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

Sanjeev Govila  |458 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Jun 16, 2023

Colonel Sanjeev Govila (retd) is the founder of Hum Fauji Initiatives, a financial planning company dedicated to the armed forces personnel and their families.
He has over 12 years of experience in financial planning and is a SEBI certified registered investment advisor; he is also accredited with AMFI and IRDA.... more
Iliyas Question by Iliyas on Jun 06, 2023Hindi
Listen
Money

Dear sir, this is Iliyas Khan from madhyapradesh, I'm a govt employee. currently I have 50 k salary in hand and I am investing in MF since last november.currently I have monthly Sip in these funds pls give the opinion about my AMC and fund ,risk and expected returns in 15 years.I am increasing my investments by 10% every year. 1. quant small cap fund 2000/- 2. Quant tax plan fund 500/- ,3.Quant absolute fund 1000/- 4,PGIM India mid cap fund 1000/- 5. Parag Parikh flexi cap fund 1000/- 6.Mirae asset emerging Blue chip fund 1000/- 7.ICICI PRUDENTIAL DIVIDEND YIELD EQUITY FUND 1000/- 8.icici prudential equity and debt fund 1000/- 9.icici prudential multi asset fund 1000/- 10.hdfc long duration debt fund 500/-

Ans: According to my analysis of the portfolio, you have hugely over-diversified the amount in numerous funds of the same category. Ideally, we should have only 1 fund in each category. A brief view on funds held in your portfolio is as follows, but please note that selection and allocation of fund totally depends on your risk appetite, objective, investment horizon, and other peculiarities essential for making decision.

I would recommend reducing the number of funds to 4-6 in your current portfolio and increasing your SIPs by 10% or more if feasible based on income increment every year. Choose a fund totally based on your requirement and time frame. This will help you to grow your wealth substantially over time.
1. Quant Small Cap Fund – The fund invests in small-cap companies, which are riskier than large-cap companies. However, small caps have the potential to generate higher returns in the long term only (7-10 years).

2. Quant Tax Plan Fund – The fund provides tax savings up to Rs. 1,50,000 U/s 80C (Only if you choose the old tax regime) with a lock-in period of 3 years, and the fund's performance has been strong in the previous 5 years.

3. Quant Absolute Fund - The Fund is recommendable for investors who are looking for a moderate-risk investment with the potential for above-average returns. The fund's quantitative investment approach has helped it to generate consistent returns over the long term.

4. PGIM India Mid-cap Fund - The fund aims to achieve long-term capital appreciation by investing in equity and equity-related instruments of mid-cap companies. It is suitable for investors who are looking for long-term growth (5-7 years) and are willing to accept some risk.

5. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund – The fund is doing well in the current market and has the potential to produce significant returns in the coming market but with discipline. It is advised to invest in this fund or to raise your SIPs in this fund since it diversifies your investment across domestic and international markets.

6. Mirae Asset Emerging Bluechip Fund - This fund invests in large and mid-cap companies that are expected to grow persistently. The fund has performed well, and you are advised to continue.

7. ICICI Prudential Dividend Yield Equity Fund - This fund invests in companies that are known to declare high dividends. Dividend fund generally defeats the main aspect of growth and affects compounding in the long run. Thus, it is suggested to cease the SIP.

8. ICICI Prudential Equity & Debt Fund - This fund is a hybrid fund that invests in a mix of equity and debt. It is a good option for investors who want to reduce risk via proportionate 20-25% investment in debt-oriented fund.

9. ICICI Prudential Multi-Asset Fund - This fund is a multi-asset fund that invests in a variety of assets, including stocks, bonds, gold, and commodities. It is a good investment option giving a taste of various asset classes in a single recipe.

10. HDFC Long Duration Debt Fund – This fund has durations of more than 7 years. Adding such a high duration in a portfolio is totally dependent on the interest rate cycle. It is not suggested to continue the SIP.
Disclaimer:
• I have just no idea about your age, future financial goals, your risk profile, other investments and whether you would have the nerves to not get unduly perturbed if stock markets go temporarily down.
• Hence, please note that I am answering your question in absolute isolation to other parameters which should definitely be considered when answering a question of this type.
• I recommend you to also consult a good financial advisor who would look at your complete profile in totality before you act on this advice given by me.
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  |8272 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 29, 2024

Listen
Money
Dear sir, this is Iliyas Khan from madhyapradesh, I'm a govt employee. currently I have 50 k salary in hand and I am investing in MF since last november.I don't have any other investments or don't have any term/life insurance. currently I have monthly Sip in these funds pls give the opinion about my AMC and fund ,risk and expected returns in 15 years.I am increasing my investments by 10% every year. 1. quant small cap fund 2000/- 2. Quant tax plan fund 500/- ,3.Quant absolute fund 1000/- 4,PGIM India mid cap fund 1000/- 5. Parag Parikh flexi cap fund 1000/- 6.Mirae asset emerging Blue chip fund 1000/- 7.ICICI PRUDENTIAL DIVIDEND YIELD EQUITY FUND 1000/- 8.icici prudential equity and debt fund 1000/- 9.icici prudential multi asset fund 1000/- 10.hdfc long duration debt fund 500/- Please guide me for my investments and other financial aspects may be required in future.thank you
Ans: Assessment of Mutual Fund Portfolio and Financial Planning:

Current Investment Portfolio:

Your disciplined approach towards investing since November, coupled with an annual increase of 10%, reflects a commendable commitment to wealth accumulation.
The selection of mutual funds spanning various categories indicates a diversified investment strategy aimed at achieving long-term financial goals.
However, it's crucial to review your portfolio periodically to ensure alignment with your evolving financial objectives and risk tolerance.
Analysis of Fund Selection and Risk:

Small-cap and mid-cap funds such as Quant Small Cap and PGIM India Mid Cap Fund offer growth potential but entail higher volatility.
Flexi-cap funds like Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund and Mirae Asset Emerging Blue Chip Fund provide a balanced approach by investing across market capitalizations, potentially reducing portfolio risk.
Equity income and dividend yield funds like ICICI Prudential Dividend Yield Equity Fund offer stable income but may exhibit lower capital appreciation compared to growth-oriented funds.
Multi-asset and hybrid funds like ICICI Prudential Equity and Debt Fund and ICICI Prudential Multi Asset Fund offer diversification across asset classes, providing stability during market fluctuations.
Long-Term Financial Planning:

Considering your investment horizon of 15 years, equity-oriented funds may offer higher growth potential compared to debt funds.
However, it's essential to maintain a balanced portfolio by allocating a portion of your investments to debt funds like HDFC Long Duration Debt Fund to mitigate volatility.
Regularly monitor your portfolio's performance and adjust asset allocation based on changing market conditions and financial goals.
As a government employee, you may have access to certain benefits like pension schemes, which can complement your investment portfolio and provide additional retirement income.
Risk Management and Insurance:

As you mentioned, you currently do not have any term or life insurance coverage. It's advisable to consider purchasing adequate insurance to safeguard your family's financial future in the event of any unforeseen circumstances.
Term insurance plans offer comprehensive coverage at affordable premiums, providing financial security to your loved ones in your absence.
Conduct a thorough assessment of your insurance needs and consult with a Certified Financial Planner to determine the appropriate coverage amount based on your income, liabilities, and future financial obligations.
In conclusion, while your mutual fund portfolio showcases a diversified approach towards wealth creation, it's essential to incorporate risk management strategies and insurance coverage into your financial plan for comprehensive protection and long-term financial security.

Best Regards,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8272 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 30, 2024

Money
Hi, My name is Madhur and i am working in Private Job. I am regularly investing through SIP in below Mututal Fund from last 2 years and want to continue for 10-12 years. Please suggest if my choice of MF is correct or now. I am ready to take risk : Axis Bluechip Fund - GR 5000 Axis Long Term Equity Fund - GR 5000 Axis Mid Cap - GR 3000 DSP Midcap Fund - Reg GR 3000 ICICI Prudential Technology - GR 5000 Invesco India Midcap Fund - GR 3000 Kotak Emerging Equity Fund - GR - 3000 Kotak Flexicap Fund - GR 2500 Mirae Asset Emerging Bluechip Fund - GR 2500 Nippon India Pharma Fund - GR 5000 SBI Flexicap Fund - GR - 5000 Tata Digital India Fund - GR 5000
Ans: Hi Madhur,

It's commendable that you have been diligently investing through SIPs in mutual funds. Your dedication to growing your wealth over the next 10-12 years is inspiring. Let’s take a detailed look at your mutual fund portfolio and evaluate its alignment with your goals and risk tolerance.

Assessing Your Current Mutual Fund Portfolio
You have a diverse range of mutual funds, each with its unique investment strategy and focus. Here’s a breakdown of your current investments:

Bluechip Funds
Bluechip funds invest in large-cap companies known for their reliability and stable performance. These companies typically have strong financials and a proven track record. Bluechip funds are less volatile compared to mid-cap or small-cap funds, making them a relatively safer option within equity investments.

Mid-Cap Funds
Mid-cap funds invest in medium-sized companies with high growth potential. These funds can provide substantial returns, but they also come with higher risk and volatility. They are suitable for investors with a longer investment horizon and a higher risk appetite.

Flexi-Cap Funds
Flexi-cap funds have the flexibility to invest across large-cap, mid-cap, and small-cap stocks. This flexibility allows fund managers to adapt to market conditions, potentially optimizing returns. These funds offer a balanced approach to risk and reward.

Sectoral Funds
Sectoral funds focus on specific sectors such as technology or pharmaceuticals. While these funds can offer high returns, they are also subject to sector-specific risks. They should be a smaller part of a diversified portfolio to mitigate risk.

Evaluating the Diversification
Your portfolio includes a mix of bluechip, mid-cap, flexi-cap, and sectoral funds. This diversification helps in spreading risk across different market segments. However, a few adjustments can further optimize your portfolio:

Concentration in Mid-Cap Funds
You have significant investments in mid-cap funds. While these funds can provide high returns, they also come with higher volatility. Ensure that the proportion of mid-cap funds aligns with your risk tolerance and investment horizon.

Exposure to Sectoral Funds
Investments in technology and pharmaceutical funds indicate a high sector-specific exposure. These sectors can be volatile and cyclical. Consider limiting sectoral exposure to avoid excessive risk.

Flexi-Cap Funds
Flexi-cap funds offer the benefit of dynamic allocation across market caps. These funds can adapt to changing market conditions, making them a valuable part of your portfolio. Ensure that your investment in flexi-cap funds is balanced with other fund types.

Recommendations for Portfolio Optimization
Review Sectoral Fund Allocation
While sectoral funds can offer high returns, they also carry sector-specific risks. Ensure that your exposure to these funds does not exceed a comfortable level. Diversify further if needed to mitigate risk.

Consider Actively Managed Funds
Actively managed funds have the potential to outperform index funds. Skilled fund managers can make strategic decisions to maximize returns. Despite higher fees, actively managed funds often provide better returns due to their flexibility and professional management.

Increase SIP Contributions
Regularly increasing your SIP contributions can significantly enhance your portfolio’s growth. As your income rises, consider increasing the amounts you invest in each SIP. This approach leverages the power of compounding over time.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
Index funds passively track a market index and aim to replicate its performance. While they have lower fees, they also have limitations:

Lack of Flexibility: Index funds cannot adapt to changing market conditions or make strategic adjustments.

Potential for Lower Returns: Actively managed funds often outperform index funds due to active stock selection and market analysis.

Benefits of Investing Through a Certified Financial Planner
While direct funds have lower expense ratios, investing through a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) provides several advantages:

Expert Guidance: CFPs offer personalized advice tailored to your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Holistic Financial Planning: A CFP provides comprehensive financial planning, including tax planning, retirement planning, and risk management.

Ease of Management: Investing through a CFP ensures regular monitoring and rebalancing of your portfolio, keeping it aligned with your objectives.

Conclusion
Your commitment to long-term investing through SIPs is commendable. By reviewing your sectoral fund allocation, considering actively managed funds, and regularly increasing your SIP contributions, you can further optimize your portfolio. Engaging with a Certified Financial Planner will provide you with expert guidance and ensure your investments remain aligned with your financial goals. Keep up the excellent work in securing your financial future.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Sanjeev

Sanjeev Govila  |458 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner - Answered on Feb 06, 2024

Listen
Money
Hello Sir,My name is Girish aged 38 years and I have been going through your suggestions on the MF.I have started SIP in the following mutual funds.1. ICICI Prudential Bluechip Fund (G) - investing since a month - 5,000 per month 2. SBI Blue Chip Fund (G) - investing since a month - 5,000 per month 3. HDFC Balanced Advantage Fund - Direct Plan (IDCW) - investing since 14 months - 2,000 per month4. Nippon India Large Cap Fund - Regular Plan (G) - investing since 2 months - 2,000 per month 5. Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Fund - Direct Plan (G) - investing since 2 years - 2,000 per month 6. UTI MNC Fund - Direct Plan (G) - investing since 14 months - 2,000 per month I would like to know if my portfolio is good. I will be planning to invest for the next 10-15 years. What would be the corpus at the end of 15 years?Do you foresee any changes to be made in my portfolio? Please suggest.
Ans: It's great that you're investing your monthly surplus in SIPs to build your wealth.

You have a well-diversified portfolio and the funds in your portfolio are performing well in the current market scenario. In the finance planning of any portfolio, we consider many factors, including client age, risk profile, current asset allocation, etc.

All mentioned funds are performing good and have good potential in long-term. However, UTI MNC Fund - Sectoral funds focus on a specific sector or industry and it is difficult to predict which sector will perform and how long. Hence, we recommend to go for diversified funds to avoid the concentration risk
.
If you continue the monthly investment of Rs 18,000 for the next 15 years the accumulated corpus will be 89.92 lakhs approx. at the average growth rate of 12% for 15 years.
Note - the amount may get differ at that time as the actual return can be vary.

..Read more

Latest Questions
Mayank

Mayank Chandel  |2225 Answers  |Ask -

IIT-JEE, NEET-UG, SAT, CLAT, CA, CS Exam Expert - Answered on Apr 22, 2025

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |8272 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Apr 22, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Apr 22, 2025Hindi
Money
Dear Sirs Please review my investment towards 7.5 CR. There are 2 components towards it , 1) Generate monthly income post tax of 4 lakhs, 2) Investment Corpus Towards Capital appreciation Towards option 1 : Investing in the following - a) Tata Motors or Chola Perpetual Bonds 1.4 cr , b) ICICI Balanced Advantage Fund 1cr, c) Kotak Balanced advantage fund 1 cr Towards option 2 ie Capital Appreciation investing in the following - a) HDFC Flexi Cap Equity fund 1.25 cr , b) Parag Parikh Flexi Cap Equity Fund 1.25 cr, c) ICICI Prudential India Opportunities Fund 80 Lakhs, d) ICICI Prudential Multi asset fund 80 lakhs I am looking at a 5 - 7 year investment timeline. Have taken early retirement at 50 years and need the funds to sustain myself. Please also advise if Perpetual bonds is a good option Thanks
Ans: Your investment strategy is thoughtfully constructed. You’ve clearly defined two components:

Monthly income of Rs. 4 lakhs

Capital appreciation with a horizon of 5 to 7 years

Let’s assess each component carefully and suggest improvements.

 

 

Monthly Income Generation Plan – Review and Insights
 

You’ve allocated the following towards income generation:

Perpetual Bonds – Rs. 1.4 crore

Two Balanced Advantage Funds – Rs. 2 crore

 

Let us look at the key strengths and areas to optimise.

 

Perpetual Bonds – Risk and Suitability

These bonds are issued with no maturity date.

Issuers can delay interest payments if they face pressure.

Tata Motors or Chola bonds offer high interest, but risk is also higher.

You need dependable income. Perpetuals may cause delays or cuts.

If rated ‘AA’ or lower, risk becomes even higher.

For safety, consider shifting part to high-rated corporate bonds.

Choose instruments with a defined maturity or high credit rating.

 

 

Balanced Advantage Funds – Regular Payout Source

You have allocated Rs. 2 crore to two funds here.

These are suitable for monthly SWP (Systematic Withdrawal Plan).

They reduce risk by shifting between equity and debt.

This provides smoother return and helps handle market volatility.

Ideal for your need of steady income.

Choose funds with a good track record of 5+ years.

Go for regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner.

They provide guidance and documentation support.

 

 

Key Adjustments to Consider for Income Plan

Don’t depend only on one instrument for income.

Keep part in ultra-short debt funds to manage emergency needs.

You may also allocate a small amount to floating rate funds.

Avoid riskier perpetuals if your lifestyle depends on this cash flow.

 

 

Capital Appreciation Portfolio – Review and Suggestions
 

You have allocated Rs. 4.1 crore across four funds:

Two Flexi Cap Funds – Rs. 2.5 crore

One Thematic Fund (Opportunities) – Rs. 80 lakhs

One Multi Asset Fund – Rs. 80 lakhs

 

This section looks well-structured. Still, here are some observations.

 

Flexi Cap Funds – Long Term Growth Drivers

These offer a mix of large, mid and small cap stocks.

Flexible allocation helps in market ups and downs.

You have spread Rs. 2.5 crore across two flexi caps.

It gives diversified equity exposure.

Good for your 5–7 year horizon.

Continue this investment.

 

 

Thematic Opportunities Fund – Aggressive but Focused

Thematic funds bet on specific trends.

They can perform well in short cycles.

But they are more volatile.

Rs. 80 lakhs is a high amount in one theme.

Reduce this to Rs. 50 lakhs.

Redirect balance to diversified equity or large-cap funds.

 

 

Multi Asset Fund – Helps Manage Volatility

These funds invest across equity, debt, and gold.

They balance returns with risk.

Ideal for medium-term wealth building.

You can continue this allocation.

Add a second multi-asset fund for balance.

 

 

Direct Plan Exposure – Re-evaluate for Personalised Support

Direct plans avoid distribution cost.

But guidance is missing.

Without CFP support, wrong fund choice or exit may happen.

Regular plans through a Certified Financial Planner give tracking.

They help during market swings, taxation and rebalancing.

This becomes very important in large-value portfolios.

 

 

Asset Allocation Review – What’s Working and What Needs Tune-Up
 

Your allocation is roughly:

45% towards income (Rs. 3.4 crore)

55% towards growth (Rs. 4.1 crore)

This mix looks aligned to your goal of current income and future corpus.

Still, consider the following:

 

Review this mix yearly with your Certified Financial Planner

If market rallies too much, shift some growth to income

If interest rates rise, reduce equity withdrawal and increase debt

Keep Rs. 25–30 lakhs in liquid fund for any large emergency

 

 

Taxation on Mutual Funds – Stay Aware of Recent Rules
 

Equity mutual funds:

LTCG above Rs. 1.25 lakh is taxed at 12.5%

STCG is taxed at 20%

 

Debt mutual funds:

Both LTCG and STCG taxed as per your tax slab

Most retirees fall in lower slab but tax planning still needed

Prefer SWP for income, not dividend option

Keep P&L statement ready for advance tax filing

 

 

Tax-Free Cash Flow – Can You Improve It?
 

You can also look at these steps:

Use HUF or family member’s name for part investment

Income from their investment gets taxed in their slab

Helps reduce your tax burden

Invest Rs. 1.5 lakh yearly in PPF for guaranteed, tax-free return

Can also explore Senior Citizen Savings Scheme (SCSS) if eligible

 

 

Avoid Index Funds – Not Suitable for Your Stage
 

Index funds copy the stock market

They don’t adjust based on conditions

There’s no downside protection in falling markets

Actively managed funds give more opportunity to earn and protect

Your current selection rightly avoids index funds

 

 

Avoid Direct Plans Without Support
 

Direct plans don’t include expert guidance

No one checks asset allocation or strategy alignment

You’re investing a large corpus. Mistakes cost more here

Use regular plans via an experienced Certified Financial Planner

They help in paperwork, KYC, taxation, SWP planning, rebalancing

Their personalised help adds more value than small cost savings

 

 

Perpetual Bonds – Should You Continue or Exit?
 

Not the best for regular income seekers

Issuer can skip interest if company faces pressure

Price of these bonds also swings with interest rates

You can’t rely fully on them for Rs. 4 lakh per month

Exit partly and shift to short-duration or banking PSU debt funds

These are better for predictable income with lower risk

 

 

Review of Liquidity and Emergency Planning
 

At least Rs. 30–35 lakhs should be in liquid or overnight funds

This money is for health, family needs or urgent situations

Don’t touch your income or capital funds for this purpose

This buffer will give you confidence and reduce portfolio risk

 

 

Risk Management – How to Prepare for Unseen Events
 

Review health insurance for self and spouse

If you’ve not already done it, get Rs. 25 lakh cover each

Consider critical illness policy to protect against long illness

Update nominations in all funds and accounts

Keep estate plan or Will ready. Talk to your planner on this

 

 

Rebalancing Strategy – Keep it Dynamic
 

Review portfolio every 6 months

Don’t chase top-performing funds blindly

Instead, rebalance as per your income need and age

Reduce equity by 5% every 2 years as you age

This protects corpus and supports steady cash flow

 

 

Finally
 

You’ve structured your Rs. 7.5 crore goal very thoughtfully

You are clear about income and long-term appreciation

Your fund choice is broadly good, with only minor changes needed

Avoid risky bonds like perpetuals as your lifestyle depends on monthly cash flow

Go for actively managed regular funds via Certified Financial Planner support

Keep tax, liquidity, insurance and emergency planning all in place

This will help you enjoy your retirement peacefully and confidently

 

 

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