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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6991 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 20, 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 - May 08, 2024Hindi
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Hi sir, Iam 27year old non-iT employee.. I want start sip of 4k per month as of now.. I will increase amount later on.. Suggest me good mutual fund to build good corpus after 20years

Ans: Crafting a Strategic SIP Plan for Long-Term Wealth Creation
Firstly, congratulations on taking the initiative to start investing at such a young age. It's a commendable step towards securing your financial future.

Understanding Your Investment Objective
Your goal of building a substantial corpus over the next 20 years reflects prudent financial planning and a long-term wealth creation mindset. Let's explore suitable mutual fund options to help you achieve this objective.

Selecting Mutual Funds for Long-Term Growth
Considering your investment horizon and risk tolerance, it's essential to opt for funds that offer the potential for significant growth over the long term. Here's a suggested approach:

Equity Mutual Funds: Given your age and long-term investment horizon, equity mutual funds are well-suited to harness the power of compounding and generate substantial wealth over time.

Diversified Funds: Choose diversified equity funds that invest across various sectors and market capitalizations, providing ample opportunities for growth while mitigating concentration risk.

Mid and Small Cap Funds: Funds focusing on mid and small-cap segments have historically delivered higher returns over the long term, albeit with higher volatility. They can significantly boost your corpus over 20 years.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds Over Direct Funds
While direct funds offer the advantage of lower expense ratios, actively managed funds provide several benefits that can enhance long-term wealth creation:

Expert Fund Management: Actively managed funds are overseen by skilled fund managers who actively research and select stocks with the aim of outperforming the market, potentially leading to higher returns over time.

Dynamic Portfolio Allocation: Fund managers have the flexibility to adjust asset allocation based on market conditions, economic outlook, and investment opportunities, optimizing returns and managing risks effectively.

Diversification and Risk Management: Actively managed funds often have diversified portfolios across sectors and market caps, reducing concentration risk and enhancing overall portfolio resilience.

Conclusion: Building a Foundation for Financial Success
In conclusion, initiating a SIP of 4k per month in carefully selected equity mutual funds lays the groundwork for building a substantial corpus over the next 20 years. By focusing on diversified funds with a track record of consistent performance, you're well-positioned to achieve your long-term financial goals.

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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Asked by Anonymous - Aug 26, 2024Hindi
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i am 25 years old and want to invest and start SIP of rs.25000 for 10 year at least.I have other source of income too so i am able use these Rs. 25000 a months a without much worry. i am willing to take a risk in small cap too. Could u please suggest me best Mutual funds.
Ans: You’re 25 years old and have a stable income that allows you to invest Rs 25,000 monthly without much concern. You plan to invest this amount for at least 10 years, and you’re open to taking risks, including in small-cap funds. This is a strong foundation for building wealth over time. Let’s discuss how to maximize your investments and align them with your risk appetite and financial goals.

Understanding Your Risk Appetite
At 25, you have a long investment horizon. This allows you to take on more risk, particularly in small-cap funds. However, balancing your portfolio with a mix of fund categories will help mitigate risks while optimizing returns.

Benefits of Small-Cap Funds
High Growth Potential: Small-cap funds can deliver significant returns due to their potential for growth. They invest in companies with smaller market capitalizations, which can grow rapidly.

Volatility: These funds are volatile. While they offer high returns, they can also experience sharp declines. Therefore, your ability to withstand market fluctuations is crucial.

Importance of Diversification
While you’re willing to take risks, diversifying your investments across different types of funds is essential. This strategy helps spread risk and can improve your chances of achieving your financial goals.

Diversified Equity Funds
Balanced Exposure: Diversified equity funds invest in large, mid, and small-cap companies. This blend allows for steady growth while providing exposure to the higher returns of smaller companies.

Risk Management: These funds can cushion the impact of market downturns on your portfolio, balancing the high volatility of small-cap funds.

Flexi-Cap Funds
Flexibility: Flexi-cap funds give fund managers the freedom to invest across all market capitalizations. This allows them to adjust the portfolio based on market conditions, maximizing returns while managing risk.

Potential for Growth: These funds can offer strong returns by shifting investments between large, mid, and small-cap stocks, depending on where the best opportunities lie.

Active vs. Index Funds
You should avoid index funds and opt for actively managed funds. Active funds have the potential to outperform their benchmarks, especially in a dynamic market like India’s.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Limited Upside: Index funds simply track a market index. They do not aim to beat the market, which limits your potential returns.

Lack of Downside Protection: In a market downturn, index funds fall as much as the market does. Actively managed funds, on the other hand, can protect against losses by rebalancing their portfolios.

Role of a Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a CFP credential can be beneficial. They offer personalized advice, helping you select the right funds based on your goals and risk tolerance.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Lack of Guidance: Direct funds save you money on expense ratios, but they require you to make all investment decisions on your own. Without expert guidance, you may miss out on opportunities or make poor investment choices.

Long-Term Impact: Investing through an MFD with CFP credentials ensures your portfolio is aligned with your long-term goals. They provide ongoing support, helping you stay on track and adjust your investments as needed.

Strategic Allocation of Your SIPs
Now, let’s consider how to allocate your Rs 25,000 monthly SIP across different types of funds. This approach will maximize your returns while managing risk effectively.

Small-Cap Funds
High Allocation: Given your risk tolerance and long-term horizon, you could allocate a significant portion of your SIPs to small-cap funds. These funds can offer substantial returns, particularly if you remain invested through market cycles.
Diversified Equity Funds
Moderate Allocation: Allocate a portion of your SIPs to diversified equity funds. These funds will balance your portfolio, providing steady growth while exposing you to the potential of mid and small-cap stocks.
Flexi-Cap Funds
Flexibility: Consider investing in flexi-cap funds, which allow fund managers to adapt to market conditions. This flexibility can enhance your portfolio’s performance, especially during volatile periods.
Long-Term Wealth Creation
Your decision to invest Rs 25,000 monthly for 10 years demonstrates a commitment to long-term wealth creation. The power of compounding will play a significant role in helping you achieve your financial goals.

Power of Compounding
Growth Over Time: The longer you stay invested, the more your investments will benefit from compounding. By reinvesting your returns, you’ll earn returns on your returns, accelerating your wealth creation.

Discipline: Regular SIPs ensure that you remain disciplined in your investing, regardless of market conditions. This approach smooths out the impact of market volatility and helps you accumulate wealth consistently.

Monitoring and Adjusting Your Portfolio
Regular monitoring of your portfolio is essential to ensure it remains aligned with your financial goals. Adjustments may be needed based on market conditions, changes in your risk tolerance, or life events.

Annual Reviews
Portfolio Rebalancing: Conduct an annual review of your investments. Rebalance your portfolio if needed, ensuring it remains diversified and aligned with your long-term objectives.

Risk Management: As you approach the end of your investment horizon, gradually shift your portfolio towards lower-risk assets. This strategy will help preserve your capital while still generating returns.

Final Insights
You’re off to a strong start by committing to a Rs 25,000 SIP for 10 years. By diversifying your investments, focusing on actively managed funds, and working with a CFP, you can maximize your returns while managing risk effectively. Remember to monitor your portfolio regularly and make adjustments as needed. This disciplined approach will help you achieve your long-term financial goals and build substantial wealth over time.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |1031 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Nov 08, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 08, 2024Hindi
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My son is in grade 10th, he wants to prepare for neet but he went for counselling twice where he had given some test which gave him results to prefer engineering now he is confused if i will not be able to do fare in neet thn what should i opt for since hes planning to go for integrated? Ease help
Ans: Hello.
To which tests your son appeared is not mentioned by you. I am assuming that he may be based to appear for either an IQ test or a DMIT Test. I would like to say that there is no need to 100% trust these tests. The results of these tests depend on the mindset of a student at that time. These tests are never 100% correct. Hence there is no need to worry about the results of these tests and what the counselor has told you.
Here are some key points on which you can work:
(1) Please ask his school teachers about his subject understanding.
(2) Please take an overall review of maths and science subjects from an understanding point of view only.
(3) Have an open talk with your son about his interest either in mathematics or biology.
(4) If possible, try to make an interaction with senior students who are preparing for JEE or NEET.
(5) Even though the coaching is now focussing either on PCM or PCB groups, it is advisable to take all 4 subjects PCMB in the 11th standard.
(6) Take a trial for at least 2 initial months in 11th standard for maths and biology subjects.
(7) Your son will automatically tell his interest in either engineering or medicine.
(8) Don't force your willingness on him to prepare for NEET.
(9) Based on the final decision, you may think of integrated courses.
(10) Your's sons interest matters more. If he is firm to go for NEET, then motivate him and keep the results of counselor tests aside.
Best of luck to your son for his bright future.

If satisfied, please like and follow me.
If dissatisfied with the reply, please ask again without hesitation.
Thanks.

Radheshyam

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6991 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 07, 2024Hindi
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Money
Hi sir/madam, My target is 2 crore corpus by 45 I just saved 5 lacs earning 1 lac per month.I do SIP in 4 SIP each of 5000 monthly. HDFC Flexi plan direct growth-5000, ICICI prudential bluechip fund direct-5000, Kotak flexi cap fund direct-5000, ICICI prudential transportation and logistics fund direct-5000 Please advice me to achieve my goal by 45 years currently I am 35y
Ans: To achieve a Rs 2 crore corpus by age 45, an SIP of Rs 60,000 per month with a 10% annual increase is indeed a strategic approach. Here’s how this plan can align with your target.

Calculating Your Path to Rs 2 Crore
Current SIP Investment: With a starting SIP of Rs 60,000 per month at a 12% CAGR, your investments have the potential to grow substantially over time.

Annual Step-Up: Increasing your SIP by 10% each year harnesses the power of compounding, helping you reach your goal faster. This incremental increase supports growth to match inflation and your rising income.

Expected Growth Rate: With a 12% CAGR, a disciplined 10-year investment horizon should help you accumulate approximately Rs 2 crore. This CAGR is reasonable for equity mutual funds based on historical performance.

Practical Benefits of This Strategy
Power of Compounding: The combination of a 10% step-up and 12% CAGR significantly accelerates growth, turning monthly contributions into substantial wealth over 10 years.

Simplicity in Execution: A single SIP contribution with a systematic increase each year streamlines your investment process, making it easier to manage.

Steps for Success
Commit to the Annual Step-Up: Consistently increasing SIP contributions is crucial. Even during years with market volatility, stick to the increase for long-term gains.

Portfolio Review with a Certified Financial Planner: Annual reviews ensure your portfolio remains aligned with your goals, especially as you approach the 10-year mark.

Final Insights
An SIP of Rs 60,000 with a 10% annual increase and 12% CAGR is a robust plan for reaching Rs 2 crore in 10 years. With disciplined investing and regular review, this strategy should help you reach your financial target by age 45.

Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6991 Answers  |Ask -

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

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 07, 2024Hindi
Money
Hello Sir, I am 42 years hold with monthly salary of 3 lakh after tax deduction. My son is 9 years old, and I want him to become doctor. How much money i need to save or invest for him to become doctor, also how much money I need for my risk-free retirement, if i plan it by 55. Kindly Advise
Ans: At the age of 42, you are earning a stable monthly salary of Rs 3 lakh after tax deductions. You have a 9-year-old son, and your dream is for him to become a doctor. Additionally, you plan to retire by the age of 55. I appreciate your foresight in planning for both your son’s education and your retirement.

It’s essential to address both goals with a structured financial strategy to ensure a secure future for your family. Let's break down how you can achieve these two significant objectives.

Estimating the Cost of Medical Education for Your Son

The cost of becoming a doctor in India can vary greatly. Private medical colleges charge a premium, while government colleges are more affordable.

Currently, the cost of a full medical degree (MBBS) at a private college can range from Rs 30 lakh to Rs 1 crore, depending on the institution. For top-tier colleges, this could go even higher.

If your son gets into a government medical college, the costs will be much lower, possibly around Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh.

Considering inflation, the cost of education could double in the next 10 years when your son is ready for college. This means you might need to accumulate Rs 1.5 crore to be on the safer side.

It's prudent to start a focused investment plan now. This way, you'll be prepared whether he chooses a private or government medical institution.

Strategic Investment Plan for Your Son’s Education

You should invest in a mix of equity and debt mutual funds to accumulate this corpus. Equities provide high growth potential, while debt ensures stability.

Start a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) in actively managed equity mutual funds. This will help you build a sizeable corpus over the next 9 to 10 years.

Consider stepping up your SIP contributions annually. Increasing it by Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000 every year can significantly boost your fund value.

Avoid index funds as they simply mimic the market and may not deliver high returns over the long term. Actively managed funds, with skilled fund managers, are better suited for higher returns.

You can also use Systematic Transfer Plans (STP) to gradually move from equity to debt funds as your son approaches his medical college admission. This will reduce market risk during the final years.

Building a Risk-Free Retirement Plan by Age 55

Your retirement target is just 13 years away. You will need a substantial corpus to ensure a comfortable, stress-free retirement.

Assuming you want to maintain your current lifestyle, you will likely need at least Rs 1.5 lakh per month post-retirement. Factoring in inflation, this amount could double in 13 years.

To retire with a monthly income of Rs 3 lakh, you may need a retirement corpus of around Rs 6 crore. This will ensure that your investments can generate the required cash flow without depleting the principal.

You should focus on maximizing your existing savings and investing in a balanced portfolio of equity and debt mutual funds. This combination will provide growth and stability.

Steps to Achieve a Secure Retirement Corpus

Increase your existing investments in equity mutual funds. Equities have the potential to deliver inflation-beating returns over the long term.

Invest in diversified equity funds and large-cap funds for stability and growth. These funds can perform well in different market cycles.

Avoid direct equity funds if you are not a seasoned investor. Investing through mutual fund distributors with CFP credentials ensures expert guidance and consistent monitoring.

As you get closer to your retirement, gradually move a portion of your portfolio to debt funds. This shift will protect your accumulated wealth from market volatility.

Debt funds are tax-efficient compared to fixed deposits. They offer indexation benefits, which can lower your tax liability on long-term capital gains.

The Importance of Tax Planning

Under the latest tax rules, equity mutual funds attract long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax at 12.5% if the gains exceed Rs 1.25 lakh annually. Short-term capital gains (STCG) are taxed at 20%.

Debt funds are taxed based on your income tax slab. It's wise to hold debt funds for over three years to avail indexation benefits and reduce your tax outgo.

Plan your withdrawals systematically to stay within the LTCG exemption limit. This will minimize your tax liabilities during retirement.

Setting Up an Emergency Fund and Adequate Insurance

Ensure that you have an emergency fund of at least 12 months' worth of expenses. Keep this amount in a liquid fund for easy access.

You should also have adequate term insurance to protect your family's financial future in your absence. The cover should be at least 10 times your annual income.

Additionally, review your health insurance policy to cover unforeseen medical expenses. As you approach retirement, healthcare costs are likely to increase.

Avoiding Real Estate and Other Risky Investments

Real estate investments require significant capital and lack liquidity. It may not be the best option if you are aiming for a flexible, liquid portfolio.

Focus instead on mutual funds, which offer higher returns, tax efficiency, and easy access to your money when needed.

Avoid mixing insurance with investments. Do not consider ULIPs, endowment plans, or any investment-cum-insurance policies. These often come with high charges and low returns.

Reviewing Your Financial Plan Regularly

It's important to review your investment portfolio annually. This ensures that your funds are performing optimally and aligned with your goals.

A certified financial planner (CFP) can help you adjust your portfolio based on changing market conditions, new tax laws, and your evolving needs.

Rebalance your investments periodically to lock in profits from high-performing funds and reinvest in underperforming areas with growth potential.

Additional Strategies to Accelerate Your Goals

Consider investing any annual bonuses or extra income into your SIPs or lump sum investments. This will further boost your retirement and education funds.

You can also explore side income opportunities or upskill in your current profession to increase your earnings. This additional income can help increase your savings rate.

Start exploring Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs) for some diversification. These bonds offer tax-free returns on maturity and can serve as a hedge against inflation.

Finally

You have a clear vision for your son’s future and your retirement. Your steady income and disciplined approach are strong assets.

Focus on increasing your SIPs, diversifying your investments, and planning your taxes efficiently.

Stay consistent with your financial strategy. By following this structured approach, you can achieve both your goals well in time.

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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