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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8311 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 05, 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 29, 2023Hindi
Listen
Money

Hi. I am a housewife and doing small investments thru Sip in mutual funds. If I sale all mutual funds after 3 to 4 years, will i have to pay tax during IT filling or automatically tax will be deducted and funds will be credited to my bank account?

Ans: If you sell your mutual funds after holding them for 3 to 4 years, you may be subject to capital gains tax on any profit earned from the sale. The tax implications depend on whether the gains are classified as short-term or long-term capital gains.

For equity mutual funds held for more than one year, any gains exceeding Rs. 1 lakh are subject to long-term capital gains tax at a rate of 10% without indexation. However, gains up to Rs. 1 lakh are exempt from tax. For gains realized within one year of investment, they are considered short-term capital gains and taxed at a rate of 15%.

Tax on capital gains from mutual funds is not automatically deducted. It's your responsibility to calculate and report these gains while filing your income tax return. You can utilize the consolidated statement provided by your mutual fund house to determine the gains and report them accurately. If there are any taxes due, you would need to pay them while filing your income tax return.
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  |8311 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 13, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 26, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
let me know that if i take sip of one mutual fund monthly 50000 for 5 years how will be the income tax for capital gains?
Ans: If you invest Rs 50,000 monthly in a mutual fund through SIPs for five years, the taxation of your gains depends on the type of mutual fund and the holding period. It’s important to understand how capital gains taxes work to plan your investments efficiently.

Types of Capital Gains

Short-Term Capital Gains (STCG): Gains from units held for less than three years are considered short-term. These are taxed at a higher rate.

Long-Term Capital Gains (LTCG): Gains from units held for more than three years are considered long-term. These attract a lower tax rate.

Taxation Based on Mutual Fund Type

Equity-Oriented Funds: If your mutual fund invests primarily in equity, any gains after holding for more than one year are long-term. These are taxed at 12.5% if the gain exceeds Rs 1.25 lakh in a financial year. Short-term gains (held for less than one year) are taxed at 20%.

Debt-Oriented Funds: Capital gains are added to your income and taxed at your income tax slab rate.

SIP Specific Taxation

Individual SIPs Treated Separately: Each SIP is considered a separate investment. So, if you invest Rs 50,000 monthly, each investment is tracked individually for tax purposes. For example, SIPs made in the first year will become long-term after one year, but those made in the fifth year will be short-term until the next year.

Rolling Nature of Investments: Since you’re investing monthly, you’ll have a mix of short-term and long-term capital gains when you start redeeming. You need to plan redemptions carefully to minimise taxes.

Disadvantages of Index Funds

Limited Flexibility: Index funds cannot adapt to market changes. They simply track the market, which might not always align with your financial goals.

Potential for Lower Returns: Actively managed funds can outperform the market, offering potentially higher returns. Index funds miss out on this opportunity.

The Role of Regular Funds Managed by CFPs

Expert Management: Regular funds managed by a Certified Financial Planner offer tailored advice. This ensures your investments align with your financial goals and risk profile.

Better Tax Planning: A CFP can help you manage your redemptions to minimise taxes. They can also recommend tax-efficient investment strategies.

Investment Strategy Considerations

Invest in Tax-Efficient Funds: Consider funds that offer tax benefits or have a tax-efficient structure. This can maximise your post-tax returns.

Monitor Tax Implications: Keep track of your capital gains and plan redemptions accordingly. Avoid unnecessary taxes by holding investments for the required period.

Consider Increasing SIPs Over Time: As your income grows, increase your SIP contributions. This will enhance your wealth creation without a significant increase in tax liability.

Final Insights

Investing Rs 50,000 monthly through SIPs is a strong strategy for wealth creation. However, understanding the tax implications is crucial. By focusing on the right type of funds and managing your redemptions wisely, you can optimise your returns and minimise your tax liability. Regularly consulting with a Certified Financial Planner will help ensure your investments remain tax-efficient and aligned with your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8311 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 28, 2024Hindi
Listen
Money
Hi Do i have to pay any taxes during the redemption of mutual fund i have a corpus of 12 lakhs N wat inestment plan i should hv for my 17 yr old daughter n 8 yr old son with monthly investment of 20k
Ans: When you redeem mutual funds, you may need to pay taxes. This depends on the type of mutual fund and the holding period.

Equity Funds: Gains from equity mutual funds held for over a year are long-term capital gains (LTCG). LTCG over Rs 1 lakh are taxed at 10%.

Debt Funds: Gains from debt funds held for over three years are long-term capital gains. These are taxed at 20% after indexation. Gains from debt funds held for less than three years are short-term capital gains (STCG). STCG are added to your income and taxed as per your income tax slab.

Hybrid Funds: Taxation depends on the equity and debt components. For hybrid funds with over 65% equity, taxation is like equity funds. Otherwise, it is like debt funds.

Ensure to consult a tax professional for detailed guidance on your specific case.

Investment Plan for Your Children

Investing for your children's future is crucial. Here’s a structured plan for your 17-year-old daughter and 8-year-old son.

Assessing Goals and Time Horizons

Daughter: She will need funds soon for higher education or other expenses. Your investment horizon is short-term (1-3 years).

Son: You have a longer horizon (10+ years) for his higher education and other goals.

Short-Term Investment Strategy for Your Daughter

Since you need funds soon, opt for safer investments.

Debt Mutual Funds: Suitable for short-term goals. They offer better returns than savings accounts and fixed deposits.

Liquid Funds: They are low-risk and provide reasonable returns. Suitable for funds needed in a year or less.

Ultra-Short Duration Funds: These are slightly higher risk but can offer better returns than liquid funds.

Long-Term Investment Strategy for Your Son

You have time to take advantage of the power of compounding.

Equity Mutual Funds: These are ideal for long-term goals. They offer higher returns but come with market risks.

Diversified Equity Funds: They spread the risk across various sectors. Good for building wealth over the long term.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP): Invest regularly in equity funds. This mitigates market volatility and averages out the cost of investment.

Balancing Your Investments

Regular Monitoring: Review your investments regularly. Adjust them based on market conditions and goal progress.

Diversification: Spread your investments across different asset classes. This reduces risk and optimizes returns.

The Benefits of Actively Managed Funds

Actively managed funds offer several advantages over index funds.

Potential for Higher Returns: Skilled fund managers aim to outperform the market.

Flexibility: Managers can make timely decisions based on market conditions.

Risk Management: Active funds can avoid poor-performing stocks or sectors.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds

Investing in direct funds has some drawbacks.

Lack of Guidance: You may miss out on professional advice.

Time-Consuming: Managing investments yourself requires time and effort.

Potential for Mistakes: Without expert guidance, there's a risk of making uninformed decisions.

Using Regular Funds with a Certified Financial Planner

Professional Advice: A Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can provide tailored advice.

Better Planning: CFPs help in aligning investments with your financial goals.

Peace of Mind: You get professional support, reducing stress and ensuring better financial health.

Final Insights

Investing for your children's future requires careful planning. Use debt funds for short-term needs and equity funds for long-term goals. Regular monitoring and professional advice will help you achieve your financial goals.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8311 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 29, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 29, 2025
Money
Hi Sir, I have a property in Mumbai suburb (approx 40L) and its location is perfect near station, bus stop, heart of the city etc. It's very old around 36 years old. I have just inherited it and I am finishing the legal procedure of it. The monthly maintenance is increasing every year and we are still waiting for redevelopment to happen. I am housewife and require monthly income. We also have loans around 25 L. My husband is int IT field and I am German language expert. We have a son 3 years. Some are saying to give it on rent and some are saying to sell it off for repaying loans. Even if I sell it I would like to reinvest it somewhere for getting monthly income, preferably a property. I want a secure investment for meeting the requirements for my son's education as my husband's field is very volatile due to regular layoffs and stuff. Kindly guide
Ans: You have inherited a 36-year-old property worth around Rs 40 lakh.
You have Rs 25 lakh loans to repay.
You are a housewife but a German language expert, and your husband is in IT.
You want monthly income and secure future planning, especially for your son.

You have inherited a valuable property in Mumbai suburb.

You are completing the legal formalities rightly, which is very important.

You are thinking ahead for monthly income, child education, and loan repayment.

Very few people show this kind of foresight. You deserve appreciation.

Challenges You Are Facing Now

Property is old, around 36 years, and needs maintenance.

Maintenance charges are rising every year, increasing burden.

Redevelopment is uncertain and unpredictable.

You have Rs 25 lakh loans creating stress.

Husband's IT field is unstable due to layoffs.

You want a secure monthly income and financial stability.

Option 1: Giving Property on Rent

You can earn monthly rental income by renting it out.

Typical rent may be around Rs 8,000 to Rs 12,000 per month.

Rental yield will be hardly 2%-3% on Rs 40 lakh value.

This is very low compared to your needs and loan burden.

Maintenance charges, property tax, repairs will further reduce your income.

Vacancy risk is also there if tenants leave.

Overall, rental income may not fully support your financial goals.

Option 2: Selling the Property

Selling can give you around Rs 40 lakh.

You can immediately clear Rs 25 lakh loans.

After repaying loans, you will still have around Rs 15 lakh.

Loan closure will bring huge mental peace and cash flow freedom.

No more EMI burden means husband's salary can be saved better.

You can use balance Rs 15 lakh wisely to generate monthly income.

Important Insights on Redevelopment

Redevelopment can take 5-10 years easily.

Many projects get delayed due to disputes and permissions.

Till redevelopment happens, maintenance and repair costs rise.

You may have to stay invested without any income for long.

Your immediate needs for income and loan closure will not be solved.

Depending on redevelopment alone is very risky at this stage.

What You Should Ideally Do

Prefer selling the property now while market is still decent.

Clear all Rs 25 lakh loans fully and become completely debt-free.

Debt-free life is the biggest financial freedom you can gift your family.

With balance money, create a secure income plan.

Stay light without property burdens and maintenance worries.

Focus on building an education corpus for your son and retirement corpus.

Where to Invest After Selling

Do not buy another property immediately for investment.

Property rental yields are low, and liquidity is very poor.

Instead, create a mix of debt mutual funds and hybrid mutual funds.

These can give you monthly income using Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP).

This method protects your capital and gives you flexible monthly payouts.

Debt mutual funds can provide 6%-7% returns safely with low risk.

Balanced advantage funds can give 8%-10% returns over 3-5 years.

Always choose regular mutual fund plans through a MFD who is also a Certified Financial Planner.

Why Not Property for Reinvestment?

Property is illiquid; selling it again takes months or years.

Property has heavy costs like stamp duty, registration, brokerage, repairs.

Rentals are taxed fully as income, eating away returns.

If tenant defaults or property is vacant, you get zero income.

Maintaining property is a headache, especially in old buildings.

Mutual funds offer better flexibility, better tax-efficiency, and better liquidity.

Disadvantages of Direct Plans (Important for You to Know)

If you invest in direct mutual fund plans yourself, you miss expert guidance.

Wrong fund selection, wrong withdrawal rate can destroy your capital.

Regular plans through a CFP-backed MFD give proper fund selection and review.

Charges in regular plan are justified because it protects your long-term wealth.

Getting professional hand-holding is very important for your peace of mind.

Additional Steps You Must Take

Keep a separate emergency fund of Rs 3 lakh in liquid mutual funds.

Buy a good term insurance cover for husband (at least Rs 1 crore).

Ensure you have a good health insurance for the whole family.

Start a small SIP for your son’s education goal systematically.

Slowly explore freelancing as a German language expert to earn extra income.

Future Planning for Your Son

Education costs are rising 10%-12% every year in India.

For good education after 15 years, you will need a large corpus.

Start small SIPs in good mutual funds focused on child education.

Stay committed for long-term without withdrawals.

Education planning must be top priority after loan closure.

Final Insights

Renting out the old property will not solve your loan and income issues properly.

Selling the property now and clearing the loans is the better, safer step.

Remaining money should be invested wisely for monthly income generation.

Avoid buying new properties now. Focus on mutual fund income plans.

Build emergency reserves, insurance covers, and an education fund for your son.

Stay light, stay debt-free, and keep life flexible financially.

Your thinking is already mature. With correct action, your future will be very secure.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8311 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 29, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 28, 2025
Money
Could you tell me the ideal stock quantity for me as I am investing 10k in each stock and I get minimum 30 percent return so I am not happy with reward. FYI my portfolio is of 5 Lacks investing since 2017.
Ans: You have a Rs 5 lakh stock portfolio.
You are investing Rs 10,000 in each stock.
You are getting around 30% returns, but you are not fully happy.

Let me help you with detailed insights.

Appreciating Your Journey So Far

You started investing in 2017, which shows good discipline.

Growing the portfolio with regular Rs 10,000 investments is a smart habit.

Earning 30% returns is not bad, especially in Indian stock markets.

Many investors struggle even to beat inflation in long-term investing.

You deserve appreciation for steady progress and patience.

Understanding Your Concern

You want even better returns than 30%.

You feel Rs 10,000 in each stock is limiting your potential.

You are looking for an ideal number of stocks for higher growth.

Ideal Number of Stocks to Hold

If portfolio is Rs 5 lakh, then having 15 to 20 stocks is healthy.

Less than 10 stocks can make portfolio risky and unstable.

More than 25 stocks will dilute returns and weaken performance.

Around 18 stocks can give you good balance of safety and growth.

Each stock can ideally carry 4% to 7% weight in your portfolio.

Problems of Over-Diversification

Holding too many stocks reduces focus.

Monitoring all stocks becomes difficult.

Even if some stocks do well, overall portfolio may not reflect it.

Returns get pulled down when poor stocks dilute the strong ones.

Problems of Under-Diversification

Too few stocks increase risks sharply.

Bad performance of one stock hits portfolio badly.

Emotional decision making becomes harder.

Volatility can become scary during market falls.

Fine-Tuning Your Approach

Increase your per stock investment slightly to Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000.

Focus on holding 15 to 20 strong companies across sectors.

Prioritise companies with strong balance sheet and consistent profits.

Look for companies with leadership in their industries.

Reduce churning of stocks; stay invested patiently.

Sector Allocation Guidance

Allocate across banking, FMCG, pharma, IT, auto, and energy sectors.

Avoid over-investing in one sector or theme.

Always maintain sector diversification for stability.

Reviewing Your Return Expectations

Expecting more than 30% return consistently can be risky.

Stock market returns move in cycles.

In good years, 40%-60% returns may happen.

In bad years, even negative returns can occur.

Long-term average return expectation should be around 12%-18%.

Identifying the Real Issue

30% growth is a strong outcome compared to bank FDs and debt funds.

If you feel unhappy, maybe it is because of high expectations.

Managing emotions is key to wealth creation.

Recommended Action Plan

Stick to around 18 focused high-quality stocks.

Increase amount slightly if you find very strong companies.

Focus on strong fundamentals, not just price movements.

Rebalance portfolio once in a year to maintain sector weight.

Invest fresh money slowly when good opportunities arise.

Additional Important Points

Don't take high risks to chase higher returns.

Wealth building is a marathon, not a sprint.

Stay disciplined and trust your process.

Consistency will reward you richly in next 5-10 years.

Final Insights

Holding around 15-20 carefully selected stocks is ideal for you.

Focus more on quality stocks than chasing return numbers.

Growing wealth steadily is more important than chasing quick profits.

Stay invested with a cool mind, and you will achieve great success.

Celebrate your discipline till now and keep improving step-by-step.

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.

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