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

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Aug 18, 2025

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 - Aug 03, 2025Hindi
Money

How one can develop corpus of 2crore by investing in sip in 5 yrs

Ans: You are aiming very high. Setting a goal of Rs.2 crore in 5 years shows ambition. It also shows discipline and clarity. Many investors do not think with such focus. Your goal is aggressive. But with right planning, strong execution and patience, it can be approached. Building such a large corpus in short period needs careful steps. It demands higher allocation, higher risk, and professional guidance.

» Understanding the Target
– Rs.2 crore in 5 years is not a small target.
– The time frame is short.
– Equity is the only vehicle that can create such growth.
– But equity is also volatile in short horizon.
– You need to commit large SIP contributions each month.
– You also need lump sum additions if possible.
– Realistic expectation is essential before starting.

» Assessing Required Investment Effort
– Small SIP cannot create Rs.2 crore in 5 years.
– A very high SIP size is required.
– You must be ready to commit a big portion of income.
– Monthly investment must be much larger than normal planning.
– Even with high SIP, returns can fluctuate.
– Equity market movements in 5 years can impact results.
– That is why diversification and review are vital.

» Role of Equity Mutual Funds
– Equity funds are the main tool for this goal.
– They provide growth potential far higher than debt.
– Actively managed funds are better than index funds here.
– Index funds just copy market.
– They cannot outperform in short horizon.
– Actively managed funds can manage downside and adjust portfolio.
– Fund managers bring research, strategy, and dynamic allocation.
– In 5 years, this expertise makes a big difference.

» Why Not Index Funds
– Many investors think index funds are cheap and safe.
– But cheap does not mean better.
– Index funds follow market blindly.
– They cannot protect when market falls.
– They also invest in weak companies just because they are in index.
– Active funds can exit bad companies.
– They can enter emerging opportunities earlier.
– For an ambitious 5-year target, you need active management.
– Index investing works only in very long horizons.

» Asset Allocation Balance
– Equity is core, but not 100% allocation.
– Keep small portion in debt for liquidity.
– Debt acts as emergency parking during volatility.
– Gold can be very small part as hedge.
– Main focus remains on equity growth.
– Allocation must be reviewed yearly.
– If market moves fast, partial profit booking is needed.
– Rebalancing reduces risk of sudden downfall before maturity.

» Debt Mutual Funds for Stability
– Debt funds cannot multiply money in 5 years.
– But they give cushion.
– They also help in goal safety as you near 5th year.
– Gains are taxed as per your income slab.
– Still they provide liquidity better than bank deposits.
– Short-term allocation is fine here.

» Gold Allocation as Safety
– Gold can absorb shocks if market collapses.
– But do not over-allocate.
– Keep around 5% only.
– Too much gold will drag growth.
– Gold is mainly a hedge.

» SIP Discipline and Behaviour
– Consistency is key in this plan.
– You cannot skip SIP in between.
– Even one missed SIP reduces compounding effect.
– Discipline is more important than chasing returns.
– Market will fluctuate.
– Still SIP must continue.
– That is how wealth grows in short time.

» Additional Lump Sum Investments
– Rs.2 crore in 5 years may need lump sum support.
– If you receive bonus or incentives, add them.
– Windfall gains should also be invested.
– This reduces pressure on monthly SIP.
– It also improves probability of reaching target.

» Taxation Awareness
– Equity fund taxation changed recently.
– Long-term gains above Rs.1.25 lakh taxed at 12.5%.
– Short-term gains taxed at 20%.
– You must plan redemption keeping tax in mind.
– Sudden withdrawal can reduce net corpus after tax.
– Staggered withdrawals in last year may help reduce tax burden.

» Importance of Regular Funds with CFP Guidance
– Direct funds may look attractive with low expense.
– But they demand constant tracking.
– If you miss review, you may lose big.
– Wrong decisions in 5-year plan can spoil everything.
– Regular funds with certified financial planner give discipline.
– Planner will guide allocation, review, exit, and rebalancing.
– This support increases your chance of reaching Rs.2 crore.
– Direct fund investors often chase past returns and exit wrongly.
– Regular investing with guidance creates stability and confidence.

» Insurance Linked Investments Review
– If you already hold LIC, ULIP, or endowment, review them.
– These policies give very low growth.
– They will not help in a 5-year Rs.2 crore target.
– Better to surrender and reinvest in equity mutual funds.
– Keep insurance separate through pure term policy.
– Investment should be only through mutual funds.

» Risk and Market Volatility
– You must understand the risk of this plan.
– Equity can be very volatile in short term.
– A market crash in 4th or 5th year can affect corpus.
– That is why asset allocation and review is important.
– You may need to shift to debt slowly near goal year.
– This locks the gains and protects the target.

» Goal Based Investing Clarity
– Always remember this Rs.2 crore is goal specific.
– Do not mix this fund with other needs.
– Do not withdraw for vacations, gadgets, or short goals.
– Keep this portfolio dedicated.
– Goal based approach keeps you focused and disciplined.

» Psychological Preparedness
– Large target in short horizon can create stress.
– You may see portfolio in loss sometimes.
– Do not panic.
– Market moves are normal.
– Stay patient till full 5 years.
– Mental strength is as important as money discipline.

» Role of Diversification
– Do not put all SIP in one category.
– Spread across large-cap, flexi-cap, and mid-cap.
– Each will perform differently.
– Together they balance portfolio.
– Diversification reduces risk of underperformance.

» Final Insights
– Rs.2 crore in 5 years is ambitious but possible with high commitment.
– You need very large SIP and also lumpsum additions.
– Equity must be main growth driver.
– Debt and gold play supporting roles.
– Use actively managed funds, avoid index and direct funds.
– Review every year with certified financial planner.
– Secure gains near the goal year by shifting gradually to debt.
– Keep your discipline intact and remain patient with market cycles.
– This structured approach increases your chance of reaching the target.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
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  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 08, 2024

Listen
Money
Iam 38 years old i need 5cr corpus in 55 years i have started sip of amount 7500 with 15% returns now value 1 lakh.
Ans: It's excellent that you're planning for your financial future by investing in SIPs. Here's a breakdown of your goal and how you can achieve it:

Goal: You aim to accumulate a corpus of 5 crore by the time you turn 55. This is a significant amount and requires disciplined investing over the years.
Current SIP: You've started with a monthly SIP of 7500 with an assumed return rate of 15%. At present, your SIP value is 1 lakh.
Investment Strategy:
Increase SIP Amount: Consider gradually increasing your SIP amount over time. As your income grows or expenses decrease, channel a higher portion towards your investments.
Diversify Portfolio: While it's great to have high-return expectations, it's crucial to diversify your portfolio to manage risk. Consider investing in a mix of equity, debt, and other asset classes.
Regular Review: Regularly review your investment portfolio and adjust your SIP amount or asset allocation as needed. Market conditions and personal circumstances can change, so it's essential to stay flexible.
Long-Term Perspective: Keep in mind that building a 5 crore corpus over the next 17 years requires patience and discipline. Stick to your investment plan even during market fluctuations, and avoid making impulsive decisions.
Professional Guidance: Consider consulting a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to fine-tune your investment strategy and ensure it aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance.
Emergency Fund: While focusing on long-term goals, don't forget to maintain an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses. Aim for at least 6-12 months' worth of living expenses in a liquid and easily accessible account.
By following a systematic investment approach, staying committed to your financial goals, and seeking professional advice when needed, you can work towards building a substantial corpus for your future.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 14, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello Sir, i invest monthly in SIPS to a total of 35000. and as on date my total of sip amount has gathered to 31 lac Rs. I want a corpus of 3 crore in the next 10 years. Kindly give me your valuable suggestion on the same.
Ans: It's great to see your dedication to your financial future. Your commitment to investing in SIPs and your clear goal of accumulating Rs 3 crore in 10 years is commendable. Let's break down your current situation, evaluate your options, and outline a strategy to help you achieve your financial goals.

Understanding Your Current Investments
You invest Rs 35,000 monthly in SIPs, which has accumulated to Rs 31 lakh. This demonstrates your disciplined approach to wealth building. Systematic Investment Plans (SIPs) are a good way to invest in mutual funds, as they offer the benefits of rupee cost averaging and compounding over time.

Evaluating Your Financial Goals
You aim to achieve a corpus of Rs 3 crore in the next 10 years. This is an ambitious goal, but with a strategic approach, it is certainly achievable. Given your current investments and the time frame, we'll need to ensure your portfolio is well-diversified and aligned with your risk tolerance and financial objectives.

Portfolio Diversification and Asset Allocation
Diversification is key to managing risk and optimizing returns. Your current SIP investments need to be spread across various asset classes and sectors. A balanced portfolio might include a mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap equity funds, along with debt funds to manage risk. The right mix depends on your risk appetite and market conditions.

Regular Review and Rebalancing
It's important to regularly review and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your goals. Market conditions and personal circumstances can change, so periodic adjustments are necessary. This could involve shifting funds from over-performing to under-performing assets or vice versa.

Importance of Actively Managed Funds
While index funds are often recommended for their low costs, actively managed funds can offer better returns, especially in a market like India where fund managers can exploit market inefficiencies. Actively managed funds, with the expertise of fund managers, have the potential to outperform the index. They are better suited for investors looking to achieve specific financial goals.

Benefits of Regular Funds
Investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and using regular funds can be beneficial. Regular funds offer professional management and advice, which is crucial for making informed investment decisions. A CFP can provide personalized advice, portfolio management, and periodic reviews to ensure you stay on track to meet your goals.

Avoiding Annuities and Real Estate
Annuities are often not the best investment option due to their lower returns and higher fees. They also lack flexibility and can tie up your funds for long periods. Real estate, while a popular investment, involves high transaction costs, illiquidity, and requires significant capital outlay, making it less attractive for achieving your Rs 3 crore goal.

Long-term Focus and Patience
Investing is a long-term journey. Staying focused on your goal, being patient, and avoiding knee-jerk reactions to market fluctuations is crucial. Your Rs 31 lakh accumulation is a significant achievement. Continue this disciplined approach, and over time, compounding will work in your favor.

Seeking Professional Advice
Working with a Certified Financial Planner can provide you with the expertise and guidance needed to navigate the complexities of investing. A CFP can help you develop a comprehensive financial plan, tailored to your specific needs and goals. They can also assist in selecting the right funds, managing risks, and optimizing your investment strategy.

Final Insights
Your current SIPs and accumulated corpus are a strong foundation. To achieve your Rs 3 crore goal, focus on a diversified portfolio, regular reviews, and leveraging the expertise of a CFP. Avoid high-risk and low-return investments like annuities and real estate. Stay disciplined, patient, and proactive in your investment approach.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10870 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
im 48 year old working professional, having SIP corp value till date 28 Lakh, wanted to build corpus 1crore in next 5 years please advise the way. Right now SIP - ICICI -11k/ month, Kotak, SBI, HDFC, Parag parikh etc - 15K /month total 26K SIP maintaing , other than this Investment in NPS tier I 4.55 Lakh and maintaining now 75 K annually.
Ans: You have shown great commitment towards your future. At age 48, you already built Rs.28 lakh through SIP. You also maintain SIP of Rs.26000 per month. You also contribute Rs.75000 per year to NPS Tier I. These habits show strong discipline. These habits show long-term thinking. These habits show deep focus. Many people at your age still struggle to build even half of what you built. You have created a solid foundation. You should appreciate your effort. You also set a clear goal for Rs.1 crore in the next five years. This clarity helps in shaping a stable plan. Your journey is strong. And you can reach your goal with the right balance.

Below is a very detailed, long, 360 degree guidance written in simple language but with professional depth as a Certified Financial Planner.

» Your Current Position
– You have Rs.28 lakh in SIP corpus.
– You invest Rs.26000 per month in different funds.
– You also add Rs.75000 each year in NPS Tier I.
– You have steady habits.
– You have discipline.
– You have structure in your money life.
– You are consistent.
– This gives a strong base for future growth.
– Most investors struggle with consistency.
– You have already crossed that stage.

» Appreciation for Your Commitment
– You started investing long back.
– You did not stop SIP.
– You spread your SIP across many fund houses.
– You also used NPS for long-term goals.
– You maintained healthy savings behaviour.
– Your plan shows confidence.
– Your plan shows maturity.
– This will help you reach big goals.

» Your 1 Crore Goal in Five Years
– Five years is a short period for equity.
– But your current corpus already supports you.
– You need faster growth now.
– But the growth must be controlled.
– You must not take extreme risk.
– You must not shift into unsafe products.
– You must not panic during volatility.
– You need a stable structure.
– You need smooth long-term focus.

» Why Five Years Needs Balanced Strategy
– Five years is mid-term.
– Too high equity exposure creates stress.
– Too low equity exposure reduces growth.
– So you need a balanced spread.
– You need funds that aim for growth.
– But they must also manage risk.
– They must handle market swings.
– They must protect downside better.
– They must support your target year.
– You need strong active fund management.

» Actively Managed Funds Suit You
– You already use actively managed funds.
– This is a good choice.
– Active funds adjust market situations.
– They reduce risk in tough periods.
– Index funds cannot do this.
– Index funds simply copy market.
– They fall fully in crashes.
– They offer no protective action.
– They need emotional strength to hold.
– At your age, risk control matters more.
– Active funds suit your target period better.

» Why You Should Avoid Index Funds
– Many people promote index funds.
– But they ignore hidden risks.
– Index funds track full market swings.
– They have no fund manager view.
– They carry full volatility.
– They offer no flexibility.
– They do not suit investors with short targets.
– They do not support mid-term goals properly.
– They do not match your five-year goal structure.
– Active funds give a smoother journey.
– Active funds can reduce stress for mid-term goals.

» Avoid Direct Funds Also
– Direct funds attract investors due to lower cost.
– But direct funds need deep skill.
– They need research.
– They need rebalancing decisions.
– They need constant tracking.
– They need strong knowledge of market cycles.
– Without guidance, mistakes happen.
– Wrong changes can break your goal.
– Regular funds through an MFD with CFP support give guidance.
– They help in emotional control.
– They help in rebalancing at right time.
– They help in suitable diversification.
– This increases long-term success more than cost savings.

» The Power of Your Existing SIP
– You already invest Rs.26000 per month.
– This is a strong amount at age 48.
– This builds steady wealth.
– Your current SIP amount supports your goal.
– But you may need small increase.
– Even small increase helps in five years.
– You can adjust based on income rise.
– You can do top-ups yearly.
– Even Rs.3000 extra per month helps.
– This will sharpen your progress.

» Review Your Fund Spread
– You invest across many fund houses.
– But too many funds can cause overlap.
– Too many funds create duplication.
– This reduces efficiency.
– You may not need many.
– You need the right mix, not wide mix.
– A Certified Financial Planner can help simplify.
– Simplified portfolio improves growth.
– Simplified portfolio reduces stress.

» Your NPS Contribution
– You add Rs.75000 each year.
– NPS is useful for long-term retirement.
– But it has limited liquidity.
– It also forces annuity at retirement.
– And you do not want annuity.
– So keep NPS moderate.
– Do not increase NPS too much.
– SIP-based growth gives more flexibility.
– Use NPS only for tax and long-term discipline.

» You Can Increase SIP in a Structured Way
– Increase SIP every year.
– Increase in small steps.
– Increase whenever salary increases.
– You can add Rs.2000 to Rs.5000 extra.
– This helps reach Rs.1 crore faster.
– Consistency matters most here.

» Asset Allocation View
– You need growth.
– But you also need control.
– Too much equity may cause stress.
– Too little equity slows the growth.
– You need active funds with balanced exposure.
– This gives smoother path.
– This suits your five-year target.
– Asset allocation should be reviewed yearly.

» Avoid Real Estate Investments
– Real estate needs huge capital.
– It reduces liquidity.
– It creates loan burden.
– It creates risk for your target.
– It does not suit short time goals.
– It reduces flexibility.
– It does not support your Rs.1 crore target.

» Behavioural Side Matters
– Do not stop SIP during market fall.
– Do not panic during crisis.
– Market corrections are normal.
– Growth happens over years.
– Discipline is more important than returns.
– Your behaviour will decide your success.
– You already have good behaviour.
– Maintain it with care.

» Risk Control Strategy
– Do not chase high-risk funds.
– Do not chase hot sectors.
– Do not change funds often.
– Do not react to news.
– Do not use direct equity trading.
– Keep your approach steady.
– Stability gives better results.

» Protect Your Target Timeline
– Five years need caution.
– Move part of your funds to stable options in last year.
– This protects your accumulated corpus.
– This avoids last-minute shocks.
– A CFP-guided glide path helps.

» Monitor Your Portfolio Twice a Year
– Do not check daily.
– Twice a year is enough.
– Check allocation.
– Check overlap.
– Check SIP flow.
– Check fund performance.
– Check if goal is on track.
– Adjust if needed.

» Tax View for Future Withdrawal
– Equity fund withdrawal under one year invites 20 percent STCG.
– Withdrawal after a year gives LTCG.
– LTCG above Rs.1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5 percent.
– For debt funds, tax depends on slab.
– You must plan withdrawal smartly after you reach the goal.
– Tax planning helps retain more returns.

» Emergency Fund Matters
– Keep some money outside SIP.
– This avoids stress.
– This protects SIP.
– Emergency fund avoids forced withdrawals.
– Keep at least six months expense.
– This supports job risks.
– This supports family needs.

» Insurance Planning
– You must have life cover.
– You must have health cover.
– These protect your wealth.
– These stop unwanted shocks.
– Do not depend on employer cover alone.
– A personal policy is always safer.

» Your Path to Rs.1 Crore
– Your current Rs.28 lakh helps strongly.
– Your SIP of Rs.26000 supports the goal.
– Small increase will accelerate your path.
– Active fund selection strengthens results.
– Regular fund guidance through CFP helps stability.
– Discipline ensures long-term success.
– You have all the right habits.
– You are very close to the Rs.1 crore target.
– You need only disciplined continuation.

» Focus on 360 Degree Strategy
– Think about SIP flow.
– Think about fund moderation.
– Think about emergency fund.
– Think about tax.
– Think about age-based risk.
– Think about health cover.
– Think about debt load.
– Think about retirement timeline.
– Think about family support.
– Think about future income stability.
– All these shape your final success.

» Your Plan Already Shows High Strength
– You have experience with SIP.
– You have steady income.
– You have multi-year discipline.
– You have clear goals.
– You have strong foundation.
– You need more refinement now.
– Refinement will give you the final boost.

» Finally
– You are on the right path.
– You already have Rs.28 lakh.
– You invest Rs.26000 per month.
– You add Rs.75000 in NPS yearly.
– You maintain discipline.
– With a few careful adjustments, you can reach Rs.1 crore.
– You must continue SIP.
– You must increase SIP whenever possible.
– You must simplify your portfolio.
– You must use active, regular funds with guidance.
– You must control risk in the last year.
– You must stay focused on today’s strong habits.
– Your goal is realistic.
– Your goal is achievable.
– Your mindset is already strong.
– Stay disciplined and stay consistent.
– You will reach Rs.1 crore with confidence.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in

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

..Read more

Latest Questions
Ravi

Ravi Mittal  |676 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Dec 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 02, 2025Hindi
Relationship
My married ex still texts me for comfort. Because of him, I am unable to move on. He makes me feel guilty by saying he got married out of family pressure. His dad is a cardiac patient and mom is being treated for cancer. He comforts me by saying he will get separated soon and we will get married because he only loves me. We have been in a relationship for 14 years and despite everything we tried, his parents refused to accept me, so he chose to get married to someone who understands our situation. I don't know when he will separate from his wife. She knows about us too but she comes from a traditional family. She also confirmed there is no physical intimacy between them. I trust him, but is it worth losing my youth for him? Honestly, I am worried and very confused.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I understand how difficult it is to let go of a relationship you have built from scratch, but is it really how you want to continue? It really seems to be going nowhere. His parents are already in bad health and he married someone else for their happiness. Does it seem like he will be able to leave her? So many people’s happiness and lives depend on this one decision. I think it’s about time you and your BF have a clear conversation about the same. If he can’t give a proper timeline, please try to understand his situation. But also make sure he understands yours and maybe rethink this equation. It really isn’t healthy. You deserve a love you can have wholly, and not just in pieces, and in the shadows.

Hope this helps

...Read more

Mayank

Mayank Chandel  |2562 Answers  |Ask -

IIT-JEE, NEET-UG, SAT, CLAT, CA, CS Exam Expert - Answered on Dec 04, 2025

Career
My son will be appearing for JEE Main & JEE Advanced 2026 and will participate in JoSAA Counselling 2026. I request clarification regarding the GEN-EWS certificate date requirement for next year. I have already applied for an EWS certificate for current year 2025, and the application is under process. However, I am unsure whether this certificate will be accepted during JoSAA 2026, or whether candidates will be required to submit a fresh certificate for FY 2026–27 (issued on or after 1 April 2026). My concern is that if JoSAA requires a certificate issued after 1 April 2026, students will have only 1–1.5 months to complete the entire procedure, which is difficult considering normal government processing timelines. Also, during current JEE form filling, students are asked to upload a GEN-EWS certificate issued on or after 1 April 2025, or an application acknowledgement. This has created confusion among parents regarding which year’s certificate will finally be valid at the time of counselling. I request your kind guidance on: Which GEN-EWS certificate will be accepted for JoSAA Counselling 2026 — a certificate for FY 2025–26 (issued after 1 April 2025), or a new certificate for FY 2026–27 (issued after 1 April 2026)?
Ans: Hi
You need not worry about the EWS certificate. Even if you apply for the next year's certificate on 1 Apr 2026, the second session of JEE MAINS will still be held, followed by JEE ADVANCED, which will be held in May. JOSAA starts in June. so you will have 2 months in hand for fresh EWS certificate.

...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