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Nikunj Saraf  |308 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds Expert - Answered on Mar 06, 2023

Nikunj Saraf has more than five years of experience in financial markets and offers advice about mutual funds. He is vice president at Choice Wealth, a financial institution that offers broking, insurance, loans and government advisory services. Saraf, who is a member of the Institute Of Chartered Accountants of India, has a strong base in financial markets and wealth management.... more
Mayank Question by Mayank on Mar 02, 2023Hindi
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Help me with good SIP'S for long term

Ans: Hello Mayank. Please quantify your investment constraints.
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  |8206 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jan 03, 2025

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Can you please tell me the best sips for long term 12 yrs investment plan
Ans: A 12-year SIP investment plan is ideal for wealth creation. Long-term investing helps overcome market volatility and compound returns effectively. Let’s create a structured plan for you to achieve your financial goals.

Why SIPs for Long-Term Investments
Power of Compounding: SIPs maximise returns over the long term by compounding.

Rupee Cost Averaging: It reduces risk by spreading investments across market cycles.

Discipline: Regular investments cultivate financial discipline for goal achievement.

Flexibility: You can start, pause, or modify SIPs based on financial needs.

Focus on Actively Managed Funds
Superior Returns: Active funds outperform passive ones by focusing on high-growth opportunities.

Dynamic Strategy: Fund managers adjust portfolios to adapt to market conditions.

Expert Guidance: Professional fund managers ensure better diversification and performance.

Recommendation: Choose actively managed funds with a strong track record and experienced managers.

Suggested Mutual Fund Categories for 12-Year Horizon
Equity Funds
Large-Cap Funds

Invest in well-established companies with stable growth.
These are ideal for moderate-risk investors.
Mid-Cap Funds

Focus on mid-sized companies with high growth potential.
Suitable for investors willing to take moderate to high risk.
Flexi-Cap Funds

Invest across large, mid, and small-cap companies.
Offer diversification and balanced growth.
Sector or Thematic Funds

Invest in specific sectors like technology or healthcare.
Suitable only for investors who can take higher risks.
Hybrid Funds
Aggressive Hybrid Funds

Combine equity and debt for balanced risk and returns.
Ideal for cautious investors seeking equity exposure.
Balanced Advantage Funds

Dynamically allocate between equity and debt based on market conditions.
Provide stable returns during volatile periods.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Wealth Accumulation: SIPs generate significant wealth over 12 years if done consistently.

Investment Amount: A monthly SIP of Rs. 10,000 may accumulate Rs. 50-60 lakhs in 12 years.

Growth Potential: Larger SIPs or additional investments can help achieve higher corpus goals.

Tax Implications on Mutual Fund Investments
Equity Funds: LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

Debt Components: Gains are taxed as per your income slab.

Tax Efficiency: Choose funds aligning with your tax bracket for better post-tax returns.

Importance of Diversification
Reduce Risk: Allocate investments across equity, hybrid, and debt funds.

Optimise Returns: Diversification balances high-growth and stable-income assets.

Avoid Concentration: Invest in 4-5 funds across different categories.

SIP Investment Strategies
Increase SIP Annually

Align SIPs with income growth to boost corpus.
Stay Invested

Avoid premature withdrawals to let compounding work.
Rebalance Periodically

Adjust portfolio based on market performance and life goals.
Final Insights
A 12-year SIP investment plan ensures disciplined wealth creation. Actively managed funds provide better growth opportunities than index funds. Focus on diversification, consistent investments, and regular reviews for optimal returns.

Your long-term commitment to SIPs can transform your financial future significantly.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8206 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Mar 25, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 27, 2025Hindi
Money
Best SBI SIP for long terms
Ans: Investing in a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) for the long term is a smart decision. It helps in wealth creation through disciplined investing. It also allows you to benefit from rupee cost averaging and compounding.

SBI offers various mutual funds suitable for long-term investment. Choosing the right SIP requires a careful assessment of multiple factors.

A well-structured approach will help you select the best SIP option for long-term financial security.

1. Define Your Investment Objective
A clear financial goal helps in selecting the right SIP.

Wealth creation – Investing for long-term capital appreciation.

Retirement planning – Building a retirement corpus with equity exposure.

Child’s education – Saving for higher education expenses.

Financial independence – Achieving financial stability through passive income.

Understanding your goal ensures you invest in a suitable fund.

2. Investment Time Horizon
Your investment period affects the type of SIP you should choose.

Short-term (less than 5 years) – Requires stability and low risk. Avoid equity funds.

Medium-term (5-10 years) – Balance between equity and debt for steady growth.

Long-term (10+ years) – Focus on actively managed equity funds for maximum growth.

Long-term SIPs benefit from compounding and market growth.

3. Importance of Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds are crucial for better returns. A fund manager actively selects stocks based on market trends and economic conditions.

Why Choose Actively Managed Funds Over Index Funds?
Better risk management – Fund managers adjust portfolios based on market trends.

Higher return potential – Actively managed funds have beaten index funds in the long term.

Downside protection – Index funds fall as much as the market, but active funds limit losses.

Investing in actively managed funds ensures better performance than index funds.

4. Choosing the Right SIP Based on Risk Appetite
Your risk appetite determines the right SIP investment.

Aggressive Investor
Can handle market fluctuations.

Should invest in actively managed equity funds.

Long-term investing reduces volatility impact.

Moderate Investor
Prefers stability with some growth.

A mix of equity and debt ensures balanced returns.

Reduces risk while maintaining reasonable growth.

Conservative Investor
Focuses on capital preservation.

Lower exposure to equities, more in debt.

Ensures stability with moderate growth.

Risk assessment helps in selecting suitable SIP investments.

5. Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Many investors believe direct mutual funds are better due to lower costs. However, direct funds have several disadvantages.

Require constant monitoring – You must track and rebalance regularly.

Lack of expert guidance – A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) helps in fund selection and tax efficiency.

Missed opportunities – Investors may not identify underperforming funds early.

Investing through a CFP ensures professional fund management and better returns.

6. Taxation on SIP Investments
Understanding mutual fund taxation helps in optimizing post-tax returns.

Equity Mutual Funds
LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.

STCG is taxed at 20%.

Debt Mutual Funds
LTCG and STCG are taxed as per your income tax slab.

A tax-efficient investment strategy enhances net returns.

7. Asset Allocation for Long-Term SIPs
A proper asset allocation strategy balances risk and growth.

Equity funds – Higher allocation for long-term growth.

Debt funds – Stability and risk management.

Gold – Acts as a hedge against inflation.

Liquid funds – Maintain some liquidity for emergencies.

Asset allocation should align with financial goals and risk tolerance.

8. Regular Review and Rebalancing
Investments should be reviewed periodically.

Fund performance – Assess returns compared to benchmarks.

Market conditions – Adjust asset allocation if needed.

Goal alignment – Ensure investments meet financial objectives.

A Certified Financial Planner can help review and adjust your SIP portfolio.

9. Investment Discipline and Long-Term Benefits
SIPs work best with long-term discipline.

Avoid stopping SIPs during market downturns.

Continue investing for compounding benefits.

Stay invested for at least 10+ years.

Consistent SIP investments create long-term financial security.

Finally
A long-term SIP investment provides financial growth and stability. Selecting the right fund requires a structured approach.

Choose actively managed funds for better returns.

Avoid direct funds and invest through a CFP.

Follow a proper asset allocation strategy.

Ensure tax efficiency and periodic portfolio review.

A disciplined SIP investment approach ensures financial success.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Dr Nagarajan Jsk

Dr Nagarajan Jsk   |317 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Apr 10, 2025

Dr Nagarajan Jsk

Dr Nagarajan Jsk   |317 Answers  |Ask -

NEET, Medical, Pharmacy Careers - Answered on Apr 10, 2025

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What is minimum requirement for a Tamilnadu state board student to enter mbbs in AFMC?
Ans: Hi Ani,

Regardless of whether you are from Tamil Nadu or another state, there are certain requirements you must fulfill. First, you need to be eligible for NEET. After that, you must pass the AFMC entrance test, and finally, you need to meet the medical fitness standards.

Most importantly, you are required to serve the nation for a specific period after completing your studies. Age criteria are also significant.
Please see the requirements outlined below:
Age: 17-24yrs
Academic qualitfication: FIRST ATTEMPT with English, Physics, Chemistry and Biology/ Bio-technology taken simultaneously and securing not less than 60% of the aggregate marks in these three science subjects taken together and not less than 50% marks in English and 50% marks in each of the science subjects. They must have also passed an examination in Mathematics of the tenth standard.
Candidates seeking admission for MBBS course at AFMC Pune will have to mandatorily qualify the NEET UG 2024 Examination conducted by National Testing Agency (NTA). 11. Eligible candidates who are interested to join AFMC, Pune to pursue the MBBS course will have to mandatorily register and apply for AFMC, Pune on DGHS

The shortlisted candidates will be called for screening which comprises of Test of English Language and Reasoning (ToELR), Psychological Assessment Test (PAT), Interview and Medical Examination at AFMC, Pune.

ToELR & PAT - Test of English Language and Reasoning (ToELR) in the form of Computer Based Test (CBT) and also Psychological Assessment Test (PAT) to be conducted at AFMC, Pune only for candidates shortlisted for interview. (t) Written Examination Score - Score obtained in NEET (UG) 2024 (720 marks) added to ToELR Score (80 marks) divided by 4 to get a score out of 200. (u) Final Score - Written examination score (200 marks) + Interview marks (50 marks).

MEDICAL FITNESS: MANDATORY AS PER AFMC

POOCHO. LIFE CHANGE KARO.

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8206 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 10, 2025Hindi
Money
I'm 41 years old. My portforlio consist of 27L in mutual funds, 35L in stocks and 5L in NPS. I want to have a corpus of 30cr by 60. My monthly mutual fund SIP is 1.2L and NPS is 20K. Can you advise if my curent SIP will help in achieving my desired corpus by 60.
Ans: You are 41 and aiming for a Rs. 30 crore corpus by age 60. That gives you 19 years to build your wealth. You have a strong monthly SIP of Rs. 1.2L in mutual funds and Rs. 20K in NPS, which shows high commitment. Let’s analyse in detail whether your current strategy is enough, and what changes, if any, are needed.

Portfolio Snapshot
Age: 41

Goal: Rs. 30 crore by age 60 (retirement corpus)

Current Investments:

Mutual Funds: Rs. 27L

Stocks (direct equity): Rs. 35L

NPS: Rs. 5L

Monthly Investment:

Mutual Fund SIP: Rs. 1.2L

NPS Contribution: Rs. 20K

360-Degree Assessment: Can You Reach Rs. 30 Crores?
Let us now break your journey into parts:

1. Time Horizon – You Have 19 Years
That’s a decent long-term window.

Compounding will support you well over this period.

However, the earlier years are more powerful.

Your current age requires disciplined allocation, with some risk.

2. Current Corpus – Rs. 67L in Total
Mutual funds: Rs. 27L

Stocks: Rs. 35L

NPS: Rs. 5L

Total: Rs. 67L

This base amount gives you a strong head start.

You are not starting from zero. That’s an advantage.

3. Monthly Contribution – Rs. 1.4L Combined
Rs. 1.2L in mutual fund SIPs

Rs. 20K in NPS

That’s Rs. 16.8L per year

Over 19 years, that’s Rs. 3.19 crore invested capital

Now the key is the return you generate

4. Required Growth Rate – Let’s Evaluate That
To grow Rs. 67L + Rs. 3.2 crore to Rs. 30 crore in 19 years,

You’ll need an average return around 13% to 14% annually.

That’s achievable, but not guaranteed.

It depends on:

Fund categories

Asset allocation

Risk management

Market behaviour

5. Mutual Fund SIP – Is It Positioned Well?
You are doing Rs. 1.2L monthly in mutual funds.

It’s important to know how this SIP is spread:

Large-cap funds?

Flexi-cap funds?

Midcap, small-cap, or focused funds?

Any sectoral or thematic funds?

You need a strong tilt towards equity for this goal.

A suggested split (approximate):

40% flexi-cap + large-cap for stability

40% mid-cap and small-cap for growth

20% focused or thematic for alpha potential

SIP in actively managed funds through a Certified Financial Planner is key.

Avoid direct funds. They don’t offer ongoing reviews and rebalancing.

6. Stock Portfolio – Rs. 35L
Direct equity adds potential for high returns.

But it also adds volatility and risk.

Ask yourself:

Is your stock portfolio diversified?

Are you tracking and rebalancing regularly?

Do you have exposure to quality sectors?

Are you avoiding over-concentration?

A well-researched, long-term approach is needed.

If your equity portfolio underperforms, it will impact the 30 crore target.

7. NPS Contribution – Rs. 20K Monthly
NPS is good for disciplined retirement investing.

It gives tax benefits and partial equity exposure.

But it has liquidity restrictions till 60.

NPS equity cap is 75% (tier I) – may not match mutual fund returns.

Don’t depend on NPS alone for growth.

Use it as a stable secondary engine.

8. Inflation Consideration – A Hidden Threat
Over 19 years, inflation can reduce the purchasing power of money.

Your Rs. 30 crore should be inflation-adjusted.

So, real value might be around Rs. 10 crore in today’s money.

That’s still a strong and ambitious target.

9. Risk Management – Vital in This Journey
You are aiming high. So, managing downside risk is critical.

Follow asset allocation and rebalancing.

Add short-term debt or arbitrage funds gradually for stability.

Stay diversified across sectors and market caps.

Use SWP approach after 60 to withdraw smartly.

10. Things You Must Review Annually
Fund performance – replace consistent underperformers.

Asset allocation – rebalance equity vs. debt mix.

Goal progress – are you on track or lagging?

Market trend – adjust SIPs, if needed, during prolonged downtrends.

Tax planning – optimise long-term capital gains and exemptions.

11. Avoid These Common Mistakes
Over-exposure to single stock or single sector.

Stopping SIPs during a market fall.

Investing in direct mutual funds without professional guidance.

Reacting emotionally to market volatility.

Ignoring NPS or mutual fund reviews for many years.

12. Strategies That Will Help You Reach 30 Crores
Stay fully invested in equity-oriented funds for at least 14-15 years.

Use staggered allocation in mutual funds through SIP and STP.

Review your SIP growth annually and increase if surplus exists.

Keep emergency funds separate. Don't touch your investment portfolio.

Avoid ULIPs, endowment plans, or investment-linked insurance.

13. Should You Increase Your SIP Further?
Yes, if you can spare more each year, do step-up SIPs.

Even a 10% annual SIP increase will have massive impact.

Try to reach Rs. 2L/month SIP over next 5 years.

That alone can help you comfortably touch Rs. 30 crore or more.

14. Plan for Retirement Withdrawal Now Itself
Once you hit Rs. 30 crore, have a clear exit plan.

Use a bucket strategy post-retirement:

Short-term for next 2 years

Medium-term for 3–5 years

Long-term growth beyond 5 years

This ensures safe, inflation-beating, and tax-efficient retirement income.

Finally
Your current investments are strong and well-disciplined.

But Rs. 30 crore in 19 years needs growth, not just savings.

Equity mutual funds and stocks must stay efficient and well-reviewed.

A 13–14% average return is needed — possible, but needs active monitoring.

Review your SIPs yearly. Increase them as your income grows.

Get portfolio reviews regularly from a Certified Financial Planner.

Avoid short-term panic. Think long. Think big. Stay consistent.

With this discipline and structure, yes, you can reach your Rs. 30 crore goal.

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8206 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 10, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 09, 2025Hindi
Money
Sir, I retired in January and received 50 lacs as super annuation fund. Is it right to invest money in SWP based mutual funds now? Please suggest me. If not, please suggest alternative investment.
Ans: congratulations on your retirement. Receiving Rs. 50 lakhs as superannuation is a good milestone.

You have asked whether it is right to invest in SWP-based mutual funds now. That’s a very wise and thoughtful question. Let me appreciate you first. You are not rushing. You are asking before investing. That is the right way to protect your retirement money.

Now, let me guide you step-by-step with a 360-degree assessment of your query.

Understanding Your Retirement Corpus
You have Rs. 50 lakhs in hand. This is your hard-earned money.

This money must support you for many years. You cannot take high risks with it.

At the same time, keeping it idle in a savings account is also not good.

You need regular income now, but also growth to beat inflation.

So, your investment must balance three things: safety, income, and long-term growth.

A Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) seems attractive. But we must evaluate it fully.

What is an SWP and How it Works
SWP is a way to get regular income from mutual funds.

You invest a lump sum in a mutual fund.

Then, you withdraw a fixed amount monthly or quarterly.

The remaining amount stays invested and continues to grow.

This works well only if you invest in the right category of fund.

Is SWP Right for You Now? Let’s Analyse
SWP is suitable when markets are relatively stable or growing.

You have just retired. Your need is regular income with less risk.

So, you cannot afford sudden market shocks.

In early retirement years, capital protection is more important than return chasing.

If the fund value falls early, your withdrawals can deplete the fund faster.

This is called “sequence of return risk”. It can damage your retirement plan.

When SWP Becomes Effective
SWP works better after first 2-3 years of staying invested.

If the market performs well in early years, your fund has more room to grow.

It becomes sustainable for 15-20 years.

But this depends on proper asset allocation and category selection.

Not all mutual fund categories are good for SWP.

Which Fund Categories Are Risky for SWP
Small-cap and mid-cap funds are risky for steady SWP.

They are volatile. They move up and down quickly.

If you withdraw during a fall, you reduce your capital.

Sectoral or thematic funds are also unsuitable for SWP.

They depend on specific sectors like pharma or energy.

Which Categories Are Better for SWP
Balanced Advantage Funds are more stable.

They switch between equity and debt automatically.

This reduces your risk during market volatility.

Some Hybrid Conservative Funds can also work well.

They hold more debt and less equity.

Should You Invest the Entire Rs. 50 Lakhs in SWP Now?
No. Do not put full amount at once into SWP mutual funds.

That will expose you to market timing risk.

You can phase your investment in steps over 6-12 months.

First, park your Rs. 50L in a short-term debt fund.

Then, use monthly STP (Systematic Transfer Plan) to move to chosen equity-oriented fund.

After 12 months, start your SWP from the accumulated amount.

What About Taxation in SWP? Know the Rules
Mutual Fund withdrawals are taxed. But only on gains, not entire amount.

For equity funds, long-term capital gains (after 1 year) above Rs. 1.25L/year are taxed at 12.5%.

Short-term capital gains (within 1 year) are taxed at 20%.

For debt funds, both long- and short-term gains are taxed as per your income slab.

So, for SWP to be tax-efficient, you must plan long-term.

Avoid withdrawing from units bought in last 12 months.

What Are The Risks If You Depend Entirely On SWP
Your monthly income is not guaranteed.

During market downturns, fund value can reduce quickly.

That can affect your ability to withdraw the same income.

Your withdrawal may also include part of your principal.

If fund underperforms for many years, you may run out of money.

SWP Must Be Part of a Bigger Strategy, Not the Only Solution
Use SWP for partial income, not full dependency.

Diversify your Rs. 50L corpus into multiple buckets.

Allocate part for safety, part for regular income, and part for growth.

This is called the "Bucket Strategy" for retirement.

Ideal Allocation Structure for Your Rs. 50 Lakhs
Bucket 1 (Safety + Emergency): Rs. 10L

Keep in high-quality bank FD or ultra short-term debt fund.

This is for next 2-3 years of expenses.

No risk. Instant access in emergencies.

Bucket 2 (Stable Income): Rs. 20L

Invest in hybrid mutual funds for SWP.

Start STP for 12 months. Then begin SWP.

Choose regular plans via MFDs with CFP credentials.

Regular plans provide support, rebalancing, and exit timing help.

Direct plans may seem cheaper but lack personal guidance.

Regular plans also have advisor accountability.

You need this after retirement more than ever.

Bucket 3 (Growth + Inflation Hedge): Rs. 20L

Invest in balanced or flexi-cap mutual funds.

These help your wealth grow over long-term.

Don’t withdraw from this for 5-7 years.

This portion helps your SWP stay sustainable for 20+ years.

What Are the Alternatives If Not SWP
You can use interest from corporate bonds and RBI bonds.

Ladder your investments across different maturity periods.

Use short-term, medium-term, and long-term bond funds.

This keeps income flowing and reduces reinvestment risk.

Combine this with systematic withdrawal from hybrid funds.

That makes your overall plan more balanced.

Things You Must Avoid
Do not go for guaranteed return schemes.

They usually give low returns after tax.

Stay away from insurance-cum-investment policies.

They lock your money for long years with poor returns.

Do not fall for high dividend paying mutual funds.

Dividends are now taxable and reduce your fund value.

Review Your Plan Every Year
Retirement planning is not a one-time activity.

You must track your income and spending yearly.

Rebalance your funds once a year with expert help.

Review tax implications regularly. Rules can change anytime.

What to Ask Your Certified Financial Planner
How much income can I draw each year safely?

What happens if the market goes down for 3 years?

Will my money last till age 90 or more?

Can my portfolio beat inflation consistently?

Are my tax liabilities under control?

What is the exit plan if I don’t need SWP later?

Finally
SWP is a good tool, but not a full solution.

You must build a proper structure before using SWP.

Use 3 buckets: emergency, income, and growth.

Take support from a Certified Financial Planner.

Go only through regular mutual fund plans.

Direct plans do not give the support you need post-retirement.

SWP should start only after careful planning and phased investment.

Don't rush. Your Rs. 50 lakhs must give you peace for many years.

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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