Home > Money > Question
Need Expert Advice?Our Gurus Can Help
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 30, 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
Asked by Anonymous - Nov 02, 2023Hindi
Listen
Money

Hello Sir, I am new to Mutual Fund Investement. I had Axis Blue Chip Fund SIP for Past 3 years and I got only 2% return. This year I have started SIP of 10K each in Nippon India Small Cap Fund and Quant Small Cap Fund. In Past 8 Months For 1.6 Lakhs I am getting a return of 10%. I have some lumpsum to be invested and I want to invest in MF and start SIP on the same for around 1 Lakh in addition to 20 K. Can you suggest some large cap, mid cap, flexicap and small cap fund to get an average return of 12% to 15% pa. These are some of the fund I have short listed. Can you please guide me. Aditya Birla Sun Life Flexi Cap Fund Aditya Birla Sun Life Pure Value Fund HSBC Small Cap Fund HSBC Value Fund ICICI Prudential Equity & Debt Fund ICICI Prudential Value Discovery Fund Parag Parik Flexicap Fund Kotak Flexicap Fund Mirae Asset Emerging Bluechip Fund Nippon India Multi Cap Fund?Growth Plan

Ans: It's fantastic to see your proactive approach towards mutual fund investments! As you delve deeper into the world of mutual funds, it's crucial to select funds that align with your financial goals and risk tolerance. When considering funds for your portfolio, focus on factors like fund track record, consistency of performance, fund manager expertise, expense ratio, and risk-adjusted returns.

Diversification across different categories like large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds can help mitigate risk and optimize returns. However, always remember that past performance is not indicative of future results, so it's essential to conduct thorough research and consult with a Certified Financial Planner before making investment decisions.

By diversifying your portfolio and staying disciplined in your investment approach, you're well-positioned to achieve your financial goals over the long term. Keep learning, stay informed, and adapt your strategy as needed to navigate the dynamic investment landscape with confidence and resilience.
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.
Money

You may like to see similar questions and answers below

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
Hi, My name is Ram aged 47 years.I have started investing Mutual Funds from One Year. My goal is to get 1 crore after 8 years Can you please suggest me any changes in the below funds?I want to increase my SIP Investment to 30k per month.Can you suggest me any small cap funds so that I can invest? Do you recommend to invest in SBI Mitra fund for 8 years? 1.Kotak Small Cap Fund-Growth(Regular Plan)-2000Rs 2.Kotak Emerging Equity Fund-Growth -2000Rs 3.Kotak Bluechip Fund - Growth (Regular Plan)-2000Rs 4. HDFC Top 100 Fund - Regular Plan - Growth-2000Rs 5. HDFC Capital Builder Value Fund - Regular Plan - Growth-2000Rs 6.ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund-Direct Plan-Growth-500Rs 7.Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund - Regular Plan Growth-2500Rs 8.Mirae Asset Large and Midcap Fund (formerly Mirae Asset Emerging Bluechip Fund)-- Regular Plan-20000(Lumpsum) Regards, Ram
Ans: Hi Ram,

It's commendable that you have taken the initiative to start investing in mutual funds. Your goal of accumulating Rs 1 crore in 8 years is ambitious yet achievable with the right strategy. Let’s evaluate your current investments and see how you can optimize your portfolio to reach your goal.

Understanding Your Current Investments

You have a diversified portfolio that includes small-cap, large-cap, mid-cap, and value funds. This diversification helps mitigate risks and can lead to more stable returns. However, let's assess each fund and consider potential adjustments.

Kotak Small Cap Fund

Small-cap funds have the potential for high returns but also come with high risk. Since you are already investing in one, adding another small-cap fund may not significantly enhance your portfolio. It's important to balance the high-risk investments with more stable options.

Kotak Emerging Equity Fund

This fund focuses on mid-cap companies, which have a good balance of risk and return. Keeping a portion of your investment in mid-cap funds is a sound strategy, given their growth potential and relatively lower risk compared to small-cap funds.

Kotak Bluechip Fund and HDFC Top 100 Fund

Both these funds are large-cap funds, known for their stability and reliable returns. Large-cap funds are essential in a balanced portfolio as they offer a cushion against the volatility of small and mid-cap funds.

HDFC Capital Builder Value Fund

This value fund focuses on undervalued stocks. Value funds can offer good returns over the long term, although they may require patience as the market recognizes the true value of these stocks.

ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund - Direct Plan

Direct plans have lower expense ratios compared to regular plans, but they lack the guidance provided by a Certified Financial Planner. Given your goal and the complexity of managing a diversified portfolio, regular plans with professional advice might be more beneficial.

Mirae Asset Large Cap Fund and Mirae Asset Large and Midcap Fund

These funds provide exposure to both large and mid-cap segments, offering a balanced approach. Mirae Asset is known for its strong fund management, which can be advantageous for your investment strategy.

Optimizing Your Monthly SIPs

You mentioned increasing your SIP investment to Rs 30,000 per month. This is a great step towards reaching your goal. Here’s a suggested allocation based on your current investments and risk tolerance:

Increase allocation in stable large-cap funds to ensure a steady growth trajectory.
Maintain a balanced investment in mid-cap funds for growth potential.
Keep a moderate allocation in small-cap funds to capitalize on high returns while managing risks.
Utilize regular plans to benefit from professional advice and better portfolio management.
Actively Managed Funds vs. Index Funds

Index funds passively track market indices, but actively managed funds aim to outperform the market. While index funds have lower expense ratios, they lack the potential for higher returns that actively managed funds can offer. Actively managed funds, with skilled managers, can adjust portfolios to take advantage of market opportunities, potentially providing better performance.

Regular Plans vs. Direct Plans

Direct plans have lower costs but lack professional guidance. Regular plans, despite higher expense ratios, offer the expertise of a Certified Financial Planner. This professional advice can be crucial in making informed investment decisions, optimizing your portfolio, and aligning with your financial goals.

Avoiding Specific Investment Structures:
SBI Mitra SIP is a structured investment method where you do SIPs for a few years and then switch to SWP withdrawals. While this might sound convenient, it's essentially a marketing strategy rather than a unique investment. Such structured schemes often limit flexibility and may come with higher costs. Instead, you can independently plan your SIPs and SWPs, tailoring them to your specific goals and risk tolerance. By doing so, you maintain control over your investment strategy, allowing for adjustments based on market conditions and personal financial changes.

Final Recommendations

Increase your SIP in stable large-cap and balanced mid-cap funds.
Limit additional investments in small-cap funds to manage risk.
Consider switching to regular plans for professional guidance.
Regularly review your portfolio with a Certified Financial Planner.
Your disciplined approach to investing and willingness to seek advice are commendable. With strategic adjustments and consistent investments, you are well on your way to achieving your financial goal.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Oct 31, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi, I’m a beginner to mutual fund and stock market investment. I’m 39 year old and recently started SIP by own. Now my portfolio has 9 different direct mutual funds. I know I should diversify and rebalance my portfolio.. 1) Now I have some quantitative money to invest as lump-sum (3.5 lakhs). So howmany funds I should choose? 2) Is this right time (market downtime as on 31st Oct 2024) invest as lump-sum? 3) Could you please help me with some mutual fund names with good returns over a period of 5 to 10 years? I chose below funds... - Quant Smallcap - ?Motilal Oswal Midcap - ?SBI Contra Fund - ?Motilal Oswal Nifty Smallcap 250 Index Fund - ?Nippon India Multicap fund - ?Motilal Oswal Nifty 200 Momentum 30 Index Fund - ?Parag Parikh Flexicap fund Please advise. Thank you
Ans: You’ve taken an excellent step by beginning your journey into mutual funds and stock markets. Diversifying and rebalancing your portfolio is indeed important, and your current enthusiasm for learning and improving your financial health is admirable. I’ll help you answer your questions and outline an optimal approach to maximise returns while managing risk.

Assessing Your Current Mutual Fund Portfolio
Your existing portfolio of nine direct mutual funds reflects your willingness to diversify. However, managing too many funds can lead to overlap and complexities in tracking performance. Here’s a more streamlined approach that ensures you achieve effective diversification without unnecessary fund overlap.

Limit to Essential Fund Categories: Aim to retain only 4-5 core categories. These include a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds, along with a smaller allocation to contra or sectoral funds for tactical growth.

Avoid Index Funds in This Case: Index funds replicate the market and lack active management, which may limit gains, especially during volatile market phases. Actively managed funds allow skilled fund managers to optimise performance based on market trends.

Reconsider Direct Funds: Investing through regular funds with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) helps you benefit from professional guidance. While direct funds save on distributor fees, they require significant knowledge and time to monitor effectively. An MFD with CFP credentials will help you align your investments with both market trends and personal goals.

Investment Strategy for Your Lump-Sum Amount
With Rs 3.5 lakhs to invest as a lump sum, your next steps are crucial for maximising returns.

1. Choosing the Right Number of Funds
Limit Fund Selection: For the Rs 3.5 lakh investment, focus on a manageable selection of 4-5 funds. Over-diversification may dilute returns without proportionate risk reduction.

Strategic Allocation: Allocate funds in a way that balances growth with stability. For example, allocate portions to large-cap, mid-cap, and flexi-cap funds, with a smaller allocation to a contra fund if you’re open to moderate risk.

Prioritise Active Funds over Passive Index Options: Actively managed funds allow professional adjustments in line with changing market conditions, aiming for higher returns over time.

2. Timing of Lump-Sum Investment
Market Timing vs. Systematic Approach: As markets can fluctuate unpredictably, consider a phased approach, such as a Systematic Transfer Plan (STP). This way, you can gradually move the lump sum from a low-risk fund to equity funds over a few months, reducing the risk of investing all at once during a downturn.

Assessing Current Market Levels: The market downtime you mentioned may appear tempting, but markets may take time to stabilise. By investing in phases, you mitigate risk while capitalising on potential market rebounds.

Suggested Mutual Fund Categories for Long-Term Growth
Since you’re aiming for a 5 to 10-year period, a well-structured portfolio with actively managed funds is crucial. I’ll avoid suggesting specific schemes and instead outline fund categories that align with your goals.

1. Large-Cap Funds for Stability
Why Large-Cap Funds? These funds invest in established companies, offering stability and consistent growth. Over time, they help anchor the portfolio, especially during market volatility.

Ideal Allocation: Allocate about 30-40% of your lump-sum investment to large-cap funds to ensure stability in your portfolio.

2. Mid-Cap Funds for Growth Potential
Mid-Cap Funds’ Role: Mid-cap funds balance stability with higher growth prospects. While they’re slightly more volatile than large-cap funds, they offer strong potential returns.

Ideal Allocation: Consider allocating 20-25% of your lump-sum investment to mid-cap funds to capture this growth.

3. Flexi-Cap Funds for Market Flexibility
Flexi-Cap Benefits: These funds provide flexibility by investing across large, mid, and small-cap stocks based on market conditions. This helps maximise growth potential while managing risk.

Ideal Allocation: Allocate around 25% of your lump-sum investment here. Flexi-cap funds give fund managers room to adapt the fund based on market trends.

4. Contra or Value Funds for Tactical Growth
Tactical Role of Contra Funds: Contra or value funds invest in undervalued stocks, aiming to capitalise when these stocks eventually rise. They add a contrarian growth element to the portfolio.

Ideal Allocation: Allocate a smaller portion, around 10-15%, to a contra fund to enhance returns while maintaining manageable risk.

Tax Implications to Keep in Mind
Understanding tax implications helps optimise net returns. Here’s a snapshot of the applicable taxes:

Equity Mutual Funds: Gains above Rs 1.25 lakh per annum are taxed at 12.5% for long-term capital gains (LTCG). Short-term gains are taxed at 20%.

Debt Mutual Funds: Both LTCG and short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed as per your income tax slab. If you include debt funds for a part of your portfolio, consider this in your tax planning.

Additional Recommendations to Strengthen Your Financial Position
1. Build an Emergency Fund
Maintain a separate emergency fund covering at least six months’ expenses. This fund acts as a safety net, ensuring you don’t need to dip into your investments for unforeseen expenses.
2. Term Insurance for Financial Security
Ensure adequate term insurance coverage, providing financial stability to your dependents in your absence. This policy type offers high coverage at low costs, making it an ideal safety net.
3. Health Insurance for Your Family
Having comprehensive health insurance prevents your investment corpus from being impacted by medical expenses. Check for policies that cover critical illnesses for robust coverage.
4. Review Portfolio Regularly with a CFP
A Certified Financial Planner can help assess and adjust your portfolio as needed. Regular reviews allow you to stay aligned with your financial goals and market conditions.
5. Consider Goal-Based SIPs for Future Objectives
While your lump-sum investment supports wealth creation, consider setting up goal-based SIPs to address specific future goals, such as a child’s education or retirement.
Final Insights
Your commitment to long-term investment is commendable. With a structured approach and regular reviews, your portfolio can be geared for strong growth over the next 5-10 years. By focusing on actively managed funds, phased investments, and strategic fund selection, you’re well-positioned to achieve both security and growth.

For any further queries or detailed discussions, please feel free to reach out.

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 26, 2025

Money
I am 40 year old currently i am invest SIP 13 K in different Mutual fund 1)kotak Emerging Equity fund 2) Parag parikh flexi cap fund 3) Axis Blue chip Fund 3) ICICI Prudential Innovation Fund 4) ICICI Prudential Manufacturing Fund 5)Bajaj Finserv Flexi cap fund 6) Mahindra Manulife small cap fund 7) Motilal oswal small cap fund, this all funds are good ? My plan is More 7000 invest in SIP please suggest other mutual funds for batter return in future?
Ans: Your current SIP of Rs. 13,000 is spread across seven different funds. Let's assess your existing portfolio and provide suggestions for optimizing your investments.

Assessment of Existing Mutual Fund Portfolio

Assessment of Existing Mutual Fund Portfolio
1. Kotak Emerging Equity Fund

This is a mid-cap fund.

It has delivered strong long-term returns.

Suitable for investors with a high-risk appetite.

2. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund

A flexi-cap fund with a diversified portfolio.

It has consistently outperformed its benchmark.

Ideal for long-term wealth creation.

3. Axis Bluechip Fund

A large-cap fund focusing on blue-chip companies.

Provides stability during market volatility.

Suitable for conservative investors.

4. ICICI Prudential Innovation Fund

A thematic fund focusing on innovative companies.

Higher risk due to sector concentration.

Recommended for investors with a strong risk appetite.

5. ICICI Prudential Manufacturing Fund

Focuses on the manufacturing sector.

Subject to cyclical market trends.

Suitable for investors who can tolerate sector-specific risks.

6. Bajaj Finserv Flexi Cap Fund

A relatively new flexi-cap fund.

Limited performance history.

Investors should monitor its performance closely.

7. Mahindra Manulife Small Cap Fund

A small-cap fund with potential for high returns.

Higher volatility compared to large-cap funds.

Suitable for long-term investors.

8. Motilal Oswal Small Cap Fund

Another small-cap fund in your portfolio.

Having multiple small-cap funds increases risk.

Consider consolidating to manage risk better.

Suggestions for Additional SIP of Rs. 7,000
1. Avoid Overlapping Fund Categories

You already hold two small-cap funds.

Avoid adding more in the same category.

Instead, choose different types for better balance.

2. Add a Balanced Advantage Fund

Balanced advantage funds adjust equity and debt mix.

They are useful in volatile markets.

Good for long-term wealth creation.

3. Add a Consistent Mid-Cap Fund

One more mid-cap fund can balance growth and risk.

Choose a fund with strong past records.

Ensure low overlap with existing holdings.

4. Do Not Add Another Thematic Fund

You already hold two sector-specific funds.

Avoid adding more thematic funds now.

These funds are more risky and less predictable.

5. Prefer Actively Managed Regular Funds

Regular plans come with professional guidance.

A Certified Financial Planner and MFD monitors fund performance.

This adds discipline and structure.

6. Avoid Index Funds

Index funds blindly follow the index.

They do not protect from downsides.

Actively managed funds have better flexibility and research backing.

7. Avoid Direct Mutual Funds

Direct funds lack personalised review and guidance.

MFDs with CFP credentials help create goal-based portfolios.

They offer risk management and fund selection support.

8. Use STP or Lumpsum for Year-End Bonus

If you get bonus or surplus, don’t hold it in savings.

Invest lumpsum in low-risk debt fund.

Set up STP to shift to equity gradually.

Other Key Suggestions
1. Set Clear Investment Goals

Define goals like child education, retirement, or home renovation.

Each SIP should align with one goal.

Time horizon helps in selecting right category.

2. Track and Review Funds Every Year

Don’t stop SIPs due to short-term loss.

Review all funds once a year.

Remove consistent underperformers only after 3 years.

3. Manage Tax Efficiently

Equity fund LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.

STCG taxed at 20%.

Plan withdrawals smartly for tax efficiency.

4. Avoid Too Many Funds

Seven to eight funds are enough.

Too many funds create overlap and confusion.

Focus on quality, not quantity.

5. Do Not Chase Recent High Performers

Choose funds with long-term consistency.

Past year performance can mislead.

Select based on long-term stability and risk-adjusted returns.

6. Avoid Investment-Linked Insurance

If holding LIC or ULIP, assess its performance.

Most traditional plans give poor returns.

If returns are low, surrender and shift to mutual funds.

7. Emergency Fund Is Must

Keep 6 months of expenses in liquid form.

Helps avoid breaking SIPs during emergencies.

Keep it in liquid or ultra-short-term debt funds.

Finally
Your SIP journey is headed in the right direction.

You have chosen diversified categories across funds.

But small adjustments can help you improve outcomes.

Limit exposure to thematic and small-cap schemes.

Invest new SIP in balanced or mid-cap category.

Regular monitoring and goal tracking are important.

Use MFD with CFP credential for guidance and review.

Rebalancing once in a year will control risk.

Always link your SIPs to financial goals.

Stay focused on long-term and avoid panic in short term.

Avoid crowding your portfolio with too many similar funds.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10872 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 06, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 06, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sir/Ma'am, I need some guidance and advice for continuing my mutual fund investments. I am a 36 year old male, married, no kids yet and no debts/liabilities as such. I have couple of savings in PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and long term investing in direct stocks. I recently started below mentioned SIPs for long term to grow wealth. Request you to review the same and let me know if I should continue with the SIPs or need to rationalize. Kindly also advice on how to invest a lumpsum amount of around 6lacs. invesco small cap 2000 motilal oswal midcap 2700 parag parikh flexicap 3000 HDFC flexicap 3100 ICICI prudential largecap 3100 HDFC large and midcap 3100 HDFC gold etf FOF 2000 ICICI Pru equity and debt fund 3000 HDFC balanced advantage fund 3000 nippon india silver etf FOF 2000
Ans: You already built a solid foundation. Many investors delay planning. But you started early at 36. That gives you a strong advantage. You have no liabilities. You have long term thinking. You also have diversified savings like PPF, NPS, Emergency funds and direct stocks. That shows clarity and discipline. This approach builds wealth with less stress over time.

You also started systematic investments in equity funds. That is a positive step. Your selection covers multiple categories like large cap, mid cap, small cap, flexi cap, hybrid and precious metals. So the intent is right. You are trying to create a broad portfolio. That gives balance.

» Your Portfolio Composition Understanding
Your current SIP list includes:

Small cap

Mid cap

Flexi cap

Large cap

Large and mid cap

Hybrid category

Gold and Silver FoF

Equity and Debt allocation fund

Dynamic hybrid fund

This shows you are trying to cover many segments. But too many categories can create overlap. When there is overlap, you get confusion during review. It also makes portfolio discipline difficult. You may think you are diversified. But the holdings inside may repeat. That reduces efficiency.

Your portfolio now looks like:

Equity dominant

Hybrid for stability

Metals for hedge

So the broad direction is fine. But simplifying helps in long-term habit building.

» Fund Category Duplication
You hold:

Two flexi cap funds

One large and mid cap fund

One pure large cap fund

One mid cap fund

One small cap fund

Flexi cap funds already invest across large, mid, small. Then large and mid also overlaps. So the large cap exposure gets repeated. That may not add extra benefit. But it increases monitoring complexity.

So I suggest rationalising. Keep one fund per category in core. Keep satellite space for only high conviction.

» Core and Satellite Strategy
A structured portfolio follows core and satellite method.

Core portfolio should be:

Simple

Long term

Stable

Satellite portfolio can be:

High growth

Concentrated

Based on your thinking level, you can structure like this:

Core funds:

One large cap

One flexi cap

One hybrid equity and debt fund

One balanced advantage type fund

Satellite funds:

One mid cap

One small cap

One metal allocation if needed

This division gives clarity. You can continue SIPs with review every year. No need to stop and restart often. That reduces behavioural mistakes.

» Your Current SIP List Review with Suggested Streamlining

You can consider continuing:

One flexi cap

One large cap

One mid cap

One small cap

One balanced advantage

One equity and debt hybrid

You may reconsider keeping both flexi caps and both gold silver funds. One of each category is enough. Because too many funds do not increase returns. It complicates tracking.

Precious metal funds should not be more than 5 to 7 percent in your portfolio. This is because metals are hedge assets. They do not create compounding like equity. They act as protection during cycles. So keep them small.

» How to Use the Rs 6 Lakh Lump Sum
You asked about lump sum investing. This is important. Lump sum should not go fully into equity at one time. Markets move in cycles. So use a staggered method. You can invest the lump sum through STP (Systematic Transfer Plan). You can keep the amount in a liquid fund and set STP toward your chosen growth funds over 6 to 12 months.

This reduces timing risk. It also creates discipline. So your Rs 6 lakh can be deployed gradually. You may use 50% towards core equity funds and 30% toward satellite growth category. The remaining 20% can go into hybrid category. This gives balance and comfort.

» Regular Funds Over Direct Funds
One important point many investors miss. Direct funds look cheaper. But they demand deep knowledge, discipline, and behaviour control. Most investors lose more through emotional selling and wrong timing than they save on expense ratio.

With regular funds through a Mutual Fund Distributor with Certified Financial Planner qualification, you get guidance, structure and correction. The advisory discipline protects you during market extremes. That is more valuable than a small saving in expense ratio.

A personalised planner also tracks portfolio drift, rebalancing need and category shifts. So regular fund investing gives long-term benefit and behaviour coaching.

» Actively Managed Funds over Index or ETF
Some investors choose index funds or ETF thinking they are simple and cheap. But they ignore drawbacks.

Index funds or ETF will not avoid weak companies in the index. They will invest whether the company grows or struggles. There is no fund manager decision making. So when markets are at peak, index funds continue aggressive exposure. In downturns also they fall fully. There is no cushion.

Actively managed funds work with research teams. They can avoid bad sectors. They can shift allocation based on market and economy. Over long term, this gives better alpha and stability. So continuing with actively managed funds creates better wealth compounding.

» SIP Continuation Strategy
Once the rationalisation is done, continue SIPs every month without interruption. Pause and restart behaviour damages compounding power. SIP works best when you go through all market cycles. You benefit more during corrections because cost averaging works.

So continue SIP amount. You can also review SIP increase every year based on income. Increasing SIP by 10 to 15 percent every year helps you reach large corpus faster.

» Asset Allocation Based Approach
One key point in wealth creation is having the right asset mix. Equity gives growth. Hybrid gives balance. Metals give hedge. Debt gives safety. Your asset allocation should stay aligned to your risk profile and time horizon.

Since you are young and have long term horizon, higher equity allocation is fine. But as time moves, rebalancing is important. Rebalancing protects gains and restores allocation.

So review your asset allocation every year or during major life events like child birth, home buying or retirement planning.

» Behaviour Management
Many portfolios fail not due to bad funds. They fail due to bad decisions. Selling during correction. Stopping SIP when market falls. Chasing past return performance. These mistakes reduce wealth.

Your discipline so far is good. Continue to stay patient during volatility. Equity rewards patience and time.

» Financial Goals Clarity
Since you have no children now, you can decide your long-term goals. Typical goals may include:

Retirement

Future child education

Dream lifestyle purchase

Health care reserves

When goals are clear, investment purpose becomes stronger. So you can map each fund category to goal horizon. Short-term goals should not use equity. Long-term goals should use equity with hybrid support.

» Role of Review and Monitoring
Review once in a year is enough. Frequent review can create anxiety. Annual review helps check:

Fund performance

Expense drift

Category relevance

Allocation balance

Then adjust only if needed. This progress helps you stay confident and aligned.

» Taxation Awareness
Equity mutual funds taxation rules are:

Short term (below one year holding) taxable at 20 percent

Long term (above one year holding) gains above Rs 1.25 lakh taxable at 12.5 percent

Debt mutual funds are taxed as per your income slab.

So always hold equity funds for long term. That reduces tax impact and gives better growth.

» SIP Increase Plan
You can create a simple plan to increase SIP over time. For example:

Increase SIP at every salary increment

Increase SIP during bonus time

Use rewards or extra income for investing

This habit accelerates wealth. So by the time you reach 45 to 50 years, your investments could reach a strong level.

» Insurance and Protection
Before investing large, ensure you have term insurance and health insurance. If not already done, it is important. Insurance protects wealth. Without insurance, even a small medical event can impact investment plan. So review this part also. Since you are married, cover both.

» Wealth Behaviour Mindset
You are already disciplined. Just keep these simple principles:

Invest without stopping

Review once a year

Avoid funds overlap

Follow asset allocation

Avoid reacting to media noise

This helps you reach long term milestones.

» Finally
You are on the right track. Only fine tuning and simplification is needed. Your discipline is visible. Your portfolio will grow well with structure, patience and periodic review. Use the Rs 6 lakh with STP approach. And continue SIP with rationalised categories.

With time and consistency, wealth creation becomes effortless and peaceful. You just need to stay committed and avoid overthinking during market movements.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Dr Dipankar

Dr Dipankar Dutta  |1837 Answers  |Ask -

Tech Careers and Skill Development Expert - Answered on Dec 05, 2025

Career
Dear Sir, I did my BTech from a normal engineering college not very famous. The teaching was not great and hence i did not study well. I tried my best to learn coding including all the technologies like html,css,javascript,react js,dba,php because i wanted to be a web developer But nothing seem to enter my head except html and css. I don't understand a language which has more complexities. Is it because of my lack of experience or not devoting enough time. I am not sure. I did many courses online and tried to do diplomas also abroad which i passed somehow. I recently joined android development course because i like apps but the teaching was so fast that i could not memorize anything. There was no time to even take notes down. During the course i did assignments and understood the code because i have to pass but after the course is over i tend to forget everything. I attempted a lot of interviews. Some of them i even got but could not perform well so they let me go. Now due to the AI booming and job markets in a bad shape i am re-thinking whether to keep studying or whether its just time waste. Since 3 years i am doing labour type of jobs which does not yield anything to me for survival and to pay my expenses. I have the quest to learn everything but as soon as i sit in front of the computer i listen to music or read something else. What should i do to stay more focused? What should i do to make myself believe confident. Is there still scope of IT in todays world? Kindly advise.
Ans: Your story does not show failure.
It shows persistence, effort, and desire to improve.

Most people give up.
You didn’t.
That means you will succeed — but with the right method, not the old one.

...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.

Close  

You haven't logged in yet. To ask a question, Please Log in below
Login

A verification OTP will be sent to this
Mobile Number / Email

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to

Resend OTP in120seconds

Dear User, You have not registered yet. Please register by filling the fields below to get expert answers from our Gurus
Sign up

By signing up, you agree to our
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy

Already have an account?

Enter OTP
A 6 digit code has been sent to Mobile

Resend OTP in120seconds

x