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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7101 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on May 15, 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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I want to invest 10000 per month in mutual funds. Which are better to invest in ?

Ans: Your commitment to investing Rs.10,000 per month is a commendable step towards achieving your financial goals. Let's explore some suitable mutual fund options to maximize your investments.

Understanding Your Investment Preferences
Before diving into specific funds, it's essential to understand your investment preferences, risk tolerance, and financial goals. As a Certified Financial Planner, I value aligning investments with your unique circumstances.

Investment Recommendations
Considering your monthly investment amount, let's explore diversified mutual funds across various categories:

Large Cap Funds: These funds primarily invest in established companies with stable performance records. They offer a balance of growth potential and stability, making them suitable for conservative investors.

Mid Cap Funds: Mid cap funds focus on medium-sized companies with potential for rapid growth. While they offer higher growth prospects, they come with increased volatility. They are suitable for investors with a higher risk appetite.

Small Cap Funds: Small cap funds invest in small-sized companies with significant growth potential. They offer the highest growth prospects but come with higher risk and volatility. They are suitable for investors with a long-term investment horizon and a high tolerance for risk.

Benefits of Regular Funds Investing through MFD with CFP Credential
Investing through a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential ensures personalized advice, ongoing support, and access to a diverse range of funds. It allows you to navigate the complexities of the market with professional guidance.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
While direct funds offer lower expense ratios, they require active management and research, which may be daunting for investors without financial expertise. Opting for regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner ensures expert guidance and peace of mind.

Conclusion
Based on your investment preferences and risk tolerance, a diversified portfolio comprising large cap, mid cap, and small cap mutual funds through a Certified Financial Planner may offer the right balance of growth potential and stability for your monthly investment of Rs.10,000.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
DISCLAIMER: The content of this post by the expert is the personal view of the rediffGURU. Users are advised to pursue the information provided by the rediffGURU only as a source of information to be as a point of reference and to rely on their own judgement when making a decision.
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |7101 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 10, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 10, 2024Hindi
Money
I want to invest in mutual funds. Can u suggest which one is the best
Ans: Understanding Mutual Funds
Mutual funds pool money from various investors to invest in diversified assets, managed by professional fund managers. They offer diversification, professional management, and potential for good returns.

Types of Mutual Funds
Mutual funds come in various types, each serving different financial goals and risk appetites.

Equity Mutual Funds
Equity funds primarily invest in stocks. They offer high return potential but come with higher risk. Suitable for long-term goals like retirement or children's education.

Debt Mutual Funds
Debt funds invest in fixed-income instruments like bonds and government securities. They are less risky and suitable for short to medium-term goals like buying a car or planning a vacation.

Hybrid Mutual Funds
Hybrid funds invest in a mix of equity and debt, offering balanced risk and returns. They suit investors seeking moderate risk with a balanced approach.

Sectoral/Thematic Funds
Sectoral funds invest in specific sectors like technology or healthcare. Thematic funds focus on themes like infrastructure or emerging markets. High-risk, high-reward category.

Active vs. Passive Funds
Active funds are managed by fund managers who make decisions to outperform the market. Passive funds track a specific index.

Disadvantages of Index Funds
While index funds have lower fees, they often underperform compared to actively managed funds during market downturns. Active fund managers can make strategic decisions to protect investments.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Active funds leverage fund managers' expertise to navigate market complexities. They can adjust portfolios based on market conditions, offering potential for higher returns and better risk management.

Choosing the Right Mutual Fund
Choosing the right mutual fund requires understanding your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon.

Assessing Financial Goals
Identify your financial goals: buying a home, children's education, retirement planning, or wealth creation. Align mutual fund selection with these goals.

Understanding Risk Tolerance
Risk tolerance varies among investors. Assess your comfort with market volatility. High-risk tolerance suits equity funds; low-risk tolerance fits debt funds.

Evaluating Investment Horizon
Investment horizon influences fund selection. Short-term goals (1-3 years) align with debt funds; long-term goals (5+ years) align with equity funds.

Regular vs. Direct Funds
Regular funds involve mutual fund distributors (MFDs) and offer advisory services. Direct funds eliminate intermediaries, reducing fees but requiring self-management.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Direct funds save on commissions but demand significant time and knowledge. Investors may miss out on expert guidance, impacting returns and risk management.

Benefits of Regular Funds
Regular funds provide access to Certified Financial Planners (CFPs) who offer personalized advice, portfolio management, and regular monitoring. This support can optimize returns and align investments with goals.

Evaluating Fund Performance
Evaluate mutual fund performance by analyzing historical returns, consistency, and comparison with benchmarks and peer funds.

Historical Returns
Review past performance to gauge potential returns. However, past performance doesn't guarantee future results.

Consistency of Returns
Consistency is crucial. A fund with stable returns over various market cycles indicates good management.

Benchmark Comparison
Compare fund performance with relevant benchmarks. Consistent outperformance indicates strong management.

Peer Comparison
Evaluate a fund against its peers. Consistently outperforming peers signals a robust fund.

Importance of Expense Ratio
Expense ratio impacts net returns. Lower ratios are preferable, but consider the services and performance offered by the fund.

Fund Manager's Track Record
The fund manager's experience and track record are vital. A skilled manager can significantly impact fund performance.

Understanding SIP and Lump Sum Investments
Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) and lump sum investments are common ways to invest in mutual funds.

Systematic Investment Plan (SIP)
SIP allows regular, small investments. It offers rupee cost averaging and disciplined investing, reducing market timing risks.

Lump Sum Investment
Lump sum investment involves investing a large amount at once. Suitable for investors with idle cash and knowledge to time the market.

Tax Implications
Understanding tax implications is crucial for maximizing returns and planning withdrawals.

Equity Funds
Equity funds held for over a year attract long-term capital gains tax at 10% on gains exceeding Rs 1 lakh annually. Short-term gains (within a year) are taxed at 15%.

Debt Funds
Debt funds held for over three years attract long-term capital gains tax at 20% with indexation benefits. Short-term gains are taxed as per the investor's income tax slab.

Asset Allocation and Diversification
Effective asset allocation and diversification reduce risk and enhance returns.

Asset Allocation
Divide investments across asset classes based on risk tolerance and goals. A balanced mix of equity, debt, and hybrid funds can optimize returns.

Diversification
Diversify within each asset class to spread risk. Invest in different sectors, themes, and geographies to mitigate specific risks.

Monitoring and Rebalancing
Regularly monitor your investments and rebalance your portfolio to maintain desired asset allocation and align with goals.

Monitoring
Review fund performance, portfolio alignment with goals, and market conditions periodically.

Rebalancing
Adjust investments to maintain target asset allocation. Rebalancing involves selling overperforming assets and buying underperforming ones.

Importance of a Certified Financial Planner
Engaging a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) offers expert guidance, personalized advice, and ongoing support.

Expert Guidance
CFPs provide professional expertise in financial planning, investment strategies, and market analysis.

Personalized Advice
CFPs tailor investment recommendations to individual goals, risk tolerance, and financial situation.

Ongoing Support
CFPs offer continuous support, portfolio reviews, and adjustments to align with changing financial goals and market conditions.

Avoiding Common Mistakes
Avoid common investment mistakes to safeguard your wealth and optimize returns.

Chasing Past Performance
Don't rely solely on past performance. Market conditions change, and top-performing funds may not always sustain returns.

Ignoring Risk
Understand and accept the inherent risks in mutual fund investments. Choose funds aligning with your risk tolerance.

Lack of Diversification
Avoid concentrating investments in a single fund or asset class. Diversify to spread risk.

Emotional Investing
Don't let emotions drive investment decisions. Stick to your financial plan and avoid impulsive actions.

Considering Your Financial Situation
Evaluate your current financial situation, including income, expenses, liabilities, and existing investments. This helps determine how much you can invest and in which types of funds.

Evaluating Existing Investments
If you hold LIC, ULIP, or investment-cum-insurance policies, consider surrendering them and reinvesting in mutual funds. These products often have high charges and lower returns compared to mutual funds.

Importance of Financial Education
Continuous financial education empowers you to make informed investment decisions.

Staying Updated
Keep abreast of market trends, economic changes, and new investment opportunities. Knowledge enhances decision-making.

Attending Workshops
Participate in financial workshops and seminars. They provide valuable insights and updates on investment strategies and market outlooks.

Final Insights
Investing in mutual funds is a strategic way to grow wealth and achieve financial goals. Understanding different types of funds, assessing your financial situation, and aligning investments with your goals and risk tolerance are crucial steps. Engaging a Certified Financial Planner offers professional guidance, personalized advice, and ongoing support, optimizing your investment journey. Avoid common mistakes, stay educated, and regularly monitor and rebalance your portfolio to ensure it remains aligned with your objectives.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

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Nayagam P

Nayagam P P  |3918 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Nov 24, 2024

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Sir i am currently in class 11 th and i just want to prepare for jee mains and advanced 2026 exam so give me some roadmap to achieve and also guide me for computer science
Ans: Shreya, I trust that you have already enrolled in a coaching center, whether it be online or in person, and have finished your eleventh syllabus. (1) If you have not yet created your own short-notes for the 11th syllabus that has been completed, prepare it and continue to revise them every three days until 2026, even after you have commenced studying the 12th syllabus in December 2024. (2) Review the questions that you have incorrectly answered or skipped in mock tests conducted by your Coaching Center and/or practiced independently. (3) In order to increase your rank/percentile by targeting computer science at a reputable college/institute, prioritize mathematics (although all three subjects are equally important). (4) You should be thorough with NCERT books, particularly those pertaining to chemistry, in conjunction with the materials provided by your coaching institute. (5) Have 1-2 reference books for each subject. Not exceeding two. (6) Review the questions that were incorrectly answered or skipped in your mock and practice exams and retake the test. It is advisable to maintain a distinct note-book for these types of questions, which should include answers and elucidating notes, in order to review them repeatedly for all three subjects. (7) Download the SYLLABUS of JEE Main 2025 (available on Google by searching for "JEE Main Information Bulletin") and print it out, as there will be no significant changes to the syllabus in 2026. Maintain it on your study table and continue to update the 11th syllabus chapters and concepts that you have covered to date by marking them with a checkmark. This will boost your confidence if you continue to update the same till November 2025. (8) A slight difference in Syllabus might be visible when you acquire the 2026 JEE Main / JEE Advanced Syllabus. The same can be resolved within 15 days to one month in 2025-26. (9) Increase your productivity by studying for 45 minutes to 1 hour, taking a 10-minute break, and then continuing for 45 minutes. (10) Take a 2-3 minute break every 45 minutes while practicing questions, whether offline or online. This break should consist of closing your eyes and taking long breaths to enhance your concentration and mental capacity. (11) Additionally, it is recommended that you acquire the 20-40 PREVIOUS years question paper book of JEE (Main & Advanced) from Amazon. Arihant's, Disha's, or MTG's publications are recommended. Once you have finished reading a chapter, practice and complete it to determine the extent to which you have comprehended the concepts and to identify areas that require improvement. (12) By October 2025, ensure that you have reviewed significantly more than 90% of the previous years questions. Your confidence will be further bolstered by this. (13) After the mock test is completed at your coaching center, clarify all incorrectly answered or ignored questions and continue to revise and practice them, as these types of questions will significantly disrupt your performance in the actual JEE. (14) If you are a regular school student, inquire with your class teacher about the minimum attendance requirement as outlined in the Board's regulations (State, CBSE, ICSE, etc.). Utilize the remaining 15% by taking time off and preparing for your JEE, if only 85% attendance is required. (15) THE MOST IMPORTANT Value Added Suggestion: Rather than solely relying on JEE, please participate in 5-7 entrance exams/counseling process with a JEE score for getting admission into any one of the private engineering colleges to have a variety of options to select the most suitable one. All the BEST for Your Prosperous Future.

To know more on ‘ Careers | Education | Jobs’, ask / follow Us here in RediffGURUS.

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T S Khurana

T S Khurana   |197 Answers  |Ask -

Tax Expert - Answered on Nov 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 11, 2024Hindi
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Can you please suggest on capital gains as per Indian taxation laws arising in the below two queries : 1) property purchased with joint ownership, me and my wife’s name in 2015 at a cost of 64,80,000, housing improvements done for the cost of 1000000 and brokerages of 200000 paid and sold the same property at 10000000 in Dec 2023? 2) 87% of the proceeds got from the deal i.e 8700000, have been reinvested to pay 25% amount in purchasing another joint ownership property in Dec 2023, 3) I have invested in another under construction property in Nov 2023 by taking housing loan, which is on me and my wife’s name worth 1.4 cr, here the primary applicant is me only while wife is just made a Co applicant in the builder buyer agreement and also on the housing loan . So what are the LTCG tax liabilities arising from the above 3 scenarios for FY 2023-2024 and FY 2024-2025. I intend to sale off the property acquired in (2) by Dec 2024 and use that proceeds to close the housing loan for the property acquired in (3), will this sale of property be inviting any tax liabilities if the complete proceeds received from the sale of the property in (2) would be utilised to close the housing loan taken in Nov 2023 for the property in (3) ? Since in FY 23-24, I would be claiming the LTCG from the sale proceeds of 1) invested in the purchase of property in 2), and I intend to sale off this property in Dec 2024, will the LTCG claim be forfeited on the property sale in (1), should I hold this property at least for further 1 year so that sale of this property in 2) will not invite STCG?
Ans: (A). Let's first talk about F/Y 2023-24 :
You jointly sold a Property during the year for Rs.76.80 lakhs (64.80+10.00+2.00), & sold the same for Rs.100.00 lakhs.
You have jointly also purchased Property No.3 (I suppose it is Residential only), for Rs.140.00 lakhs.
You should avail exemption u/s-54 & file your ITR accordingly. Please disclose all details about sale & purchase in your ITR.
02. Now coming to the F/Y 2024-25 :
You intend to Sell Property No.2, which was acquired in 2023-24. Any Gain on Sale of it would be Short Term capital Gains & taxed accordingly.
Alternatively, you may hold this sale of property no.2 (for 2 years from its purchase) & avoid STCG
You are free to utilize the sale proceeds in a way you like, including paying off your housing Loan.
Please note to avail exemption u/s 54 only from investment in property no.3 & not 2.
Most welcome for any further clarifications. Thanks.

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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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