Hello sir, i have been investing in stocks for last 4 years, but not getting good returns and my portfolio is just showing 3 to 4% return. should i keep investing and be invested for better returns.

Ans: CHANGE

Ans: It's commendable that you're taking steps towards investing in mutual funds. Let's analyze your current investment in Axis Small Cap Fund and Nippon Small Cap Fund:
• Axis Small Cap Fund (Direct Growth): Small-cap funds like Axis Small Cap Fund invest in stocks of small-sized companies with high growth potential.
• Nippon Small Cap Fund (Direct Growth): Similar to Axis Small Cap Fund, Nippon Small Cap Fund focuses on investing in the stocks of small-cap companies. It's important to note that small-cap funds can be riskier due to their higher volatility, but they also have the potential for higher returns over the long term. Like with any equity investment, it's advisable to have a long-term investment horizon of at least 5-7 years to potentially ride out market cycles and benefit from compounding returns.

Investing in mutual funds directly (Direct Funds) can have some drawbacks compared to investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential. Here are the disadvantages of direct funds and the benefits of investing through an MFD with a CFP credential:
Disadvantages of Direct Funds:
1. Lack of Personalized Advice: When investing directly, you may not receive personalized financial advice tailored to your specific needs, goals, and risk tolerance.
2. Limited Research: Direct investors are responsible for conducting their own research on funds, which can be time-consuming and may not always lead to informed investment decisions.
3. Behavioral Biases: Direct investors may fall prey to emotional biases like fear and greed, leading to impulsive investment decisions that may not align with their long-term financial goals.
4. No Portfolio Review: Direct investors may not receive regular portfolio reviews and rebalancing recommendations, which are crucial for maintaining a well-diversified investment portfolio.
Benefits of Regular Funds Investing through MFD with CFP Credential:
1. Personalized Financial Planning: MFDs with CFP credential offer personalized financial planning services, helping you set clear financial goals and develop an investment strategy tailored to your needs.
2. Professional Guidance: MFDs can provide professional guidance and investment advice based on their expertise and market knowledge, helping you make informed decisions aligned with your financial objectives.
3. Access to a Wide Range of Funds: MFDs offer access to a diverse range of mutual funds across asset classes and investment styles, enabling you to build a well-rounded investment portfolio tailored to your risk profile and investment horizon.
4. Regular Portfolio Monitoring: MFDs regularly monitor your investment portfolio, review fund performance, and make necessary adjustments to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
5. Simplified Investing Process: Investing through an MFD streamlines the investment process, allowing you to consolidate your investments and receive consolidated reports for easy tracking and monitoring.

In conclusion, both Axis Small Cap Fund and Nippon Small Cap Fund can be suitable investment options if you have a long-term investment horizon and a high risk tolerance. However, it's essential to regularly monitor the performance of your investments and review your financial goals to ensure they align with your investment strategy.

While direct investing may offer lower expense ratios, the lack of personalized advice, limited research capabilities, and behavioral biases can outweigh the cost savings. Investing through an MFD with a CFP credential provides you with professional guidance, personalized financial planning, and ongoing portfolio monitoring, enhancing your chances of achieving your long-term financial goals.

Ans: Portfolio Overview
Managing 13 funds over 6 years is commendable. A Rs. 28 lakh portfolio shows your commitment. Let’s analyze and evaluate for better returns.

Diversification and Overlap
Diversification reduces risk. However, too many funds can lead to overlap.

Diversification:

Ensures your investments are spread across sectors and asset classes.

Reduces risk associated with a single fund or sector.

Overlap:

Too many funds can lead to similar investments.

This dilutes the benefit of diversification.

Evaluate if your funds are truly diversified or if there is overlap.

Performance Evaluation
Assess the performance of your funds.

Historical Performance:

Check the performance over different market cycles.

Compare with benchmark indices.

Consistency:

Look for funds with consistent performance.

Avoid funds with high volatility.

Fund Manager and Expense Ratio
The fund manager's expertise and the expense ratio impact returns.

Fund Manager:

Evaluate the fund manager’s track record.

Consistency and experience matter.

Expense Ratio:

Lower expense ratios can improve net returns.

High expense ratios can eat into your gains.

Portfolio Rebalancing
Regular rebalancing aligns your portfolio with your goals.

Rebalancing:

Adjust your portfolio periodically.

Maintain the desired asset allocation.

Goals and Time Horizon:

Align your investments with your financial goals.

Consider your time horizon and risk tolerance.

Actively Managed vs. Passive Funds
Actively managed funds aim to outperform benchmarks.

Actively Managed Funds:

Fund managers actively select stocks.

Potential for higher returns.

Disadvantages of Index Funds:

Follow a passive investment strategy.

Limited potential for outperforming the market.

Actively managed funds offer better opportunities.

Professional Guidance
Consult a Certified Financial Planner for tailored advice.

Certified Financial Planner:

Provides personalized investment strategies.

Aligns investments with your goals and risk profile.

Review and Adjust:

Regular reviews are essential.

Adjust the portfolio as per market conditions and personal goals.

Final Insights
Having 13 funds may be excessive. Focus on diversification without overlap. Evaluate the performance, expense ratios, and fund manager’s track record. Regularly rebalance your portfolio. Consider the benefits of actively managed funds over index funds. Seek guidance from a Certified Financial Planner for personalized advice. This comprehensive approach ensures your portfolio aligns with your financial goals and market conditions.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in