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Ulhas

Ulhas Joshi  |280 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Fund Expert - Answered on Dec 26, 2023

With over 16 years of experience in the mutual fund industry, Ulhas Joshi has helped numerous clients choose the right funds and create wealth.
Prior to joining RankMF as CEO, he was vice president (sales) at IDBI Asset Management Ltd.
Joshi holds an MBA in marketing from Barkatullah University, Bhopal.... more
Rinkuraj Question by Rinkuraj on Dec 18, 2023Hindi
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Money

Sir I want to one time invest on MF . which MF is best for one time invest?

Ans: Hello Runkuraj and thanks for writing to me. It is difficult to predict the best performing fund. If you share details like your investment horizon, risk appetite and objectives, I may be able to suggest some schemes.
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  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jun 03, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jun 03, 2024Hindi
Money
Sir, which MF is best for one time safe investment to get maximum return?
Ans: Choosing the Best Mutual Fund for One-Time Safe Investment

Understanding the goal of a one-time safe investment is essential. You want a balance of safety and maximum returns. It’s great that you’re considering mutual funds for this purpose. Let’s dive into the details.

Importance of Investment Goals

Your investment goal influences the type of mutual fund suitable for you. Understanding whether your goal is wealth preservation, moderate growth, or aggressive growth helps in selecting the right fund. Each goal requires a different approach and fund type.

Types of Mutual Funds

Mutual funds come in various types, each with its risk and return profile. It’s essential to understand these types before making an investment decision.

Debt Funds

Debt funds invest in fixed-income securities like bonds and treasury bills. They are considered safer than equity funds and provide regular income. They suit conservative investors who prioritise capital preservation over high returns.

Balanced Funds

Balanced funds, also known as hybrid funds, invest in a mix of equities and debt. They offer a balance between safety and growth. These funds are suitable for investors looking for moderate risk and moderate returns.

Equity Funds

Equity funds invest in stocks and aim for higher returns. They carry higher risk compared to debt and balanced funds. They are suitable for investors with a higher risk appetite and a long-term investment horizon.

Choosing Safety with Debt Funds

For one-time safe investment, debt funds are often recommended. They offer stability and lower risk compared to equity funds. Debt funds come in various categories, each with different risk and return profiles.

Liquid Funds

Liquid funds invest in short-term instruments like treasury bills and commercial papers. They offer high liquidity and safety, making them suitable for short-term goals. They provide moderate returns with low risk.

Short-Term Debt Funds

Short-term debt funds invest in securities with a maturity of one to three years. They offer slightly higher returns than liquid funds but come with slightly higher risk. They are suitable for investors with a medium-term horizon.

Dynamic Bond Funds

Dynamic bond funds invest in debt instruments with varying maturities. Fund managers actively manage the portfolio based on interest rate movements. These funds offer potentially higher returns but come with moderate risk.

Analysing Returns and Risk

When choosing a debt fund, it’s crucial to analyse historical returns and risk. Look for funds with consistent performance over different market cycles. Lower volatility and stable returns are indicators of a good debt fund.

Role of Credit Rating

Credit rating of the securities in which a debt fund invests is vital. Higher credit-rated securities offer more safety but may provide lower returns. Balancing credit rating with returns helps in selecting the right debt fund.

Benefits of Actively Managed Debt Funds

Actively managed debt funds can adapt to market conditions. Fund managers can switch between securities to optimise returns and manage risk. This active management can lead to better performance compared to passive debt funds.

Disadvantages of Index Funds

Index funds track a specific index and cannot outperform it. They lack flexibility and adaptability to market changes. This limitation makes them less suitable for achieving maximum returns with safety.

Advantages of Regular Funds

Regular funds offer the expertise of a Certified Financial Planner. Investing through regular funds ensures professional management and personalised advice. This guidance helps in aligning your investments with your financial goals.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds

Direct funds may have lower expense ratios but lack professional guidance. Without expert advice, managing investments can be challenging. Regular funds provide the added benefit of expert advice and better alignment with goals.

Tax Efficiency in Debt Funds

Debt funds are tax-efficient compared to traditional fixed deposits. Long-term capital gains from debt funds are taxed at a lower rate after three years. This tax efficiency can enhance the net returns from your investment.

Importance of Investment Horizon

The investment horizon is critical in selecting the right mutual fund. For short-term goals, liquid funds and short-term debt funds are suitable. For medium to long-term goals, dynamic bond funds offer better potential returns.

Periodic Review and Rebalancing

Regularly reviewing and rebalancing your investment portfolio ensures alignment with goals. Market conditions and personal circumstances change over time. Periodic review helps in making necessary adjustments to optimise returns.

Understanding Expense Ratios

Expense ratio is the fee charged by mutual funds for managing your investment. Lower expense ratios mean higher net returns. However, it's essential to balance cost with the benefits of professional management.

Selecting a Reputable Fund House

Choose mutual funds from reputable fund houses with a proven track record. Reputable fund houses offer better management and governance. They ensure your investment is managed with high standards of professionalism.

Emergency Fund and Liquidity

Maintaining an emergency fund separate from your investment is vital. It ensures liquidity for unforeseen expenses without disrupting your investment. Liquid funds can also serve as a part of your emergency fund due to their high liquidity.

Risk Assessment and Diversification

Assessing your risk tolerance is crucial before investing. Diversification within debt funds can spread risk and enhance returns. A well-diversified portfolio balances safety with potential for higher returns.

Consulting a Certified Financial Planner

A Certified Financial Planner can provide personalised advice based on your financial situation. They help in selecting the right mutual funds that align with your goals. Professional guidance ensures that your investment strategy is effective and efficient.

Conclusion

Investing in mutual funds for one-time safe investment requires careful analysis. Debt funds offer a balance of safety and returns. Consulting a Certified Financial Planner ensures that your investment aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
I WANT TO INVEST 7-8 LAKHS IN MF FOR LONG TERM. SUGGEST ME SOME FUND. SHOULD I GO FOR ONETIME OR IN SIP MODE.
Ans: Investing Rs 7-8 lakhs in mutual funds for the long term is a wise decision. This amount, when invested properly, can grow substantially over time. Before we proceed with fund selection, it's essential to understand your financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.

For long-term investments, equity mutual funds are generally recommended. They have the potential to offer higher returns compared to other asset classes, although they come with higher risks.

You should also consider your future financial needs. Are you looking for capital appreciation, or do you need a regular income? Clarity in your objective will guide the investment strategy.

Lump Sum vs SIP Mode
Lump Sum Investment:

Advantages:

Immediate market exposure.
Potential for higher returns in a rising market.
Suitable for investors with a high-risk appetite.
Disadvantages:

Risk of investing at a market peak.
Short-term market volatility can impact your investment value.
Less flexibility in adjusting to market conditions.
SIP Mode:

Advantages:

Mitigates risk through Rupee Cost Averaging.
Invests across different market cycles.
Suitable for those looking for disciplined investing.
Flexibility to start with smaller amounts and gradually increase.
Disadvantages:

Slower capital deployment.
Misses out on potential market rallies in the short term.
Requires consistent commitment over time.
Given the current market conditions and your long-term investment horizon, a Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) could be the preferable route. SIPs help in averaging the purchase cost over time and reduce the impact of market volatility. However, if you have a strong understanding of the market, a lump sum investment can also be considered, especially if you believe the market is at a reasonable valuation.

Active Funds vs Index Funds
Since you mentioned mutual funds, it's crucial to differentiate between actively managed funds and index funds. Although index funds are low-cost options, they simply track the market and may not provide the best returns in the long term.

Actively Managed Funds:

Advantages:

Managed by professional fund managers who aim to outperform the market.
Flexibility in portfolio management, adjusting to market conditions.
Potential for higher returns compared to index funds.
Disadvantages:

Higher expense ratio due to active management.
Returns may vary based on the fund manager’s skill.
Considering your long-term goals, I would recommend focusing on actively managed funds rather than index funds. Actively managed funds, especially those with a proven track record, could offer better returns over time.

Regular Funds vs Direct Funds
When choosing mutual funds, you have the option to invest in regular funds or direct funds.

Regular Funds:

Advantages:

Access to advice and guidance from Certified Financial Planners.
Regular monitoring and adjustments based on your financial goals.
Simplifies the investment process, especially for beginners.
Disadvantages:

Slightly higher expense ratio compared to direct funds.
Direct Funds:

Advantages:

Lower expense ratio.
Potential for slightly higher returns due to lower costs.
Disadvantages:

Requires thorough knowledge and self-management.
Lack of professional advice and ongoing support.
Given the complexity of the investment landscape, I would recommend sticking with regular funds. The guidance of a Certified Financial Planner can be invaluable in making informed decisions and ensuring that your investments align with your long-term goals.

Suggested Strategy
Balanced Allocation:

Equity Funds: Allocate a significant portion to equity funds, focusing on large-cap, mid-cap, and multi-cap funds. These funds offer the potential for capital appreciation.
Debt Funds: Consider a small allocation to debt funds for stability. Debt funds are less volatile and provide a cushion against market fluctuations.
Systematic Approach:

SIP Mode: Start a SIP with a portion of your Rs 7-8 lakhs, say Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000 per month. This will help in spreading your investment over time and reduce the risk of market timing.
Lump Sum Investment: If you are comfortable with market risks, you can invest a portion as a lump sum in a well-researched fund. The remaining can be allocated to SIPs.
Diversification:

Multi-Cap Funds: Invest in multi-cap funds that provide exposure to large, mid, and small-cap stocks. This diversification within equities can help in achieving balanced growth.
Sectoral/Thematic Funds: If you have a higher risk appetite, consider allocating a small portion to sectoral or thematic funds. These funds can offer higher returns but come with higher risks.
Periodic Review:

Regularly review your portfolio with the help of your Certified Financial Planner. This ensures that your investments remain aligned with your goals and market conditions.
Rebalance the portfolio if needed, especially if there are significant changes in the market or your personal financial situation.
Tax Considerations
Mutual fund investments, especially in equity-oriented funds, offer tax benefits if held for the long term. Long-term capital gains (LTCG) on equity funds are taxed at 10% if the gains exceed Rs 1 lakh in a financial year.

Debt funds, on the other hand, attract LTCG tax at 20% with indexation benefits if held for more than three years. This makes equity funds more tax-efficient for long-term investors.

Risk Management
While investing in mutual funds, it's essential to consider your risk tolerance. Equity funds are subject to market risks, and their value can fluctuate. If you have a low-risk tolerance, consider balancing your portfolio with debt funds or hybrid funds that invest in both equity and debt.

Estate Planning
Since you’re investing for the long term, it’s also wise to consider estate planning. Ensure that your investments have proper nominations and are included in your will. This will ensure that your wealth is transferred smoothly to your heirs.

Finally
Investing Rs 7-8 lakhs in mutual funds is a powerful step towards achieving your long-term financial goals.

Opting for a systematic investment approach, with a focus on actively managed funds, will likely yield better results over time. Regularly review your portfolio, manage risks, and seek the guidance of a Certified Financial Planner to stay on track.

By taking these steps, you can build a robust financial future and achieve your goals with confidence.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Naveenn

Naveenn Kummar  |234 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF, Insurance Expert - Answered on Sep 08, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Aug 02, 2025
Money
I would like to invest 1 lakh per month in Mutual funds ,which MF is good to invest with.
Ans: Dear Sir,

Thank you for reaching out with your question about investing ?1 lakh per month in mutual funds.

I completely understand why this feels like an important decision. But one thing I must share honestly — choosing mutual funds cannot be done in isolation. The right investment mix depends on a few personal factors like:

Your age and risk-taking ability (how much market ups and downs you’re comfortable with)

Your financial goals (buying a house, children’s education, retirement, business expansion, etc.)

The time frame for each goal

Any existing loans or commitments that may affect cash flow

? General Guidance:

Instead of jumping straight into fund names, it’s always better to start with a plan.

A good ?1 lakh monthly investment can be spread across:

Equity funds – for long-term growth

Hybrid or debt funds – for balance and stability

Tax-saving ELSS – if you need additional Section 80C benefit

???? What you can do next:
I’d strongly recommend having a financial planning session first. Once your goals and comfort with risk are clear, we can build a SIP portfolio that matches your journey. That way, your investments are not just “good funds” but the right funds for you.

Summary:
Mutual funds are excellent tools for wealth creation, but the best results come when they are aligned with your personal life goals. Let’s define those clearly before committing your ?1 lakh per month.

Best regards,
Naveenn Kummar, BE, MBA, QPFP
Chief Financial Planner | AMFI Registered MFD
www.alenova.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Naveenn

Naveenn Kummar  |234 Answers  |Ask -

Financial Planner, MF, Insurance Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

Money
Dear Naveen Sir, I am 55 Years old and have five more years in superannuation. My monthly take home is approx. 6 Lacs PM . I have accumulated 2 Cr. in MF , 1.5 Cr in PF , 1 Cr FD and NPS and LIC put all together will be approx 50 Lacs and payout will start from 2028 onwards. I have just booked one 4 BHK and take home loan which is construction linked plan . Possession will be in 2029. My Daughter and Son are on Marriage age but both are also earning handsomely as they are in 30% bracket of IT . Have parental property approx 1.5 Cr which i will get in due course of the time. Monthly expenses are approx 1 Lacs only . Please suggest the way forward for next 5 Years .....how and where i start investing ....
Ans: Dear Sir
For a comprehensive QPFP level financial planning and retirement assessment we request the following details. These inputs will allow financial planner to prepare an accurate inflation-adjusted roadmap covering risk protection, income stability, investment strategy and long-term financial security.
________________________________________
1. Personal and Family Details
Your age and planned retirement year.
Spouse’s age, working status and future income expectations.
Number of dependents and their financial reliance on you.
Any major medical conditions in the family.
________________________________________
2. Parents’ Health and Financial Dependence
Current health condition of parents.
Do they have their own medical insurance cover.
Sum insured and type of policy.
Any critical illness or pre-existing conditions.
Monthly financial support you provide to them if any.
Expected future medical or caretaker expenses.
________________________________________
3. Income and Cash Flow
Monthly take home income.
Expected increments or bonuses for the next five years.
Monthly household expense structure.
Existing EMIs and financial commitments.
Monthly surplus available for investments.
Any expenses expected to rise due to inflation or lifestyle changes.
________________________________________
4. Home Loan and Liabilities
Sanctioned home loan amount, interest rate and tenure.
Current disbursement status under construction linked plan.
Your plan for EMI servicing and part-prepayment.
Any other loans or financial liabilities.
________________________________________
5. Real Estate Profile
Is this 4 BHK your first home or do you own other properties.
Any rental income from existing properties.
Purpose of the new 4 BHK after retirement for self, parents or children.
Your plan for the parental house. Retain, sell or rent.
Where you plan to settle post retirement.
________________________________________
6. Investment Portfolio
Current mutual fund corpus and category-wise split.
SIP amounts and investment horizon.
PF, EPF, PPF and other retirement scheme balances.
Fixed deposit amounts, maturity periods and ownership structure for DICGC protection.
NPS allocations Tier 1 and Tier 2.
LIC policies with surrender value and maturity year.
Any bonds, NCDs, PMS, private equity or invoice discounting exposure.
________________________________________
7. Emergency Preparedness
Current emergency fund value.
Loan facility available against MF or FD.
Any credit line for medical or sudden expenses.
________________________________________
8. Insurance Protection (Self and Spouse)
Term insurance coverage and policy details.
Health insurance sum assured and insurer.
Top-up or super top-up cover details.
Critical illness and accident cover status.
Adequacy of insurance after accounting for inflation.
________________________________________
9. Children’s Goals and Planning
Are you contributing financially to your children's planning.
Any corpus set aside for their marriage.
Children’s own investment and insurance setup.
Any future goals involving them.
________________________________________
10. Retirement Vision and Income Planning
Expected retirement lifestyle and monthly cost adjusted for inflation.
Your preferred retirement income structure
SWP from mutual funds
Annuity or pension products
PF interest
NPS annuity
Rental income
Plans to monetise or downsize real estate if needed.
Any travel, medical or lifestyle goals post retirement.
________________________________________
11. Estate and Succession Planning
Will availability and last update date.
Nominations across MF, PF, NPS, FD, LIC, demat and bank accounts.
Any instructions for asset distribution.
________________________________________
Next Step
Only Once you share these details, financial planner can prepare a complete five year roadmap covering asset allocation, inflation-adjusted corpus projections, loan strategy, insurance adequacy, medical preparedness, pension and SWP planning, liquidity management and post-retirement income stability.


Disclaimer / Guidance:
The above analysis is generic in nature and based on limited data shared. For accurate projections — including inflation, tax implications, pension structure, and education cost escalation — it is strongly advised to consult a qualified QPFP/CFP or Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD). They can help prepare a comprehensive retirement and goal-based cash flow plan tailored to your unique situation.
Financial planning is not only about returns; it’s about ensuring peace of mind and aligning your money with life goals. A professional planner can help you design a safe, efficient, and realistic roadmap toward your ideal retirement.

Best regards,
Naveenn Kummar, BE, MBA, QPFP
Chief Financial Planner | AMFI Registered MFD
https://members.networkfp.com/member/naveenkumarreddy-vadula-chennai
044-31683550

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

Money
Im aged 40 years and my husband is aged 48 years. We have one son aged 8 years and daughter aged 12 years. We both are in business. What should be the ideal corpus to meet their education at the age of 18 years for both children? Present business income we can save Rs.50000 pm
Ans: You are thinking early. That itself is a smart step. Many parents postpone planning and later struggle with loans. You are not in that situation. So appreciate your approach.

You asked about ideal corpus for higher education. Education cost is rising fast. So planning early avoids financial pressure later.

You have two kids. Your daughter is 12. Your son is 8. You have around six years for your daughter and around ten years for your son. With this time frame, you need a proper structured plan.

» Understanding Future Education Cost

Education inflation in India is high. It is increasing year after year. Even professional courses are becoming costly. College fees, hostel fees, books, digital tools and transportation also add cost.

You need to consider this inflation. Higher education cost will not remain at today’s value. It will grow.

So if today a standard undergraduate program costs around a few lakhs, in six to ten years the cost may go much higher. That is why estimating corpus should consider this future cost.

You don’t need exact numbers today. You need a target range to plan. A comfortable range gives clarity.

» Typical Cost Structure for Higher Education

Higher education cost depends on:

– Private or government institution
– Course type
– City or abroad option
– Duration

For engineering, medical, management or technology courses, cost goes higher. For government colleges the cost is lower but seats are limited. Private colleges are more accessible but expensive.

So planning based only on government college assumption may create funding gaps. Planning based on private college range gives safer margin.

» Suggested Corpus for Both Children

For your daughter, considering next six years gap and inflation, a target range should be higher. For your son, you have more time. So his corpus can grow better because compounding works more with time.

For a comfortable education corpus that covers most course possibilities, many families plan for a higher number. It gives flexibility to choose better college without stress.

So you can aim for a larger goal for both children like this:

– Daughter: Target a strong education fund for next six years
– Son: Target a similar or slightly higher fund for the next ten years because future costs may be higher

You may not need the whole amount if your child chooses a less expensive route. But having extra cushion gives peace.

» Your Savings Ability

You mentioned you can save Rs.50000 monthly. That is a strong saving capacity. But this saving should not go entirely to a single goal. You will also need future retirement planning, emergency fund and other life goals.

Still, a reasonable portion of this amount can be allocated towards education planning. Some families divide savings based on urgency and time horizon. Since daughter’s goal is near, she may need a more stable allocation.

Your son’s goal is long term. So his part can stay in growth asset for longer.

» Choosing the Right Investment Style

A long term goal like your son’s education needs equity exposure. Equity gives better potential for long term growth. It beats inflation better than fixed deposits.

But for your daughter, pure equity can create risk because goal is nearer. Market fluctuations may affect final corpus. So she needs a balanced asset mix.

So investment approach must be different for both.

» Asset Allocation Strategy

For your daughter with six year horizon:

– Higher allocation to a balanced type category
– Some allocation to equity through diversified categories
– Step down equity allocation in final three years

This structure protects capital in later years.

For your son with ten year horizon:

– Higher equity allocation at start
– Continue systematic investing
– Reduce risk allocation gradually closer to goal period

This helps growth and protection.

» Avoiding Wrong Investment Products

Parents often buy traditional insurance plans or children policies for education. These policies give low returns. They lock money and reduce wealth creation potential.

So avoid purely insurance based products for education goals. Insurance is separate. Investment is separate. This separation creates clarity and better growth.

If you already hold any ULIP or investment insurance product, it may not be efficient. Only if you have such policies then you may review and consider if surrender is needed and reinvest in mutual funds. If you don’t have such policies, no need to worry.

» Role of Actively Managed Mutual Funds

For long term goals, actively managed mutual funds offer better flexibility and expert management. They are designed to outperform inflation. A regular plan through a mutual fund distributor with CFP support helps with guidance. They also track your goal and give advice in volatile phases.

Direct funds look cheaper on expense ratio. But they lack advisory support. Long term investors often make emotional mistakes in direct investing. They stop SIPs or switch wrong schemes. So advisory backed investing avoids costly behaviour mistakes.

Index funds look simple and low cost. But they only follow the market. They don’t protect during corrections. There is no strategy or research. Actively managed funds adjust holdings based on market research and valuation. For life goals like education, smoother growth and strategy are needed.

So regular plan with advisory support helps you avoid unnecessary emotional decisions.

» Importance of Systematic Investing

A fixed monthly SIP gives discipline. It also benefits from market volatility. When markets fall, SIP buys more units. In rise phase, the value grows.

A structured SIP helps both goals. For daughter, SIP should shift towards low volatility funds slowly. For son, SIP can run longer in growth-oriented funds before reducing risk.

Your contribution amount may change based on future business income. But start now with whatever comfortable.

» Protecting the Goal With Insurance

Since you both are running business, income stability may fluctuate. So ensuring life security is important. Term insurance is the right option. It is low cost and high coverage.

This ensures child’s education is protected even if income stops.

Medical insurance also matters. A medical emergency should not break education savings.

» Reviewing the Plan Periodically

A fixed plan is good. But markets and life conditions change. So review once every twelve months.

Points to review:

– Are SIPs running on time?
– Is allocation suitable for goal year?
– Any need to shift from equity to safer category?
– Any tax planning advantage needed?

But avoid checking portfolio every week. Frequent checking creates stress.

» Education Goal Withdrawal Plan

As the daughter’s goal comes close:

– Stop SIP in high risk category
– Start shifting profit to debt type fund over systematic transfers
– Keep final year money in safe option like liquid category

Same formula should be applied for your son when his goal approaches.

This protects against last minute market crash.

» Emotional Side of Planning

Education is an emotional goal. Parents feel pressure to provide the best. But planning removes fear.

Saving consistently gives confidence. Having a plan helps avoid panic decisions. It also brings clarity of future expense.

This planning sets financial discipline for your children as well.

» Taxation Factors

When redeeming funds for education, tax rules will apply. For equity fund withdrawals, long term capital gains above exemption are taxed at 12.5% as per current rules. For short term within one year, tax is higher.

For debt investments, gains are taxed as per your tax slab.

So plan the withdrawal timing to reduce tax.

Tax planning near goal year is very important.

» What You Can Do Next

– Start separate investments for each child
– Use SIP for disciplined investing
– Choose growth-oriented asset for son
– Choose balanced and phased investment approach for daughter
– Review allocation yearly
– Protect the goal with insurance cover

Following these steps helps achieve the target corpus smoothly.

» Finally

You are already thinking in the right direction. You have time for both goals. You also have a good saving frequency. So you can build a strong education fund without stress.

Your children’s future will be secure if you continue with a structured and disciplined plan.

Stay consistent with your savings. Make investment choices carefully. Review and adjust calmly over time.

This journey will help you reach your ideal corpus for both children.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

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

...Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10876 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 09, 2025Hindi
Money
Hi Sir, Regarding recent turmoils in global economic situation and trends, Trump's tariffs, relentless FII selling, should I be worried about midcap, large&midcap funds that I have in my mutual fund portfolio? I have been investing from last 4 years and want to invest for next 10 years only. And then plan to retire and move to SWP. I'm targeting a 10%-11% return eventually. And I don't want to make lower returns than FD's. Is now the time to switch from midcap, laege&midcap to conservative, large, flexi funds? Please suggest.
Ans: You have asked the right question at the right time. Many investors panic only after damage happens. You are thinking ahead. That is a strong habit.

You also have clarity about your goal, time horizon and expected returns. This mindset will help you handle market noise better.

» Current Market Sentiment and Global Events
The global economy is seeing stress. There are trade decisions, tariff announcements, and geopolitical issues. Foreign institutional investors are selling. News flow looks negative.
These events can cause short term volatility. Midcaps and small caps usually react faster during these phases. Even large caps show some stress.
But markets have seen many crises in the past. Elections, governments, conflicts, pandemics, financial crashes and tariff wars are not new events. Markets always recover over time.
Short term movements are unpredictable. Long term wealth creation depends more on patience and asset allocation.

» Your Time Horizon Matters More Than Market Noise
You have been investing for 4 years. You plan to invest for the next 10 years. That means your remaining maturity is long term.
For a 10 year goal, equity is suitable. Midcap and large and midcap funds are designed for long term investors. They are not meant for short periods.
If your time horizon is short, it is valid to worry about downside risk. But with 10 more years ahead, temporary volatility is normal and expected.
Short term fear should not drive long term decisions.

» Should You Switch to Conservative or Large Cap Now?
Switching based on panic or temporary news is not ideal. When you switch now, you lock the current lower value permanently. You also miss the recovery phase.
Large cap and flexi cap funds offer stability. But they also deliver lower growth potential during bull runs compared to midcaps.
Midcaps usually fall deeper when markets drop. But they also recover faster and often outperform in the next cycle.
Switching now may protect emotions but may reduce long term wealth creation.

» Target Return of 10% to 11% is Reasonable
Aiming for 10%-11% return with a 10 year investment horizon is realistic.
Fixed deposits now offer around 6.5% to 7.5%. After tax, the return becomes lower.
Equity funds have potential to generate better returns compared to FD over a long tenure. Midcap allocation contributes to this return potential.
So moving fully to conservative funds may reduce your ability to beat inflation comfortably.

» Impact of FII Selling
FII selling creates pressure on the market. But domestic investors including SIP flows are strong today. India is seeing strong structural growth.
Retail investors, mutual funds and systematic flows act as stabilizers.
FII selling is temporary and cyclical. It is not a permanent trend.

» Economic Slowdowns Create Opportunities
Corrections make valuations reasonable. This can benefit long term SIP investors.
During downturns, your SIP buys more units. During recovery, these units grow.
This mechanism works best in volatile categories like midcaps.
Stopping SIP or switching during dips blocks this benefit.

» Midcap Cycles Are Natural
Midcap funds move in cycles. They have phases of strong growth followed by correction. The correction phase is painful but temporary.
Every cycle contributes to future upside. Staying invested during all phases is important.
Many investors exit during downturns and enter again after markets rise. This behaviour produces lower returns than the mutual fund performance.

» Role of Portfolio Balance
Instead of exiting fully, review your asset allocation. You can hold a mix of:
– Large cap
– Flexi cap
– Midcap
– Large and midcap
This gives stability and growth potential.
Midcap should not be more than a suitable percentage for your age and risk tolerance. Since you are 36, some meaningful midcap exposure is fine.
If midcap exposure is very high, you can reduce slightly and move that portion to flexi cap or large cap funds slowly through a systematic transfer. Do not do a lump sum shift during panic.

» Behavioural Discipline Matters More Than Fund Selection
Market cycles test investor patience. Consistency in SIP and holding through declines builds wealth.
Most investors do not fail due to bad funds. They fail due to fear-based decisions.
Your approach should be systematic, not emotional.

» Do Not Compare with FD Frequently
FD gives predictable return. Equity gives volatile but higher potential return.
Comparing FD returns every time the market falls leads to wrong decisions.
FD is for safety. Equity is for growth. They serve different purposes.
Your retirement plan and SWP plan depends on growth. Only equity can provide that growth.

» Should You Change Strategy Because Retirement is 10 Years Away?
Now is not the time to exit growth segments. You are still in accumulation phase.
When you reach the last 3 years before retirement, then reducing equity exposure step by step is required.
At that stage, a glide path helps preserve gains. That time has not yet come.
So continue building wealth now.

» Market Timings and Shifts Rarely Work
Many investors try to predict markets. Most of them fail.
Switching based on news looks logical. But news and market timing rarely align.
Staying consistent with your asset allocation gives better results than frequent changes.

» Portfolio Review Approach
You can follow these steps:
– Continue SIPs in all categories
– Avoid stopping based on short term fears
– If midcap allocation is above comfort level, shift only small portion gradually
– Review allocation once in a year, not every month
This structured approach prevents emotional decisions.

» Tax Rules Matter When Switching
Switching between equity funds involves tax impact.
Short term capital gains tax is higher.
Long term capital gains above the exemption limit are taxed at 12.5%.
Switching without purpose can create avoidable tax leakage.
This reduces your compounding.

» When to Worry?
You need to reconsider only if:
– Your goal horizon becomes short
– Your risk appetite changes
– Your allocation becomes unbalanced
Not because of headlines or temporary corrections.

» Your Retirement SWP Plan
Once your accumulation phase is completed, you can shift to:
– Conservative hybrid
– Flexi cap
– Balanced allocation
This will support a smoother SWP.
But this transition should happen only closer to the retirement start date. Not now.

» SIP is Designed for Turbulent Years
SIP works best when markets are volatile. The hardest years for emotions are the most powerful for compounding.
Your long term discipline is your strategy.
Do not interrupt it.

» What You Should Do Now
– Stay invested
– Continue SIP
– Avoid panic selling
– Review allocation once a year
– Use a steady plan, not reactions
This will help you reach your target return range.

» Finally
You are on the right path. The current volatility is temporary. Your 10 year horizon gives enough time for recovery and growth.
Switching right now based on fear may reduce your future returns. Staying invested and continuing SIPs is the sensible approach.
Your goal of better return than FD is realistic. Equity can deliver that with patience.
Stay calm and systematic.
Best Regards,
K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,
Chief Financial Planner,
www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment

...Read more

Radheshyam

Radheshyam Zanwar  |6739 Answers  |Ask -

MHT-CET, IIT-JEE, NEET-UG Expert - Answered on Dec 09, 2025

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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