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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7162 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 17, 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
Anmol Question by Anmol on May 05, 2024Hindi
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Hii, I am 28 years old. I am doing monthly SIP of 30000 in these funds : Mirae Asset Large and Midcap - 4000 Quant flexi cap - 4000 HDFC balanced advantage - 3000 ICICI multi asset - 2000 Parag Parikh flexi cap - 6000 Nippon India Index BSE Sensex - 3000 HDFC Mid Cap - 3000 Quant Small Cap - 5000 I also contribute 1.5 Lakh each year to PPF. Currently I have no loans. Is there any need to reshuffle my portfolio?

Ans: Reviewing and Optimizing Your Investment Portfolio
Assessing Your Current Portfolio
At 28, you're proactively investing in a diversified portfolio through monthly SIPs and annual contributions to PPF. Your investment strategy reflects a blend of large-cap, mid-cap, flexi-cap, index, and small-cap funds, along with a multi-asset fund, indicating a well-diversified approach.

Evaluating Fund Performance
Review the performance of each fund in your portfolio relative to its benchmark index and peer group. Assess factors such as consistency, risk-adjusted returns, and fund manager track record to identify any underperforming funds that may warrant reconsideration.

Considering Fund Overlaps
Evaluate the overlap in holdings across your funds to avoid concentration risk and redundancy. Ensure adequate diversification across sectors, market caps, and investment styles to minimize portfolio overlap and optimize risk-return potential.

Rebalancing Asset Allocation
Assess your overall asset allocation and risk tolerance to ensure alignment with your financial goals and investment horizon. Consider rebalancing your portfolio periodically to maintain the desired asset allocation and mitigate portfolio drift.

Streamlining Fund Selection
Consider consolidating your portfolio by reducing the number of funds to streamline management and enhance efficiency. Focus on high-quality funds with strong track records, consistent performance, and alignment with your investment objectives.

Addressing Tax Efficiency
Evaluate the tax implications of your investment portfolio, including capital gains taxes on equity funds and tax benefits of PPF contributions. Explore tax-efficient investment options such as ELSS funds for equity exposure within the Section 80C limit.

Seeking Professional Advice
Consult with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to conduct a comprehensive portfolio review and optimization. A CFP can provide personalized recommendations tailored to your financial goals, risk profile, and market outlook, helping you make informed investment decisions.

Conclusion
While your current investment portfolio demonstrates a diversified and disciplined approach, periodic review and optimization are essential to ensure alignment with your financial objectives and market dynamics. By evaluating fund performance, rebalancing asset allocation, and seeking professional guidance, you can optimize your portfolio for long-term wealth creation and financial success.

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  |7162 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 17, 2024Hindi
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I am 30 years old and I am investing following SIP 1) Parag Parikh Flexi cap Fund - 3K 2) Mirae large and mid cap Fund - 3k 3) Nifty 50 index fund - 3K 4) Nifty mid cap 250 index fund - 2K 5) Nippon small cap Fund - 1K 6) Goldbees - 1K Also I am planning to opt for Nifty 200 monumentum low volatility 30 fund for 2K. Along with that I am investing on direct stocks ITC,Mannapuram,JSW infra , TATADVR, NAPCO Pharma. Please review my portfolio and let me know to restructure
Ans: Your investment portfolio reflects a diversified approach across various asset classes, including mutual funds and direct stocks. While your strategy appears well-rounded, here are some suggestions to consider for potential restructuring:

Active Mutual Funds Over Index Funds: Instead of Nifty 50 index fund and Nifty mid cap 250 index fund, consider allocating more towards actively managed mutual funds. Active funds have the potential to outperform the market indices by leveraging the expertise of fund managers to select high-quality stocks and navigate market fluctuations effectively.
Focus on Quality Active Funds: Look for actively managed funds with a track record of consistent performance and robust investment strategies. Funds like diversified equity funds, large-cap funds, and mid-cap funds with proven track records can offer growth potential while managing risk effectively.
Review Direct Stock Holdings: Evaluate your direct stock holdings and consider consolidating them into a more concentrated portfolio of high-quality companies with strong growth prospects and solid fundamentals. Diversification is essential, but too many stocks can dilute the impact of your best-performing investments.
Regular Portfolio Review: Periodically review your portfolio's performance and make adjustments as needed based on changing market conditions and your investment goals. Rebalancing your portfolio and reallocating investments to areas with better growth potential can help optimize returns over the long term.
Remember, while mutual funds offer diversification and professional management, direct stock investments can provide opportunities for higher returns but also come with higher risks. Consider consulting with a Certified Financial Planner to tailor your investment strategy to your specific financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7162 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 21, 2024Hindi
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Hi Experts, I am 40 years old. I am investing in mutual fund SIPs. My portfolio has following funds each 1000Rs SIP monthly. 1) Quant Infrastructure 2) Quant Mid cap 3) Quant Small cap 4) Quant Active 5) Quant Flexi cap 6) ICICI Pru Infrastructure 7) ICICI Pru Bluechip 8) ICICI Pru Bharat 22 FOF 9) Nippon India Large cap 10) Nippon India Growth 11) Nippon Small cap 12) Nippon India Multi cap 13) Nippon Power & Infra 14) Aditya Birla Sun Life PSU 15) SBI PSU 16) Invesco PSU 17) JM Large cap 18) JM Value fund 19) JM Flexi cap 20) Tata Small cap 21) HDFC Mid cap opportunities 22) Mahindra Manulife Mid cap 23) Mahindra Manulife Multi cap 24) Motilal Oswal Mid cap. Am I good to continue on these funds? Do I need to add/remove any funds for a good portfolio. Please provide your thoughts.
Ans: It's commendable that you're investing in mutual funds through SIPs to build wealth for your future. However, your portfolio seems overly concentrated with a large number of funds, which may not necessarily translate into better returns. Let's review your portfolio and suggest any necessary adjustments for better diversification and performance:
Assessing Your Portfolio:
1. Quant Funds: These funds focus on quantitative strategies, which can be riskier and more volatile. Consider whether the strategy aligns with your risk tolerance and investment objectives.
2. ICICI Pru and Nippon India Funds: These are reputable fund houses offering a range of funds across different market segments. Review the performance and risk profile of each fund to ensure they meet your expectations.
3. PSU Funds: Investing in sector-specific funds like PSU funds increases concentration risk. While these funds may offer potential upside, they are susceptible to sector-specific risks.
4. Mid Cap and Small Cap Funds: These funds have the potential for high growth but come with increased volatility. Ensure they align with your risk tolerance and investment horizon.
Portfolio Optimization:
1. Consolidation: Consider consolidating your portfolio by reducing the number of funds. Focus on high-quality funds with strong track records and consistent performance.
2. Diversification: Aim for a well-diversified portfolio across different asset classes, market caps, and sectors to spread risk and optimize returns.
3. Exit Strategy: Evaluate the underperforming funds and consider exiting those that consistently lag behind their benchmarks or peers. Redirect the proceeds to more promising opportunities.
4. Professional Advice: Consult with a Certified Financial Planner to review your portfolio comprehensively and tailor it to your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.
Conclusion:
While your current portfolio includes several funds, it may benefit from streamlining and optimizing for better performance and risk management. By focusing on quality over quantity and maintaining a diversified approach, you can enhance the potential for long-term wealth creation.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7162 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 02, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 27, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi I am 33 years old and currently my mutual fund portfolio is Rs 4.51 lakh. My net salary after all deduction including loan is rs78000. 3000 in ppfas flexi cap. 5500 in uti elss 500 in uti nifty 50. 1500 in HDFC elss Should I make any changes in my sip.?? My sole goal for sip is wealth gaon for long term. I also have Rd 14500 monthly
Ans: Your current mutual fund portfolio is Rs. 4.51 lakhs, which is a solid start. You are investing Rs. 3,000 in a flexi-cap fund, Rs. 5,500 in an ELSS fund, Rs. 500 in an index fund, and Rs. 1,500 in another ELSS fund. Additionally, you have a recurring deposit of Rs. 14,500 per month. Your net salary is Rs. 78,000 after all deductions, including loans. With a focus on long-term wealth creation, it's important to assess whether your current investments align with your goals and if there are any necessary adjustments to maximize your potential returns.

Evaluating Your Current SIPs

Your Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) reflect a mix of equity funds, including flexi-cap and ELSS funds. This combination provides exposure to both diversified and tax-saving investment options.

Flexi-Cap Fund Investment:

Your Rs. 3,000 SIP in a flexi-cap fund is a good choice.
Flexi-cap funds offer flexibility by investing across market capitalizations.
They allow fund managers to adjust the portfolio based on market conditions.
This can help in capturing growth opportunities in both large-cap and mid-cap companies.
Keep this SIP as it aligns with your long-term wealth creation goal.
ELSS Funds Investment:

You have significant investments in ELSS funds with a Rs. 5,500 SIP in one and Rs. 1,500 in another.
ELSS funds provide tax benefits under Section 80C.
These funds have a mandatory three-year lock-in period.
They invest predominantly in equity, offering potential for high returns.
Continuing with ELSS is advisable if tax-saving is an important part of your strategy.
Index Fund Investment:

You are investing Rs. 500 in an index fund.
Index funds track a market index and offer average returns.
They lack the flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions.
Actively managed funds have the potential to outperform index funds, especially over the long term.
Consider shifting this investment to an actively managed fund for better growth prospects.
Advantages of Active Management Over Index Funds

Index funds are often marketed for their low costs, but this comes with trade-offs.

Lack of Flexibility:

Index funds simply replicate an index without considering market dynamics.
They do not adapt to market trends or economic shifts.
Actively managed funds can change their portfolio to optimize returns.
Average Returns:

Index funds provide returns similar to the market.
They are not designed to outperform, just to match the index.
Actively managed funds, on the other hand, aim to beat the market through expert stock selection.
Higher Potential with Active Management:

Fund managers in actively managed funds use research and expertise.
They select stocks that have the potential for higher growth.
This can lead to better returns over time, especially in a long-term strategy like yours.
The Role of ELSS in Your Portfolio

You have a significant portion of your investments in ELSS funds. These funds are beneficial for tax-saving, but it's important to balance your portfolio for optimal growth.

Balancing Tax Benefits and Growth:

ELSS funds offer tax benefits, which is a great advantage.
However, they are locked in for three years, limiting your flexibility.
Diversify your portfolio with other types of funds to ensure growth beyond tax-saving.
Potential Overexposure to ELSS:

Having a large portion of your portfolio in ELSS may limit your exposure to other growth opportunities.
Consider diversifying into non-tax-saving equity funds for better long-term growth potential.
Reassessing Your Recurring Deposit

Your Rs. 14,500 monthly RD is a secure investment, but it might not align with your long-term wealth creation goal.

RD vs. Mutual Funds for Wealth Creation:

Recurring deposits offer guaranteed returns but at a lower rate.
They are more suitable for short-term goals or safety over growth.
For long-term wealth creation, equity mutual funds provide better potential returns.
Opportunity Cost of RD:

The money invested in RD could potentially grow faster in equity funds.
Consider reducing your RD contributions and increasing your SIPs in equity funds.
This shift can enhance your overall portfolio returns over the long term.
Suggested Adjustments to Your Portfolio

Based on your current investments and goals, some adjustments could help optimize your portfolio for long-term growth.

Increase Equity Exposure:

Shift funds from your RD to increase your SIPs in equity mutual funds.
Focus on funds with strong historical performance and a good track record.
This will increase your portfolio's growth potential.
Reduce Index Fund Allocation:

Consider discontinuing your Rs. 500 SIP in the index fund.
Reallocate these funds to actively managed equity funds.
This could enhance your portfolio's returns over time.
Diversify Beyond ELSS:

Continue with your ELSS funds for tax benefits, but avoid overconcentration.
Explore adding other equity funds, such as large-cap, mid-cap, or multi-cap funds.
This diversification will balance risk and enhance growth prospects.
Utilize a Certified Financial Planner:

Regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner offer ongoing guidance.
They can help in selecting funds that match your goals and risk profile.
Avoid direct funds as they may lack the personalized advice you need.
Final Insights: Building a Long-Term Wealth Strategy

Your current investment strategy shows a good foundation, but there is room for optimization to better align with your long-term wealth creation goal. Here's a summary of the suggested approach:

Increase Equity Investments:

Redirect funds from RD to SIPs in equity funds for higher growth.
Consider funds with a strong performance history and diversification.
Balance ELSS with Other Equity Funds:

While ELSS is beneficial for tax savings, diversify to reduce risk.
Add more non-tax-saving equity funds for broader exposure.
Reconsider Index Fund Investment:

Index funds provide average returns, which may not meet your long-term goals.
Actively managed funds have the potential to outperform, making them a better choice.
Seek Professional Guidance:

Investing through a Certified Financial Planner will provide tailored advice.
Avoid direct plans as they lack personalized support and strategic insights.
By making these adjustments, you can strengthen your portfolio and set a solid path towards your long-term wealth creation goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Pushpa

Pushpa R  |33 Answers  |Ask -

Yoga, Mindfulness Expert - Answered on Nov 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 22, 2024Hindi
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Hi Pushpa, I start my day with morning meditation which brings calm and peace to my mind. But after first instance that angers me, the calm from the morning is lost and the mood for the entire day is disturbed. Although I don't express the anger outside in words or action, but the mind is definitely angered. What can I do so that words or actions don't anger me ? And if they do, how can I bring myself back to my calm state quickly ?
Ans: To remain calm even when faced with anger, it's essential to train the mind regularly, not just in the mornings. Here’s a simple way to handle it:

Mindful Breathing: When you feel anger rising, pause and take deep breaths. Slowly inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, and exhale for 6 counts. This simple practice can calm your mind in moments.

Witness Your Anger: Instead of reacting, observe the anger. Tell yourself, "This is just a passing emotion. I don't need to hold on to it."

Practice Gratitude: Shift your focus to something positive—like a good moment from your day. Gratitude quickly softens anger.

Carry Peace Throughout the Day: After morning meditation, visualize yourself remaining calm no matter what happens. This mental preparation helps when challenges arise.

Remember, meditation and mindfulness need consistent guidance to become effective. A yoga or meditation coach can teach you techniques tailored to your personality and lifestyle. Self-practice is good, but expert guidance ensures you build resilience faster and avoid frustration.

When anger disrupts your peace, see it as a signal to return to your breath and inner calm—each time, you grow stronger.

R. Pushpa, M.Sc (Yoga)
Online Yoga & Meditation Coach
Radiant YogaVibes
https://www.instagram.com/pushpa_radiantyogavibes/

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Milind Vadjikar  |706 Answers  |Ask -

Insurance, Stocks, MF, PF Expert - Answered on Nov 27, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 27, 2024Hindi
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Hi Milind, Hope you are doing well. I am an NRI. I am 42-year-old. I am a Software engineer. My son is 11-year-old. Please share your guidance for better investment in MF or Stocks which has better returns with less risk. The plan is for my son’s education for his degree. Please find my plan. 1. I can spend 20K per month towards SIP. 2. Plan is for 8 years investment. 3. In next 8 years, my target is to make 40 to 50 lakhs Please provide your inputs to my following queries 1. Which mutual funds can help to achieve my above goal? 2. Is it better to invest in 2 to 3 mutual funds ? 3. How much I need to SIP to achieve my above goals? 4. How can I apply investments in the mutual fund from United Kingdom? 5. Do I need open DMAT account ? If so, please guide how can I do this from UK? 6. Do I need to do KYC? If so, please guide how can I do this from UK? Appreciate you if you guide me Thank you
Ans: Hello;

To generate a corpus of around 50 L in 8 years you have two options:

1. Start with 20 K monthly SIP and step it up each year by 15% upto 8 years.

2. Start with a monthly sip of 31 K which may yield you a corpus of around 50 L after 8 years.

A modest 12% return from equity mutual funds is considered.

Mutual funds will be certainly better then direct stocks from a risk perspective.

You may invest in a flexicap type mutual fund and a large and midcap type mutual fund in the proportion of 50:50 for your investment.

You may select any fund from the top quartile in these categories.

You don't need a demat account.

You will need to do KYC before investing, some investment apps/AMCs offer it to be done online even for NRIs.

Happy Investing;

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Anu

Anu Krishna  |1330 Answers  |Ask -

Relationships Expert, Mind Coach - Answered on Nov 27, 2024

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I am a Single mother (divorcee) of 4year old kid. I was separated when the kid was around a year old, because of his habits and abusive nature. I didn't want my to go through the same The father or his family never asked to see the kid. Now my kid asks questions "where is my dad", "everyone has father, where is mine". It breaks my heart and i am not sure how to handle it. How can I tell my kid that the father doesn't want to be involved in a polite way so that it doesn't break my kid.
Ans: Dear Sushma,
I am sure this is really tough for you.
What I can suggest is actually reading out books to him that explain separation/divorce through stories. This will enable him to understand that there are families and not all families are the same. But do ensure that you give him a good image about his father. Bitterness as a seed can grow and that is not healthy for a child at all. As the story progresses, you may want to insert the truth that in some families, the father/mother are not involved and choose to be away. This maybe difficult for him to fathom right now but slowly comparing his life with his friends, he will have more questions as he grows up. Take it one day at a time...break the truth gently and very age appropriately and right now, stories seem to be the better way.

Later in life as he grows even older, he can choose to seek and understand the truth in his own way. It may seem like a big contrast then but he will know that you had in his childhood come from a space of concern for his emotional growth.

You may also check in with other single mothers and they will surely have some things to share on it...at the end of the day, do what you think is right as a mother for your child.

All the best!
Anu Krishna
Mind Coach|NLP Trainer|Author
Drop in: www.unfear.io
Reach me: Facebook: anukrish07/ AND LinkedIn: anukrishna-joyofserving/

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7162 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 27, 2024

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Dear Sir, I am 38 years old and I want to invest 60 lakh in mutual fund as lumpsum or STP over one year. I am planning to break it to 4 parts of 15 lakh each and invest in Nifty 50, Nifty midcap 150, one multi cap and one flexi cap. I have an invest horizon of 20 years. I have invested in real estate so I have already diversified myself so want to stick to mutual funds for 60 lakhs. Please advise if this is wise or am I being dumb?
Ans: Your financial planning shows a clear and thoughtful approach. Allocating Rs 60 lakh with a 20-year horizon is wise. However, let’s evaluate your strategy to ensure optimal diversification, risk management, and returns.

Diversification Achieved:
Your existing real estate investments ensure risk is spread across asset classes.

Long-Term Horizon Advantage:
A 20-year horizon allows you to absorb market volatility and maximise compounding benefits.

Focus on Mutual Funds:
Sticking to mutual funds for this corpus is logical and efficient.

Reassessing Your Allocation Plan
Lumpsum vs Systematic Transfer Plan (STP):
Lumpsum investment can expose you to market timing risks. Use STP over 12–18 months to reduce volatility.

Equity Fund Categories Selection:
Your idea of investing in large-cap, mid-cap, multi-cap, and flexi-cap funds is balanced.

Issues with Index Fund Allocation
Concerns with Nifty 50 and Nifty Midcap 150:
Index funds lack active management, leading to missed opportunities during market fluctuations.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds:
Active funds aim for better returns through expert fund manager insights and stock selection.

Advantages of Multi-Cap and Flexi-Cap Funds
Multi-Cap Funds:
These funds provide exposure across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap segments, ensuring balanced growth.

Flexi-Cap Funds:
Fund managers can freely allocate investments to market segments based on opportunities.

Complementary Approach:
Combining these funds with active large- and mid-cap funds ensures robust diversification.

Strategic Recommendations
Adopt a Blend of Active Funds:
Replace index funds with actively managed large- and mid-cap funds.

Focus on Quality Fund Selection:
Choose funds with consistent long-term performance and experienced fund managers.

Allocate Based on Risk Appetite:
Consider 60–70% allocation to equity funds for growth and 30–40% to hybrid or debt funds for stability.

Start STP Immediately:
Park your lumpsum in liquid funds and systematically transfer to equity funds monthly.

Taxation Awareness
Equity Mutual Funds Tax Rules:

LTCG above Rs 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%.
STCG is taxed at 20%.
Debt Funds Taxation:
LTCG and STCG are taxed as per your income slab.

Plan Exit Strategy:
Use SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan) after 20 years to optimise tax benefits.

Risks and Monitoring
Mitigate Market Risks:
Diversified fund selection and STP lower volatility risks.

Review Regularly:
Monitor your portfolio yearly and rebalance if needed.

Avoid Over-Concentration:
Ensure no single fund category dominates your portfolio.

Additional Suggestions
Emergency Fund:
Ensure an emergency fund of at least 6–12 months' expenses.

Insurance Coverage:
If not already covered, secure adequate health and term insurance.

Avoid Unnecessary Additions:
Stick to mutual funds without over-diversifying into unrelated assets.

Final Insights
Your planned allocation reflects thoughtful diversification and long-term focus. Replacing index funds with actively managed funds can enhance returns. Using an STP will balance market volatility effectively. With consistent monitoring and expert fund selection, your Rs 60 lakh investment can achieve your 20-year goals.

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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