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Is it wise to stop investing in PSU funds?

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10902 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Sep 22, 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 - Sep 08, 2024Hindi
Money

I have invested 10k in Invesco psu equity fund which is giving me negative returns should I stop investing in psu funds at this time or reduce sip amount to 5k

Ans: Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) funds can sometimes show volatility, especially in the short term. Since you’ve noticed negative returns from your Rs. 10,000 investment, it’s understandable to feel concerned. Let’s break down the situation to help you decide whether to stop or reduce your Systematic Investment Plan (SIP) in PSU funds.

Long-Term Nature of PSU Investments
First, it’s important to appreciate that PSU funds are typically more volatile because they are heavily influenced by government policies, economic cycles, and sector-specific challenges. These funds are not known for consistent short-term returns but are better suited for long-term investors who are patient.

If your investment horizon is more than five years, you might still see recovery and positive returns as PSUs tend to perform well in certain market phases. If you reduce or stop your investment now, you may miss out on potential future gains. So, patience can be rewarding here.

Negative Returns: Short-Term Market Fluctuations or a Deeper Concern?
It is quite common to see negative returns during volatile periods. However, negative returns do not always indicate poor fund performance. The market as a whole might be going through a down phase, and PSUs tend to react more dramatically. It’s critical to evaluate the following factors before making any decisions:

Fund’s Track Record: How has the fund performed in the past, particularly over 3, 5, or 7 years? If its long-term performance is strong, then short-term negative returns are not necessarily a red flag.

Sector Outlook: Are there any changes in the sector or government policies that could impact PSU stocks? A sectoral slowdown or specific challenges for PSUs may result in underperformance for the time being.

Your Investment Horizon: If your financial goals are far off, it may make sense to continue your SIP and ride out the market fluctuations. However, if you need the money sooner, reducing your exposure could be worth considering.

Consider Diversification Over Complete Exit
If the volatility in PSU funds is a concern, you don’t need to stop investing entirely. Instead, reducing your SIP amount from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 5,000 can be a more balanced approach. This strategy allows you to keep some exposure to PSU funds, which could benefit from sectoral rebounds in the future, while freeing up money for other more stable investments.

Reducing the SIP amount can give you peace of mind while maintaining long-term potential in your portfolio.

Benefits of Actively Managed Funds
Rather than focusing solely on PSU funds, you may want to allocate part of your investment to actively managed funds. Unlike index funds or ETFs, actively managed funds have professionals making informed decisions about which stocks to buy and sell. This gives you the benefit of market insights and adjustments based on performance. It can help stabilize your returns, as these funds are often more diversified across various sectors.

This diversification lowers the risk of overexposure to a single sector, such as PSUs. By spreading your investment across multiple sectors through actively managed funds, you can improve your portfolio’s balance.

Avoiding Index Funds and Direct Mutual Funds
It is important to understand that index funds, though cheaper, are not always the best option. They simply mimic the index and lack the flexibility to shift when market conditions change. This can expose you to more risk, especially when sectors like PSUs face challenges.

Direct mutual funds might seem like a good choice to save on commissions, but they often require extensive market knowledge. For most investors, it is better to work with a Mutual Fund Distributor (MFD) who has a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential. They can help you select funds that align with your financial goals and risk profile.

Alternatives for More Stability
If PSU funds are causing too much concern, you could consider reallocating part of your investment to funds with more stable returns. For example:

Balanced Advantage Funds: These funds automatically shift between equity and debt based on market conditions. They can offer a more balanced risk-return profile, making them less volatile compared to PSU-focused funds.

Debt Funds: For those who want to focus on stability, debt funds offer consistent returns with lower risk. They are a good way to generate steady income while reducing exposure to volatile sectors.

By reallocating some of your SIP into more balanced or debt-oriented funds, you can manage your risk more effectively without exiting the market altogether.

Regular Review of Your Portfolio
It’s essential to periodically review your portfolio and see how different funds are performing. While PSU funds might not be delivering now, regular assessment with the help of a Certified Financial Planner can provide you with insights on whether to hold, switch, or reduce your investments.

If the overall performance of your portfolio is aligned with your long-term goals, a short-term dip in PSU fund performance might not be a reason to panic. Staying invested through market cycles is often the best way to grow wealth over time.

Final Insights
In summary, your investment in PSU funds might be showing negative returns now, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to exit entirely. Here’s a quick action plan:

Evaluate the Fund’s Long-Term Performance: Don’t make decisions based on short-term dips. Look at the track record and sector outlook.

Consider Reducing, Not Stopping: Reduce your SIP to Rs. 5,000 rather than stopping entirely. This keeps you invested while freeing up money for other options.

Diversify Into Actively Managed Funds: Use part of your investment in actively managed funds for more stability and potential growth. Avoid direct mutual funds and index funds due to their limitations.

Reallocate to More Stable Funds: Consider adding balanced advantage or debt funds to reduce volatility.

Review Regularly: Keep assessing your portfolio’s performance with a CFP to stay on track.

By following these steps, you can make a more informed decision about whether to continue, reduce, or stop your SIP in PSU funds.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holistic_investment_planners/
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  |10902 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 18, 2024

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Sir I have been investing in quant psu fund ,SIP of 5k every months, since feb 2024 . Its performance is very very poor, since I have invested, even my principle amount has already drown in june ???????? Since I'm continuing my SIP regularly Kindly please advice me should i continue or make exit.
Ans: Your commitment to regular SIP investment is highly appreciable. Staying disciplined is a key strength in wealth creation. However, the underperformance of your fund requires a detailed review.

Performance Assessment of Sectoral or Thematic Funds

Sectoral funds, like PSU-focused funds, are dependent on specific sectors' performance.

They carry higher volatility compared to diversified equity funds.

Short-term market fluctuations may lead to temporary underperformance.

Limitations of Investing in Sectoral Funds

Lack of diversification increases risk due to sector concentration.

Performance is highly cyclical and depends on external factors.

Long-term patience is crucial as short-term results can be misleading.

Reviewing the Investment Horizon

Your SIP started recently, in February 2024.

Sector-specific funds often require a longer horizon for results.

Assess if your financial goals align with the fund’s nature.

Key Considerations Before Exiting the Fund

Check the fund's portfolio quality and sector exposure.

Analyse if the fund manager's strategy aligns with your objectives.

A Certified Financial Planner can help evaluate alternatives.

Should You Exit or Continue?

Exit if the fund consistently underperforms its benchmark and peers.

Continue if market conditions for the sector improve soon.

Consider switching to a diversified equity fund for stability.

Benefits of Diversified Equity Funds Over Sectoral Funds

Diversified funds spread risks across sectors and companies.

They offer better consistency in returns over the long term.

Active fund management adjusts investments based on market trends.

Role of a Certified Financial Planner

A Certified Financial Planner helps align your investments with your goals.

They provide insights on market trends and fund strategies.

Regular portfolio reviews ensure investments stay on track.

Tax Implications of Exiting Your Fund

If held for less than one year, STCG tax applies at 20%.

Gains above Rs 1.25 lakh held over a year incur 12.5% LTCG tax.

Understand the tax impact before making an exit decision.

Final Insights

Your SIP investment shows your financial discipline and focus. Review the fund’s performance with expert help. If it misaligns with your goals, consider switching to a diversified equity fund. Long-term planning ensures financial stability and growth.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10902 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Feb 17, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Feb 15, 2025Hindi
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Money
I have been investing in SIP an amount of 46K every month. Currently I have invested around 12Lakh, 3 months back the profit was around 35% but now it got reduced to 10%, Considering current market situation, 1) Shall I reduce the monthly SIP amount, 2) Continue with same monthly amount 3) Come out from SIP or 4) Increase the monthly investment. Please guide me. I have long term (5 years) in mind,
Ans: You have been investing consistently through SIPs, which is a great approach. Market fluctuations are normal. Below is a structured analysis of your situation and the best course of action.

Understanding Market Volatility
Markets move in cycles, and short-term declines are common.

Your portfolio was up 35% but is now at 10%, which shows correction.

Staying invested is key to long-term wealth creation.

Should You Reduce SIPs?
Reducing SIPs during market corrections is not advisable.

Lower prices mean you get more units for the same investment.

Stopping SIPs now can reduce future growth potential.

Should You Continue the Same SIP Amount?
If your financial situation allows, continuing SIPs is ideal.

Five years is a medium-term horizon, and markets recover over time.

Rupee cost averaging works best when investments remain consistent.

Should You Exit the SIPs?
Exiting now locks in lower returns.

Long-term investing needs patience and discipline.

Markets will eventually recover, leading to better returns.

Should You Increase SIP Amount?
If you have surplus funds, increasing SIPs can be beneficial.

Lower market levels provide better entry points.

Investing more now can enhance long-term returns.

Best Investment Strategy for You
Continue SIPs without reducing the amount.

If possible, increase SIPs to take advantage of lower prices.

Avoid emotional decisions based on short-term market movements.

Stay invested for the full five-year horizon for better gains.

Final Insights
Market corrections are normal and provide buying opportunities.

Reducing or stopping SIPs can impact long-term wealth creation.

Staying invested and increasing SIPs when possible is a wise approach.

Maintain discipline and review your portfolio periodically.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

..Read more

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Asked by Anonymous - Sep 26, 2025Hindi
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hello mam, My son 19 year old from last 4 year his behavior change not listing not having food properly whole day watching mobile after 10th i put him diploma in electrical engineer he completed his 1 year but from 2nd year he stop going to college we both are working parent so nobody is there at home to force to go for college his teacher every day calling me to send him to college but he is not listing i ask him did teacher scold you or any student is troubling you he said no one is troubling me i don't want to study i want to do voice dubbing i want to give my voice for cartoon and for dubb movies in july 2025 he told me in 2028 i will leave both of you i have my dream i leave the home i ask him what is your dream he said 1st 2 dream i cant tell you but 3rd dream is to go to japan for tour i thought he is joking. In August 2025 he started going for voice dubbing classes in 1st week of August 2025 he told me my planning is change next month only i will leave both of you again i thought is just pulling my leg but on 15 September its regular Monday we both parent went for job and he called me around 12 pm and said daddy left the home not a single rupees he had with him and he left the home in full of rain he keep walking and talking to me i ask him where you are going but he said that's secrete i took his mom in conference and try convince him but he not listing with 1 hour talking with him on phone i ask him tell me the landmark where you are he told me one landmark while talking him i left office to reach the landmark he told i forcibly sit him in car and take back home with his mother after reaching home with his mother we are trying to convince don't do like this its your home we have only one child that is you but he said no today is the i want to go let me go don't fail my planning whole standing at home he said want to go without having water or food just crying and saying i want leave the home in evening at 7pm i told him give me three month i will send to japan for tour after hearing this he little bit convince but said repair my mobile which was shutdown due rain water get inside arrange visa and passport within three month and give new laptop for playing game but after three i will leave both of you and left the home in december 2025 he told me he will the home. he is very superstitious at home not having bath use same cloth he said if change cloth and have bath all my power will go after that incidence leaving home he become more superstitious each and every moment he whispering himself after asking why you doing this saying this is my power i will get what i want if i scold him he said i will leave home right now please help me what to do he not having bath not changing cloth not having afternoon food not cutting his nails from last 15 days i am very much in stress due to his behavior and stress about his future also he is not behaving like a normal child whole day and night watching mobile. Please help
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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |10902 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Dec 17, 2025

Money
Hi Vivek, I am 43 year old. I am currently working in private organization. Having an Investment of 8.0 Lac in NPS, 27 Lac in PF, 4 Lac in PPF and 2.5 Lac in FD. My child is in 11th Science. I have my own house and no any loan. I need to Invest around 80.0 Lac for Child Education, Marriage and Retirement.
Ans: Your discipline and clarity deserve appreciation.
You have built strong foundations early.
Many people reach forty without such assets.
You already reduced major future stress.
That itself gives you an advantage.

» Current Financial Snapshot
– You are 43 years old.
– You work in a private organisation.
– You own your house fully.
– You have no loans.
– This gives financial stability.

– Retirement focused savings already exist.
– Long term instruments form your base.
– Your money is spread across safety products.
– Liquidity is limited but acceptable.
– Growth exposure needs attention.

» Existing Investment Review
– Retirement related savings are meaningful.
– Mandatory savings have helped discipline.
– These instruments protect capital well.
– However growth potential is limited.
– Inflation risk exists over long periods.

– These assets suit long term security.
– They suit retirement stability well.
– They are not designed for high growth.
– Child goals need higher growth.
– Marriage expenses need liquidity planning.

» Child Education Time Horizon
– Your child is in 11th Science.
– Higher education expenses are near.
– Time available is limited.
– Risk capacity is lower here.
– Planning must be conservative.

– Education costs grow faster than inflation.
– Professional courses cost significantly more.
– Overseas options cost even higher.
– Partial funding support is important.
– Loans should be minimised.

» Child Marriage Planning Window
– Marriage expenses are medium term.
– You still have some time.
– Cultural expectations increase costs.
– Planning early reduces stress.
– This goal needs balance.

– Too much risk can hurt plans.
– Too little growth causes shortfall.
– Phased investing works best.
– Gradual shift towards safety helps.
– Liquidity must be ensured.

» Retirement Planning Horizon
– Retirement is long term.
– You have nearly two decades.
– This allows growth oriented approach.
– Inflation is biggest risk here.
– Passive savings alone will not suffice.

– Retirement expenses last many years.
– Healthcare costs rise sharply later.
– Regular income post retirement matters.
– Corpus must be inflation protected.
– Growth assets become essential.

» Understanding Rs 80 Lac Requirement
– Rs 80 Lac is a combined target.
– All goals have different timelines.
– One strategy will not suit all.
– Segmentation is essential.
– This avoids misallocation.

– Education needs immediate planning.
– Marriage needs medium planning.
– Retirement needs long term planning.
– Each goal must be ring-fenced.
– Mixing goals creates confusion.

» Asset Allocation Importance
– Asset allocation drives outcomes.
– Not product selection alone.
– Time horizon decides allocation.
– Risk appetite decides allocation.
– Discipline maintains allocation.

– Safety instruments protect capital.
– Growth instruments fight inflation.
– Balance avoids emotional mistakes.
– Rebalancing keeps strategy aligned.
– This is a continuous process.

» Role Of Equity Exposure
– Equity creates long term wealth.
– Equity is volatile short term.
– Time reduces equity risk.
– Retirement horizon suits equity.
– Education horizon needs limited equity.

– Selective equity exposure is essential.
– Quality matters more than quantity.
– Active management adds value.
– Market cycles require judgment.
– Discipline ensures success.

» Why Not Depend Only On Safe Instruments
– Safe instruments give predictable returns.
– They struggle to beat inflation.
– Purchasing power erodes slowly.
– Long term goals suffer silently.
– Growth becomes insufficient.

– Your current assets are safety heavy.
– Growth allocation needs improvement.
– This change should be gradual.
– Sudden shifts create stress.
– Planned transition works better.

» Education Goal Strategy
– Use conservative growth approach.
– Capital protection is priority.
– Avoid aggressive exposure now.
– Phased investing works best.
– Gradual de-risking is necessary.

– Education funding should be ready.
– Avoid dependency on future income.
– Avoid last minute borrowing.
– Keep funds accessible.
– Liquidity is key.

» Marriage Goal Strategy
– Marriage expenses are emotional.
– Costs are difficult to predict.
– Planning gives confidence.
– Balanced approach is ideal.
– Growth plus safety mix works.

– Start allocating gradually.
– Increase safety closer to event.
– Avoid locking money long term.
– Keep flexibility.
– Avoid speculation.

» Retirement Goal Strategy
– Retirement planning needs growth focus.
– Inflation is the silent enemy.
– Long horizon allows equity.
– Volatility should be accepted.
– Discipline ensures compounding.

– Retirement corpus must grow faster.
– Contributions should increase with income.
– Lifestyle expectations must be realistic.
– Healthcare buffer is essential.
– Regular review is necessary.

» Role Of Active Funds
– Markets do not move uniformly.
– Sectors rotate frequently.
– Index funds stay static.
– They reflect index weaknesses.
– Active funds adapt better.

– Active managers adjust allocations.
– They reduce exposure in weak sectors.
– They increase exposure in growth areas.
– This helps during volatility.
– Especially for long term goals.

» Why Avoid Index Based Approach
– Index funds mirror market direction.
– They cannot protect downside.
– They remain exposed during corrections.
– Investors feel helpless.
– Returns stay average.

– Active strategies aim to outperform.
– They manage risk dynamically.
– They suit Indian market inefficiencies.
– Skilled management adds value.
– This matters over decades.

» Regular Investing Route Benefits
– Regular route offers guidance.
– Behaviour management is critical.
– Panic decisions destroy returns.
– Professional handholding matters.
– Especially during volatile phases.

– Certified Financial Planner helps discipline.
– Goal tracking becomes structured.
– Portfolio review becomes systematic.
– Emotional bias reduces.
– Long term success improves.

» Liquidity Planning
– Emergency funds are essential.
– You currently have limited liquidity.
– One year expenses should be accessible.
– This avoids distress selling.
– It protects long term investments.

– Emergency planning gives peace.
– Unexpected events do not derail plans.
– This should be built gradually.
– Avoid using retirement savings.
– Keep it separate.

» Insurance As Risk Management
– Insurance protects your plan.
– It is not an investment.
– Adequate life cover is essential.
– Health cover avoids financial shock.
– Premiums are necessary expenses.

– Delaying insurance increases risk.
– Medical inflation is severe.
– Employer cover is insufficient.
– Family protection is priority.
– This secures your goals.

» Tax Efficiency Perspective
– Tax planning should support goals.
– Avoid tax driven decisions alone.
– Post tax returns matter.
– Simplicity reduces mistakes.
– Compliance avoids future stress.

– Long term equity taxation is favourable.
– Short term churn increases tax.
– Stability helps efficiency.
– Avoid frequent switching.
– Stay disciplined.

» Monitoring And Review Process
– Plans are not static.
– Life changes require adjustment.
– Income growth allows higher contribution.
– Goals may change.
– Reviews keep relevance.

– Annual review is sufficient.
– Avoid daily market tracking.
– Focus on progress.
– Ignore noise.
– Stick to strategy.

» Behavioural Discipline
– Emotions affect investment outcomes.
– Fear causes premature exit.
– Greed causes overexposure.
– Discipline balances both.
– Guidance helps immensely.

– Long term wealth needs patience.
– Short term market moves mislead.
– Consistency beats timing.
– Process beats prediction.
– Stay calm.

» Aligning Goals With Reality
– Rs 80 Lac goal is achievable.
– Planning must be realistic.
– Income growth will support it.
– Lifestyle control helps savings.
– Early planning reduces pressure.

– You already started well.
– Course correction is timely.
– Delay would increase burden.
– Action now simplifies future.
– Confidence improves.

» Family Communication
– Discuss goals with family.
– Shared understanding reduces conflict.
– Expectations become realistic.
– Decisions gain support.
– Stress reduces significantly.

– Financial planning is family planning.
– Transparency builds trust.
– It improves discipline.
– Everyone works towards goals.
– Harmony improves.

» Risk Capacity Versus Risk Appetite
– Risk capacity is strong for retirement.
– Risk appetite may vary emotionally.
– Planning must respect both.
– Overexposure creates anxiety.
– Underexposure creates regret.

– Balance is the answer.
– Gradual allocation changes work best.
– Avoid extreme decisions.
– Stay flexible.
– Stay focused.

» Final Insights
– You have built a strong base.
– Assets are safe but growth limited.
– Goals need segmented planning.
– Education needs conservative strategy.
– Marriage needs balanced approach.
– Retirement needs growth focus.
– Active management adds value.
– Regular guidance supports discipline.
– Insurance protects the plan.
– Liquidity avoids stress.
– Review keeps alignment.
– Patience creates results.

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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