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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6997 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Oct 29, 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 - Oct 29, 2024Hindi
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I have invested in axis small cap, midcap and blue chip for the last 3 years. Seeing its performance, should I exit now?.

Ans: Investing in different categories, such as small cap, mid cap, and blue chip funds, offers diversification across risk levels and growth potential. Each category has unique strengths and responds differently to market cycles. Here’s an analysis to help you decide if you should continue or exit your investments.

Performance and Market Cycles
Equity funds, including small, mid, and blue-chip funds, typically perform differently in various market conditions.

Small cap funds often show high growth potential but can be volatile. Exiting during a temporary downturn may lead to missed long-term gains.

Mid cap funds provide a balance of growth and risk, as they represent companies beyond the initial growth phase but with room to expand.

Blue chip funds, representing large companies, generally offer stability and moderate returns, being less sensitive to market fluctuations. Exiting these funds could reduce the stability of your portfolio.

The Importance of Investment Tenure
Equity investments require a longer time horizon for optimal returns. Three years is relatively short, especially for small and mid cap categories.

Staying invested through market cycles typically allows these funds to realize their full growth potential. Exiting now could interrupt this compounding effect.

Key Factors for Evaluation
Assess the following before making any decisions:

Fund Consistency: Evaluate if each fund’s performance aligns with its historical and category average. Temporary downturns in small and mid cap funds can be normal.

Fund Manager’s Strategy: Assess if the fund manager has maintained a consistent and strategic approach in selecting stocks within the small, mid, and blue-chip spaces. A strong management approach may be a reason to remain invested.

Market Outlook: Look into current market conditions and projected economic trends. Small and mid cap funds often experience volatility based on market sentiment but recover during favorable market conditions.

Disadvantages of Direct Funds
Self-Management Complexity: Direct funds lack the benefit of a Certified Financial Planner’s ongoing guidance, which can be essential in understanding fund performance and adjusting strategies when needed.

Potential Missed Opportunities: With regular funds through a Certified Financial Planner, you gain access to periodic reviews and proactive recommendations. Direct funds leave this burden entirely on the investor.

Advantages of Actively Managed Funds Over Index Funds
If you’re considering index funds, it’s essential to note their limitations. Index funds follow a fixed market index without adapting to changing economic conditions, unlike actively managed funds. Here’s why actively managed funds might be better:

Dynamic Management: Actively managed funds adjust to market trends, whereas index funds cannot, which limits their potential returns in volatile markets.

Risk Management: Certified Financial Planners can strategically allocate assets based on real-time assessments. Index funds, by design, lack this flexibility.

Re-evaluate Based on Investment Goals
If your goals are long-term, continuing your investment in these funds may benefit from the compounding effect.

If your goals are short-term, reassessing your current allocation with a Certified Financial Planner may help adjust for risk management.

Final Insights
Making a decision based on a three-year performance period may not reveal the full potential of your investments, particularly in small and mid cap funds. Long-term wealth creation in equity often involves staying invested through market fluctuations.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in
https://www.youtube.com/@HolisticInvestment
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  |6997 Answers  |Ask -

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

Money
Hi Ram, I have been regularly investing (SIP) in Axis ELSS, bluechip and mid cap fund for past 3-4 of years. Considering the returns in Axis funds are relatively low compared to peers, should I stop my SIP in Axis and move to other funds for better returns?
Ans: You've been consistently investing in Axis ELSS, Bluechip, and Midcap funds for the past 3-4 years. While these funds have a good track record, the recent underperformance of Axis funds compared to their peers has understandably raised concerns. Let's assess this situation and provide some guidance for your next steps.

1. Performance Review of Axis Funds
Short-term Underperformance: It is common for even well-managed funds to go through periods of underperformance. The Axis funds may have underperformed compared to peers in recent years, but this alone doesn’t always justify stopping your SIP.

Long-term Focus: The key aspect of mutual fund investing is to focus on the long-term horizon. Look at the 5-year or 7-year performance of the funds instead of just 1- or 2-year periods. This will give you a better understanding of their long-term consistency.

Axis ELSS Fund:
Lock-in Period: Since ELSS funds come with a 3-year lock-in period, any changes should be made with caution. You need to consider the post-lock-in performance before switching.
Axis Bluechip Fund:
Large-cap Funds: Bluechip or large-cap funds generally tend to underperform in bull markets compared to small-cap or mid-cap funds. However, they offer stability during market downturns.
Axis Midcap Fund:
Volatility: Midcap funds are known for volatility. While Axis Midcap may not have delivered as expected in recent years, midcap cycles typically show substantial gains in the long run.
2. Reasons to Stay Invested
SIP Strategy: SIPs are designed to help investors take advantage of market volatility. By continuing with your SIPs, you will benefit from rupee-cost averaging, buying more units when the market is down and fewer when it’s high.

Market Cycles: Markets move in cycles, and different sectors or styles of funds perform better at different times. The underperformance of your Axis funds could be temporary, and exiting now might cause you to miss future growth.

3. Should You Stop SIP in Axis Funds?
While switching funds could be an option, it’s important to evaluate the following factors before deciding:

When to Consider Stopping SIP:
Consistent Underperformance: If the Axis funds have consistently underperformed their category average over a long period (5+ years), you may consider moving to better-performing funds.

Poor Management: If the fund manager has changed, or there have been significant changes in the investment strategy of the fund, underperformance could persist.

When to Continue SIP:
Recovery Potential: If you believe the Axis funds are poised to recover based on market conditions, sticking with your SIPs can help you benefit from a rebound.

Diversification Benefits: If the Axis funds provide solid diversification within your overall portfolio, consider continuing SIPs to maintain balance.

4. Considerations for Switching to Other Funds
If you decide to move your SIPs to other funds, here’s what you should consider:

Consistency in Returns: Look for funds that have delivered consistent returns over different time periods. Don’t just focus on recent top performers, as they may not maintain their performance.

Actively Managed Funds: Switching to actively managed funds can give you an edge. Unlike index or passive funds, active funds offer the flexibility for managers to adjust their portfolios based on market conditions, which can lead to better returns over time.

Professional Guidance: Working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) can help you assess which funds align with your goals. The CFP can monitor performance and recommend changes if required, while ensuring that your portfolio remains balanced.

5. Risks of Moving Too Soon
Timing Risk: Exiting a fund during a temporary period of underperformance can result in missing future gains. Timing the market or trying to switch between funds frequently may hurt your returns in the long run.

Transaction Costs: Moving SIPs frequently might incur exit loads or taxes. ELSS funds, for instance, come with a 3-year lock-in, and selling them early will incur penalties.

6. Maintaining a Balanced Portfolio
Before making any decisions, ensure that your portfolio remains well-diversified across different asset classes and sectors. A balanced mix of large-cap, mid-cap, and ELSS funds can provide stability while offering growth potential.

Diversification across AMCs: Consider spreading your investments across different asset management companies (AMCs) to avoid concentration risk with one fund house.

Rebalancing Regularly: Review your portfolio annually or biannually to ensure it aligns with your goals and risk appetite.

Final Insights
While Axis funds may not have performed well in the recent past, it is essential to evaluate your decision based on long-term performance and market trends. It might not be wise to stop SIPs solely based on short-term underperformance. If you do decide to switch, ensure the new funds fit your investment goals and risk profile. A Certified Financial Planner can guide you in making the best choices for your financial future.

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

..Read more

Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6997 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Jul 23, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Jul 15, 2024Hindi
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I have axis small cap mutual fund from 3 years. currently I have 92% profit on lumpsum amount. now market is all time high so should I take profit and exit from that fund?
Ans: Current Situation
You have Axis Small Cap Mutual Fund.

You have a 92% profit on your lump sum investment.

The market is at an all-time high.

Evaluating Profit-Taking
Market Timing
The market is at a peak.

This might seem like a good time to take profits.

However, timing the market is challenging.

Future market movements are unpredictable.

Long-Term Investment Horizon
Consider your investment horizon.

If it's long-term, short-term market highs shouldn't affect your strategy.

Equity investments typically yield better returns over a longer period.

Rebalancing Your Portfolio
Portfolio Diversification
Evaluate your overall portfolio.

Small cap funds are higher risk and higher reward.

Consider balancing with large cap and mid cap funds.

Risk Management
Taking some profits can reduce your exposure to small caps.

Reinvesting in more stable funds can balance risk.

This ensures your portfolio remains aligned with your risk tolerance.

Tax Implications
Capital Gains Tax
Selling your investment will attract capital gains tax.

Short-term capital gains (if held for less than a year) are taxed at 15%.

Long-term capital gains (if held for more than a year) above Rs 1 lakh are taxed at 10%.

Tax Efficiency
Consider the tax implications of selling.

Evaluate if the profit after tax justifies the sale.

Professional Guidance
Certified Financial Planner
Consult a Certified Financial Planner.

They can assess your financial goals and portfolio.

They provide tailored advice on profit-taking and reinvestment.

Strategies for Profit-Taking
Partial Profit-Taking
Consider taking partial profits.

This allows you to lock in gains.

You can reinvest in more stable funds.

This maintains market exposure while reducing risk.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan
Implement a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP).

This allows gradual withdrawal of profits.

It provides regular income while keeping the investment intact.

Final Insights
You have a significant profit in Axis Small Cap Mutual Fund.

Taking profits when the market is high can be tempting.

However, market timing is difficult.

Consider your long-term investment horizon.

Rebalance your portfolio for risk management.

Evaluate the tax implications of selling.

Consult a Certified Financial Planner for tailored advice.

Consider partial profit-taking or an SWP for a balanced approach.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

www.holisticinvestment.in

..Read more

Latest Questions
Prof Suvasish

Prof Suvasish Mukhopadhyay  |24 Answers  |Ask -

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Ramalingam

Ramalingam Kalirajan  |6997 Answers  |Ask -

Mutual Funds, Financial Planning Expert - Answered on Nov 09, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - Nov 09, 2024Hindi
Money
Hi, I am 45 working and wants to retire now. My wife salary is around 50k/month and she can work for another 18 yrs. Have 2 kids studying in 7th and 2nd class. I have ancestors home to live and major future expense will be kids higher education and marriage. Presently monthly expense is 40k. Regarding investment I have PPF 28 lacs maturing is 2 years, SSY 9 lac, wife PPF 5 lac, MF value 50 lac, equity 12 lac, EPF 11 lac, SGB 6 lac and FD/NSC 26 lac maturing all in next 3-4 yrs. No need of instant money. Please suggest if I can retire now and yes how can I invest my corpus for steady return
Ans: Retiring early is achievable for you with some strategic planning. Given your wife's consistent income, your existing corpus, and the specific needs for children's education and marriage, you can structure investments to sustain both immediate and future financial needs.

Here's a structured approach to plan your retirement:

1. Assessing Income Requirements
With monthly expenses at Rs 40,000, your wife’s income should comfortably cover routine household costs. However, you must ensure your investments provide a stable income as a buffer.

Estimating future inflation and children’s education costs is essential. Education and marriage may require sizable amounts, so it’s wise to earmark specific investments for these expenses.

2. Investment Allocation for Stability and Growth
To sustain your corpus and ensure it grows, dividing it into various categories can be beneficial:

2.1. Public Provident Fund (PPF) and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)
PPF: With Rs 28 lakh in PPF maturing in two years, the amount can continue growing without immediate withdrawal. This will allow it to act as a secondary emergency fund.

SSY: Your SSY amount of Rs 9 lakh offers good returns until maturity, making it ideal for your daughter’s future education or marriage needs.

Wife’s PPF: With Rs 5 lakh in her PPF, continue this as a low-risk, tax-free growth option. It will contribute toward your retirement needs.

2.2. Mutual Funds (MF) and Equity
Mutual Funds: At Rs 50 lakh, mutual funds can provide a balance of growth and steady returns. Continue your SIPs in actively managed funds for higher potential returns, as these are guided by expert fund managers compared to index funds. Actively managed funds allow flexibility, adapt to market trends, and provide a diversified growth path.

Equity: Your Rs 12 lakh in stocks offers high growth potential. However, direct stocks come with higher volatility. Rebalancing a portion to a balanced or flexi-cap mutual fund could add stability.

2.3. Employee Provident Fund (EPF)
EPF at Rs 11 lakh acts as a stable, long-term asset with tax-free growth. This can be a reserve fund for later years of retirement, extending your income over time.
2.4. Sovereign Gold Bonds (SGBs)
With Rs 6 lakh in SGBs, you have a secure inflation hedge. Gold generally appreciates over time, offering a safety net. Keep this as a long-term asset for emergencies or children’s marriage.
2.5. Fixed Deposits and National Savings Certificates (FD/NSC)
Rs 26 lakh in FDs and NSCs maturing over 3-4 years can ensure short-term liquidity. For reinvestment, consider liquid funds or ultra-short-term debt funds for modest but stable returns, as they offer flexibility and better tax efficiency compared to traditional FDs.
3. Strategy for Steady Income Generation
Given your corpus and minimal monthly needs, you can rely on a Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP) and other low-risk options for steady income.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP): Consider setting up an SWP from your mutual fund corpus. This approach can provide a monthly cash flow without depleting the corpus immediately, especially if you use balanced or hybrid funds.

Debt Funds: Post maturity of your FD/NSC, consider reinvesting in debt mutual funds. These can offer better returns than traditional bank deposits with tax efficiency. Opt for funds with moderate durations to reduce interest rate risk.

4. Child Education and Marriage Planning
Education and marriage planning can be handled by earmarking specific assets for predictable growth:

PPF and SSY for Education: PPF maturity in two years can coincide with your child’s high school expenses. Likewise, SSY can be reserved for your daughter's education or marriage expenses. These instruments offer tax benefits and assured returns.

Dedicated Mutual Funds: You may consider allocating some portion of mutual funds specifically for children’s future. Balanced Advantage Funds or multi-cap funds could suit this purpose, providing both growth and stability.

5. Tax-Efficient Planning
Given the new capital gains tax rules, consider tax efficiency in each asset class:

Equity Mutual Funds: Long-term gains above Rs 1.25 lakh are taxed at 12.5%, while short-term gains are taxed at 20%. Plan withdrawals strategically to keep gains within tax-free limits where possible.

Debt Mutual Funds: Gains are taxed as per your income slab. Post-retirement, when your income is lower, debt funds may become more tax-efficient than fixed deposits.

6. Emergency Fund and Health Coverage
Having a reserve is crucial for any unplanned expenses or emergencies:

Emergency Fund: Retain some funds in liquid investments, like liquid or ultra-short-term funds. This fund should cover at least 6-12 months of expenses.

Health Insurance: Ensure your family’s health coverage is adequate. Health costs tend to rise, so enhancing health coverage can prevent corpus depletion.

7. Estate Planning and Succession
Since you have ancestral property, structuring an estate plan is crucial to ensure a smooth inheritance for your children. A well-drafted will and nomination updates for all financial assets will make it easier for your family in the future.

Finally
Early retirement is achievable with smart financial moves. Your existing portfolio has significant potential, and with a structured plan, you can generate a stable income for years.

The outlined steps above ensure that your financial goals, family needs, and investment potential are fully covered. Focus on disciplined re-investment and consider reviewing your portfolio periodically to ensure alignment with evolving needs.

Best Regards,

K. Ramalingam, MBA, CFP,

Chief Financial Planner,

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

...Read more

Prof Suvasish

Prof Suvasish Mukhopadhyay  |24 Answers  |Ask -

Career Counsellor - Answered on Nov 09, 2024

Asked by Anonymous - May 21, 2024Hindi
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I have been working for more than 13 years in IT now and have played roles such as Software Support Engineer, Implementation Consultant, Business Analyst, Senior Business Analyst and now working as a Deplyoyment Lead. I have total 19 years of experience including 13 years in IT. I have not been getting good appraisals for the last 2 years and cannot see growth in my current job. Its been 6.5 years that I have been working with the same organization. Althought the organization is part of the Fortune 200 companies, its parent company is a non IT firm. I have recently got certified with PMP and have compeleted the training for PSM and PSPO. I am also trained on CBAP. Most importantly, I have a legal case where I am accused with few charges and this scares me everytime I think about changing my job. I am confused whether the new employers will reject me only on this basis. It had happened a couple of years ago and hence although I want to switch my job, I am unable to. Can someone guide me with the right path please?
Ans: I am a career consultant, not legal consultant. I understand your situation. In spite of ocean of experience you are not getting the desired jump in your career. First I would advise you to seek legal help from some good legal expert. I can refer you to a very good legal advisor Mr. Tanoj Joshi whose phone no is 89996 69167.With my reference just talk to him. First you have to get rid of the legal case.But I would request you to follow me in LINKEDIN and send request so that I can accept you, then through LINKEDIN I can counsel you in the future multiple times. I have counselled and changed thousands of lives. Best of luck. Professor

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Prof Suvasish Mukhopadhyay  |24 Answers  |Ask -

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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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