with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) ensures expert advice. CFPs tailor investments to your financial goals and risk tolerance. This professional guidance is invaluable for effective financial planning.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds lack professional guidance, making investment decisions more challenging. Regular funds offer the benefit of expert advice, optimizing your investment strategy. This can be particularly beneficial for achieving long-term financial goals.

Periodic Portfolio Review
Importance of Regular Review
Regularly reviewing your investment portfolio ensures alignment with financial goals. Market conditions and personal circumstances change over time. Periodic reviews help in making necessary adjustments to your portfolio.

Rebalancing Investments
Rebalancing your portfolio maintains the desired asset allocation. It ensures that your investments remain aligned with your risk tolerance and financial goals. Regular rebalancing optimizes your portfolio performance.

Emergency Fund Consideration
Building an Emergency Fund
Ensure you have an adequate emergency fund before increasing investments. This fund should cover at least six months of living expenses. It provides financial security and prevents the need to liquidate investments prematurely.

Evaluating Tax Implications
Understanding Tax Benefits
Understanding tax implications of investments is crucial for maximizing returns. Certain funds offer tax benefits which can enhance post-tax returns. Consulting a tax expert or CFP can help optimize your investment strategy.

Conclusion
Your current investment strategy shows a good mix of growth and stability. Increasing your SIP contributions and diversifying your portfolio can further enhance your financial growth. Regular reviews and professional guidance will ensure your investments align with your financial goals.

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  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 09, 2024

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Hi, I am 36 years old, married & have 1 child (3 year old). Me & wife have combined income from salary of 3.75 lakh post taxes. We are investing in following funds & have investment horizon of more than 15 years. Aditya BSL Pure Value - 2k DSP Value Fund - 4k HDFC Small Cap - 2K Kotak business cycle - 5k Kotak Emerging Equity fund - 2K Motilal Oswal large and Midcap - 10k Bandhan Core Equity - 2k Baroda BNP India Consumption - 3k Franklin India Prima - 4k HDFC Mid Cap Opportunity - 2k HSBC Small Cap - 5k Nippon India Flexi Cap - 7.5 SBI small cap - 4k White Oak capital Large and Mid - 7.5k ICICI prudential India opportunity -10k NPS - 15K Equity Market - 25K SGB - 15K LIC -10K. I'm looking for the same investment till next 15 years. Definitely will increase the MF amount every year. I'm looking for at least 20+ Cr corpus at the age of 55. Please guide me with the existing investment. Total Liability like Home Loan and Top up loan EMI is 42K. I want to make same EMI for Loan and future surplus amount to be invest in equity market with low risk as I'm moving towards early 40s.
Ans: Based on your investment portfolio and financial goals, let's evaluate your current strategy. You've made a commendable effort in diversifying your investments across various mutual funds and other instruments, aiming for a substantial corpus in the next 15 years. Your commitment to increasing your mutual fund investments annually is a wise move, considering the potential for wealth accumulation over time.

However, let's delve into a few considerations. While your investment horizon is long-term, it's prudent to periodically review your portfolio's performance and adjust it according to changing market conditions and your evolving financial situation. With increasing age and responsibilities, it's natural to prioritize stability and lower risk in your investments.

You've mentioned a desire to maintain your current loan EMIs while directing surplus funds towards equity markets with lower risk. This approach aligns with a conservative yet growth-oriented investment strategy, balancing the need for stability with wealth creation potential. As you move towards your early 40s, this cautious approach can provide a cushion against market volatility while still capturing growth opportunities.

While your current portfolio includes a diverse mix of actively managed mutual funds, it's important to acknowledge the disadvantages of solely relying on actively managed funds. These can include higher expense ratios and the possibility of underperformance compared to benchmark indices. However, the benefits of active management, such as the potential for outperformance and flexibility in portfolio construction, justify their inclusion in your investment strategy.

In conclusion, your commitment to long-term wealth creation is admirable. By maintaining a disciplined approach to investing, periodically reviewing your portfolio, and balancing risk and growth opportunities, you're on track to achieve your financial goals.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 01, 2024

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 22, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 03, 2024Hindi
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I am 32 yr age I am central government employees my investment is 11500 mutual funds is prag parikh flaxi fund 4500, Canara rebeco bluechip direct fund 3500 Axis small cap 3500 Kya m sahi investment kr rha hu
Ans: Let's evaluate your current portfolio and provide insights on how to enhance it for long-term growth.

Analysis of Current Investments
Mutual Funds Allocation:

Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund: Rs 4,500
Canara Robeco Bluechip Direct Fund: Rs 3,500
Axis Small Cap Fund: Rs 3,500
Total Investment:

Rs 11,500
Your portfolio includes a mix of large-cap, flexi-cap, and small-cap funds. This diversification helps balance risk and returns.

Assessment of Direct Funds
Disadvantages of Direct Funds:

Lack of Guidance: Direct funds don't offer professional advice.
Time-Consuming: Requires active management and research.
Risk: Potential for higher risk without expert guidance.
Benefits of Regular Funds via CFP:

Expertise: Certified Financial Planners (CFPs) provide professional advice.
Convenience: Saves time on research and management.
Risk Management: CFPs help tailor investments to your risk profile.
Recommendations for Enhanced Portfolio
Diversification:

Ensure a balanced mix of equity and debt funds.
Consider adding debt funds for stability.
Long-Term Focus:

Prioritize funds with a proven track record.
Stay invested for the long term to maximize growth.
Alternative Investment Options
Mutual Funds:

Equity Funds: For long-term growth. Suitable for your age and risk profile.
Debt Funds: For stability. Balances the risk in your portfolio.
Public Provident Fund (PPF):

Benefits: Tax savings and stable returns.
Long-Term: Suitable for building a retirement corpus.
Detailed Insights on Investment Strategy
Benefits of Actively Managed Funds:

Professional Management: Managed by experienced fund managers.
Flexibility: Adjusts to market changes for better returns.
Research: Backed by extensive research and analysis.
Your Portfolio Enhancement Strategy
Balanced Portfolio:

Mix of equity and debt funds for balanced growth.
Continue SIPs for disciplined investing.
Professional Guidance:

Invest through a CFP for tailored advice.
Benefit from expert insights and risk management.
Final Insights
Your current investments are well-diversified. Consider the benefits of investing through a CFP for professional guidance. This can help you manage risks and achieve long-term growth. Regularly review and adjust your portfolio to stay aligned with your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7097 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 16, 2024Hindi
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Hi sir, Am 35 years old , I have 45 lakhs loan , 34 lakhs home loan ,7 lakhs jewel loan and 4 lakhs personal loan , I have started investing mutual fund monthly 20k ,can you please guide me am paying emis for my loans monthly, along with that am investing mutual funds monthly 20k . Parag parikh - 10 k Motilal oswal mid cap - 5 k Quant small cap - 3k Nippon India small cap - 2k , what is your advice on this . Thanks, Kiran Kumar
Ans: You are managing Rs. 45 lakhs in loans. This includes:

Home Loan: Rs. 34 lakhs

Jewel Loan: Rs. 7 lakhs

Personal Loan: Rs. 4 lakhs

You are also investing Rs. 20,000 monthly in mutual funds.

Analyzing Your Investment Portfolio
Your current mutual fund investments are:

Rs. 10,000 in a diversified equity fund

Rs. 5,000 in a mid-cap fund

Rs. 3,000 in a small-cap fund

Rs. 2,000 in another small-cap fund

Appreciating Your Efforts
You are managing investments while repaying loans. This is commendable. Let's optimise your strategy.

Prioritizing Loan Repayments
Loan repayments should be a priority. High-interest loans, like personal and jewel loans, should be paid off first. They can significantly impact your finances.

Managing Home Loan
Home loans typically have lower interest rates. However, consider prepaying if you have surplus funds. This reduces your interest burden over time.

Reviewing Your Mutual Fund Portfolio
Your mutual fund investments are diversified. However, small-cap funds are riskier. Considering your loans, it might be wise to balance your portfolio.

Balancing Risk and Returns
Reduce Small-Cap Exposure: Small-cap funds are volatile. Consider reducing your investment in them.

Increase Large-Cap Exposure: Large-cap funds are more stable. They offer steady returns and lower risk.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) Strategy
Continue with your SIPs. They ensure disciplined investing. But, balance your SIPs to match your risk profile.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds can adapt to market changes. They aim to outperform the market. This can provide better returns than index funds.

Avoiding Index Funds
Index funds only track the market. They lack flexibility. Actively managed funds, however, are managed by experts. They aim for higher returns.

Financial Safety Nets
Ensure you have an emergency fund. It should cover 6 months of expenses. This provides financial security in emergencies.

Insurance Coverage
Adequate insurance is crucial. Health and term insurance protect your family's financial future.

Final Insights
Balance your loan repayments and investments. Prioritize high-interest loan repayment. Adjust your mutual fund portfolio for balanced risk and returns. Ensure you have financial safety nets in place. Regularly review and rebalance your portfolio.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP

Chief Financial Planner

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |1054 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Nov 21, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 21, 2024Hindi
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Hello, I am 3 yr neet dropper.in 2025 it will be my third attempt... I'm trying my best to crack neet ...i don't know what will happen will i score good marks or not ... please help me in suggesting good career options if not crack neet .....there are many options through neet marks also like bhms , veterinary...etc. i will also give entrance exam also like cuet ,gbpuat ,....but i want that what to choose which course will be best for me ...i want to make my life good and happy... having a good degree, good job ,...
Ans: Hello.
Have you analyzed your failure in 2 successive attempts in the NEET examination? If yes, then the question is what you have done for improvement and not then again the question arises why not? Here, I would like to suggest you focus now only on the NEET examination which is your 3rd attempt. Don't think about any other options right now till May 2025. After the NEET exam is over, you have ample time to explore the options available. Depending on your score in NEET 2025, we will guide you at that time. But yet, if you are confused, then looking towards your question and anxiety, you need personal counseling where you can express yourself face-to-face. Only after the NEET exam is over, you contact a counsellor for one-to-one counseling. Till then, keep mum and focus only on NEET. Take this exam as your mission and project. Work on this project, apply forces from all sides, success is there which is waiting for you eagerly.
Best of luck for your bright future.

Some tips: (1) Analyse separately Phy, Che, Bio (2) Prepare a list of hard topics (3) First focus more on the topics which are easy for you and then try to excel in hard topics (4) Appear more and more online/offline examinations (4) Prepare your short-cut file for all subjects (5) Prepare a file for each subject having only synopsis of all chapters (6) Try to solve the problems at the lightening speed and observe the period on regular basis (7) Create your time table to revise the topics on regular basis (8) Do not hesitate to ask your difficulties to your teachers, if you have joined to offline classes (9) Keep the habit of marking the answers which you know 100%. Don't guess the answers and mark them, as there is -ve marking scheme. (10) Be calm, quite, and smiling all the time to release the tension and always have a healthy chat with your friends.

If satisfied, please like and follow me.
If dissatisfied with the reply, please ask again without hesitation.
Thanks.

Radheshyam

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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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